Overseas property hotspots focus on an undiscovered paradise

The property market in the UK is stagnant. In Spain, and other Mediterranean countries, it's falling apart. Every day, we hear stories of people's investments being destroyed due to the financial crisis in Europe.

Investors are turning away from traditional overseas investments and looking further afield. New countries are emerging as property hotspots for the future. None more so than The Gambia, an undiscovered paradise on the West coast of Africa, less than six hours flight from the UK.

Why The Gambia?

With a stable government, low crime rates, financial stability and a growing economy, The Gambia is starting to become a sought after tourist destination. There has been significant investment in its infrastructure, such as roads, schools and healthcare. The official language is English. The Gambia has everything tourists look for in a tropical getaway; beautiful beaches, palm trees, winter temperatures above 30 degrees and stunning scenery. New hotels, apartments and villas are in demand both by ex-pats and tourists, yet you can still snap up property at surprisingly low prices. The Gambia has a thriving ex-pat community, many of whom live there for some of the year and make a substantial profit renting out their property to tourists.

Is Gambian property a sound investment?

The President and the government have been in power for over ten years, and are committed to encouraging inward investment. As such, property conveyancing and laws are based on the British legal system and subject to the strict terms which govern it. Many Gambian lawyers have qualified and practised in the UK, and all matters are dealt with in English.

Mr Mustapha Njie, CEO of Taf Gambian Property (www.tafgambianproperty.com) and one of the country's leading entrepreneurs, says, "The Gambia has become a big draw for investors from the UK and Europe. It's an ideal time for investors to snap up property, as the currently low prices are set to climb and climb. Property laws in The Gambia are very similar to the UK, so, as long as you get the right advice, buying here is very straightforward."

Property prices are rising steadily in The Gambia and market confidence is high. If there is ever a right time to invest in property, it's right now.

Gambia's property boom: how Mustapha Njie is helping to 'house the nation'

Making the Gambia a safe haven for investment

Over the last ten years, the Gambian government has been committed to making The Gambia a safe haven for investment by encouraging private sector growth. The country has a stable economy, with property laws based on the UK legal system and significant investment in infrastructure such as roads, schools and hospitals. As a result of the government's policies, and the hard work of successful businesses such as Taf Gambian Property (www.tafgambianproperty.com), Gambia's property market has become a major success story.

Operation House the Nation: how it began

In 2000,Taf Gambian Property ventured into large-scale housing development. Taf Gambian Property is part of Taf Holding Company Ltd, owned by Mr Mustapha Njie, one of The Gambia's most respected businessmen. Code-named 'Operation House the Nation', the project had two goals. Firstly, to give the Gambian people an opportunity to own well-built, good quality homes, and secondly, to provide a good selection of property for outside investors.

Two sites were allocated to Taf Gambian Property for the development of low, middle and high-income houses: Yarambamba Housing Estate in Yundum, and Brufut Gardens in Brufut.

Yarambamba Housing Estate

This site comprises of two hundred and ten highly affordable two and three bedroom houses, giving local Gambians an unprecedented opportunity to own or lease their own homes. The site has excellent amenities with well-maintained roads, a mosque and a bustling market. The total project cost was $4.5 million and the company received $1.00 million as co-financing from Shelter Afrique, a Pan African Housing Finance Institution based in Kenya. The project was finished in early 2004.

Brufut Gardens

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, opposite the newly built five star Sheraton Hotel, Brufut Gardens is Gambia's most modern and impressive housing estate, comprising over five hundred houses and apartment buildings. This beautiful site is just a five minute drive to Senegambia, The Gambia's main tourism area. Amenities include landscaped terraces and sidewalks with over 1,800 tropical fruit trees, 24 hour electricity and water supply, street lighting, garbage collection and 24 hour security. The total project cost was $35 million. Shelter Afrique has contributed $2.5 million in financing.

Looking to the future

Due to the work of companies such as Taf Gambian Property, the country is fast becoming a major tourist destination and an ideal place for investors to make their mark. As we look forward to the next ten years, Gambia's future is looking bright.

What public-private partnership can do

Public-private partnership work when the main stakeholders put their mind to it. In The Gambia, a partnership between the government and a private company, TAF Holdings, has borne immense fruits.  Here, Mustapha Njie, the CEO of TAF, relates what the company has done in partnership with the government. 

In 2006, The Gambia hosted the African Union (AU) Summit and the government approached TAF Holding Company to build and furnish the presidential residences in the country. We built 52 furnished villas in four months, this was Kofi Annan’s last year as the UN secretary general and he was also in attendance.

We built and managed the AU Villas during this period and the vent itself was attended by over 45 heads of state and other dignitaries. The Summit was one of the biggest ever and went extremely well, with all our properties completed on time, and up to the standards expected by our distinguished guests.

