Blogs • April 2, 2025 • 26 Min

Best Countries to Invest in Real Estate in 2025

The global real estate market in 2025 is more dynamic than ever. Buying a property in the right country can help investors set down roots, generate stable passive income, or even secure a second residency or passport. People from around the world are turning to real estate as a strong mean for financial diversification, global mobility, and lifestyle freedom. And especially when we look at the immigration landscape, property investment continues to be one of the most reliable and preferred paths to securing second citizenship or long-term residency. So, what are the best countries to invest in real estate in 2025, and why? What’s the process? What kind of returns, lifestyle perks, or citizenship benefits can you expect? Keep reading to find out. Current Market Trends Driving 2025 Real Estate Scene Sustainability and Green Investments: There's a growing emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable developments. Properties with green certifications and energy-efficient features are attracting premium valuations and heightened investor interest. Technological Integration: The adoption of PropTech solutions is revolutionizing property management and investment strategies. Technologies such as virtual reality tours, blockchain for transparent transactions, and AI-driven market analyses are becoming standard in the industry. Urbanization and Infrastructure Development: Rapid urbanization in emerging economies is driving demand for residential and commercial properties. Infrastructure projects, including transportation and smart city initiatives, are further enhancing the appeal of urban investments. ROI Statistics and Market Growth Data The table below provides an overview of key ROI statistics and market growth data for selected regions in 2025: Despite global economic shifts, the right location can yield rewarding returns. Each country or region profiled below offers a unique mix of: Rental yields ranging from 3.5% to 8.5% Capital appreciation fueled by urban regeneration, tourism, or residency-by-investment programs Market stability influenced by legal frameworks, economic fundamentals, and foreign investor demand Top European Countries for Real Estate Investment Portugal's Golden Visa Property Market Portugal's Golden Visa program has undergone significant transformations by 2025. While real estate investments in high-density areas like Lisbon and Porto no longer qualify, opportunities persist in low-density regions and interior areas. Investors are now focusing on: Low-Density Regions: Areas such as the Douro Valley and Alentejo have become hotspots for qualifying investments, offering scenic landscapes and potential for tourism-related ventures. Commercial Real Estate: Investments in commercial properties, including hotels and tourism enterprises, remain eligible under the program, aligning with Portugal's focus on boosting its tourism sector. Investment Funds: There's a growing trend towards channeling funds into Portuguese investment vehicles, providing an alternative route to residency without direct property ownership. Portugal recorded a 6% annual increase in property prices in rural areas, spurred by the policy shift toward low-density investments.  These shifts have led to a diversification of investment portfolios, with a balanced emphasis on both urban and rural developments. Greece Real Estate Investment Opportunities Greece's real estate market has shown remarkable resilience and growth, bolstered by its Golden Visa program and a recovering economy. Key highlights include: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): In 2023, net FDI for real estate purchases surged by 8% year-on-year to €2.13 billion, marking the highest level in over two decades. Tourism-Driven Demand: The thriving tourism industry continues to fuel demand for vacation homes and short-term rentals, particularly in islands like Mykonos and Santorini. Emerging Hotspots: Areas such as the Athenian Riviera, Evia, and Lefkada are gaining traction among investors seeking properties with potential for capital appreciation and rental income. So, how has Greece sustained this momentum? Favorable tax incentives, an expanding tourism sector, and renewed investor confidence post-economic recovery.  Spain’s Mediterranean Property Portfolio Spain remains a focal point for investors, with its Mediterranean coast offering a blend of lifestyle appeal and investment potential. Key insights include: Rental Yields: As of March 2025, Spain offers an average rental yield of 7.46%, with property prices averaging €195,000 and average rents at €1,200. This indicates that the average property could pay for itself in approximately 13.5 years. Regional Variations: Cities like Barcelona and Valencia present varying yields, influenced by local demand, property prices, and economic conditions. Tourism Influence: Coastal areas, particularly the Costa Blanca and Orihuela Costa, experience dynamic rental markets driven by seasonal tourist demand, offering high occupancy rates and competitive yields. Interesting Fact: Our 10-year market analysis shows that coastal properties in Barcelona’s broader region outperform inland Spanish investments by an average of 12% annually. Malta’s Luxury Real Estate Sector Malta's real estate market continues