OPP AWARDS WINNERS SUPPLEMENT FEBRUARY 2014 by OPP Magazine

FEBRUARY 2014 WWW.OPP-CONNECT.COM

Winners Supplement OPP Awards for excellence 2013 in association with

in association with

Congratulations As proud sponsors of the entertainment and Brazilian bar at The OPP Awards and Gala Dinner 2013, EcoHouse would like to say a big CONGRATULATIONS to all the winners of OPP Awards 2013.

As OPP participants and winners in previous years, we know it is an honour to receive recognition from one of the leading global property professionals and a pleasure to be part of the event, which grows year after year. We look forward to seeing you all again at OPPLive 2014!

web: www.ecohousegroup.com email: info@ecohousegroup.com

OPP AWARDS 2013

MEET THE WINNERS CONTENTS 04

RIGHTMOVE’S REVIEW OF THE AWARDS

SMART’S ANALYSIS

08-09

HOW TO WIN AN OPP AWARD

AWARDS FOR DEVELOPERS 10

BEST GLOBAL DEVELOPER

11-12 13

John Howell Editorial Director of OPP Media

THE JUDGES

14 BEST DEVELOPER IN EUROPE 15

BEST DEVELOPER IN CENTRAL AMERICA

BEST DEVELOPER IN NORTH AMERICA

BEST DEVELOPER IN THE MIDDLE EAST

BEST DEVELOPER IN AFRICA/AUSTRALASIA

BEST DEVELOPER IN ASIA

BEST LUXURY DEVELOPER

24-25

BEST ECO-DEVELOPER

BEST AFFORDABLE DEVELOPMENT

BEST SMALL AGENCY

BEST LARGE AGENCY

BEST NEW AGENCY

BEST AGENCY IN EUROPE

BEST AGENCY IN NORTH AMERICA

BEST AGENCY IN CENTRAL/SOUTH AMERICA

OPP AWARDS 2014

BEST AGENCY IN MIDDLE EAST

BEST AGENCY IN AFRICA

BEST AGENCY IN AUSTRALASIA

BEST AGENCY IN ASIA

38-39

BEST PROPERTY INVESTMENT ADVISORS

BEST ONLINE SERVICE

BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN

BEST MEDIA

BEST FRACTIONAL SERVICE

BEST SUPPORTING SERVICE

BEST INNOVATION

BEST ALTERNATIVE PRODUCT/BROKER

BEST STUDENT HOUSING BROKER

BEST STUDENT HOUSING PROJECT

50-51

THE OPP GALA DINNER

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ne of the most satisfying parts of my duties as Editorial Director of OPP is organising the annual OPP Awards for Excellence. It is not the organising, you understand, that gives me the pleasure. It is seeing the applications that come in: from many different countries, from many different types and sizes of company and containing many different and innovative ideas. Many applicants are new to the awards. Some are ‘old-hands’, who have applied – and may have won – many times. Particularly impressive are the testimonials produced by some of the applicants: reams of praise from customers who had received superb service and who had found the companies concerned absolutely indispensible to the successful conclusion of their purchase of a property in another country. The OPP Awards for Excellence 2013 have, once again, raised the bar: more entries, better entries, from more places. This year, for the first time, it was free to enter an OPP Award. The aim of this change was to make it even clearer that the OPP Awards are not about making money for OPP; they are – and always have been – about recognising the best in our industry. To reinforce this, the OPP Awards for Excellence are not judged by OPP; they are judged by independent – and unpaid – judges appointed from the best in our industry. We owe them a great vote of thanks. Without them, quite literally, the awards could not take place. They are listed on page 49. Next year, we propose further improvements to the awards. See page 50 for details. We hope you will decide to take part. We even include tips on how to become a winner: see pages 8 & 9!

BEST GLOBAL AGENCY

OPP AWARDS 2013 Words | Chris Please

A word from Rightmove Overseas

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ollowing the successful return of the OPP Awards Gala dinner in 2012 and a great night enjoyed by all, the 2013 awards were always going to have a tough act to follow. However, looking back, I think we can safely say that the latest awards evening was even bigger and better than the previous year’s event. It was fantastic to see so many fellow overseas property professionals at the event and with the attendee numbers rising to more than 450 people (around a 50% increase on the year before) it highlighted the returning conﬁdence and imminent resurgence of the overseas property industry – a theme we can see in news and events all over. We were delighted to be oﬀered the opportunity to sponsor the event for the second year running alongside our fellow sponsors Smart Currency Exchange, and we would like to thank OPP for that and for its hard work in making the event such a success. It’s a pleasure to work with companies who share our drive to increase best practice in the industry and strive for excellence in the service they deliver. Our congratulations go out to all the award winners on the night – and we are especially pleased to see so many familiar names on the award-winners’ list. We work with many of these businesses on a daily basis and it’s been a tough few years in the industry for everyone, so we are delighted to see them being acknowledged for all their hard work as things start to look up again for our sector. The excitement for the future was clear to see at the Gala Dinner and we certainly share that excitement at Rightmove Overseas. There are many factors and statistics

The Rightmove Overseas Team www.rightmoveoverseas.co.uk

TEL: +44 1908 712300 we look at to get a feel for what is happening in the property industry and at the moment the indicators are all pointing in the right direction and towards a more

better ways for them to showcase their products to the largest audience possible and to make sure we are delivering them more and more buyers.

It’s a pleasure to work with companies who share our drive to increase best practice and who strive for excellence

buoyant market. Our views and enquiries keep rising as more and more people start seeing overseas property as a viable option again. We will be working as hard as ever in 2014 and will be developing tools that will oﬀer our customers

From all at Rightmove Overseas we wish you the best of luck in your business for 2014 and look forward to seeing you at another night of glitz and glamour at the OPP Award Gala Dinner towards the end of 2014.

Congratulations to all winners of the

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

From www.rightmoveoverseas.com Official Sponsor of

AWARDS

FOR EXCELLENCE

OPP AWARDS 2013 Words | Jana Korpova

Smart Currency Exchange F

irst of all, from everyone at Smart Currency Exchange, congratulations to all winners and participants of the 2013 OPP Awards. You proved that our industry remains as innovative, determined and customer-focused as it has ever been, despite the tough conditions that still plague many markets. If you attended the Gala Dinner at the grand Natural History Museum in Kensington, when the awards were presented, you’ll appreciate the effort that OPP puts into organising the awards and creating a hugely enjoyable event to showpiece the leaders in our exciting industry. So, well done to the OPP team. We hope everyone enjoyed this year’s bonus audio-visual treat, namely our new corporate video, and, of course, that of our co-sponsor, Rightmove Overseas. This year was our second time as

a highly regarded event illustrates our commitment to our industry. We nailed our colours to the mast some time ago when we set out to become the leading currency exchange specialist in overseas property and emigration and we believe we continue to come on leaps and bounds. Like all the winning companies of OPP Awards, our future is dependent on the industry’s ongoing prosperity and we want to play a major role in achieving that success. Further to that, at Smart we’re all about providing exemplary customer service, and by that we don’t only mean the “products” or services we offer, but also the way we treat our clients, both on a consumer and trade level. Similarly, these awards pay tribute to firms that hold those same values and we’re pleased to be associated with them and be able to help them achieve increased exposure

www.opp-connect.com

This year was our second time as a joint sponsor of the OPP Awards, and it has been just as satisfying and rewarding as the first time

a joint sponsor of the OPP Awards, and I can say without doubt that it has been as rewarding and satisfying as it was the first time. The experience reminded all at Smart of the need for key players in the overseas property industry to support each other and create a productive, friendly environment. We hope that supporting such

through their OPP Award. Just as importantly though, we believe that the OPP Awards programme promotes something we strongly believe in at Smart – solid, long-term partnerships. The OPP Awards not only applaud businesses for their efforts, but the very nature of the awards process and its Gala Evening help

JANA KORPOVA www.smartcurrencyexchange.com

TEL: +44 207 898 0541 bring together like-minded people, helping to create new business partnerships and cement existing ones. You won’t need reminding how important reliable partners or affiliates are in today’s tough economic climate. At Smart we’re continuing to grow and see 2014 as a year to continue along our upward trajectory. Sponsoring an event like the OPP Awards plays an important part in our marketing strategy and we hope highlights our commitment to this industry. For the second year running, our investment has been money well spent. So, from everyone at Smart, we wish the best of luck to all of this year’s winners, as well as everyone who entered the awards, as well as those who didn’t manage to, but continue to maintain professional business practice and excellent customer service – you know who are you! There’s always a next time – make 2014 the year you get recognised!

