Investing in a vacation or retirement home abroad may sound like a challenging prospect. Whether you want to live in a vacation destination, retire near family, or wake up to a beachfront sunrise, living abroad is a dream within reach. Managing legal and financial challenges helps you become a better investor. Here are a few of the most important things you need to understand about international home investing.
Create a Budget
In addition to budgeting the costs of the home, taxes, and utilities, consider how you will finance your home purchase. Financing the house may be best completed through an international bank with offices in the United States and the destination country. Also, examine ways to send money online with Ria. A wire transfer service can help you transfer funds directly into your bank account. You can also arrange to pay maintenance providers personally with their courier service.
Consider Leasing
If you are concerned about paying off the second mortgage payment, consider purchasing your future residence in advance. Then, work with a local property manager to rent the home for vacation rentals. Taking advantage of the vacation rental industry is a great way to produce income to pay the mortgage and also provide yourself with a vacation destination.
Hire an Agent
A knowledgeable, local real estate agent is worth the investment. They guide you toward the most profitable locations within your budget. Agents specializing in international investors will be an asset and help you navigate the challenges of purchasing a home remotely. Internation real estate agents have established relationships with professionals should you need those services.
Understand Regulations
Every country has its regulations about non-citizen property ownership. The government may require coastal properties or historical buildings to be owned by citizens. In addition to ownership guidelines, zoning regulations may impact your long-term goals for the property. Finally, consider less critical events, such as applying for an International Driving Permit and finding adequate health care.
Contract Professionals
You will need a collection of professionals for the smoothest transition to your new home. In addition to your real estate agent and mortgage lender, you may also require a:
- Notary
- Translator
- Property manager
- Real estate attorney
Prepare Maintenance Procedures
If you plan to live in our retirement home part-time, consider hiring someone to maintain the property while you are away. They perform regular maintenance tasks, such as landscape maintenance and snow removal. Ask a property manager to visit the building consistently to ensure the home is in good physical condition. A storm preparedness company can help you board windows and secure the building before a forecasted storm.
Plan Transportation
International living provides unique challenges for travel compared to your domestic residence. While you will schedule a time to return to your original home for family events, don’t forget to budget additional travel expenses for emergencies. Last-minute flights, vehicle rentals, and hotels are costly.
Retiring abroad allows you to make great memories during your retirement. Planning and organizing the transition will help you feel comfortable enough to enjoy that time.