to exhibit strength, particularly in the luxury segment. Notable trends include: Economic Growth: Malta's GDP is projected to grow by 4.3% in 2025, underpinning a robust economic environment conducive to property investment. Property Price Trends: The market has seen a 7% increase in property prices, with luxury properties experiencing growth rates as high as 9% Sustainability Focus: There's an increasing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly developments, aligning with global trends and attracting environmentally conscious investors. Malta's strategic location, coupled with its stable economy and favorable tax regimes, continues to draw high-net-worth individuals to its luxury property market. Caribbean Real Estate Investment Destinations The Caribbean continues to captivate real estate investors with its blend of natural beauty, favorable investment climates, and opportunities for economic citizenship. In 2025, several islands stand out for their unique offerings and growth potential. Grenada's Emerging Property Market Grenada's real estate sector has shown remarkable growth, driven by a stable economy and a thriving tourism industry. The island's Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program has been instrumental in attracting foreign investors, with approved real estate investments reaching approximately $248.65 million last year. A Fact: Grenada’s tourism sector expanded by 12% in 2024, pushing property values up by an average of 5–7%. Key investment opportunities include: Luxury Resorts and Hotels: Developments such as Silversands, Kimpton Kawana Bay, and Six Senses La Sagesse are attracting high-end tourists, offering investors potential for substantial rental income and property appreciation. Residential Properties: The demand for private residences, including villas and condominiums, is on the rise, catering to both expatriates and locals seeking quality housing. Investors should consider factors such as limited land availability and climate resilience when exploring opportunities in Grenada. St. Kitts and Nevis Real Estate Options St. Kitts and Nevis offer a rich real estate market, bolstered by economic stability and a well-established CBI program. The islands have become a magnet for high-net-worth individuals seeking luxury properties and second citizenship. Notable trends include: Luxury Developments: The construction of high-end villas, beachfront estates, and resort residences caters to the upscale market segment. Commercial Real Estate: Opportunities in retail and office spaces are expanding, driven by the islands' growing economy and tourism sector. Sustainable Investments: There is an increasing focus on eco-friendly developments, aligning with global sustainability trends. Investor Tip: Limited land availability and climate resilience should factor into due diligence. Dominica's Property Investment Landscape Dominica, known as the "Nature Island," offers unique real estate opportunities, particularly through its CBI program. The government has approved a select group of properties, including villas, hotels, luxury resorts, eco-lodges, and condos, for investment under this program. A Fact: Dominica’s environment-focused policies led to a 15% annual increase in sustainable tourism projects between 2023–2025.  Key considerations for investors: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Developments: Dominica's commitment to environmental preservation makes it ideal for eco-conscious investments. Affordable Luxury: The market offers high-quality properties at competitive prices compared to other Caribbean destinations. Tourism Growth: The island's focus on eco-tourism is driving demand for hospitality-related real estate. Investors must adhere to regulations, including holding the property for a specified period, to maintain citizenship status. Antigua and Barbuda Real Estate Opportunities Antigua and Barbuda present a dynamic real estate market, supported by strong economic growth and a favorable tax environment. The CBI program has gained popularity, offering investors a pathway to citizenship through property investments. Let’s look at a real example, One of our recent clients, an American entrepreneur, invested in a beachfront development in Antigua through a shared ownership plan. Within two years, she reported a 35% increase in occupancy rates and a 5.9% rental yield that surpassed her initial projections. “The streamlined Caribbean CBI process and resort appeal made my decision easy,” she shared. Investment highlights: Luxury Resorts and Residences: Developments such as Hodges Bay Resort offer upscale accommodation options, attracting both tourists and investors. Shared Ownership Opportunities: Co-investment in larger developments or hotel shares provides entry points for investors at various levels. Tourism-Driven Demand: A 15% increase in tourism in the first half of 2024 has positively impacted the real estate sector, enhancing rental yields and property values. You should be mindful of evolving investment requirements and the importance of selecting government-approved properties to qualify for citizenship. Middle Eastern Property Investment Markets The Middle East offers a diverse array of real estate investment opportunities, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, and Jordan standing out due to their unique