WE TALK PROPERTY BEFORE CURRENCY e OPP Awards th of rs ne in w l al to ns io at Congratul rency Exchange! ur C t ar m S om fr e nc le el of Exc

The OPP Awards of Excellence 2013 celebrated the very best in overseas property, with an extremely high standard of entries and an outstanding selection of Award winners. As part of our ongoing commitment to the overseas property industry, Smart Currency is pleased to announce that we will be sponsoring the Awards again in 2014. At last year’s Awards we were delighted to meet many of the entrants and fellow overseas property professionals – we are looking forward to catching up with you all throughout the year to see how we can help. New to Smart Currency? We are proud to be recognised as overseas property professionals – we put property before currency. If you are a property agent, developer, legal firm specialising in overseas property, mortgage broker, insurer or removals specialist, and want to find out why we are the Currency partner of choice for OPP members...

Call us on 020 7898 0541 or visit: www.smartcurrencypartners.com

SMART CURRENCY, OFFICIAL PARTNERS OF: INDUSTRY OUTLOOK SURVEY 2013

OM0401P1

THE OVERSEAS GUIDES COMPANY

© Copyright 2014 Smart Currency Exchange. All Rights Reserved. Smart® is a registered trademark of Smart Currency Exchange Ltd. Smart Currency Exchange Ltd is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009 (FRN 504509) for the provision of payment services. Registered in England No. 5282305.

OPP AWARDS 2013 Words | Jana Korpova

top 10 hints on how to win J

udging the OPP Awards for the second year running was both a privilege and an educational experience. With entries for most awards on the increase, it was a difficult task to initially shortlist six entrants and then to choose a winner for each category. This year, the biggest challenge we, the judges, faced was dealing

were very short and didn’t cover the minimum required information to qualify for an award, or in some cases, even to be shortlisted. In my opinion, any overseas property business entering the prestigious OPP Awards should realise that while the categories are fairly specific, to be in with any chance of winning the award

www.opp-connect.com

Even good companies with great reputations need to take into account that the awards are judged on the quality of application

with the volume of entrants and then assessing the amount of information they provided. It was fascinating having an insight into the business of each entrant, but the process of reading the entry forms and judging each entrant required a lot of time. Whilst I was impressed by most entries, sadly there were some that

(or even to be shortlisted) the minimum they need to do is answer every question as fully as possible – without overdoing it. Even good companies with great reputations need to take into account that these awards are judged on the quality of an entrant’s application and how well they meet the specified criteria.

So, here are my tips on how to win an award: Make a decision whether to enter the OPP Awards at the earliest opportunity, as this will give you (or your marketing team) enough time to understand fully the application form and process, and to prepare the answers. Remember – every judge looks at the answers based on the specific criteria and this is also how we score the entries. Don’t leave submitting your application too late and don’t treat it as a last-minute job.

When answering the questions, consider the fact that judges may not know your company or business, so make sure that you adequately describe your business and the way it operates.

Each question in the application form is there for a reason: it gives the judges a chance to assess all entrants on a fair and level basis. So if you choose to skip answering one or two questions, then we will score you “zero” and

OPP AWARDS 2013

you will significantly reduce your chances of winning. Keep answers relevant to the question. If the question is about customer satisfaction, then please only talk about your customers and their experiences when buying from you. It is very hard to judge and score answers that are not relevant to the question.

Do supply relevant brochures and images, but please don’t oversupply us with material – think about quality over quantity.

05 06

Once you’ve completed your application, make sure you run through it with your team or

If your business can enter more than one category, consider doing so, as this will increase your chances of winning an award. However, if you decide to do so, don’t just duplicate your application form – treat your application for each category independently.

Don’t just rely on your brand name and reputation. The OPP Awards are open to the entire international property market and anyone can enter. Judging is done on the basis of scoring the application and relevancy of the answers and not on the name and history attached to the name.

Don’t underestimate your competition. Make your entry as good as you can. Remember the famous saying used in sales organisations, “Whatever got you where you are today, will

not be sufficient to keep you there”. If you’ve won an award before, look back at your winning application form, but don’t just copy it for another year – and take into account the judges’ recommendations. It would be foolish to hope that re-submitting the same will win you another award. As a judge, I had an interesting time shortlisting entries, a process that took us a full working day in groups, and then judging the entries individually. This is not an easy job, as, every year, the entries get better and better. There is a lot of improvement happening in the overseas property industry and many companies can be proud (even if they haven’t won an award) of their customer-centric approach, something that was evident across the majority of entries. This is a great step forward for the overseas property industry. Innovation is one of the most difficult things to achieve in the sector and one of the hardest attributes to judge. Even so, I am hoping and expecting that in years to come there will be even more innovation in the OPP Awards for Excellence.

www.opp-connect.com

If your business doesn’t collect or ask for endorsements from customers already, consider doing so well in advance of entering the awards. Endorsements and testimonials are vital not only when entering the awards but also for use across your business.

somebody who is not directly involved in completing it. A fresh pair of eyes and third-party opinion should ensure you don’t miss out any vital points.

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Global Developer Freedom Bay, St Lucia collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Bold. Extraordinary. Commitment to detail. Sounds too good to be true but their customers love it and the service they get from the team

GOLD AWARD: Freedom Bay, St Lucia

Freedom Bay, St Lucia, by Affinity Resorts is a resort designer and developer focused on embracing bold concepts to deliver the exceptional. We seek to create the extraordinary through the pursuit of perfection and an all-embracing commitment to detail. We partner only with exclusive global brands and each project is accomplished through a unique collaboration of leading architects, hoteliers, retailers and designers. We only create our resorts in outstanding sites with unique attributes and where there is excellent international accessibility and an established hospitality market. The company aims to inspire, to be bold and imaginative in the creation and execution of its projects and to ensure privacy and seclusion. It also embraces and respects the environment, producing designs that create the most desirable and exclusive communities possible.

SILVER AWARD: Matrix

Matrix M. Co. Ltd. is a fully integrated property development business operating in Thailand which delivers a complete management component that powers all of its projects from concept to completion. We conduct extensive market research to determine the current customer’s need in terms of locations and designs. Abiding by our motto “We Build Our Promises”, Matrix has sold over 3,100 units with 9 completed developments within the last seven years and five more under construction. We are definitely headed in the right direction. Awarded 5 Star Best Multiple Unit Development in Thailand from the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2013.

BEST GLOBAL DEVELOPER

Zandspruit Estates (Pty) Ltd.

www.opp-connect.com

BRONZE AWARD: Zandspruit Estates

Developer of Zandspruit Estate, winner of the 2012 Silver award Best Developer Africa. Zandspruit Estate is situated in the heart of the Lowveld, near the small safari village Hoedspruit, in close proximity to the Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon, two of South Africa’s main tourist attractions. The development comprises of Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate – 200 luxury (holiday) homes; Zandhaven Lifestyle and Retirement Village – 323 retirement homes and apartments; Zandspruit Village, a boutique shopping and entertainment centre; and The Mirage Safari Resort – a four- to five-star luxury 64 room hotel/resort.

in association with

Developments are vibrant, the units affordable and offering satisfactory value for money. 100% interest free financing is very buyer friendly. Track record is very good

Clearly understands the importance of selling the place before the property – but what property they have to sell. Results speak for themselves

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Global Agency Property Frontiers collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

No doubt about Property Frontiers, we have here outstanding professionals offering all one can expect from a real estate agency. With many years experience and strong customer endorsement

GOLD AWARD: Property Frontiers

Established in 2004 Property Frontiers was founded with a vision of offering the best service and most innovative, well researched and pioneering international property investments. Over nine years on, we have conducted over 3,500 transactions (with nearly 2,000 investors) and have built a loyal investor base and brand. We really do not believe that any other company has the same commitment to independent research, thorough due diligence and a professional and consultative approach. We act as responsible, professional players in what is still a largely unregulated market. Don’t take our word, see our testimonials and awards to independently verify this.

SILVER AWARD: uv10

Established in 2007, uv10 is a Brazilian property specialist with vast expertise in the northeast region. As full-time residents and multiple investors into Brazil, uv10 has an unparalleled knowledge of the buying process and the best areas to invest in at any given time. Highly selective in its portfolio, uv10 offers beachfront holiday homes as well as investments into the booming domestic market. An AIPP member, uv10 is a prolific award winner successful in the OPP Awards for Excellence (2010, 2011 and 2012), the Americas Property Awards in Association with Bloomberg TV (2011) and the AIPP Awards (2010, 2012 and 2013).

