The next region of Portugal ripe for development and with outstanding investment potential has to be the Oeste region, or Silver Coast, to the north of Lisbon. Voted as the European Golf Destination of the Year 2007 by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, it offers over 20 superb golf courses, the most famous among them being the Prai d'El Rey Golf Club near Obidos.

Voted as the 13th best course in the whole of Europe by Golf World Magazine, Praia d'El Rey is host to a number of major golfing events.

To further increase the popularity of the area 5 more championship standard courses are at opening, build or planning stage, all centred around the impressive Obidos Lagoon. Foz do Arelho on the edge of the lagoon is attracting increasing numbers of the rich and famous looking for properties in one of the next European hot spots. With seclusion in mind, the opportunity to acquire modern, state-of-the-art, eco-technological luxury properties on large, private plots of land is proving irresistable.

Interest in the whole region is growing fast, with prices substantially lower than much of the Algarve. And with beautiful countryside, large sandy beaches, daily low cost flights into Lisbon and a 12 month rental season, this area is set to follow fast on the heels of its more illustrious cousin.

Fractional Freehold Ownership is a unique concept that enables you to own an exquisite property abroad, for a fraction of the outright price. In simple terms, Fractional Freehold Ownership is an opportunity for a group of individuals (four, six or even twelve) to each purchase partial ownership of a holiday home. They will split the cost, additional running expenses and usage of the property and consequently the capital growth that the property will acquire. Simple, clear and very clever!

For example, by purchasing a quarter share you will only be committed to pay a quarter of the running costs associated with it whilst benefiting from the property's equity growth. In addition to this you will have exclusive use of your property for three months (spread evenly across the year), relaxing in your own home, enjoying the delights that each season has to offer! Fractional Freehold Ownership is becoming increasingly popular with buyers and more and more people are beginning to understand the potential advantages of the scheme.

Properties that would otherwise have been sold outright can now be purchased in twelfth, sixth or quarter shares (1, 2 or 3 months). The properties are registered with the Portuguese land registry and secured by title deeds. Your home is purchased on a freehold basis. You buy a share in a UK Company, which owns the Freehold, entitling you to the full rights of ownership and exclusive use of your property during the month, or months you have purchased.

Having the full rights of ownership includes selling or renting to others, as well as the option of upgrading to an outright property or a larger fractional property when or if your lifestyle and commitments allow. Under the property management service all properties will be regularly inspected and fully maintained to the highest standard, whilst attending to bill payments on your behalf. For those who wish to receive an income from their property, a letting service is also available.

The homes are furnished to a luxurious standard by and include everything from soft furnishings right down to the last teaspoon and your home entertainment system of TV, DVD and hi-fi.