Overseas property can cost a fraction of property in the U.S. or Canada. If you dream of a villa by the sea, a historic home in a quaint village, or a luxury apartment in a world-class cosmopolitan city, we suggest you look beyond the borders of your home country for the best deal.
By purchasing property abroad, you can afford a second home… perhaps your dream home that you would never be able to afford back in the States. Even beach property can be an incredible bargain in key markets overseas.
Beyond the great prices, owning a home abroad can bring other strategic benefits…
1. Owning a home abroad makes your life more interesting
You’ll travel to exciting destinations to identify the place where you want to buy, ideally choosing a place where you enjoy spending time. It makes travel and adventure a bigger part of your life.
Your home abroad could double as your vacation home, providing free stays for family and friends. Imagine inviting all your friends to your beach house in Greece or your apartment in Panama City, Panama…
2. A home abroad can make you rich
Cash flow and capital appreciation are two of the main motivators for overseas property investors…
If you buy at the right time, you can enjoy any increases in property prices in your market and sell for a nice capital gain.
If you rent out your apartment in Portugal or condo in Belize when you’re not using it, you can earn high-yield rental income. This can be used to offset carrying costs or even help fund your retirement.
Buy a property when values are low, rent it out and build a nest egg of local currency, then move in when you’re ready to use it. This is a strategy that expats around the world have used successfully.
Plus, in most countries that we recommend, a Social Security budget goes much further than it does in the United States. It can even afford a luxury-level lifestyle in some cases.
3. A home abroad can protect you from risk
Buying a home abroad moves a substantial chunk of money outside of your home country and into a different market. It’s a store of value in a different currency, which can protect you if the U.S. dollar slumps. The market you buy in may also be immune to disruption back home and fare better in the next economic crisis.
Buying property overseas can reduce market risk, exchange-rate risk, risk of seizure by the U.S. government, and liability risk. U.S. courts can’t seize your foreign property. It can also enhance your privacy, as it’s one of only two asset classes that Americans are not required to report to the IRS every year.
These are just a few of the ways that owning property abroad can improve your life. If you’re looking for a market where you can start enjoying these benefits, here are five places where property is still affordable in 2026…
#5. Affordable Real Estate In Brazil
Brazil is a land of amazing natural beauty with 5,000 miles of coastline and many of the world’s most pristine beaches. It has a rich and diverse culture, with two dozen UNESCO sites plus vibrant music, delicious cuisine, and diverse people.
It’s a land of virtually limitless opportunity… The world’s fifth largest country by area, it’s only slightly smaller than the United States. It’s the sixth most populous country on Earth, with a young population of 210 million that’s growing fast.
Brazil is a global powerhouse—one of the biggest, strongest, and most diversified economies in the world. It’s also one of the most self-sufficient economies and is better insulated from the shock of world crises than nearly any other major economy.
By historic standards, Brazil offers a favorable rate of exchange with the dollar. Here’s a look at one of the most compelling property markets in the country…
Fortaleza—A Strong Performer That Remains An Unbelievable Bargain
Fortaleza is the capital of Ceará state, located on the coast of Brazil’s Northeast Region. It has amazing weather thanks to the constant onshore breeze and the consistently mild year-round temperatures.
The boardwalk is a fountain of positive energy, with both locals and visitors walking, jogging, or exercising, providing an all-day bustling and positive atmosphere. At night, a large artisan market is erected, and vendors and visitors come from all over the area.
Fortaleza was founded in 1726. It’s Brazil’s fourth-largest city with 2.4 million people. If this is too big for your taste, you can drive a short distance from downtown and find smaller towns and villages that are also popular with expats.
Property prices have jumped this year, yet it’s still one of the least expensive beach markets that we know of…
In the Aldeota sector, a few blocks back from the downtown beaches of Praia Iracema and Meireles, in the midst of a wealth of dining and nightlife options, the average price of a two-bedroom luxury property here is just $177,000 at today’s exchange rates. Many apartments here offer ocean views.
Fortaleza is the perfect mix for those who want to combine big-city life with a beach lifestyle.
