The overseas adviser
We invested in an off-plan villa in Dubai to use in our retirement. After last week's revelations, what are our options?
KG, Hove, East Sussex
There are conflicting opinions in the industry about what Dubai's debt crisis really means, but it has had a psychological impact on buyer and trade alike. The failure to bail out Dubai World either shows that the emirate's government is more desperate than people feared, or confirms that its real-estate policy was always focused on short-term gain. Both scenarios are bad news for overseas investors. Local agents are playing down the significance of Dubai World's predicament, saying that most "quick buck" foreign investors have already gone and that those who remain are in it for the long term. However, an estimated over-supply of 32,000 properties in the next year may cause more delays to new projects, as well as sending prices spiralling lower. On a more reassuring note, Dubai's Real Estate Regulatory Agency is rumoured to be working on a law giving property investors new rights, with details expected in the first quarter of 2010.
For now, you need to contact your solicitor and play the long waiting game.
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Alex Evans is editor of Overseas Property Professional, opp.org.uk
The rural consultant
My neighbour has started to land a helicopter in the field next to our house, and the noise is intrusive. What can we can do?
VP, Suffolk
Helicopters can be a nuisance, and there are no planning rules that specifically cover their landing on private land - it is generally up to the local planning authority to decide whether consent is needed. It is normally permissible to use agricultural land for temporary purposes for up to 28 days a year; if it occurs more frequently, this may be regarded as a change of use. Similarly, if a helipad, permanent lighting or storage facility is needed, planning consent would also be required. Since August 1986, new helicopters have been subject to noise restrictions. You may be able to take legal action - contact the Civil Aviation Authority (www.caa.co.uk) or visit helicopter-noise.org.uk.
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Philip Eddell is head of the country-house consultancy department at Savills; savills.com