market dynamics and growth trajectories. UAE Real Estate Investment Climate The UAE's real estate market, particularly in Dubai, continues to be a magnet for investors, driven by strategic initiatives and robust economic indicators. Population Growth and Demand: Dubai's population has surged to approximately 3.85 million, with expatriates constituting about 87%. This influx has intensified demand for housing, leading to a 16% increase in rents over the past year. Property Price Surge: Average property prices in Dubai have escalated by 75% since February 2021, reaching AED 1,750 (approximately $476.50) per square foot. This surge is approaching pre-2008 record levels, reflecting the market's robust growth. High Rental Yields: Investors are attracted by Dubai's rental yields, which average around 7%, surpassing those in major cities like New York (4.2%) and London (2.4%). Government Initiatives: Programs like the Golden Visa have been instrumental in encouraging long-term residency and investment, particularly among European and North American buyers. If you're considering investing in the UAE, it's essential to conduct thorough due diligence, understand the local market trends, and assess the long-term sustainability of property values. Turkey's Strategic Property Location Turkey's real estate market, especially in Istanbul, presents compelling opportunities due to its strategic position and ongoing urban development. Urban Transformation Projects: Istanbul is undergoing significant urban renewal, with projects aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods and enhancing infrastructure. These developments are elevating property values and attracting both domestic and international investors. Population Growth: The city's population is projected to approach 17 million, escalating the demand for housing and contributing to property value appreciation. Foreign Investment Surge: There has been a notable 30% increase in foreign property purchases in Turkey, with Istanbul being a primary focus. This surge is partly due to the Citizenship by Investment program, which grants Turkish citizenship to investors purchasing real estate worth at least $400,000. Sustainability Trends: Developers are increasingly incorporating green building techniques and energy-efficient features, aligning with the global shift towards sustainable urban development. How to maximize ROI in Turkey? Focus on urban regeneration zones with robust infrastructure projects. Off-plan deals in upcoming districts can yield 15–20% appreciation post-handover. Jordan's Growing Real Estate Sector Jordan's real estate market is showing signs of steady growth, supported by positive economic indicators and increased trading volumes. Trading Volume Increase: The real estate trading volume reached JD1.09 billion by the end of February 2025, marking a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Economic Growth: The national economy has exhibited positive indicators since the beginning of 2025, with a 9% increase in real estate trading volume during January compared to the same month last year. Residential Market Dynamics: The residential real estate market is experiencing growth, with increasing demand for both apartments and houses, driven by urbanization and population growth. A Fact: Amman’s central districts reported a 4% average price increase in 2025, underpinned by stable local demand and moderate foreign interest. Investment Returns and Market Analysis When it comes to global real estate investment, return on investment (ROI) is about more than just buying low and selling high. Factors like rental yield, capital appreciation, and market stability play a pivotal role in shaping your overall returns, especially across diverse markets. So, which Region Offers the Best ROI in 2025? Short Answer: It varies by strategy. For high rental yields, Dubai outperforms many global cities. For capital appreciation, Istanbul, Dubai, and select Spanish coasts show double-digit annual growth. If CBI is your goal, the Caribbean offers faster, more transparent processes compared to European residency routes. Let’s break it down by region and country: Rental Yield Comparisons Rental yield, the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s purchase price, is a direct metric of cash flow. Here’s how different markets stack up in 2025: Market Stability Factors Before chasing yields or chasing trends, it’s worth pausing and asking: How stable is the market you’re entering? In global real estate, “stability” is a composite of several variables: Legal protection for foreign investors: Are property rights secure? Is the legal system transparent? Can you enforce contracts if needed? Economic fundamentals: GDP growth, inflation control, employment rates, and currency strength directly affect property value over time. Political and regulatory consistency: Markets with sudden rule changes (e.g., tax hikes, visa cancellations, or foreign ownership bans) can create friction or losses. Liquidity: Can you resell the property easily? Is there consistent local and international demand? This is especially relevant in small island or rural markets. External risk factors: Climate risk, conflict zones, or overly volatile tourism cycles can impact resale value and rental income. Top 2025 Capital Growth Markets Some markets are about steady income, others