You need to speculate to accumulate. For the best results, you’ll need your thinking cap firmly in place. It’s a home truth that careful research and a little luck are the keys to success for foreign real estate investors.

The question is where in the world is the best place to buy a property? Sit back, relax and make yourself at home as we reveal the eight best places for overseas property investment.

1. Brazil

Brazil is only slightly smaller than the USA in size. That means there’s plenty of places to choose from. Many beach resorts are already well-developed but a good place to focus your attention is Fortaleza.

This is the state capital of Ceará, in north-eastern Brazil. An investment property could be a wise move. That’s because Fortaleza is a popular destination with Brazilian tourists.

You can expect a net yield of eight and ten percent by putting your property on the holiday rental market. Beachfront properties can be snapped up at bargain prices. Brazil’s currency has been historically weak compared to the US dollar.

Fortaleza could well become a popular international tourist destination in the future.  You might also want to take a peek at neighboring Peru to the west.

2. Portugal

Portugal has long been a cheaper place to buy property than its bigger neighbor Spain. The capital, Lisbon has seen a dramatic rise in real estate prices over the past decade.

Moving further afield, there are lots of locations that are still very affordable and can bring in excellent rental yields. Head south to the Algarve where you’ll find many properties in modern complexes or to buy as renovation projects.

Long sandy beaches and the variety of golf courses make the Algarve very popular with northern Europeans in search of the sun. The warm winter climate means that you could keep a property as a vacation rental for twelve months of the year.

3. Panama

Resale transactions in Panama City have slowed recently. That means it’s now a buyer’s market. South American buyers have kept the market stable in Panama City.

Europeans and North Americans are also still investing. The Chinese too could well push Panama through its next stage of growth. All of this could mean that Panama City property prices are set to soar to new levels.

4. Belize

The Cayo District lies in the country’s rain forest. Along with the Caribbean coast of Ambergris Caye, it’s a good choice for property investments here.

There’s a demand for those wanting to understand more about ecology. Comfortable rentals can also be hard to find in Cayo. The district is ideal for those who want to spend time with nature but in a modern holiday home.

The coast of Ambergris Caye is great for those in search of a beach vacation. It offers better value than many other Caribbean destinations. The number of foreign tourists to Belize continues to increase along with a rise in cruise traffic as well.

5. Abruzzo, Italy

This region of Italy is an excellent area to look for an overseas investment property. Italy offers some of the lowest real estate prices in Europe. Abruzzo, in particular, has a great deal to offer.

It’s a good choice for those who want to pursue outdoor activities. It’s also built a reputation for its superb food and fascinating local festivals.

It’s a great place to consider a renovation project. You could pick up a home full of character but in need of modernization for less than fifty thousand dollars.

6. Istanbul, Turkey

This is where east meets west. The city straddles the two cultures and has a big,  cosmopolitan population. It’s also undergoing a massive real estate boom. The economy is growing and Istanbul has the feeling of a city that’s on the up.

Around fifty percent of Istanbul’s residents are under thirty. That gives it a young and vibrant feel.

If you’re thinking of buying here, it’d be wise to move quickly as properties get snapped up by young professionals. That’s likely to push prices higher. You could still buy a one-bedroom condo for as little as fifty thousand dollars.

7. Granada, Nicaragua

Founded in 1524, Granada is the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua. It boasts warm weather and sits on a freshwater lake. The city has less than one hundred and fifty thousand residents. This makes it feel a manageable size.

The cost of living is low here. The city is also renowned for having preserved some of the finest colonial-era architecture in the country. There’s been something of a real estate boom over the past several years.

Europeans and Americans have been buying and renovating properties to be used as retirement or holiday homes. New hotels have been springing up around the city. Many of Granada’s restaurants have received much international critical acclaim.

The country’s economy continues to grow. It’s quickly become a top tourist attraction due to its colonial architecture. It’s also renowned for its ecological beauty and is developing a reputation as a food destination.

8. The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has been enjoying strong growth. It’s also seen increasing foreign direct investment. Business travelers who’ve been getting in on the country’s economic boom tend to pass through the capital, Santo Domingo.

That means there’s a big market for those looking for somewhere to stay. The number of tourists has been continuing to rise too.

You could consider investing in an apartment and target it toward the business traveler market. Business travelers who stay for a few weeks tend to prefer apartments to hotels.

You might also want to take a look at the Samaná Peninsula. This pushes out into the Atlantic Ocean in the northeastern Dominican Republic. Visitors love it because of the gorgeous beaches, whale-watching and great nightlife.

Locations for Foreign Real Estate Investors

There are some great opportunities for foreign real estate investors in all the locations we’ve focused on. Whether you want a modern no-fuss condo or a property to renovate, there’s something for everyone.

Did you enjoy this article and want some more inspiration? Continue reading the ‘Real Estate Investment’ section on our website for more related topics.