The thing I think people need to keep in mind about Moldova is it is basically an ex-soviet kleptocracy, a la Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, etc.

Engaging in any business activity is not for the faint of heart. The thing about Romania, and one of the reasons it's real estate sector is so vibrant is because it has rule of law. That cannot be underestimated.

I speak Russian, have lived and worked all over the CIS, and would be hesitant to invest any significant amount of money there.

If you do, you MUST personally see the property, involve a reputable lawyer, and do everything through the bank, making sure all tax laws are adheared to (none of this "screw the fisc" stuff the seller will try to talk you into or handing over bundles of cash). I have found that embassy reccomended lawyers tend to be the best bet.