New "Independent" Consultancy

Just read a very strange article regarding the launch of Empire, who propose to serve as an "independent" consultancy in regards to overseas property. It does seem odd given the named folks links to existing overseas agencies. And before anyone might think they're acting in a free ombudsman type role, they'll kindly accept fees for their services, basically becoming pre-agency agents. Another hand out looking for cash, and since it's in the SBP most will probably be stung before they have a chance to think, esp. as today's paper has a new launch of property in Bulgaria to pay for printing costs.

Sorry if that sounds negative, just tired with the neverending rip offs.

[broken link removed]

Hi Almo,

I'm actually one of the people who set up Empire and we are independent and not tied to any developers or agents. I can completely understand where you're coming from with regard to your reticence about the market. Michael my business partner and I have seen first hand what's going in the market and how because of it's unregulated nature some people are being taken advantage of. But, it's not all bad, there are some good investments out there to be found, but people just need to do their homework. This is the reason why we have set up Empire, to be able to provide advice to people who want to buy overseas or who have a property they want checking out.

Yes we do charge for this because its a service-based consultancy, but if it gets people a better deal or better property, stops people making a bad investment, or if it reassures them that they are making the right decision, then this can only be a good thing. We're not expensive, and any fees are agreed in advance based on the time we feel it will take to do the work and, therefore, completely transparent. But, as you can see elsewhere on this site I am providing advice to people that is free.

We do not sell property or develop overseas property - nor do we want to! We are also not tied to any other company, be them on the property side or the financing side of the property sector. When we do source property for people under no circumstances do we accept introducer payments (basically incentives for recommending people) from the developers or agents because this would compromise our independence.

I you have any questions please feel free to contact us directly.

Regards,

Simon.