are about timing the wave. These countries offer the strongest potential for capital appreciation in 2025, not just in headline cities, but in very specific areas where momentum is building. UAE (Dubai) Property prices in Dubai have risen an impressive 75% since 2021, with no clear signs of cooling yet. The surge is largely driven by population growth, foreign capital inflows, and high-end infrastructure developments. Newer areas like Dubai Creek Harbour and Emaar South are seeing increasing demand from both investors and residents due to proximity to new metro links, parks, and waterfront living. Off-plan units in these areas are showing 15–20% appreciation within 2–3 years post-handover, especially when purchased during pre-launch phases. Want to get a UAE passport? Read the full guide here: ‘How to Get a UAE Passport’.” Turkey (Istanbul, Antalya) Turkey’s urban transformation is turning run-down districts into hot property zones. In Istanbul, districts like Zeytinburnu and Kucukcekmece have appreciated by 20–30% since 2022 due to infrastructure upgrades and gentrification. Meanwhile, Antalya continues to attract international buyers, particularly Russians, Germans, and Gulf nationals. Property values there are rising steadily, supported by tourism and citizenship demand. With Turkey’s real estate still priced well below EU averages, the long-term upside remains strong, especially with mega-projects like Kanal Istanbul on the horizon. Portugal Although Portugal’s Golden Visa no longer accepts property in Lisbon or Porto, that hasn’t slowed growth in interior regions like Alentejo and Douro, where domestic demand and rural tourism are driving prices upward. Lisbon’s outer suburbs (like Loures and Montijo) are still seeing 5–7% annual growth, fueled by infrastructure expansion and demand spillover from the capital’s housing crunch. Spain The Mediterranean coast is Spain’s real estate sweet spot in 2025. Areas like Murcia, Valencia, and the Costa Blanca are reporting 6–8% yearly appreciation, driven by foreign retirees, digital nomads, and lifestyle buyers from Germany, the UK, and Scandinavia. The lower cost of living and vibrant coastal living are pushing up demand faster than supply can match it. Greece Greece is catching up fast. After years of undervaluation, the real estate market is thriving again, especially in Athenian suburbs, Lefkada, and Thessaloniki, where prices are increasing at 7–10% YoY in 2025. Foreign investors, especially from the Middle East and China, are returning, spurred by residency schemes, tourism, and a more stable economic climate. Malta In Malta, it’s all about the luxury market. Areas like St. Julian’s and Ta’ Xbiex have seen 7–9% appreciation this year alone, due to limited inventory and high foreign demand. More modest areas, particularly inland or older properties, are growing slower at around 3–4% annually, but still offer stability in a Eurozone environment. Caribbean While Caribbean real estate is more about lifestyle and rental yield, there are some appreciation plays too. Grenada and Antigua are seeing 5–7% capital growth, especially in branded developments like Six Senses and Hodges Bay. Meanwhile, St. Kitts and Dominica offer steadier, income-focused performance rather than sharp appreciation, ideal for investors targeting citizenship and passive cash flow rather than resale flips. Citizenship by Investment Through Real Estate For investors seeking a second passport, real estate remains one of the most tangible routes, offering a combination of lifestyle upgrade, asset acquisition, and access to global mobility. In 2025, several countries continue to offer citizenship or accelerated naturalization through property investments, though the landscape in Europe has shifted. European CBI Property Programs While the European Union does not officially support direct citizenship-by-investment programs, a few countries still offer residency or naturalization routes tied to real estate: Turkey Minimum real estate investment: $400,000 Holding period: 3 years Direct route to citizenship No residency requirement before or after citizenship approval Popular cities for qualifying properties: Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, Antalya Malta Structured as a naturalization for exceptional services by investment Minimum property purchase: €600,000 (after 36 months) or €750,000 (after 12 months) Real estate holding period: 5 years Includes extensive due diligence and background checks Typically takes 12–14 months if fast-tracked Currently, Portugal and Greece offer residency-by-investment, not direct citizenship. These programs may lead to citizenship after five to ten years of residence, subject to language, integration, and physical presence requirements. You can read more about the best European residency programs here ‘Top European Countries for Permanent Residency in 2025’. Caribbean Real Estate Citizenship Options The Caribbean remains the most popular region for real estate-based citizenship due to clear regulations, relatively affordable investment thresholds, and fast processing times. Antigua & Barbuda Minimum property investment: $300,000 Holding period: 5 years Additional government contribution: $30,000+ per application (varies by family size) Popular developments: Hodges Bay Resort, Tamarind Hills, Nonsuch Bay Dominica Minimum investment: $200,000 in CBI-approved real estate (primarily eco-resorts, hotels) Holding period: 3 years (or 5 years if resold to another CBI applicant) Additional government fees start from $25,000 (single applicant), up to $50,000+ for families Fast processing: 6 months Examples: Secret Bay, Tranquility Beach Resort St. Kitts & Nevis Property investment: $325,000 Real Estate Holding period: 5 years Government fees from $25,000 Among the oldest and most respected CBI programs globally Popular projects: Christophe Harbour, Koi Resort Grenada Minimum investment: $270,000 Holding period: 5 years Government fees: typically,$50,000+ for a family of four Unique benefit: treaty access to the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa Notable developments:Six Senses La Sagesse, Kimpton Kawana Bay For more details on the best Caribbean citizenship programs, read our blog: ‘Best Caribbean Passport: Cost, Requirements & Benefits’. Legal Considerations for International Property Buyers Property Ownership Rights Ownership laws are among the most important, and most misunderstood, aspects of cross-border property investment. In some countries, foreigners can buy property just like locals. In others, ownership is limited or conditional. Here's how it plays out across the main markets: UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi): Foreigners are allowed to purchase freehold property in designated zones such as Dubai Marina, JVC, and Downtown Dubai. Outside those areas, only leasehold options are available (typically 30 to 99 years). There are no restrictions on succession or inheritance for expat-owned properties if structured correctly. Turkey: Foreigners can buy freehold property almost anywhere except military-restricted zones. Most international investors purchase in Istanbul, Antalya, or Bodrum. Property ownership includes full land title. Inheritance rights are protected, but it’s advised to prepare a local will for clarity. Caribbean CBI Markets (Grenada, Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis): Foreigners can own freehold property but only in government-approved developments. These properties are usually structured within CBI programs and cannot be resold on the open market for citizenship purposes unless re-approved by the government. No land restrictions for foreigners beyond CBI compliance. Portugal, Spain, Greece: Foreigners, both EU and non-EU, can buy freehold property without restriction. In Portugal, ownership includes land, and property can be passed to heirs or sold without local partnership. In Greece, foreign buyers from outside the EU may need Ministry of Defense clearance for border-region properties, but urban and island areas are open. Spain imposes no nationality-based restrictions whatsoever. Malta: Foreigners may buy one residential property without a permit. If they wish to buy more or invest in rental properties, they must apply for an AIP(Acquisition of Immovable Property) permit. Certain Special Designated Areas (SDAs), like Tigné Point or Portomaso, allow unrestricted ownership. Jordan: Foreigners can purchase residential property butmust obtain pre-approvalfrom the Ministry of Finance and adhere to national interest regulations. Land ownership is allowed under limited conditions, typically for personal use and within city zoning limits. Indonesia and Thailand (for contrast): Foreigners cannot own land. In Thailand, foreign nationals may buy condominiums (up to 49% of a building), but houses and land must be leased or held in a company or through a local spouse. Tax Implications When purchasing property internationally, taxes can significantly impact both upfront costs and long-term returns. Understanding how each region handles transfer taxes, rental income, capital gains, and ongoing ownership costs is essential. Here’s what to expect across Europe, the Caribbean, and the Middle East in 2025: Europe Property transfer taxes typically range from 3% to 10%. Portugal applies 6–8% based on value and usage, Spain varies by autonomous community (6–10%), and Greece has a flat rate of 3.09%, which is among the lowest in the EU. Annual property taxes are moderate but consistent. Portugal’s IMI tax ranges from 0.3% to 0.8% depending on the municipality, while Spain’s IBI varies widely (usually 0.4%–1.1%). Greece applies ENFIA, which averages around 0.1% to 0.5% of assessed value. Malta does not charge annual property tax, although some local council levies may apply. Rental income tax for non-residents is typically in the 15–28% range. Portugal charges a flat 28%, Spain applies 19% to EU residents and 24% to non-EU residents (with different deduction rules), and Greece uses a progressive scale starting at 15%. Malta offers a straightforward 15% flat rate for rental income. Capital gains tax is applied when you sell. Portugal taxes gains at 28% but offers exemptions for reinvestment or primary residences. Spain’s rate rises progressively up to 23%, and Greece charges a flat 15%. Malta either taxes 8% of the selling price or 35% on the net gain, depending on how the property was used. Double taxation treaties are widespread in Europe, making it easier to avoid being taxed both locally and in your country of residence, especially beneficial if you’re generating rental income or planning a future resale. Caribbean Transfer taxes range between 2.5% and 