SILVER AWARD: Pam Golding Properties

A strong application with great detail for a well established and diverse company. Excellent on staff training and it’s good to see such a thorough marketing strategy

www.opp-connect.com

Founded in 1976, Pam Golding Properties (PGP) is recognised locally and internationally as Southern Africa’s premier property group, employing 2,000 staff and agents worldwide. The group offers a full spectrum of property services in the residential and commercial sectors via its network of over 300 offices throughout Africa. The group’s alliance with Savills provides access to a network of over 500 offices worldwide. In addition, PGP has international offices in the UK, Germany, Seychelles and Mauritius. PGP is the most awarded real estate agency in South Africa boasting Superbrands status and being awarded numerous prestigious International Property Awards and OPP titles.

Even better this year than last. A well constructed entry from a company focusing on good product selection and great customer care

OPP AWARDS 2013

SILVER AWARD: Australian Property Solutions

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Australian Property Solutions specialises in selling quality Australian and New Zealand property to buyers based in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. We do this through our own real estate companies called All Property Solutions Singapore and All Property Solutions Malaysia. We understand that a lot more time and energy is required when selling to offshore markets and so we provide a FREE buyer service and assistance in all areas of owning and buying investment property, such as Banking and Finance, Legal, Accounting and Property Management services. Our focus on research also brings a greater level of sophistication to our clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment decision. We take the client-for-life approach.

Very impressive agency. Australian Property Solutions have taken the time to address each criterion and they have shown that they excel in every aspect that they were being judged on

OPP AWARDS 2013

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. A huge “thank you” to our amazing judges: completely independent industry experts who gave their time, free of charge, so that these awards can happen.

Basak Yildiz

Brad inman

Cesar Garzon

Christopher Please

Claudia Kwan

Dennis Phillips

Gareth Fatchett

George Sell

Gordon Miller

Imran Ali Khan

Jana Korpova

Janet Choynowski

Jo Winchester

João Miguel Medina

John Sebree

Kevin Burke

Liz Rowlinson

Luke Jackson

Marc da Silva

Marc Morley-Freer

Matthew Montagu-Pollock

Neil Heaney

Peter Esders

Peter Robinson

Sandra Carito

Shameen Golamy

Sue Ash

www.opp-connect.com

Anthony Armstrong Emery

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Developer - Europe iO Adria Limited collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Very experienced professionals, great project, popular place, strong and detailed marketing, very impressive customer service and a smart and reliable financial package

GOLD AWARD: iO ADRIA LIMITED

Sun Gardens, Dubrovnik is a five-star, fully integrated resort, located only 11 kilometres from the historic Old Town of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik Sun Gardens has set the benchmark in Croatia for luxury service and resort home ownership. The Resort is owned by iO Adria Limited, formerly Jupiter Adria Limited, and is operated under licence with Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts. iO Adria is actively engaged in the long term commitment and management of all of its investments from inception through to operation and is the largest inward investor today in the hospitality and leisure sector in Croatia.

SILVER AWARD: TM Real Estate Group

TM Real Estate Group – more than 44 years building experience and over 20,000 satisfied families now enjoying the Spanish sunshine in a TM home! We offer a wide range of properties to suit every budget, located on the Spanish Costa Blanca, Costa Almeria, Murcia, Mallorca and Mexico. All projects are 100% licensed and legal – with all documents freely available online! We do not need bank loans to fund our activities and offer a reliable, solvent and expanding company with which clients can buy and agents work in total confidence. TM is also the AIPP “Best Developer – Western Europe” 2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013!

Consider this project very seriously. TM is a strong professional in the industry with a proven track record

www.opp-connect.com

BRONZE AWARD: The Santon Group

The Santon Group is one of the largest private developers in the UK, having carried out in excess of £1 billion of developments. Our audited turnover for the three years to 30 April, 2012 totalled £980 million. Established in 1992, the group’s expertise lies in the identification, planning and development of residential, commercial and mixed use properties. This award application gives specific regard to the company’s tenacity and purchaser care exemplified during the nine-year conversion of an abandoned Grade A listed gothic monastery, St Benedict’s Abbey, into 112 residential properties, which was finally completed in late 2012.

What a project! One has to be amazed by the quality of the realization of this ambitious development

FREEHOLD RESORT APARTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR SALE • A fully managed resort investment operated under license with Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts • Apartments fully furnished to international 5 star standards • Highly attractive mortgage terms available • Rental management track record generating income for owners to help cover costs of ownership • Prices for one bedroom apartment from € 215,000 • Croatia is now part of the EU and is recognised as one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in Europe • Sun Gardens is an award winning resort recognised both in development and hospitality and tourism sectors

For further details contact: The Residences Sales Centre +385 (0) 20 361 650 residences@dubrovniksungardens.com | www.dubrovniksungardens.com

Best Developer - Central America Freedom Bay, St Lucia collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Bold. Extraordinary. Commitment to detail. Sounds too good to be true but their customers love it and the service they get from the team.

GOLD AWARD: Freedom Bay, Saint Lucia

www.opp-connect.com

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Developer - North America North Dakota Developments collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Interesting concept paired with well thought out product positioning. Tempting to investors from all parts of the world.

GOLD AWARD: North Dakota Developments

North Dakota Developments is a specialist developer building quality homes for commercial purposes in the USA. We have offices on three continents. Our objectives are simple: use the latest technology available to produce the highest quality dwellings that meet the highest standards of materials, insulation and energy efficiency at the most affordable price. We are currently undertaking commercial developments in and around North Dakota’s oil fields, to provide quality hotels for oil and construction workers for both short and long-term rental basis. We are planning to build single-family homes too.

SILVER AWARD: Empire Communities

Award-winning new homebuilder Empire Communities is involved in all sectors of the new home building industry, including commercial, industrial, low-rise and high-rise residential. Empire has established a tradition of creating prestigious awardwinning new homes and communities earning a reputation for outstanding attention to detail and customer service. Empire has received the President’s Award from the Ontario New Home Warranty Program for Outstanding Service and Achievement, the Ontario Community of the Year Award for its Wyndfield Community in Brantford, Ontario, and most recently, the Green Builder of the Year Award from both the HHHBA and BILD, for the second time.

www.opp-connect.com

BRONZE AWARD: Park Square Homes

Park Square Home’s innovative designs, superior construction and commitment to homeowner satisfaction have helped this small, family-owned operation become one of the largest and most respected independent residential development and homebuilding companies in Central Florida. They are recognized industry leaders in Resort Vacation Homes in the Disney area of Orlando. They have been in business for thirty years and have completed over 8,000 homes during that time. Park Square Homes are developers of numerous award-winning communities including the celebrated Emerald Island and Belmere. The company is still owned and managed by its original founders.

Superb development, beautifully presented! Highly attuned to the wants of trendy urban dwellers, the amenities are truly impressive!

Well executed & ideally situated for vacation rentals. This offers a good opportunity for investors wanting a place for their own occasional use

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Developer - Middle East DAMAC Properties collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Damac’s collaboration with some of the biggest luxury brands on earth gives them a great marketing advantage over competitors for the high net worth individuals

GOLD AWARD: DAMAC Properties

DAMAC Properties was established in 2002, as a private residential, leisure and commercial developer in Dubai and the Middle East. In the past decade, DAMAC Properties has expanded rapidly into Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and North Africa. DAMAC Properties has completed 8,890 units to date spanning 9,070,264 sq. ft. it also has a further 19,136 units at various stages of progress across the Middle East region covering 23,816,070 sq. ft. out of which 5,193 units will be completed in 2013.

SILVER AWARD: Al Barari Firm Management LLC

Al Barari, literally meaning ‘wilderness’, was designed to be a true desert oasis. 80% of the development’s 14.2 million square feet is made up of green, lush space that envelopes the 189 luxury-villas. Themed gardens with over 16.4 kilometres of naturally landscaped lakes, freshwater streams, cascades and waterways make Al Barari the lowest density development in the UAE and more akin to a botanical garden than a residential community. With a rich heritage in Dubai history, Al Barari is the flagship development of the Zaal family. Led by Mr Zaal Mohammed Zaal, Al Barari is the realization of a unified vision to create a unique, inspiring and sustainable residential and cultural community in Dubai.

Detailed information about the development and the lifestyle plus the focus to keep the local environment intact and then build its own microclimate – quite fascinating

START EARLY

www.opp-connect.com

We make the process of applying for an OPP Award for Excellence as simple as possible but there is no doubt that putting together a successful application takes a little time. Companies have won awards based on last minute applications put together in a couple of hours – but most who win will have fine tuned their application over several weeks. This is easier if you start early. We make the application forms available in February – see www.oppconnect.com. The closing date is in July, so we give you plenty of time: but it is far too easy to put it on one side to “do it later”. Do yourself a favour; start now! Remember that it could be a good idea to apply in more than one category: for example, Best Agent in Asia and Best Example of Customer Service.

