In 2024, global property markets continue to attract foreign investors seeking profitable returns. For international buyers, understanding eligibility, ownership rules, financing options, initial costs, and each country’s unique appeal is essential. Many will ask which is the best country for property investment, here’s a look at ten countries offering attractive investment returns.

1. United States: Diverse Investment Opportunities with High Returns
The United States offers a wide range of property investment options, from high-demand cities to emerging markets. Known for its diverse economy and consistent demand, the U.S. allows foreign investors to buy various types of real estate, including residential, commercial, and rental properties.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 6-8% in cities like Austin and Phoenix
Capital Growth: ~5% annually
Average Property Price: ~USD $450,000
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 30-40% (~USD $135,000-$180,000)
Transaction Costs: 5-10% (~USD $22,500-$45,000)
Total Initial Cost: ~USD $157,500-$225,000
Loan Eligibility: Foreign investors can access financing from U.S. banks, though they typically require a higher down payment (30-40%).
Cons: Property taxes vary widely by state, and rental income is subject to U.S. taxation.
2. Germany: Stability and Strong Tenant Protection
Germany is known for its regulated market and strong tenant protection laws, which provide stability and low volatility. Cities like Berlin and Munich offer capital appreciation and consistent rental demand, making Germany appealing for investors focused on long-term gains.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 3-4%
Capital Growth: 4-5% annually
Average Property Price: ~EUR €480,000 (Berlin)
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 40-50% (EUR €192,000-€240,000)
Transaction Costs: 7-10% (EUR €33,600-€48,000)
Total Initial Cost: EUR €225,600-€288,000
Loan Eligibility: Limited, with a 40-50% down payment required for foreign investors.
Cons: Strict rental regulations limit rent increases, impacting flexibility.
3. United Arab Emirates (UAE): High ROI in a Tax-Free Environment
Dubai in the UAE has become a hotspot for foreign investors, thanks to high rental yields, luxury property options, and a tax-free environment. Designated freehold zones allow full ownership, making Dubai an attractive option for high returns.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 8-10%
Capital Growth: ~8%
Average Property Price: AED 1,200 per square foot (~AED 1,200,000 for 1,000 sq. ft.)
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 25-35% (AED 300,000-AED 420,000)
Transaction Costs: 4-6% (AED 48,000-AED 72,000)
Total Initial Cost: AED 348,000-AED 492,000
Loan Eligibility: Foreigners can obtain mortgages in freehold zones with a 25-35% down payment.
Cons: Market volatility is high, especially for luxury and tourism-dependent properties.
4. Malaysia: High Rental Yields with Zero Down Payment Options
Malaysia is an attractive investment destination in Southeast Asia, especially for foreign investors aiming to maximize returns with minimal upfront costs. In cities like Kuala Lumpur (KL) and surrounding areas in the Klang Valley, properties yield strong rental returns, averaging around 6.1%. A key advantage for investors is that many Malaysian developers offer substantial rebates of 20-30% on new properties, effectively allowing foreign buyers to enter the market with zero down payment. This makes Malaysia uniquely accessible and attractive for investors looking to expand their property portfolios with low initial investment.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 6.1%
Capital Growth: ~4-5%
Average Property Price: MYR 1,000,000 (minimum for foreign ownership)
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 0% (for new properties with rebates)
Transaction Costs: 3-5% (MYR 30,000-MYR 50,000)
Total Initial Cost: MYR 30,000-MYR 50,000 (for new properties, due to rebate)
Loan Eligibility: Foreign investors can obtain mortgages from Malaysian banks with standard down payments of 20-30%. However, for new property purchases, many developers’ rebates allow for zero down payment, significantly lowering entry costs.
Investment Highlight: Malaysia’s zero-down-payment option for new properties, combined with high rental yields and strong capital growth, provides an exceptional entry point for foreign investors to expand their real estate portfolios with minimal upfront capital, leveraging developer incentives to maximize ROI potential.
Cons: Minimum price thresholds restrict access to lower-priced properties, and some restrictions apply to landed property purchases for foreigners.