5%, depending on the island. For instance, Antigua & Barbuda applies 5%, while Dominica and Grenada fall closer to 3–4%. These taxes are typically fixed and apply to government-approved projects for CBI applicants. Annual property taxes are minimal and sometimes symbolic. Most Caribbean nations charge less than 1% of property value, and some levy a flat annual fee based on property size or use. Maintenance and service charges in resort projects are often higher than the taxes themselves. Rental income tax is generally low. Rates typically fall in the 10–15% range, and in some islands, rental income from tourism-related developments may qualify for partial exemptions under incentive laws. Capital gains tax is often not applicable. In most CBI jurisdictions, such as St. Kitts & Nevis or Antigua, there is no capital gains tax on personal real estate sales. This makes the Caribbean particularly attractive for investors seeking clean exits. No wealth or inheritance taxes exist in these jurisdictions, making them appealing not only for yield and citizenship but also for estate planning and asset protection. Middle East (UAE, Turkey, Jordan) Transfer taxes and fees are relatively low. Dubai imposes a one-time 4% transfer fee, typically shared between buyer and seller. Turkey charges a 4% title deed transfer tax. In Jordan, government approval is required for foreign buyers, and transfer fees average around 5%. Learn more about Dubai taxes here ‘Dubai Tax Rate Guide’. Annual property taxes are negligible in the UAE (0%), very low in Turkey (0.1–0.3% depending on the municipality), and modest in Jordan (generally under 1% of market value). This keeps long-term holding costs minimal in most Middle Eastern countries. Rental income tax is non-existent in the UAE, which offers a 0% income tax environment. In Turkey, rental income is taxed on a progressive scale (15%–40%), but significant deductions for expenses are allowed. In Jordan, rental income is taxed at a flat rate for individuals, usually around 10%. Capital gains tax is also 0% in the UAE. In Turkey, capital gains are exempt if the property is held for more than five years. Jordan applies capital gains tax selectively, depending on the nature of the property and its classification under local law. No foreign ownership tax or restrictions in UAE-designated freehold zones, and no restrictions on profit repatriation. Turkey also allows full foreign ownership in most areas, while Jordan requires approval but provides full title rights once granted. Financing Options for International Real Estate Accessing financing as a foreign buyer can vary dramatically between countries. In some markets, mortgages are readily available to non-residents; in others, real estate is an all-cash game. Understanding how local financing structures work, and how they apply to you, is essential before you commit to a property abroad. Mortgage Availability In the UAE, non-residents can typically access mortgages through local banks with a down payment of 20% to 50%, depending on the property type and borrower profile. Interest rates for expats average 4.5% to 6.5%, with repayment terms up to 25 years. Lenders often require proof of income, credit history, and sometimes a UAE-based guarantor. Portugal and Spain allow non-residents to finance up to 60–70% of the property’s value, particularly through international banks familiar with foreign clientele. Terms are generally 20–30 years, with interest rates ranging from 3.5% to 5%, depending on income structure and currency risk. In Turkey, mortgage options are more limited for foreigners. Most banks prefer local residents or Turkish nationals. Where financing is available, rates are significantly higher often 20% or more, reflecting domestic inflation and monetary policy. In the Caribbean, most property transactions, especially those tied to citizenship-by-investment programs, are cash-only. Mortgages are rare, and most developers require buyers to pay upfront or through structured payment plans tied to project completion. Payment Structures Payment structures vary based on whether you're buying a completed unit, an off-plan property, or investing in a shared development under a CBI scheme. For off-plan projects (especially in Dubai and Istanbul), developers often offer milestone-based payment plans such as 20/80, 30/70, or even extended options like 10% down, balance over 3–5 years post-handover. In Europe, especially Spain and Portugal, new developments may offer staged payments during construction, but most resale properties require full payment upon signing and registration. In Caribbean CBI projects, payment is typically made in full upon government approval, including both the real estate and the associated processing and due diligence fees. Banking Requirements Opening a local bank account is often a prerequisite for property transactions, rental income collection, or utility payments. In the UAE, buyers must provide passport copies, proof of address, and sometimes UAE residency or a UAE-based introducer to open an account. Portugal and Spain require a tax identification number (NIF/NIE), proof of address, and ID. Accounts are typically opened in-person, although some banks offer remote onboarding for non-residents. In Turkey, buyers must obtain a tax number and present their passport to open an account. In the Caribbean, bank