Real estate investments can be a profitable and relatively low-risk approach to expanding your financial portfolio. More investors now consider properties in enticing foreign locations, especially those that bring tax benefits and residential privileges.
PwC’s 2024 report on global real estate shows that apartments have witnessed an upward trend, rising 20% year-on-year (YOY). It is higher than other property types, including offices and hotels.
The report also highlights that Asia, in particular, can be promising for diversification, allowing investors to grow their portfolios through multiple entry points. For example, you may choose to invest in a luxury apartment for rental or residential purposes. It could be a strategy to gain rental returns or capitalize on growing global expat trends.
Selecting the right apartment for your needs is imperative to meet these goals. It is an exercise that must go beyond gut feel and into data-backed, evidence-driven territory.
#1: Does the Locality’s Culture Resonate With You?
Experiencing and understanding the culture of a foreign destination should be an essential part of your real estate decision-making process. Naturally, this may require more groundwork if you wish to invest in a far-flung, intercontinental location.
For example, many Chinese nationals buy homes in the US, and the trend has been upward in recent years. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that Chinese buyers accounted for over $13 billion in America’s housing market in 2024-2025. One of the key markets was California, a state with which many Chinese nationals feel strong historical and cultural ties.
When considering an apartment in a gated community, the culture plays an even more crucial role. It will have a say in attracting the right tenants or motivating you to live there for long periods (if that is your plan). We recommend spending time soaking in the neighborhood’s vibe, conversing with others, and assessing your reactions.
#2: Does the Property Have Local Support?
Another important consideration is ensuring the apartment you are eying has adequate local support. You will need this to handhold you through the purchase and assist with operational needs, such as opening a bank account. A local partner will also support you during the construction phase if you select a project under development.
For example, many Dubai real estate investors have a plethora of options even for residential needs. From downtown villas to beachy properties or homes in the center of commercial districts, the possibilities are vast. Navigating this landscape with an experienced local partner gives you an edge in selection and negotiation.
Yet another bonus is having access to exclusive deals that you may not receive otherwise. According to RD Dubai, strategic partnerships can help investors find unique deals and projects ideal for their needs. These could be seeking tax-free returns or switching from rent to ownership (as an expat).
#3: Is it Future-Ready for New Local Regulations?
The residential real estate market can witness changing regulations for rent, construction, or maintenance.
For instance, in October 2023, the UK Parliament mandated new fire safety requirements for flats. These included building floor plans and sharing the information with the local fire rescue service. Developers were notified to seek updated approvals for higher-risk buildings.
As climate change tightens its grip on the world, many apartments are also subject to changing energy-efficiency regulations. They may be required to switch to more sustainable power sources or integrate better waste management.
The US scenario is turbulent at present, with the Trump administration opposing energy efficiency standards that were previously established to be effective. The Conversation notes that households using gas cooking instead of an electric appliance may have prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals. But what do these conflicting moves mean for homeowners?
As a real estate investor, you must assess whether your desired property seems future-ready, come what may. Speaking with other residents and expat communities can help you get a ballpark.
#4: Do You Find Inspections and Upkeep Feasible?
Finally, ask yourself if the apartment will be easy to maintain and whether you can do it in person. Having a tenant makes it much easier, as they will be responsible for day-to-day upkeep.
That said, many investors prefer to conduct timely checks to stay in control and experience peace of mind. In this regard, your life will be smoother if the investment comes with visa benefits or residential privileges.
Some people also like to use IoT devices to survey the property. This is a reasonable choice for investors who foresee difficulties in frequent travel. Another strategy is to assign a local partner who can streamline maintenance and keep you updated.
Even if you are financially sound, overconfidence or relying excessively on intuition may not always be optimal. This is truer for foreign locations, which you may not inherently understand just after a vacation or occasional business visits. The apartment you zero in on should be the right fit for your financial and personal needs, and also be sustainable across fluctuating market trends.
Running through the above checklist will help you feel more confident in your decision and avoid acting in haste.
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