Any good (current) leasebacks?

Well that's not entirely helpful - I already own two and (touch wood) they've both been the simplest property investments I've ever made.

I'm not sure if that's down to careful research or just luck? - I certainly thought that the industry was more tightly controlled than seems to be the case

OK fair points, and I agree about the need for diversification - that's why I'm looking for a good one (if at all) as this will have to be my last in France as I'll hit the wealth tax.

As far as holding for 20 years - I'm OK with that as it was always my intention

The exhanges rate has gone in my favour, and I've made a £40K paper profit just in the exchange rate on £ to Euro (although I agree there is exposure, particularly at current rates)

as for capital growth - copmparing current prices for leasebacks in a similar building nearby, we've made roughly 10% per anum, although that could well go into freefall in the current markets, and anyway you don't make the gain till you've made the sale, so that could be an issue I'll face in 15 years time

Not sure I'd go with your offshore investment idea - you have zero security with that - remember BCCI

"Ive made 17% so far this year in Emerging markets" Not if you haven't sold you haven't

France doesn't recognise Trusts, so I hope you haven't gone down that route - I know there are ways, that's why tax issues are of less concern. Let's make the gain first, then decide how/when to take it to minimize tax

Buying & renting yourself - I'm not sure. I have UK properties & one in Bulgaria and that's far more hassle than the French ones.

To be honest at present I favour countries which trade in US$ - I looked at Belize, but I'll probably end up buying actually in the USA.

You're right about developments being overpriced (partly because of the strength of the Euro) but I like to keep my ear to the ground anyway, just in case

sounds like you've had bad experiences mutley!

I must have just been lucky (so far), but the two I do own were marketed by French to the French.

At the time I thought the language barrier was a problem, but having also bought in Bulgaria from a UK agent, I think the French treat leasebacks like their wine.......

They sell the crap to the English and keep the good stuff for themselves!