1. How did you find out information about Harmony Hills project?
..........By searching the internet.
2. Did you use a property agent to buy your property in the complex? If yes, did you find he/her helpful?
..........Yes, I did. They were helpful initially, but after the sale was completed the help reduced dramatically, as with all estate agents I suppose. It was then a matter of finding a contact at BLD to work with – hence Hristina.
3. What was the main obstacle while buying a property in Bulgaria? Is there anything you would do differently if you decide to buy another overseas property?
..........There were no obstacles as such, but there are big differences between how you do business in BG and us in the UK. So consequently it was necessary to do my own research into costs, taxation, legislation etc to ensure this was a viable project for me financially. This was done mainly by buying books, the internet and talking to fellow Brits who had bought in BG already.
I think I would follow the same route if I bought again, but hopefully save money by going direct to the developer, cutting out estate agent fees.
4. What makes you most happy about your investment in Harmony Hills?
..........Buying ‘off plan’ is a scary way of making an investment as you do not know what the quality will be, and as this was my first time I am very happy at the way the development has progressed by looking at the web cams and talking to fellow purchasers who have visited over the last few months. Also the situation of the site is very beautiful and I particularly like the traditional style of building, all in all I feel that the project has been a good investment for the future.
5. What are you biggest concerns about it?
..........I hope that further development in the area is done in a sympathetic manner i.e. that architectural style is kept in keeping with Harmony Hills and that any building down to the road, in front of H.H. is low rise and tiered so the views are maintained.
How long will a BLD representative be on the site to deal with the normal ‘snagging’ problems that will ensue?
I personally hope that BLD do not rush to meet the completion date of August 15th at the expense of the quality. Far better to delay and have a good finished product.
6. What do you think about the property management services, offered by the property management company?
..........I believe they are potentially very good, however it has been very difficult initially to understand what they are all about as communications have not been smooth and most of the proaction has been from me. I think that they have had to move slowly as it is a funding problem because they have needed our payments before they could employ capable personnel. I personally have opted to use all the 2 services they offer, as I feel it is sensible to have all ‘under one roof’ which makes communication and management smoother, therefore I have put my faith in their future abilities. Also to show my confidence in them, at the outset, which I hope will be rewarded.
Have they appointed a Manager and team as yet?
7. Would you recommend BLD as a reliable developer?
………….Yes, I definitely would because you have kept us informed on progress in an efficient and business-like manner. I have worked with Bulgarian Industry for 10 years and have found it not always easy to communicate to ensure good results – but in this case no problems. I have also had positive feed back from fellow owners who have visited the site.
I suggest on your other developments you explain to prospective purchasers the way you designate the sq.m, this has caused some confusion as it differs from the U.K. because you include some other measurements in your specification.
8. Are you going to attend the official opening of the complex in August?
..........Yes I am, but until I receive an official invitation I am not booking flights and time from Work as this would be difficult if the site was not completed. I trust that the development will be concluded and that it will be finished entirely i.e. all the exterior infrastructure is done such as the restaurant, pool, landscaping, fencing, approach road etc., etc. This is one of the biggest worries of most buyers/owners – they do not want to be on a dusty, muddy unfinished building site.
9. Please, share with us your expectation/ vision for Harmony Hills’ future development. Is there anything you would like to suggest to BLD as an improvement to our project and services?
..........I hope that care will be taken when renting out the properties in that there will be a fair and balanced ethnic mix of people so everyone is happy with the ambiance of H.H. and are able to enjoy happy times together.
I trust the property management company will be value for money and keep the site in pristine condition.
I think in the future you need to explain more clearly to buyers the significance of Rental Management and the interface that is required between Buyer, developer and Maintenance Management Company to ensure a smooth handover.
Last, but not least, I would like to suggest BLD in its future developments to design lifts for each building with three and more floors. Most people, especially Western Europeans, expect to have a lift and not carry heavy suitcases during their vacation. Especially for individuals with a disability or senior citizens.
