UK citizens were keener than ever on buying property abroad, The Independent said.

They were attracted to the “prospect of their own place in the sun and an easy way of making money."

Nearly 800 000 British families had purchased a second home abroad, marking an increase of 45 per cent since 2004.

Spain remined the most popular destination for purchasing a second home abroad, The Independent said. France, Austria and Italy followed in the ranking.

Seven per cent of the UK property buyers chose Eastern Europe. Still, real estate companies that sell property in the region say their business was blooming, registering 50 to 60 per cent increase per year.

People liked Bulgaria for its proximity to their country, warm climate and skiing opportunities in the winter.

Bulgaria was believed to offer the lowest property prices in Europe. "Additionally, it would benefit from joining the EU next year, with low-cost airlines expected to expand routes," The Independent said.