10 Essential Questions Before Buying Property Abroad

Introduction

Investing in a home or holiday apartment outside your home country can be rewarding, but it also brings layers of complexity that most buyers overlook. From differing ownership rules to shifting residency programmes, the stakes are high if you skip due diligence. Below are ten critical questions you should answer before signing any contract, illustrated with up‑to‑date examples from popular investment destinations.

1. Does the property comply with local ownership laws?

Every country has its own definition of what foreigners may own. In Turkey, for instance, foreign investors can purchase freehold apartments and houses, but they must register the title at the Land Registry Office. Thailand, on the other hand, only allows non‑Thais to own condominiums up to a 49 % foreign‑ownership quota; land cannot be owned outright.

2. What are the tax implications – both in the host country and back home?

Consider property transfer taxes, annual wealth or cadastral taxes, and potential capital‑gains liabilities when you sell. Spain still levies a 10 % transfer tax on most regions, while Greece charges a 3 % property acquisition tax plus a 1.5 % notary fee. Don’t forget your home‑country reporting obligations – many jurisdictions require disclosure of foreign assets.

3. How does the purchase affect my residency or citizenship plans?

Some nations tie real‑estate investment to residence permits, but rules evolve quickly:

• Turkey: Buying property worth at least US$400,000 and holding it for three years can lead to Turkish citizenship – a non‑EU passport.
• Greece: The Golden Visa program offers EU residence for investments of €250k, €400k or €800k. The permit is renewable every five years but Airbnb rentals are prohibited on these units.
• Montenegro: Property ownership (minimum €450,000 in the coastal region) grants a renewable residence permit; the country uses the euro and its citizenship‑by‑investment scheme closed in 2022.
• Spain: The Golden Visa was abolished in April 2025. Prospective residents now rely on non‑lucrative or digital‑nomad visas, which do not require a property purchase.
• Portugal: As of October 2023, residential real estate no longer qualifies for the Golden Visa; applicants must use the D7 passive‑income route instead.

4. What financing options are available locally?

Local banks may offer mortgages to foreigners but often at higher interest rates and stricter loan‑to‑value ratios (typically 50–70 %). In Greece, non‑resident borrowers can obtain up to 60 % LTV on a primary residence, while in Turkey the maximum is usually 55 %. Always compare the total cost of borrowing, including appraisal fees and currency‑exchange risk.

5. How will currency fluctuations affect my investment?

If your income or savings are denominated in USD, EUR or another currency, a sudden shift can dramatically alter both purchase price and future returns. For example, buying a €300k apartment in Greece while the euro strengthens against the dollar adds roughly 5 % to the effective cost for an American buyer.

6. What exit strategies are realistic?

Plan how you will sell or transfer ownership later. Some markets impose capital‑gain taxes only on sales within a short holding period (e.g., Turkey’s 5 % tax if sold before five years). Others, like Greece, have no special penalty but require a notary and may involve lengthy buyer searches due to limited rental demand for Golden Visa units.

7. Are there restrictions on renting the property?

If you intend to generate income, verify local short‑term rental rules. In Greece, Airbnb is banned on all Golden Visa properties, while in Turkey short‑term rentals are permitted but may require a municipal licence. Spain’s tourist‑rental regulations vary by region and can be strict in historic city centres.

8. What due‑diligence steps should I follow?

A thorough title search, verification of building permits, and confirmation that the seller has no outstanding debts are non‑negotiable. Engage a local attorney who can request a cadastral extract, confirm that the property is free from liens, and ensure compliance with foreign‑ownership caps.

9. How does the local market outlook look?

Study macro trends such as tourism growth, infrastructure projects, and demographic shifts. Montenegro’s coastal towns have seen steady price appreciation due to EU‑border proximity, whereas Thailand’s condo market has softened after a wave of oversupply in Bangkok.

10. Which professional partners will guide the transaction?

Working with specialists who understand both your home jurisdiction and the target country reduces risk dramatically. Resida Global coordinates legal counsel, tax advice and property management services across multiple markets, ensuring a seamless end‑to‑end experience.

Quick Reference: Residency Pathways Linked to Property Investment

Country	Residency Programme	Key Requirements (2024)
Turkey	Citizenship by Investment	US$400,000 property, 3‑year hold
Greece	Golden Visa (EU residence)	Investment €250k–€800k, no Airbnb on GV units
Montenegro	Renewable Residence Permit	Property ≥ €450,000 (coastal) or €300,000 (interior)
Spain	Non‑Lucrative / Digital Nomad Visa	No property link; proof of sufficient funds
Portugal	D7 Passive Income Visa	Proof of recurring income; property no longer qualifies for Golden Visa
Thailand	None via Property	Condo freehold up to 49 % foreign ownership; no residency by purchase

Conclusion

Buying abroad is a strategic decision that demands answers to legal, financial and practical questions before you commit. By systematically addressing the ten points above—and partnering with an experienced facilitator like Resida Global—you can protect your capital, meet residency goals, and keep future exit options open.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I obtain citizenship by buying property in Turkey?

Yes. Purchasing real estate worth at least US$400,000 and holding it for three years qualifies you for Turkish citizenship, which is not an EU passport.

Is the Greek Golden Visa still valid for short‑term rentals?

The Golden Visa remains active, but Airbnb and other short‑term rentals are prohibited on properties obtained through the programme.

What happened to Spain’s Golden Visa after April 2025?

Spain abolished its Golden Visa in April 2025. Prospective residents now rely on non‑lucrative or digital‑nomad visas, which do not require a property purchase.

Can I buy land outright in Thailand as a foreigner?

No. Foreigners can only own condominium units up to a 49 % building quota on a freehold basis; land ownership is prohibited.

Does Portugal still offer residency through residential property investment?

Since October 2023, residential real estate no longer qualifies for Portugal’s Golden Visa. Residency must be pursued via the D7 passive‑income route or other visas.