Abstract. The creation of positive synergy in managing land-related resources if exploring the territorial capabilities, threats and opportunities, e.g. the effects of urban expansion, multi-functionality of land use, internalisation of negative externalities and challenges of a city agglomeration, causes primary necessity for the modern society. The study is concerned with the conceptual background and feasibility aspects of values-led planning (VLP) approach to be introduced into land management practice by capitalising first of all on comparative analysis of dynamic spatial planning systems and planning cultures. Finally, it is argued that the implementation of new planning approach within proposed framework would lead towards improved land use policies and better territorial governance, developing more inclusive and resilient territories for the benefit of a society.

Abstract. There exists sharp competition amongst nations regarding the increasing foreign investments; therefore, nations are willing to offer foreign investors and their families some type of political bonus, such as temporary residence permit, permanent residence permit, or even citizenship. The simplest way to entice investors is to offer them and their family members temporary residence permits in exchange for investments -simply by purchasing real property (via the so-called "Golden Visa" program). Such a program was launched in Latvia in 2010; however, significant limitations were placed on it in 2014. This research (1) compares the "Golden Visa" programs in different countries in the world, (2) determines the impact of the program on the real property market of Latvia, and (3) searches for the main reason why limitations were applied to the temporary residence permit program in 2014, which resulted in a significant decrease in the international investments in Latvia (this part of

Abstract. International real estate transactions, especially in countries with different legal systems, are characterised by the fact that each transaction is unique in its complexity, confidentiality, different risk factors, and the limited availability of information regarding the real estate. The Due Diligence (DD) process is an instrument that can help avoid or at least reduce risks and assist in making important decisions regarding real estate transactions. The term "Due Diligence" has a number of different meanings. The aim of this paper is to determine the etymology of this term and to identify its most common contemporary meaning. Each DD process is to be recognised as a project requiring management because of the potentially high number of individuals that could be involved.

There is a wide range of factors - political, economic, legal, etc., which either limit or promote international real property transactions. It is considered that real property alienation to foreigners enhances foreign investment and economic development, however, some countries tend to limit such transactions. The current research provides a scientific view to reveal the reasons why certain countries impose different kinds of restrictions on international real property transactions. The objectives of this publication are: 1) to find out and analyse the existing arguments and reasons for limiting international real property transactions; 2) to determine the number and volume of international real property transactions in Latvia; 3) to identify the main argumentation for the current step and significant decline of international real property transactions in Latvia. Empirical analysis based on the review of scientific publications, statistical and comparative analysis of real property transactions are the main methods employed for this research.

Land use, land resource demands, and landscape management practices are linked to many of the environmental, climatic, and socio-economic challenges faced by contemporary society. The study focuses on a comparative analysis of the experience of the land resource management (LRM); thus, the study aims respond to how the land-related resources are managed, what policy instruments support it, and what improvements would promote the sustainable management of these resources. Exploring LRM policies in selected countries, the experience of three Baltic countries and two other countries under the jurisdiction of continental Europe was analyzed, and their comparison was made based on qualitative research methodology. Based on the study’s results, the most important comparative characteristics of LRM policies are discussed. The findings of the study in selected countries provide recommendations for improving the institutional framework related to LRM. However, the outcome encourages a transfer of the research experience to other jurisdictions.