Investors eye up care homes

INVESTORS are showing an increased interest in care homes, with leading care operators competing "aggressively" for acquisition opportunities, according to Edinburgh-based business agents Christie and Co.

The company reported that, despite concern about the general strength of the property market in the midst of the ongoing financial crisis, it had seen an increase in the number of care home sales taking place in the first quarter of 2008, compared with the same period last year.

Martin Daw, care negotiator at Christie and Co's Edinburgh Office, said: "While it is likely the current financial climate will dictate a slowdown, activity across the care sector during the first half of the year has continued to be robust and diverse – not only at a national and regional level but also internationally."