Number of expats who own property in Croatia

[Aine]

I know there is a huge amount of interest in the Croatian property market at the moment -
does anyone have any idea of the number of ex pats who currently own property in Croatia?

Of the people that purchase, how many actually move to Croatia or are most buyers interested in a holiday home with some rental income + capital appreciation?

If properties are empty for a large part of the year, are there any problems with security?

How are all the overseas buyers perceived by the Croats?

If I purchase a property in Istria, I'd like to spend about 6 months of the year in Croatia - are we welcomed by the Croats (I'm Irish)? How easy is it to settle down in Croatia?

Would love to hear from anyone with any information.

Thank you.

[alsdoubles]

I think most people are welcome. And I couldn't possibly comment as to who isn't. Croatia is slightly full on Catholic, but I'm not a Catholic and it isn't a problem I don't think. Security. Pretty good, I think. However someone had nicked the shutters off the place I bought. Cost a grand to replace them. I'd go for big bolts and bars if I left it for a while and screws with the heads faced off. Investment. I am not sure. There are so many properties available, other than the island, which appear to be much in demand. But 2007 should be the real lift off point. Maybe.

[Aine]

Thanks Alsdoubles.

Can't beleive someone nicked your shutters! Screws and bars required...suppose that's the same anywhere in the world if a property was left empty.

Yes, 2007..mabye? - pity we don't have a crystal ball!