Economic statistics coming out of Asia do not make pleasant reading nowadays. Faced with a fall in export demand as recession hits many Western economies, Asia has begun to experience an economic slowdown as well. Depending on the degree of their trade and financial linkages with the rest of the world, some Asian economies are even forecast to contract in 2009. With real estate market dynamics closely intertwined with economic growth and credit availability, capital values and rentals in many Asian property markets have softened. Overall, the signs are not encouraging for Asia and its real estate markets. Should one therefore stay away from Asian real estate? The answer is no.

Past experience has shown that troubled times present investors with great opportunities. There is no denying that the outlook for Asian economies and real estate markets is clouded. Uncertainties remain as to when the ongoing global financial crisis will abate. While the crisis works its way out, oppor