Overseas Property TV (or O'seasproperty as it appeared on the EPG) was a television channel broadcast in the United Kingdom and Ireland, on the Sky Digital and Freesat platforms. Used as a publicity vehicle for the MacAnthony Realty International group of companies owned by Darragh MacAnthony who is now the Chairman of Peterborough Football Club.
The channel was primarily targeted at UK and Ireland residents wishing to buy, sell and develop property abroad (particularly the Mediterranean region, Eastern Europe and Florida). The channel also offered programming about relocating to different countries, legal advice and property investment tips.
The channel closed in December 2008 and was removed from the Sky and Freesat EPG's in January 2009. The Company was liquidated in 2009.
Investment in overseas property, also referred to as 'International Real Estate', has become increasingly popular amongst the population of wealthier countries. Such property is usually located in a hotter climate to that of the buyer's native country, and the most sought after properties are located in tourism areas, usually large cities or coastal resorts.
Such investment is usually welcomed by the foreign local community, as the injection of cash usually benefits the region. However some countries/regions have legislation which prevents foreigners owning such investment/holiday property.
Many from Northern Europe and the UK have bought property in Southern European countries, most notably Spain. Such property is predominantly used as either a dedicated retirement home or holiday rental property. Over the last couple of years, there has been an increase in the number of people investing in Eastern Europe. The regions stability coupled with affordable property prices make the area an attractive proposition, especially as such investments are likely to yield big returns should the country then gain membership to the EU.