Real estate investment is a great way to build wealth and secure your financial future. Here’s a look at some of the leading countries across the world with attractive real estate investment potential.

By Nichola Marie

Real estate is emerging as the safety net of choice for individuals looking for long-term sound investments and security. With the growing global population and the urban sprawl increasing, residential real estate is potentially the safest and most profitable investment available.

The global real estate market offers a range of investment opportunities, with several emerging markets opening up. However, it is important to be aware of your own goals and aspirations that are driving your investment in real estate in a foreign country. Are you looking for a property you can rent out for profit? Are you looking for a home to relocate to in order to give your family access to everything that a particular foreign country has to offer? Or are you looking for something that will diversify your portfolio and serve as a sound investment? These requirements will accordingly narrow down your choices.

Each country has its pros and cons for real estate investment. It is crucial to make your choice only after intensive research and guidance from experts. When assessing a country’s real estate market, do consider the following key indicators as prepared by Global Citizen Solutions –

• Economic stability and growth

• Laws, government policies, and regulations for foreign investors

• Supply and demand dynamics

• Population growth

• Real estate market trends and price history

• Interest rates

• Rental yields

• Political stability

• Tourism industry

Here’s a glance at ten of the most desirable countries to invest in, in no particular order…

1. UAE: The United Arab Emirates, and Dubai in particular, is one of the most attractive destinations in the Middle East. UAE offers a stable economy, high-class infrastructure, a highly regulated market, and growing population which drives demand. Importantly, property owners don’t pay property taxes. Few markets can rival its minimal tax liability.

2. Brazil: With diverse geography, fertile land and good climate, it is one of the best countries for property investment in South America. With a growing middle-class, youthful population, urbanisation, and infrastructure development, the potential for real estate value appreciation is high. It also offers low-cost property options for permanent residency.

3. Spain: The country’s dynamic real estate market and lifestyle advantages mark it out as an alluring option for investors. One of Europe’s most visited major cities, it sees a high demand for accommodation and tourism. Real estate prices are considerably cheaper than those in other Western European countries. Investors can secure permanent residency through real estate purchases.

4. Singapore: A small island city-state with a rapidly growing economy, it is known for its stable political and economic environment, as well as its high standard of living and infrastructure. One of the world’s most desirable destinations for business travellers and tourists due to its advanced infrastructure, economic stability, and high quality of life, it also offers low taxes on real estate investments.

5. Turkey: Pro-investment policies introduced by the government make it an attractive option. In addition, it offers one of the cheapest properties per square metre of countries with citizenship programmes. With unique landscapes, and historical sites in major cities, it is also one of the most desirable tourism destinations and best foreign markets.

6. Portugal: Its favourable regulatory environment makes it fairly easy for foreigners to invest in and own property here. A stable political climate, growing economy, one of the cheapest average house prices compared to other countries in Western Europe, as well as the Portugal Golden Visa make it a popular choice.

7. Malta: This country in Europe offers a unique blend of historical attractions and modern amenities, besides its prime location in the Mediterranean. With a relatively strong economy, and consistent high demand in the housing market, it has one of the highest returns on investment (ROI) for real estate investment. What’s more, it offers a permanent residence permit in exchange for purchasing or leasing a property.

8. United States of America: Large population, thriving economy, and desirable lifestyle make California a popular investment choice. The Silicon Valley area has a high demand for housing due to the presence of tech companies and a strong job market. Los Angeles is desirable due to its entertainment industry and tourism, while coastal cities like San Diego and Santa Barbara are attractive for their attractive beaches and upscale communities. Despite the high rates, investing in New York real estate offers attractive returns and rental income opportunities.

9. Malaysia: Favourably located along the world’s biggest shipping lane — the Strait of Malacca — it is a prime real estate investment opportunity. A politically and economically stable country, its advantages include notable oil reserves, foreigner-friendly policies, a strong banking industry, and growing population.

10. Canada: Ontario offers a wide range of properties and a strong steadily-growing economy due to its highly developed manufacturing and education sectors. The province has one of the highest rates of university degree attainment in all of Canada, which has helped boost its economy significantly over the years.

Some more attractive options…

Real estate investors continue to see Switzerland as an attractive country to make investments in real estate, which can be attributed to the stable economy and superior location.

Investment in Japan assures a consistent and reliable income, and appreciation potential.

Thailand’s property market reaps rewards from its geographic position, as it acts as the main international gateway to Asia’s frontier markets.

When considering your choices, it is recommended to consider a reputable and experienced real estate agent who has your best interests into consideration. A good agent would be familiar with the local real estate market, have strong communication and negotiation skills, and be able to provide excellent customer service. Do communicate your expectations clearly and openly to ensure a successful outcome