NOW more than ever, overseas property buyers face myriad choices of where to spend well-earned savings.

In recent years, we have seen Florida, Dubai, Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Estonia touted as being the 'Next Big Thing'. As bewildered potential buyers wade their way through all manner of stats and claims, it is important to remember you are not always comparing like for like.

One of the most common dilemmas is whether to invest in the traditionally popular market of Spain or the 'emerging markets' of central and eastern Europe.

Spain remains the No1 destination for Britons buying property overseas. A recent report claims 65 per cent of Brits would choose Spain as their top overseas property destination, and for over 38 per cent it would be the only possible choice.

Buying property in Spain is a similar experience as in the UK. Another plus is that the system is set up for overseas buyers and new developments are for the most part hassle-free and impeccably planned.

Although bargains are still available, Spain is no longer cheap and can’t compete price-wise with Eastern Europe. However, the reality - something missed by most Brits – is that when you buy here you are not just buying into bricks and mortar.

You are buying into a First World country where living standards are identical to anywhere in northern Europe – proven political and economic security, a truly impressive health service and a UK level of general infrastructure.

None of this comes cheap and it is my contention that Spain should be selling itself as an 'expensive' place to live - but for all the right reasons.

Since the emergence of the former Communist states of central and eastern Europe, and their accession to the European Union, property markets have opened up.

Costs here are significantly lower than in more established markets, and the investment opportunity seems superb. Prices certainly are attractive – £31,403 for an apartment in Bulgaria’s Pirin mountains, for example.

There is little doubt the prospects for medium-term investment in central and eastern Europe are outstanding. The amount of development gives a wide choice of property types and locations.

Wherever you decide to buy, the most important thing is to identify what role you wish the property to fulfil. Then it should be much easier to look at the destinations which can help you achieve your dream of owning a property abroad.

* Jeremy Marris is the managing director of Home From Home Abroad. He can be contacted on 01424 855183.