In my new mission, I have a Pan Africa vision in addition to my passion for travelling in Africa. I have been in over 36 African countries thus far. As far as housing in concerned, TAF is now a strong brand in African housing. We have come a very long way and we want to replicate what we are doing in The Gambia in other African countries.

We have made our mark in The Gambia and our success need to be repeated in other growing African economies, targeting the increasing middle class. Our focus is not only on mansions or grand estates; we aim to be putting a roof over people’s heads, and to do it most efficiently with the services are best suited to complementing current lifestyles and need: for example, going green and eco-power.    

We are targeting up to 22 other African countries, and are actually putting together a consortium on housing with a focus on technology, infrastructure and renewable energy, even the possibility of using waste energy; these are all ideas to be tested but we do allow for greater expansions, partnership and co-operation.

We have worked well, and with support from The Gambian government, we have been aided by development incentives to achieve our vision. We would like other potential African governments to see what the government has done with us here in The Gambia, in a successful public-private partnership. The regulatory framework on land administrations has encouraged us to grow and develop.  We would want to see how this model can be successfully transported into other African countries. We market our properties both in and outside of The Gambia, to both Gambians and non-Gambians. We have sponsored TV documentaries in showcasing The Gambia as a tourist destination and an emerging African investment heaven. In our partnered TV campaigns, we also run inspection trips to The Gambia for our potential buyers. Overwhelmingly, the response is positive. This is direct marketing and allows people to see the properties we have to offer and the country itself.

This is important because we are not only promoting quality TAF products and homes, but the country as well. Moreover, I believe we have a responsibility to our countries in Africa as a whole. Our countries are emerging, they are growing, it’s not only the role of the government to promote the country, we are happy to do things in partnership with the government.

For Further Information please visit www.tafgambia.com or email information.services@tafgambia.com

Looking for a tropical holiday but worried about the cost? Why more and more people are choosing The Gambia

In today's financial climate, we're all tightening our belts. With the cost of living rising, affordable holidays to a tropical paradise have become a thing of the past. Or have they? Over the past few months The Gambia has emerged as the perfect choice for those looking for an affordable holiday to a tropical paradise.

Mustapha Njie, CEO of Taf Gambian Property (www.tafgambianproperty.com), is delighted about Gambia's thriving tourism industry: "We've seen a big increase in holidaymakers from the UK and Europe, looking for some of our famous sunshine.Visitors can rent properties in Gambia or choose from a wide variety of hotels, apartments and Gambia holiday packages. Many of them love our country so much that they decide to buy a holiday home! I expect the number of tourists visiting Gambia to increase dramatically over the next few years."

But what is it about The Gambia that is so attractive for tourists? Well, where do you start? The Gambia, situated on the West coast of Africa, is known as 'The Smiling Coast'. The Gambia is situated on approximately the same latitude as Barbados and has all the attractions of a tropical paradise - year-round sunshine, beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife and a rich culture. Yet it's surprisingly affordable and only a five hour flight from the UK. You'll certainly receive a warm welcome in The Gambia, as the people here are considered some of the friendliest on earth.

The Gambia offers a truly rich experience. Yes, you can relax, unwind and spend all day drinking cocktails on the beach, but here you can also enjoy the real Africa. You can visit traditional Gambian villages, explore the African bush and experience the local wildlife - from tropical birds to monkeys and even crocodiles.

Want to find out more?

If you'd like to visit The Gambia, you can choose from all-inclusive Gambian holiday packages, or, if you prefer, there is lots of Gambia property to rent, from affordable apartments to luxurious holiday homes. A quick search online will help you find Gambian estate agents and travel companies.

Brufut Gardens, Gambia and its founder: Mr Mustapha Njie

Brufut Gardens is a stunning housing development in The Gambia, with over five hundred properties covering 3,700,000 square metres. Brufut Gardens overlooks the golden sands of Brufut beach, just a five minute drive from popular tourist destination Senegambia. Property consultants in Gambia recommend Brufut Gardens as one of the best places to invest, due to its impressive location, excellent facilities and thriving community. Property investors are snapping up its houses, apartments and villas, available to view at www.tafgambianproperty.com.

Turning vision into reality

Who had the vision to create Brufut Gardens and turn this dream into reality? The man behind this development, and many others across the country, is Mr Mustapha Njie. Mr Njie is one of Gambia's most successful entrepreneurs. He founded leading construction company TAF Construction over twenty years ago. Then, in 1998, the success of TAF Construction led Mr Njie to incorporate TAF Holding Company Ltd. The company has since expanded into real estate and lettings. Its property division, TAF Gambian Property, is a leading Gambia real estate agency that leases, rents and sells properties at Brufut Gardens, described by Gambian property dealers as 'a piece of heaven in The Gambia'.