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Developer - AFRICA Zandspruit Estates collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Clearly understands the importance of selling the place before the property – but what property they have to sell! Results speak for themselves

GOLD AWARD: Zandspruit Estates (Pty) Ltd

Developer of Zandspruit Estate, winner of the 2012 Silver Award: Best Developer Africa. Zandspruit Estate is situated in the heart of the Lowveld, near the small safari village Hoedspruit, in close proximity to the Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon, two of South Africa’s main tourist attractions. The development comprises Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate, 200 luxury holiday homes; Zandhaven Lifestyle and Retirement Village, 323 retirement homes and apartments; Zandspruit Village, a boutique shopping and entertainment centre; and The Mirage Safari Resort – a four- to five-star luxury 64 rooms hotel / resort.

Best Developer - Australasia BPM collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

www.opp-connect.com

GOLD AWARD: BPM

An uncompromising attitude to both quality and design shines through. The result is borne out by impressive testimonials and explained clearly and thoroughly in the application

BPM has emerged as one of Australia’s most savvy property developers with an uncompromising attitude to both quality and design with projects extending from Melbourne’s prestigious inner city suburbs through to Queensland’s west end. Hallinan and his team’s passion for delivering exceptional design is highlighted by strong partnerships BPM shares with leading Australian contemporary architects and interior designers, delivering residential spaces that set a benchmark in luxury living. BPM’s extensive developments are located in some of Australia’s best addresses with an enviable portfolio that includes international award-winning Flora apartments in Brighton and projects in North Fitzroy, Essendon and Brisbane.

Zandspruit

Bush & Aero Estate Hoedspruit - Limpopo South Africa

Own your dream home and live in a wild place you thought no longer existed...

The African dream personified Zandspruit Estate, an unspoilt hideaway in the African bushveld. A place for nature to flourish while future generations’ minds become activated. Zandspruit Estate provides an environment in which both adults and children can live a carefree life, enjoying nature up close and personal, on a daily basis. The spectacular Drakensberg Mountains loom large, casting crag like shadows across the Lowveld bush and the Blyde River Canyon. Magnificent wild figs and leadwood trees provide shade during the warm summer and stand in stark contrast against the crisp blue winter skies. Natural surroundings lie undisturbed in design and construction. Wake up in a reality you thought no longer existed. Giraffes sneaking a quick drink from the waterhole and impala providing early morning entertainment.

Zandspruit Estate offers a secure, wholesome, nature based environment with retailers, doctors and restaurants conveniently close. Bush stands offer pristine seasonal riverbed frontage, spectacular mountain views or that real, in-the-bush, feeling. The Aero Estate will appeal to Pilots and those with a passion for aviation. A unique feature here, and a first in the bush, is that you will be able to land and hangar your plane near your house. The development falls within the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere ensuring a nature experience par excellence. You are further only 70 km from the Kruger National Park (Orpen Gate) and can enjoy day trips as well as weekend trips to view the big five. The 650ha undeveloped wilderness area is yours to

explore recreationally either on foot, bicycle, horseback or by game drive. Zandspruit Estate provides 161 bush stands as well as 38 aero stands along the 1000 meters hard surfaced private runway. Architectural guidelines will apply to all houses, guaranteeing a home to suit every need and taste, whilst ensuring continuity and coherence. The allowed styles are thatch, farmhouse and modern pavilion, which caters for individual preferences, as well as optimizing each stand’s unique features.

Life does not get better than this

Zandspruit Estate: Award-winning affordable luxury

We invite agents to contact us on gjg@zandspruit.co.za

B u s h & A e ro E s t a t e Contact: info@zandspruit.nl Cell: + 31 654 22 6762 www.zandspruit.nl

MOVE TO A BETTER PLACE

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Developer - ASIA Matrix collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

The sales process is as simple as possible. They provide a lot of collateral to their sales channel. A strong track record of completing projects to a high quality

GOLD AWARD: Matrix M. Company Limited

Matrix M. Co. Ltd. is a fully integrated property development business operating in Thailand. It delivers a complete management component that powers all of its projects from concept to completion. We conduct extensive market research to determine the current customer’s need in terms of locations and designs. Abiding by our motto “We Build Our Promises”, Matrix has sold over 3,100 units with nine completed developments within the last seven years and five more under construction. We are definitely headed in the right direction. Awarded 5 Star Best Multiple Unit Development in Thailand from the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2013.

SILVER AWARD: OSK Property Holdings Berhad

OSK Property is principally involved in the development and management of residential and commercial properties in Malaysia. Listed on the main board of Bursa Malaysia, we are developing projects with a GDV of over RM6.5 billion situated at strategic growth areas across the country. Many of our projects have won prestigious international awards. Our passion is driven by the pursuit of innovation, outstanding quality and design conducive to community living at its best. Capitalizing on our strengths and desire, we are committed to building homes in prime corridors that enable us to further enhance the lives of people in Malaysia.

The Group’s continued positive achievements are attributable to their ability to offer an extensive range of products that cater to diverse market needs

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BRONZE AWARD: Hatten Group Sdn Bhd

Hatten Group Sdn Bhd, incorporated in 2008, is a Malaysia-based property developer corporation. The group of companies specialises in property development, strategic management and investment. In less than five years, Hatten Group has carved a name for itself in the Malaysian property sector, being named among Malaysia’s Top Property Developers 2012/2013 by iProperty.com. Following the success of previous projects, Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall, the largest shopping mall in Melaka, and Hatten Hotel, a premier businessclass hotel, Hatten Group has since unveiled the first phase of Hatten City, a contemporary mixed-use development equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, gleaming infrastructure and commercial opportunities.

Award winning projects in high capital appreciation areas offer exceptional value for money

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Luxury Developer The Santon Group collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

This developer has great attention to detail, however one sees the constraints of using historical buildings. Santon has regenerated the town of Fort Augustus

GOLD AWARD: The Santon Group

SILVER AWARD: Al Barari Firm Management LLC

The Reserve at Al Barari, is an exceptional new collection of high-end bespoke luxury villas, the first show home completed and 14 villas launched and sold as ‘shell and core’, with a further 14 in development. “Luxury is not a number, it is a lifestyle. It’s not about being the biggest or the brightest, it’s about the subtle details that differentiate the ordinary from the extraordinary.” The Reserve answers the demand from discerning international buyers who no longer view the city as temporary or transient.

BRONZE AWARD: Zandspruit Estates (Pty) Ltd

A truly unique concept created with sympathy to the local surroundings. Clear options for buyers from overseas.

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Developer of Zandspruit Estate, winner of the 2012 Silver Award Best Developer Africa. Zandspruit Estate is situated in the heart of the Lowveld, near the small safari village Hoedspruit, in close proximity to the Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon, two of South Africa’s main tourist attractions. The development comprises of Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate, 200 luxury holiday homes; Zandhaven Lifestyle and Retirement Village, 323 retirement homes and apartments; Zandspruit Village, a boutique shopping and entertainment centre; and The Mirage Safari Resort – a four- to five-star luxury 64 rooms hotel/resort.

The product successfully marries a classical and contemporary style with a clear and signature touch of luxury. A stand out entry in this category

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Eco Development OSK Property collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

OSK has a wellrounded, considered and professional sustainability approach. It demonstrates a keen understanding of the broadest global and sensitive local issues

GOLD AWARD: OSK Property Holdings Berhad

Olympia Group collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

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GOLD AWARD: Olympia Group

A very impressive entry from the Olympia Group with very detailed explanations of their visions which back up their company motto ‘Always Green’

The OLYMPIA Group is recognized as an eco-friendly developer with its ﬁrst project Olympia Technology Park being granted the status of the “Largest LEED Gold rated Green Building in the World”. Driven by a strong management and a dedicated staff, building structures are made with “Environmental Sensitivity” using eco-friendly raw materials and construction methods. This approach has not only established strong brand equity for Olympia but also fetched world-wide recognition and accreditations for employing globally acclaimed ‘Green’ building parameters. Olympia has always dared to aim big, and succeeded. Leaving a ‘Green’ footprint across the nation is the big picture that now keeps pulling the reins.

OPP AWARDS 2013

SIVER AWARD: AlmaVerde Village and Spa AlmaVerde in the western Algarve has evolved over 14 years as a world-leading sustainable new community and resort. Setting new standards in environmental practices, AlmaVerde has been home to the development of radical and innovative low energy sustainable construction techniques and a unique architecture. Many of the 100+ privately owned villas offer holiday rental, and AlmaVerde is becoming a popular international family resort with its own wellness and sports facilities, supported by a full-time management and maintenance staff. Attending to everything from architecture and construction to villa management and resort maintenance, our success is measured by our client satisfaction.

