Looking to buy in Austria...advice/comments?

Looking to buy a ski apartment in Austria in 2011...just started investigations. Any tips on a resort to target...thoughts on Wagrain? Doesn't appear to be too much property for sale around at the minute on the web. Any advice on things to look out for, places to get advice, pointers etc...like I said, gathering info so any help appreciated at this stage as complete newbie. Want the property for personal use, would let it out to friends, know it has to be advertised for let anyway...might need small mortgage, but largely cash buyer. 2 bed place min. Budget about £200,000 sterling

You may have already found this site but if not it might be useful for you http://www.liveaustria.com/

Is there any reason that you are attracted to Wagrain?

Actually I am very interested in this thread as I am thinking of buying a property in Austria. Austria is the best for skiing, ambience and is also great in the summer. However, I never seem to get round to it so I would be very interested to hear how you got on.

I know someone who lived in Bracknell who bought and apartment block of about 6 s/c apartments in Niederau and she now lives there full time.

Good luck.
Steve

We bought in Maria Alm in June 2008. The best advice I can offer is, find a locality/town and visit in both summer and winter. Austria is beautiful all year round but some towns shut down in summer. Check out the local banks for property for sale as well as estate agents. The tourist office is usually a great source of information as are any other holiday property owners you can find. Keep in mind driving distances to airports and road conditions especially in January/February!!
Good luck with the search, it is a magnificent country!

I can certainly give you advice on Wagrain. We bought an apartment there 6 years ago, probably the first brits to do so. We absolutely love it and as well as being a very attractive town, it is also very Austrian so it is good if you are learning or thinking of learning German. Freindly locals and good year round town. The skiing in the area is first class with an excellent snow record and one of the most up-to-date lift systems I have seen. You are easily within reach of Altenmarkt, Zauchensee, Filzmoos, Muhlbachtal, Gastein valley, Grosarl as well as Wagrain/Flachau. It is also very nice for walking in summer with a huge amount of mountain huts for lunch or overnight stops especially in the next valley over (Grosarl). If you are serious about buying I can give you details of a local agent who may help. We are in Kirchboden which is the sunny area elevated just above the town. PM me if you need any other advice.