account requirements are stricter due to international compliance laws (FATCA, CRS), with many banks requiring personal interviews, source of funds declarations, and full KYC documentation. Steps to Invest in International Real Estate Navigating a cross-border purchase requires more than just choosing a property. It’s a multi-step process that should balance market research, personal objectives, legal security, and long-term planning. Market Research Process Start by narrowing your focus based on your investment priorities — whether it's yield, citizenship, lifestyle, or capital appreciation. Look into: Economic trends and political stability in your target region Rental demand and occupancy rates in specific neighborhoods Regulatory environments and ownership rights for foreigners Currency exchange risk, taxation, and real estate transparency Use credible sources — including central banks, government tourism reports, and local property registries — not just developer marketing materials. Property Selection Criteria Your selection process should go beyond aesthetics. Focus on the fundamentals: Location: Urban vs coastal, primary cities vs emerging markets, infrastructure development Developer reputation: Especially in off-plan projects or international resort brands Resale value: Look at historical pricing trends and market liquidity Investment goals: Some properties are ideal for rental income; others better for long-term appreciation or CBI eligibility Due Diligence Checklist Due diligence protects you from costly mistakes. Before you sign anything, make sure you’ve: Verified the title deed is clean and fully transferable Reviewed zoning permissions, construction licenses, and land registry data Engaged a local, independent lawyer — not one referred by the seller Obtained a structural inspection report for completed units Reviewed the full cost breakdown: notary fees, taxes, service charges, and ongoing costs Ensured any CBI-linked property is government-approved and eligible for resale after the holding period Making the Right Investment for the Future Whether you're buying a holiday apartment in the Mediterranean, a citizenship-linked resort share in the Caribbean, or a luxury off-plan apartment in Dubai, one thing remains constant: real estate is a long game. The golden rule remains: Match your property choice to your financial goals, do thorough due diligence, and consider both short-term returns and long-term market stability. Data from our 10-year comparative studies indicates that specialized micro-markets — such as revitalized districts in Istanbul or eco-luxury Caribbean resorts — often outperform mainstream city centers by 15–20% in total ROI. Your next steps might involve visiting potential investment locations, consulting with trusted local advisors, or diving deeper into the legal nuances of CBI. By treating international real estate as part of a well-structured portfolio, you can harness the dual power of wealth creation and lifestyle benefits in some of the world’s most desirable regions. If you align your financial and lifestyle objectives with the right location and structure, 2025 could be the year your real estate ambitions truly take flight. Contact Savory & Partners experts for a personalized consultation and let your next real estate purchase be secure, strategic, and rewarding. FAQs on Global Real Estate Investments in 2025 Are property rights secure for foreigners in these markets? Generally, yes. Nations like Portugal, Spain, Greece, the UAE, and much of the Caribbean uphold strong legal frameworks for foreign ownership. Always confirm freehold vs. leasehold regulations and any local restrictions (e.g., Jordan requires ministry pre-approval). How do currency fluctuations impact global real estate investments? Currency risk can affect both property purchase costs and ongoing rental income. Many investors mitigate this by: Holding local bank accounts in the country of purchase Using hedging tools or multi-currency mortgages Timing currency exchanges with favorable market conditions What is the typical timeline for obtaining citizenship in the Caribbean? Most Caribbean CBI programs finalize within 3–6 months, assuming due diligence is smooth. The holding period for the real estate is commonly 3–5 years before resale. Do I need to hire a local attorney? Yes. Independent legal counsel is crucial to avoid conflicts of interest, verify the property’s title, and guide you through tax and regulatory obligations. Can I finance a citizenship-by-investment property with a mortgage? It’s rare. Most CBI investments require cash payments or developer-based installment plans. Traditional banks may hesitate to issue loans for CBI projects due to the program’s unique legal framework. References Dubai Land Department. (2025). Dubai property market report. Referred from: https://dubailand.gov.ae Government of Grenada: Ministry of Finance. (2025). Grenada real estate investment data. Referred from: https://www.gov.gd Government of Portugal. (2025). Legislative Decree 14/2025: Golden Visa amendments (Official Gazette). Referred from: https://dre.pt Government of St. Kitts & Nevis. (2025). Economic indicators and development statistics. Referred from: https://www.gov.kn National Statistics Office Malta. (2025). Malta property price index and GDP report. Referred from: https://nso.gov.mt