The benefits of Coolhouse technology are well documented; the passive envelope forms the starting point to build an enlightened holistic approach to sustainable design

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OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Affordable Development Zandspruit Estates collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

A relatively new company but a well-seasoned management team are steering this ship in the right direction. Zandspruit offer a unique product at truly affordable prices

GOLD AWARD: Zandspruit Estates (Pty) Ltd

SILVER AWARD: OSK Holdings Berhad

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BRONZE AWARD: Mah Sing Group Berhad

Incorporated since 1991 and listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia, Mah Sing Group Berhad is Malaysia’s premier lifestyle developer at the forefront of building quality homes and prime commercial projects in strategic locations. With two decades of property development expertise, the Group is a versatile and diversified developer with strong branding in medium to high-end landed and strata residential properties, township, commercial and industrial properties. Its 44 projects span Malaysia’s prime areas, namely, Greater Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley, Johor Bahru (Iskandar Malaysia) and Penang Island (North Corridor Economic Region) and Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

OSK clearly have a passion for the environment and customer service. A large corporation with a good track record – and it’s good to see the books stack up

This company clearly thinks about good customer service. Affordable, rather than cheap housing from an experienced, credible and diversified developer

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Small Agency Ultissimo Ltd collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

I feel the passion coming through and expect it would be a very pleasurable experience to deal with them myself. If I had €1.5m to spend, which I don’t!

GOLD AWARD: Ultissimo Ltd

Ultissimo, headquartered in London, is a specialist Italian property buying agent working with an international clientele wanting to have a home on the main Italian lakes (Como, Maggiore and Lugano). Four full time staff, two on Lake Como and two in London, form the core team that won the Bloomberg award for Best Property Finder Europe 2011. Ultissimo’s distinctive hallmark is a unique combination of a business built wholly around client focus, an incredible depth of knowledge, discretion and a capability for working with clients from all around the world to find and purchase the right property.

SILVER AWARD: IQ Property Investments

Creating wealth through knowledge and secure investments for clients nationally and internationally. We specialise in passive income property opportunities such as five-star hotel resorts/rooms, commercial property, social housing schemes and student accommodation. At IQ Property Investments we consider ourselves to be the ‘best of breed’ in today’s property investment market, assuring clients of our ultimate attention to detail and total confidence in all the investment opportunities which we offer.

BRONZE AWARD: Luxury Locations Real Estate Antigua

I felt their passion for their business. A new and rapidly expanding agency. Backed by more evidence, they might have done even better

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Luxury Locations launched as a boutique agency in 2009 and became a Savills associate within 18 months. In four years it’s now the largest real estate agency in Antigua, representing over 60% of the real estate market with only three full time staff. In 2011 the business signed a contract to undertake all sales and marketing for Pearns Point, offering properties from US$6m-US$20m. Luxury Locations launched a lifestyle and property magazine now distributed on all flights from London to Antigua and distributed in the top hotels across the island.

Some very good processes and a decent grounding in finance and investment which they appear to leverage for the benefit of their clients. Positive testimonials

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Large Agency New Bob Realty collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

A completely different approach to everything from this old-established Malaysian estate agency – but with great customer feedback. Perseverance and passion leading to success

GOLD AWARD: NEW BOB REALTY SDN BHD

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New Bob Group of Companies is one of Penang’s most iconic real estate groups. For over half a century, New Bob Group has developed properties, created visions, and fulfilled dreams for so many to call home. Having handled over 30,000 property transactions and presently managing some 1,000 properties, this corporate player is evidently here to stay. New Bob has come a long way in pioneering its expertise, and has created a hallmark of outstanding standards and services. From property management and property investment of both residential and commercial properties to a whole spectrum of professional advisory and management services.

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best New Agency InTown Property collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Integrated service provider focused on domestic quality while thinking internationally. Its high quality partnerships highlight the vision and long-term sustainablity of the business

GOLD AWARD: InTown Property

InTown Property is unique in the Brazilian real estate market. The multi-lingual agency, combined with InTown Architecture, provides a ‘one-stop’ shop for the sophisticated international investor. Founded in January 2012, InTown Property provides clients with a highly personalised service in sales, property finding and administration, precisely tailored to the demands of today’s international clients. Responding to the unparalled growth in the Brazilian property market, InTown has a unique understanding of what is required by the client. Staffed by experienced property professionals, the company is already the recipient of two International Property Awards for our services and innovation. Sales have increased by 400% over the last year.

SILVER AWARD: Home in Tunisia

Home in Tunisia is the largest real estate network in Tunisia. For more than four years at the service of the Tunisians and foreigners wishing to invest in Tunisia, the success of Home in Tunisia is due to the success of its several real estate projects. Home in Tunisia’s agents and brokers all share the same values, clients’ respect, taste for challenge, and a real passion for real estate. Home in Tunisia will endeavor to make you part of our success: to promote Tunisian real estate to international investors.

A market leader in their space with solid success. They offer high quality services, accurate information and can obtain market share without complex marketing channels

HAVE THE RIGHT PERSON PREPARE THE APPLICATION

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Too often we see applications that have, obviously, been put together by fairly junior people in the company’s PR department. The person preparing – or, at least, the person signing off – the application needs to be fairly senior. He or she should feel, and be able to share, a passion for your company. Incidentally, you don’t need to have a PR company help with the preparation of your application. Many successful companies don’t. However, using a PR company or your PR team can help many companies focus on what they really need to say and to say it most effectively. Don’t worry about the standard of your English. We serve an international audience and happily adjust for the fact that many of our applications are from people who don’t speak English as a first language.

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Agency - Europe Property Frontiers collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

All one can expect from a real estate agency. Rigorous procedures to resolve complaints and ensure the accuracy of the properties, useful and forward thinking marketing, impressive track record

GOLD AWARD: Property Frontiers Ltd

Established in 2004 Property Frontiers was founded with a vision of offering the best service and most innovative, well researched and pioneering international property investments. Over nine years on, we have conducted over 3,500 transactions (with nearly 2,000 investors) and have built a loyal investor base and brand. We really do not believe that any other company has the same commitment to independent research, thorough due diligence and a professional and consultative approach. We act as responsible, professional players in what is still a largely unregulated market. Don’t take our word – see our testimonials and awards to independently verify this.

SILVER AWARD: Home Hunts

Established in 2005, Home Hunts offers a complete professional property search service for clients interested in purchasing luxury properties across France, Switzerland, Monaco, London and New York. As a property finders’ service we act on behalf of the buyer predominantly to find high end properties of typically €1m and above. We collaborate with all of the best estate agents, notaires, developers and private sellers to bring the ultimate selection of properties in each desired area. We do take properties for sale directly but unlike a traditional agent, we are not restricted to the properties on our books and we search the entire market for our clients.

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BRONZE AWARD: Leggett Immobilier

Leggett Immobilier is one of the fastest growing estate agencies in France. Established as a single office in the Dordogne in 1997 we now have over 8,700 properties for sale in all of the most popular areas of France. We are a family firm and place the highest emphasis on both professionalism and friendliness. One in ten UK buyers of French property now purchase their homes through Leggett Immobilier - our bilingual, in-house, legal team ensure that each sale progresses as smoothly as possible with clients kept fully informed throughout the process.

‘Think different’ could be the mantra of the team of Home Hunts. Innovation and differentiation always toward the customer’s satisfaction are the keys for this business Legget Immobilier has prospered thanks to an impressive marketing approach both online and offline, which has given them one of the strongest track records in this market

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Agency - North America Torcana Ltd collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

It is easy to understand how this company has won so many awards. A thoroughly professional application explaining clearly what they offer and the philosophy behind it

GOLD AWARD: Torcana Ltd

Torcana Ltd is an award winning investment specialist which promotes a variety of real estate products in North America. Our primary goal is to find ways of putting both our own funds and those of trusted clients to productive use without taking unnecessary risks. Through rigorous due diligence and a long term “on the ground” approach, we help people to grow their net worth by taking ownership of assets that are stable and offer genuine long term value. We have transacted almost $50m worth of properties to clients from more than 25 countries.

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OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Agency - Central America Luxury Locations Real Estate Antigua collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Four years from set up to being the largest real estate agency in Antigua. A clear understanding of marketing this unique location

GOLD AWARD: Luxury Locations Real Estate Antigua

Best Agency - South America uv10 collecting their OPP gold award.

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Judge’s comment

GOLD AWARD: uv10

Even better this year than last. A well constructed entry from a company focusing on good product selection and great customer care

Established in 2007, uv10 is a Brazil property specialist with vast expertise in the northeast region. As full-time residents and multiple investors into Brazil, uv10 has an unparalleled knowledge of the buying process and the best areas to invest in at any given time. Highly selective in its portfolio, uv10 offers beachfront holiday homes as well as investments into the booming domestic market. An AIPP member, uv10 is a prolific award winner successful in the OPP Awards for Excellence (2010, 2011 and 2012), the Americas Property Awards in Association with Bloomberg TV (2011) and the AIPP Awards (2010, 2012 and 2013).