5. United Kingdom: Strong Market with High Demand in Key Cities
The UK offers a stable market and high rental demand, especially in cities like Manchester and Liverpool. Although London is pricier, it’s still a popular choice for capital appreciation. However, foreign buyers should consider the 2% stamp duty surcharge.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 6-7% in Manchester
Capital Growth: ~4%
Average Property Price: GBP £500,000
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 25-35% (GBP £125,000-£175,000)
Transaction Costs: 3-15% (GBP £15,000-£75,000)
Total Initial Cost: GBP £140,000-£250,000
Loan Eligibility: Mortgages are available with a 25-35% down payment for foreign buyers.
Cons: High initial transaction costs, especially in London, impact affordability.
6. Australia: Growth Opportunities with Restrictions for Foreigners
Australia offers capital growth potential, particularly in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Foreigners are restricted to new or off-plan properties, but the market remains appealing for long-term gains.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 3-4%
Capital Growth: ~5%
Average Property Price: AUD $1 million
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 30-40% (AUD $300,000-$400,000)
Transaction Costs: 4-7% (AUD $40,000-$70,000)
Total Initial Cost: AUD $340,000-$470,000
Loan Eligibility: Limited financing options for foreign buyers, typically requiring a 30-40% down payment.
Cons: High down payments and restrictions on property types available to foreigners.
7. Spain: High Demand for Tourist Rentals and Golden Visa Opportunities
Spain’s Mediterranean lifestyle and Golden Visa program make it a popular choice for foreign investors. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid attract rental demand, particularly in the short-term vacation rental market.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 4-6%
Capital Growth: 3-4%
Average Property Price: EUR €500,000 (Golden Visa minimum)
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 30% (EUR €150,000)
Transaction Costs: 10-13% (EUR €50,000-€65,000)
Total Initial Cost: EUR €200,000-€215,000
Loan Eligibility: Spanish banks offer mortgages to foreign investors with up to 70% LTV.
Cons: High transaction costs, and seasonal rental demand impacts cash flow.
8. Portugal: High ROI and the Option of Residency Through the Golden Visa
Portugal offers a stable property market with steady demand in Lisbon and Porto. The Golden Visa program allows foreigners who invest over EUR €500,000 to gain residency.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 5-6%
Capital Growth: ~5-6%
Average Property Price: EUR €500,000
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 30% (EUR €150,000)
Transaction Costs: 7-10% (EUR €35,000-€50,000)
Total Initial Cost: EUR €185,000-€200,000
Loan Eligibility: Loans available for foreign buyers, with LTV ratios up to 70%.
Cons: Increased demand has raised property prices in Lisbon and other popular areas.
9. Thailand: Affordable Market with High Returns for Condo Investors
Thailand, particularly Bangkok and Phuket, offers affordable condominium investments with high rental yields. However, foreigners are restricted to condo ownership, with leasing as an option for landed properties.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 5-7%
Capital Growth: 4-5%
Average Property Price: THB 5,000,000
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 50% if financing (THB 2,500,000)
Transaction Costs: 3-5% (THB 150,000-250,000)
Total Initial Cost: THB 2,650,000-THB 2,750,000
Loan Eligibility: Limited loans for foreigners; cash purchases are preferred.
Cons: Restrictions on property ownership limit options for foreign investors.
10. Turkey: Affordable Property with Citizenship Incentives
Turkey provides affordable property options with high rental yields, particularly in Istanbul. Foreign investors can qualify for citizenship by investing USD $400,000 or more, making it an attractive option for investors seeking residency.
Key Figures:
Rental Yield: 5-6%
Capital Growth: 4-5%
Average Property Price: TRY 20,000 per square meter
Initial Cost Estimate:
Down Payment: 40-50% (USD $160,000-$200,000)
Transaction Costs: 4-7% (USD $16,000-$28,000)
Total Initial Cost: USD $176,000-$228,000
Loan Eligibility: Limited financing options, with higher down payments and interest rates.
Cons: Economic instability and currency fluctuations in the Turkish lira.

Which is Best countries for property investment?
Each country offers unique benefits for foreign property investors. By considering initial costs, loan eligibility, and key investment figures, you can select the best market to meet your goals in 2024.
Looking for professional advices on your investment? Feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to help you on your investment journey to avoid making a mentally exhausting decision in the future.
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