The Emerging Trends in Real Estate Europe 2015, forecast jointly by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and PwC, highlights an increase in popularity for real estate investment opportunities in a number of cities hit hard during the last market downturn. City rankings rose for Athens (23 position), Amsterdam (17 positions), Lisbon (17 positions), Madrid (16 positions) and Birmingham (14 positions).

The report finds that property remains fertile ground for investors despite the economic uncertainties in Europe. 70% of investors expect more equity and debt will flow into their markets this year in a quest for the best real estate. The biggest problem that investors anticipate is a shortage of assets ahead of the challenges of regulation or cost of finance.

82% of investors think that the availability of suitable assets will have a moderate or significant impact on their business this year.

In recent Emerging Trends surveys, investors have indicated a willingness to enter other distressed markets such as Spain, Ireland and Italy, but Greece is starting to gain attention. Although Europe’s hardest-hit economy remains fragile, a few trailblazing investors are moving in to take advantage of pre-rebound opportunities.