Invested stock increased by four per cent in 2010, indicating that European property markets have finally turned the corner. The growth, as reported in DTZ's flagship Money into Property 2011 report is a marked contrast to the previous year's eight per cent decline.
Hans Vrensen, global head of research at DTZ, said: "Following two years of decline, Europe is returning to a more normal situation with an increase of its invested stock in 2010. We expect the region to continue this positive trend with a four per cent increase in 2011."
The increase in invested stock varied considerably across Europe, ranging from one per cent in the UK to 11 per cent in France. There was one notable area of decline, Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece and Spain posted a three per cent fall.
Investment transaction volumes in Europe rose 64 per cent in 2010, just below the global increase of 76 per cent, DTZ said.
Europe is forecast to continue this recovery in 2011, with the region expected post the fastest regional increases. A 20 per cent increase in sales is forecast.