OPP AWARDS 2013

The OPP Awards for Excellence 2014

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We want the 2014 awards to be even better, even bigger and even more useful both to the companies that take part and the public who see – and value – the OPP Awards for Excellence logo when making their buying decisions.

ERVIC E T RODUC CUSTOMER S P IT T BES E OF XAMPL OR T BEST E T SUPP N E G A BEST

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here will be a few changes for the OPP Awards for Excellence 2014. We are introducing three new categories: Best IT Product, Best Example of Customer Service and Best Agent Support. We are changing the Best Luxury and Best Affordable Developer categories to Best Luxury and Best Affordable Development respectively. The originals are too complicated when a developer might build some luxury or affordable and some ‘normal’ developments. This ties them in with the existing Best EcoDevelopment category. We are putting more emphasis on testimonials. We are streamlining both the application and award presentation processes and making a few other housekeeping changes. Apart from this, our main focus will be on increasing, still further, the number of applicants. We want agents and developers, from the very largest to the very smallest, to see the value in and apply for an OPP Award for Excellence. It is clear from past awards that either can win and the more variety in each category, the better. We will also be doing more work to increase recognition within the industry that these awards are genuinely worth boasting about as a totally independent endorsement of the company’s outstanding quality. We look forward to receiving your entry in the 2014 OPP Awards for Excellence.

It takes thousands of strands of fibre to produce a spectacular result. Much like people. We are delighted to have again been recognised as the Best Estate Agency in Africa by the Overseas Property Professional Awards for 2013. We take this opportunity to acknowledge, congratulate and thank each and every member of the Pam Golding Property Group, across 3 continents and 300 offices, to whom these awards are dedicated and without whom our success would not be possible.

GOLD 2013 SILVER 2013 SILVER 2013 BRONZE 2013

Best Estate Agency Africa Best Estate Agency Global Best Online Service Best Innovation

www.pamgolding.co.za

Best Agency - Middle East Orient Desert collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

A well constructed application from a company offering a range of services well beyond “simple” estate agency. A winner despite some uninspiring products on sale

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GOLD AWARD: Orient Desert Real Estate Brokers

Orient Desert Real Estate has been established in UAE and created an international network with global markets. An award winning company and an Elite member of World Confederation of Businesses, Orient Desert Real Estate has, since its establishment, made a strong and creative relationship with local partners and different developers which enrich the variety of offers available to satisfy the different requirements for clients. Today, our company is one of the leading real estate agents in UAE, offering sales and rental services along with interior packages and real estate consultancy services.

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Agency - Africa Pam Golding Properties collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Strong application with great detail. Excellent info on staff training and good to see a thorough marketing strategy

GOLD AWARD: Pam Golding Properties (Pty) Ltd

Founded in 1976, Pam Golding Properties (PGP) is recognised locally and internationally as Southern Africa’s premier property group, employing 2,000 staff and agents worldwide. The group offers a full spectrum of property services in the residential and commercial sectors via its network of over 300 offices throughout Africa. The group’s alliance with Savills provides access to a network of over 500 offices worldwide. In addition PGP has international offices in the UK, Germany, Seychelles and Mauritius. PGP is the most awarded real estate agency in South Africa, boasting Superbrands status and being awarded numerous International Property Awards and OPP titles.

SILVER AWARD: Home in Tunisia

A new company that has rapidly built up a base of quality developers. They obviously understand the dynamics of the market

ANSWER THE QUESTIONS!

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This is a bit like being at school. If there are 10 sections to the application form and you only answer 8, you’re not likely to do very well. Similarly, when you are dealing with each section, make sure you cover as many of the points in it as possible. If, for some reason, a particular point is not relevant in your case, say so and explain why. Needless to say, if you are applying for more than one award, submit a separate application for each. The criteria are different for each award and, whilst you may be able to copy some of the text from one to the other, it’s not a good idea just to send in the same application twice! It is amazing how many entrants do not follow these simple rules. As a result, their applications stand much less chance of success.

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Agency - Australasia Australian Property Solutions collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Very impressive agency. Australian Property Solutions have taken the time to address each criterion and they have shown that they excel in every aspect that they were being judged on

GOLD AWARD: Australian Property Solutions

Australian Property Solutions specialises in selling quality Australian and New Zealand property to buyers based in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. We do this through our own real estate companies called All Property Solutions Singapore and All Property Solutions Malaysia. We understand that a lot more time and energy is required when selling to offshore markets and we provide a FREE buyer service and assistance in all areas of owning and buying investment property, such as Banking and Finance, Legal, Accounting and Property Management services. Our focus on research also brings a greater level of sophistication to our client’s investment decision. We take the client for life approach.

SILVER AWARD: BPM

BPM has emerged as one of Australia’s most savvy property developers with an uncompromising attitude to both quality and design with projects extending from Melbourne’s prestigious inner city suburbs through to Queensland’s west end. Hallinan and his team’s passion for delivering exceptional design is highlighted by strong partnerships BPM shares with leading Australian contemporary architects and interior designers, delivering residential spaces that set a benchmark in luxury living. BPM’s extensive developments are located in some of Australia’s best addresses with an enviable portfolio that includes international award winning Flora apartments in Brighton and projects in North Fitzroy, Essendon and Brisbane.

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BRONZE AWARD: NEW BOB REALTY SDN BHD

New Bob Group of Companies is one of Penang’s most iconic real estate groups. And for over half a century, New Bob Group has developed properties, created visions, and fulfilled dreams for so many to call home. Having handled over 30,000 property transactions and presently managing some 1,000 properties, this corporate player is evidently here to stay. New Bob has come a long way in pioneering its expertise, and has created a hallmark of outstanding standards and services. From property management and property investment of both residential and commercial properties to a whole spectrum of professional advisory and management services.

Agency and developer, BPM could have been successful in either category. They ensure consistent quality, service and complaints resolution. Their track record is exemplary

Their marketing and how they ensure accuracy of information was explained very well but I was looking for more specifics about how New Bob Realty excels

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Agency - Asia ECG Property collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

A very strong agency in a highly competive serviceoriented market. Continuing commitment to service and staff education is a distinguishing factor separating ECG from its peers

GOLD AWARD: ECG Property Pte Ltd

ECG Property was established by Dato’ Eric Cheng, property leader and best-selling author in the Asian real estate industry. Together with his elite management team, Dato’ Eric Cheng’s aim is to groom real estate professionals to excel and offer peak performance to those with real estate needs. With its rapidly growing network of specialists from various property sectors of residential, industrial, commercial, collective sales and prestige launches, ECG Property has positioned itself as a boutique real estate agency recognised for its professionalism and high quality service standards by its consultants and their customers.

SILVER AWARD: NEW BOB REALTY SDN BHD

New Bob Group of Companies is one of Penang’s most iconic real estate groups. And for over half a century, New Bob Group has developed properties, created visions, and fulfilled dreams for so many to call home. Having handled over 30,000 property transactions and presently managing some 1,000 properties, this corporate player is evidently here to stay. New Bob has come a long way in pioneering its expertise, and has created a hallmark of outstanding standards and services. From property management and property investment of both residential and commercial properties, to a whole spectrum of professional advisory and management services.

BRONZE AWARD: Midland Realty (Global) Limited

A very strong and dominant player within its domestic market. Leverages scale well and has the breadth to gain customers and promote products

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Midland Holding is a leading real estate brokerage covering China, Hong Kong and Macau. A pioneer in the global property market and initiated Midland Global as a subsidiary to lead the industry in Asia. With the revolutionary movement of Asia’s capital flowing internationally and the Group’s global marketing network, Midland Global leads the tide to expand into the global property sector. Collaborates with over 680 branches and 9,535 expert consultants plus leading developers to offer investors a diversified portfolio of investment properties. It has accumulated a reputation, a dedicated client base, and has proven to be an industry leader.

A very wellestablished and well-run agency. Their ongoing commitment to service is evident. Solid track record with the right procedures in place to ensure quality and scale

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Property Investment Advisers Property Frontiers collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Their competitors should read Property Frontier’s application before they enter the awards next year. Clear, just the right amount of detail, strong customer endorsement

GOLD AWARD: Property Frontiers

Established in 2004, Property Frontiers was founded with a vision of offering the best service and most innovative, well researched and pioneering international property investments. Over nine years on, we have conducted over 3,500 transactions (with nearly 2000 investors) and have built a loyal investor base and brand. We really do not believe that any other company has the same commitment to independent research, thorough due diligence and a professional and consultative approach. We act as responsible, professional players in what is still a largely unregulated market. Don’t take our word – see our testimonials and awards to independently verify this.

