Attention of the Property Editor……..

EUROPEAN PROPERTY TRENDS TO BE DISCUSSED AT DUBLIN CASTLE CONFERENCE

18.05.09 Trends in European property prices and related issues will be debated when auctioneers and real-estate agents from all over Europe gather for a conference in Dublin Castle next Friday, May 22, hosted by the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valurs (IPAV). 

Housing Minister Michael Finneran will open the Confederation of European Estate Agents (CEI) which will also debate the different ways European countries have adapted the EU Directive on the Energy Performance.  Since January 1, all residential property offered for sale or rent in Ireland must legally have a BER Certificate.

 “In most countries the European guidelines about the energy efficiency of buildings have been transposed into national legislation,” says Manuel Negrao (Portugal), President of CEI . “However, the levels of implementation in Member States are very unequal as are the associated costs.”

The economic recession and, in particular, how is has affected property markets in almost all European countries, will be examined by Professor Ray Kinsella of the Smurfit School of Banking and Finance, UCD.

During the conference the estate agents will also engage in a special networking session to discuss matters of mutual interest.

“This conference is a particularly proud occasion for IPAV” says IPAV Chief Executive Fintan McNamara.  “We will be using the event to discuss with our European counterparts the dramatic downturn in the Irish property market and ways of achieving stability.  We will also be listening for advice and guidance as to how other countries have coped with similar crises.”

CEI represents over 65,000 estate agents from 15 countries. Its main aim is to establish and improve international co-operation between estate agents and to harmonise relevant legislation throughout Europe.

Ends

For further information contact Fintan McNamara on 086 824 5673, or