Passionate about the Gambia

Mustapha Njie is passionate about his country and is dedicated to helping the progression of its people and its businesses. This passion is reflected in the activities of TAF Holding Company, which has over 400 Gambians in its employment. The company makes regular donations to philanthropic organizations and has set up a number of scholarships. It has also registered the 'Taf Skill Centre' - a non-governmental organization that aims to give young Gambian school leavers the opportunity to access formal vocational training in construction.

Awards and accolades

Mr Mustapha Njie has been awarded countless national and international accolades. These include the Gambian Businessman of the Year several years running and the European Commission Global Business Award for Excellence and Quality. Most recently he was awarded 'The Gambian Honorable Businessman of 2010' and 'The Ecowas Outstanding Service Award for Entrepreneurship and Innovation'. He was also decorated with the Insignia of Member of The Republic of The Gambia (MRG) by President Jammeh.

To find out more about Brufut Gardens, visit www.tafgambianproperty.com.

What you need to know about buying property in The Gambia

The Gambia is fast becoming a property buyer's dream. More and more people are moving to this tropical paradise, just five hours away from the UK. There is plenty of property for sale in Gambia, from apartments to houses and luxurious villas. Whether you want to retire, buy a holiday home, make an investment or set up a new business, The Gambia offers fantastic real estate opportunities.

However, before looking at Gambia properties for sale, it is vital that you do your research. Here are some tips to get you started:

Gambian property laws

In many ways these are similar to the British system, which is good news for those buying and selling properties in Gambia. Land is registered at the Property Registry, which you can check to confirm whether the seller owns the property. However, some land is not yet registered, and, most importantly, the terms 'freehold' and 'leasehold' are not the same as in Europe. You should therefore make sure that you instruct a reputable firm to make the right checks and give you the right advice.

Property conveyancing: The Gambian conveyancing process is also very similar to the British conveyancing process. A contract is drawn up by the respective lawyers, and a deposit paid to the seller. The completion period is usually 30 days, and upon payment of the full purchase price a deed of conveyance is issued to the purchaser.

Taxes and other costs: As with the British system, you will have to pay various taxes and associated costs. These can include stamp duty, land rent and lawyer's fees. Make sure you get this information before making a decision to buy. You should also get buildings insurance which is readily available.

Utilities in The Gambia: The electricity and water supply in The Gambia is generally good, but, when looking at properties, make sure you check that there is a reliable supply, preferably with a backup generator. You should also look into mobile access, internet supply and satellite TV.

Where to start: When looking for property for sale in Gambia, it can be hard to know where to start. There are plenty of good estate agents who can help you make the right choice. A good place to start is TAF Gambian Property, one of Gambia's leading estate agents. Find out more at www.tafgambianproperty.com.

Top Gambian property spots: profile of Brufut Gardens, Gambia

If you're considering investing in property in Gambia, or if you're looking for Gambia property to rent, you may be wondering where to look first. The best place to buy or rent properties in Gambia is on the fifty mile stretch of coastline facing the Atlantic Ocean. You can't go wrong by starting with Brufut Gardens, a beautiful housing development overlooking the sandy Brufut beach and covering 3,700,000 square metres. Brufut Gardens is owned by Taf Holdings Company Ltd, led by one of Gambia's most successful businessmen Mr Mustapha Njie, who is passionate about the country and his people.

Location: Brufut Gardens occupies a choice position overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is located in the most popular area for discerning tourists, just ten minutes from the airport and a five minute drive to Senegambia, a popular destination for Gambia holiday packages. Nearby is the five star Sheraton Hotel and an array of shops and restaurants. Brufut Gardens is quickly becoming a thriving community.

Properties: There are over five hundred properties for you to choose from, ranging from small apartments to bungalows, houses with pools and luxury villas with their own land. Properties are built to a modern standard, are usually unfurnished, and carefully landscaped with gardens and trees. Whether you're looking to buy or rent properties in Gambia, Brufut Gardens offers a great choice of properties of all sizes.

Facilities: This development benefits from a regular electricity and water supply, street lighting, and bituminised roads. Residents enjoy a street cleaning service, weekly garbage collection and security. This is a safe, peaceful and secure area. Future plans include a shopping mall that will open in 2012, together with restaurants, and other facilities such as playgrounds and a sports club with swimming pool and tennis courts.

Special offers: The property developer regularly announces special offers, such as cash back on purchases, and free holidays to Banjul. View the latest offers at www.tafgambianproperty.com . You'll also find a gallery of properties to buy or rent.

About the developer: The Brufut Gardens development started in 2003. The property developer is part of Taf Holding Company Ltd, a leading Gambian construction company. Taf Holdings was founded by Mr Mustapha Njie, one of Gambia's most renowned entrepreneurs. Mustapha Njie has been awarded a number of accolades over the years, including The Gambian Businessman of the Year for several years running. He is passionate about The Gambia, and is involved in a number of philanthropic projects. This includes donations to charities, scholarships for students and contributions towards the development of sports.

Find out more at www.tafgambianproperty.com .