Propertybuyer collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

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GOLD AWARD: Propertybuyer

You’ll save time, money and stress having a buyers’ agent on your side. It sounds simple but the indepth research and analysis behind propertybuyer is anything but.

Propertybuyer is a totally independent buyers’ agency that specialises in searching, appraising and negotiating residential and commercial real estate exclusively for buyers. You’ll save time, money and stress having a buyers’ agent on your side. Find your next property faster, discover hot spots, uncover off market properties and leverage your time. Our multi-award winning team makes the process of buying simple and efficient. We save you far more than our fees and stop you making an emotional impulse purchase. Using a range of sophisticated research tools to search, analyse and select suburbs and property types that outperform the market.

OPP AWARDS 2013

SILVER AWARD: Platinum Portfolio Builders Platinum Portfolio Builder (PPB) is a business that builds and manages property portfolios for people who want to invest but who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the time, knowledge or inclination to do it themselves. PPB only buys properties where it can achieve a minimum discount of 25% below an independent RICS valuation. Last year an average discount of 28% was achieved for the benefit of clients. In the next 12 months alone it will buy around 1,000 properties for our various clients. PPB recognises that many people are unhappy with the poor returns and uncertainty from traditional investments and pensions. Property investment can achieve higher yields and financial security through intelligent investment.

Platinum builds upon long standing relationships with clients and receives some strong endorsements from them

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OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Online Service PropertyGuru collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Comprehensive presentation. They cater to a vast audience and benefit all sorts of visitors. Fully integrated 360 advertisement solutions. Impressive and offer good value for money

GOLD AWARD: PropertyGuru Pte. Ltd

PropertyGuru Group was founded in 2006 with a vision to simplify property search for buyers, sellers and investors to make better property decisions faster. It has reported rapid growth since launching and most recently announced a record 96% increase in revenue with more than 24,000 paying agent advertisers in 2012, strengthening its position as Asia’s leading online property portal with a presence in nine countries, including offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. To date, it has almost 11 million property buyers, viewing 89 million property pages and generating over 350,000 enquiries for real estate developers and agents – every month.

SILVER AWARD: Pam Golding Properties (Pty) Ltd

Founded in 1976, Pam Golding Properties (PGP) is recognised locally and internationally as Southern Africa’s premier property group, employing 2,000 staff and agents worldwide. The group offers a full spectrum of property services in the residential and commercial sectors via its network of over 300 offices. The group’s alliance with Savills provides access to a network of over 500 offices worldwide. In addition PGP has international offices in the UK, Germany, Seychelles and Mauritius. PGP is the most awarded real estate agency in South Africa, boasting Superbrands status and being awarded numerous International Property Awards and OPP titles.

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BRONZE AWARD: TM Real Estate Group

TM Real Estate Group – more than 42 years’ building experience and over 20,000 satisfied families now enjoying the Spanish sunshine in a TM home! We offer a wide range of properties to suit every budget, located on the Spanish Costa Blanca, Mallorca and Mexico. All projects are 100% licensed and legal – with all documents freely availabe online! We do not need bank loans to fund our activities and offer a reliable, solvent and expanding company with which clients can buy and agents work in total confidence. TM is also the AIPP “Best Developer – Western Europe” 2010, 2011 & 2012!

Various tools and guides offer good help to its users. Also boasts other important tools, tailored solutions and offers great value for money. All with a proven track record

Easy access to information which benefits the user. Voted the most user friendly portal. Good 24/7 customer service in various language and a proven track record

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Marketing Campaign Empire Communities collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Nice design and creative advertising. Broker preview event seems quite nice, and EDMs with area amenities and benefits is great

GOLD AWARD: Empire Communities

Award-winning new homebuilder Empire Communities is involved in all sectors of the new home building industry, including commercial, industrial, low-rise and high-rise residential. Empire has established a tradition of creating prestigious award winning new homes and communities earning a reputation for outstanding attention to detail and customer service. Empire has received the President’s Award from the Ontario New Home Warranty Program for Outstanding Service and Achievement, the Ontario Community of the Year Award for its Wyndfield Community in Brantford, Ontario, and most recently, the Green Builder of the Year Award from both the HHHBA and BILD, for the second time.

SILVER AWARD: Torcana Ltd

Torcana Ltd is an award winning investment specialist which promotes a variety of real estate products worldwide. Our primary goal is to find ways of putting both our own funds and those of trusted clients to productive use without taking unnecessary risks. Through rigorous due diligence and a long term “on the ground” approach, we help people to grow their net worth by taking ownership of assets that are stable and offer genuine long term value. We have transacted almost $50m worth of properties to clients from more than 25 countries.

BRONZE AWARD: OSK Property Holdings Berhad

The marketing mix and guidebook show a great deal of structure built into the campaign, and much of the research conducted points to why the campaign was successful

www.opp-connect.com

Smart and strategic inbound marketing, and consistent execution. Really love that you let the message and content drive the direction of your campaign

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Media Overseas Guide Company collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

A great combination of information/market intelligence & lead generation. This company provides a wealth of information to the consumer & partners alike. Great measure of success & audit

GOLD AWARD: Overseas Guides Company (OGC)

The Overseas Guide Company – the leading source of information for individuals who require advice on purchasing properties abroad. For our partners we are an essential source of client referrals, who are in the various aspects of buying a home overseas. Our partners include property agents, developers, solicitors, removals and home insurers. Our partners are carefully selected and vetted so that our readers and clients can be recommended reputable organisations from whom they might purchase property abroad. Bronze winner for Best Media at the OPP 2012 Awards.

SILVER AWARD: BuyAssociation

We are a multi award-winning media company who can deliver the lead generation and media solutions you need, on time, on budget, as required. With a wealth of experience across media, including industry specialists and the most innovative thinkers in their fields, BuyAssociation has a reputation which is second to none, and has consistently been a leader in the market. We provide a full spectrum of media and marketing services, always with the client as our top priority. Winner of OPP Award for Best Media in 2012.

www.opp-connect.com

BRONZE AWARD: PropertyGuru Pte. Ltd

The idea of unlimited marketing until a guaranteed volume of leads is delivered is a great idea and really puts this company’s money where its mouth is in terms of providing results

Clever, innovative approach is a new and rapidly growing market. The company clearly has a good track record of results and shows this through the statistics

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Fractional Scheme Freedom Bay, St Lucia collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Made a splash in the fractional world: range of ownership options, guaranteed returns already being received and not a mirage, strong eco agenda, impressive design and canny marketing

GOLD AWARD: Freedom Bay, St Lucia

Freedom Bay, St Lucia, by Affinity Resorts is a resort designer and developer focused on embracing bold concepts to deliver the exceptional. We seek to create the extraordinary through the pursuit of perfection and an all–embracing commitment to detail. We partner only with exclusive global brands and each project is accomplished through a unique collaboration of leading architects, hoteliers, retailers and designers. We only create our resorts in outstanding sites with unique attributes and where there is excellent international accessibility and an established hospitality market. The company aims to inspire, to be bold and imaginative in the creation and execution of its projects and to ensure privacy and seclusion. It also embraces and respects the environment, producing designs that create the most desirable and exclusive communities possible.

SILVER AWARD: The Hideaways Club

Founded in 2006, The Hideaways Club combines intelligent investment and lifestyle benefits through collective ownership of luxury holiday residences. Our members all have a passion for luxurious properties in exclusive locations around the world, yet are very time-precious. Our five-star Concierge Service ensures that our Members have hassle-free holidays. We have over 400 Memberships up to date. The value of our property portfolio is around £55m. Best Destination Club of the Year, 2010 - Fractional Life Awards. Best International Destination Club of the Year 2009, 2010 - Destination Club News

BRONZE AWARD: Absolute World Group

An ambitious project on an impressive island site. Has a range of resorts in Asia and has a good record of upselling its timeshare customers in to fractional owners

www.opp-connect.com

Founded in 1998, the Absolute World Group has grown strategically to offer a seamless range of services in the vacation ownership industry encompassing six self-developed eclectic boutique resorts and hotels, real estate, a destination club with thousands of members, a booming shared ownership and resale division and a leading lifestyle magazine. Across six subdivisions the growth continues, with exciting ventures in developing markets, independently and in partnership with other world-leading brands. The company’s pioneering spirit has established them as a forward-thinking business; one that’s a huge, multi award-winning force in the destination club, resort development and fractional ownership industry in Asia.

