Do you want to move overseas and start a new life or to move your business and to expand it? If you don’t want to rent, buying a property overseas is another option to consider. But, is it a good idea and on what to pay attention to? If this is all new for you, should you take this step or not?
It is not a simple decision to make to buy a property in the USA. When it comes to purchasing it abroad, it gets more stressful and demanding. That’s why you need to research first and to write down all the pluses and minuses. And that is when you will get your answer – yay or nay.
Pros and cons of purchasing a property overseas
To make the right decision, you should first know all the advantages and disadvantages.
The pros
- If you are buying a vacation home, you do not have to worry about booking a hotel and you can invite whomever you want.
- Offshore investments and buying a property overseas can bring some of the tax deductions. It depends on many factors, so you better ask an accountant for advice.
- When living abroad in your own house, it will provide you a better lifestyle and you will get a home feel.
- If you decide not to live in the house you bought, you can always rent it to tenants.
The cons
- Maintenance costs will be only your responsibility. Owning a property means more stress (no matter where you will buy it).
- Your vacation spot will be always the same (if you want to buy a vacation home).
- It may be very risky if you don’t have enough knowledge about the local market and finances. If you are buying your first apartment in Dubai, hire a local real estate agent and accountant.
- You will need to pay taxes, depending on where will you buy a property. That will be an additional cost for you.
What to consider before buying a property overseas?
On what to pay attention when buying a house overseas, and how to be sure that you are making the right call and that you are investing in something good? What to do before buying real estate overseas? Are you buying it for yourself (and your family) or for a business?
- What are the costs of living in the country where you want to buy a property? You should choose a place that has a lower cost of living you can afford. Research food prices, transportation, utilities, school costs (if you are moving with kids), etc.
- Some countries have different laws when a foreigner wants to buy a property. Contact a real estate attorney and get all the permits.
- Of course, money is one of the major concerns. Figure out financing because getting a loan from a foreign bank may be very tricky and not affordable.
- Research taxes and rates. If the property tax rates are high, you better think twice.
- What if you don’t want to own a property overseas anymore? What are your exit options? You should have a plan B. If you want to sell it, research for how long houses are on the market or how difficult is to find tenants.
The process of buying a property overseas
What to do if you decide that buying a property in a foreign country is for you? What is the process and where to start? Relocating from one city to another one is the final step. Before that, you need to take care of many different things.
- Choose a location in the country where you want to buy a property. Even when you choose a city, you must pick the right neighborhood, especially if you are buying a property for a business.
- Spend time in a country where you want to invest your money. You should first live there for at least a couple of months.
- Research all the laws and regulations about owning a property as a foreigner. You must collect all the documents and permits before purchasing real estate.
- Prepare your finance and choose a lender. Choose how you will transfer your find overseas and what is the best option for paying a property.
- Hire a local real estate agent and research the real estate market together.
Best places where to buy a property
What are the best places to buy property outside of the USA? Do you already know where you will invest, or you are still searching for the perfect state? Some of the states that have great housing prices and where foreigners can own property are:
- Brazil
- Dominican Republic
- Thailand
- Portugal
- France
- Turkey
- Belize
How to move your items overseas?
If you are moving overseas, the next step to take care of is your household items and their transportation. To transport your belongings overseas stress-free, fast, and successful, it is essential to hire a reliable moving company that has experience.
It is easier for you to move with the right moving assistance, so you can be focused on other moving-related things. For example, if you are investing in Jeddah real estate, there is a lot of paperwork and research to do. You won’t have time to think about transporting your items. Especially if you are moving a business.
Summary
When it comes to buying a property overseas, it is not a decision you can make fast. It takes months to decide and prepare (sometimes the entire year). Do not rush things because it is not a small investment and responsibility. Hire a professional to help you do the research. Having someone to help you is essential at this point.