A well established offering with an impressive portfolio of properties, acquired with value and capital growth in mind. A great lifestyle proposition plus spreading investment risk

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Supporting Service Halo Financial collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Clearly value for money is the very essence of the company. They have a good track record of providing a valuable service with good customer support and information

GOLD AWARD: Halo Financial Ltd

Halo Financial is a leading specialist provider of commercial foreign exchange, offering a comprehensive range of services to individuals and businesses since its inception in 2005. The business offers a flexible and personalised approach for each of its clients, simplifying the seemingly complex foreign exchange market to maximise savings in currency transactions and make money go further. Halo Financial’s areas of specialist knowledge and experience include overseas property, emigration currency planning and exchange services, currency audits, risk management solutions and money transfers.

SILVER AWARD: The Registry Collection

The Registry Collection is the world’s largest luxury leisure property exchange programme, comprising nearly 30,000 members, over 200 upscale properties on six continents – which are either accessible for exchange or under development. We provide a highly desired value added product for developers of luxury resort real estate, eliminating deterrents to purchase and allowing developers to sell at a higher velocity and premium

www.opp-connect.com

BRONZE AWARD: PropertyBuyer

Proven performance and a neat, useful service that helps justify a property purchase. This company clearly has an impressive track record over a long period of time

This service makes everybody understand who is acting for who; they are acting for the buyer to help find a property. There are clearly no conflicts on customer service

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Innovation Inition collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

Augmented reality is certainly the new frontier for property marketing, and Inition has a range of techniques to make a property come alive to the potential purchaser

GOLD AWARD: Inition

Headquartered in Shoreditch, East London, Inition are a pioneering creative 3D technology company. Underpinned by 12 years of experience, we are a flexible and dynamic team pushing boundaries in areas such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality Experiential 3D Production, 3D Camera Systems, 3D Printing and Scanning and 3D Animation. Working with strategic property consultants we are leading the way by using all forms of future technologies within the property industry whether fitting out Showhouses with the latest technology or helping global marketing promotions. These technologies have the potential of changing the way that properties are marketed internationally forever.

SILVER AWARD: BuyAssociation

BRONZE AWARD: Pam Golding Properties (Pty) Ltd

With nearly 40 years experience and a leading position in the South African real estate market, it is refreshing to see a business that is not content to rest on its laurels

www.opp-connect.com

Founded in 1976, Pam Golding Properties (PGP) is recognised locally and internationally as Southern Africa’s premier property group, employing 2,000 staff and agents worldwide. The group offers a full spectrum of property services in the residential and commercial sectors via its network of over 300 offices throughout Africa. The group’s alliance with Savills provides access to a network of over 500 offices worldwide. In addition PGP has international offices in the UK, Germany, Seychelles and Mauritius. PGP is the most awarded real estate agency in South Africa boasting Superbrands status and being awarded numerous International Property Awards and OPP titles.

Drone camera work is innovative and BuyAssociation’s customer testimonials speak of a highly customer-focused business which consistently delivers what it promises

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Alternative Product BRONZE AWARD: IPIN Global

IPIN Global is an international property investment network that has been actively helping members invest successfully in property since 2004. Continually expanding, the IPIN membership is truly global with over 75,000 members from over 150 countries consisting of private property investors, fund managers, institutional and corporate investors and a range of industry professionals. IPIN is dedicated to providing members with exclusive, structured propertybased investment opportunities and access to quality research and market data, assisting them to make intelligent, informed investment decisions.

BRONZE AWARD: Plantation Asset Management Ltd.

Established in 2011, Plantation Asset Management (PAM) specializes in developing and promoting land investment products that yield marketable and sustainable raw materials on behalf of certified sophisticated investors. Through the help of carefully selected quality management companies, Plantation Asset Management has been able to provide investors with high quality investment products involving teak cultivation, palm oil, reforestation in Australia, and now the cultivation of bamboo in Nicaragua. PAM’s bamboo project boasts a projected average per annum return of 20.5% over a period of 25 years with a minimum purchase of a 1-hectare plot.

On the face of it, the investment implies strong returns with no risk to the investor but there is no supporting information about the risks or evidence of security for the investor

The management team seems to have relevant experience. Predicted returns are very high but there is no supporting evidence underwriting the statements made or guarantee offered

Best Alternative Broker

www.opp-connect.com

BRONZE AWARD: Avantis Wealth

Avantis Wealth is focused on delivering high performance investments, with a multi-disciplinary senior management team that includes a qualified Chartered Accountant, IFA, Estate Agent and more with, collectively, 78 years’ personal experience of investment in property and alternatives. High Performance Investment can take on many guises – but we know one when we see it. Specialist property funds, boutique student accommodation or plantation land – there are lots of ways to make your money work better for you other than placing it in, for example, an underperforming bog-standard pension fund. We work hard to provide investment options that deliver significantly higher performance – typically with a target return of 7% to 15% net per annum – combined with a clear exit strategy and backed by security.

An experienced management team, which has clearly identified the key issues of risk and reward and which insists on clear exit strategies and security. Can they tame these often risky investments?

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Student Housing Broker SILVER AWARD: One Touch Property Investment

One Touch Property Investment is your Partner in Prosperity. We source investment rental property including: student accommodation investments, high yield property such as hotel rooms and buy-to-let investments for people looking for income producing investments. We are approachable and informedâ&#x20AC;Ś sharing our expert knowledge to help you take empowering decisions with confidence and ease. Bringing you high growth property and well researched investments that provide you with the safety and protection you need to reach your lifestyle and financial goals.

This is still a relatively new class of asset but One Touchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approach to selling it seems better thought out and more balanced in the information disclosed than their competitors

www.opp-connect.com

OPP AWARDS 2013

Best Student Housing Project iQ Student Accommodation collecting their OPP gold award.

Judge’s comment

A very different proposition to the other entries, at the other end of the scale. Based on the information given this is a clear proposition to investors and a quality asset

GOLD AWARD: iQ Student Accommodation

iQ Student Accommodation is a joint venture between Quintain Estates and Development PLC and The Wellcome Trust, committed to being a long term investor in and leading developer of, award-winning private student accommodation in city centre locations across the UK. In 2012, the completion of a £120million development in London’s Shoreditch brought the current portfolio to a total of 5,183 rooms. In 2012, the fund achieved a rent roll of £33 million and an occupancy level in excess of 96%.

SILVER AWARD: Pinnacle MC Global Network Ltd

Pinnacle MC Global Network is a property development company specializing in student developments. We identify suitable sites, build and sell to investors via our agents worldwide. Our sites are primarily chosen due to their location being convenient for the university and other essential amenities. We conduct thorough due diligence prior to purchase to ensure the deal will stack up for us, our investors and agents. Our developments are attractively packaged, secured with assured yields and offered to investors as a fully managed, hands-off investment. In 12 months we have sold in excess of 500 units with sales of over £27,000,000.

www.opp-connect.com

GREAT TESTIMONIALS AND PHOTOGRAPHS

Their single unit sales model has proved popular in many markets. Clearly explained and well sold. I have no reason to doubt the quality of the product but it could do with more about risk

Strong and passionate support from satisfied clients really adds colour and appeal to your application. Some of the letters of endorsement have been truly amazing: so much so that we have introduced a new category for 2014 – Best Example of Customer Service. Of course, this can be a problem if yours is a new business. In this case, testimonials about the previous activities of the people who have set up the business can help fill the gap. We all know the old saying: “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Well-chosen plans and photographs help the judges to understand your application – and the better they understand it, the more accurately they can judge it. But not too many, please: we have hundreds of applications to judge, so a small number of well chosen items is better (and will please the judges more) than a lot of stuff of little relevance.

BEST STUDENT HOUSING PROJECT

SILVER

2013

Find out more about us and our fantastic projects at

www.pinnaclemcglobal.com

OPP AWARDS 2013

OPP AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE Gala dinner

www.opp-connect.com

An essential – and unmissable – feature of the OPP Awards for Excellence is the Gala Awards Dinner, where we present the winners with their awards. This year the dinner was held on Wednesday, 27 November 2013 (the first night of OPPLive) and it returned to the spectacular Natural History Museum in London, where – and there aren’t many places where you can say this – we dined alongside the bones of a dinosaur. Good food, good company and an amazing networking opportunity. Plus, for the lucky winners, their opportunity to pick up their well-deserved trophy

OPP AWARDS 2013

www.opp-connect.com

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BUYASSOCIATION, THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING MEDIA PLATFORM, OFFERS THE OVERSEAS PROPERTY INDUSTRY THE BEST ROUTES TO MARKET. TO FIND OUT MORE, CONTACT INFO@BUYASSOCIATIONGROUP.COM OR CALL +44 (0)333 123 0320 BuyAssociation, the multi award winning media platform, offers the overseas property industry the best routes to market. BEST DEVELOPER SERVICE PROVIDER | BEST MEDIA | BEST MEDIA BRAND | BEST INNOVATION

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