More on real estate in Brazil…
#4. Affordable Property In Northern Cyprus
In the eastern corner of the Mediterranean, blessed with year-round warm weather, clear blue waters, and over 400 miles of coastline… Where English is so commonly spoken, you’d never have to learn the local language…
The food is light and fresh… The coffee is strong and aromatic… And the flowers that blossom across the valleys of the island give way to the mountains where you can ski in winter… And, to top it off, life is as affordable as it gets in Europe—enjoy a healthy meal and a cold glass of wine for just €10 a person, for example…
This is Northern Cyprus, which offers all the perks of a Mediterranean lifestyle for a much lower price. It boasts incredible castles, charming villages, and miles of untouched sandy beaches. We think it has the most beautiful scenery in all of Cyprus.
Northern Cyprus has all the ingredients for a dream retirement… but it also offers fantastic investment opportunities. You can find property for under $110,000, as well as tourism appeal, leverage options, and a liquid market with reliable rental yields.
Property And The Path Of Progress
Development has taken off in Northern Cyprus alongside tourism. In 2024, tourist arrivals soared by a massive 18%. New hotels and residential projects have proliferated up and down the coastline, roads are being developed, and infrastructure is modernizing.
We’ve watched over the past seven years as property values have increased alongside that development…
To give you one example, the price of studio apartments we recommended at a beach development in Iskele has appreciated by 116% since 2021. This is exceptional growth, especially considering the short timeframe.
Investors who acted on our early recommendations in Northern Cyprus are enjoying those gains (at least on paper) and have also raked in impressive rental yields over the years.
Prices have matured in many of Northern Cyprus’ markets, but another opportunity to get in at ultra-low prices and profit big is becoming available soon. Developers and investors are turning their gaze west to the last stretch of undeveloped coast in Northern Cyprus…
The West Coast—Everything You Need To Know
The Path of Progress is headed for Northern Cyprus’ West Coast. This area boasts a stunning coastline and breathtaking mountains. It’s home to the largest freshwater dam on the island and is known as the greenest area of Cyprus.
Undeveloped beachfront land is scarce—not only in Northern Cyprus but across the world. Developers (including the one we work with) have already bought plots of land on the West Coast and started the process of approvals for building permits.
Residential projects have sprung up, as well as amenities that make life more comfortable and more fun. A yacht pier, wellness facilities, a hospital, beach amenities, and a shopping center are making their way to the West Coast… it will have all the components of a high-value community, which will drive up real estate prices.
Right now, the average price per square meter in the area is £1,447 (about $1,945). This has increased by 28% since 2023 and by 68% since 2021.
The last time we saw prices like this was a couple of years ago, when we first recommended areas like Iskele and Kyrenia. We predict the same appreciation story that we saw in those areas is about to play out on the West Coast.
We suggest you act now while property is still at these low prices…
More on real estate in Cyprus…
#3. Bargain Property In Colombia
Prices in Colombia’s key markets have risen, but even in popular cities like Bogotá and Cartagena, value can still be found. Across the rest of Colombia, true bargains are available…
Authentic Living In Colombia’s City Of Endless Summer
In Cali, in southern Colombia, temperatures are hot all year, with highs of around 88°F most days. Locals look forward to an afternoon breeze, which brings relief each day. Abundant greenery provides shade for streets and parks.
Cali is a place to experience authentic Colombian culture. The expat community is not well-established, but locals—Caleños—are extremely friendly and welcoming, keen to show newcomers the best of their city. You’ll need to speak Spanish or at least be willing to learn to thrive here.
The best way to get involved in local culture is to take salsa lessons. Cali is known as the salsa capital of the world for its passion for salsa music, and it has produced some of the world’s greatest salsa bands. Lessons are easy to come by, and learning will give you ample opportunities for socializing.
Prices have risen in Cali in recent years. Today, you can buy a central, comfortable apartment for $70,000 to $100,000.
Cali is an up-and-coming city, and like all big cities, it has areas that you should avoid because of crime. That said, many areas of the city are safe and walkable. After moving here, you’ll quickly learn where you should and shouldn’t wander.
Colombia’s City Of Eternal Spring
Cali has some of the best real estate prices in the country, but Medellín, Colombia’s capital of culture, still offers incredible value for money.
Medellín has a milder climate than Cali and year-round spring-like weather. An established expat community calls Medellín home and takes advantage of the city’s strong infrastructure. This includes state-of-the-art health care facilities and a clean and safe public transport system.
El Poblado is the most popular Medellín neighborhood, and property prices are higher relative to other areas. Expect to spend around $200,000 for a modern, comfortable apartment in El Poblado.
An Undiscovered Beach Town With Great Prices
Santa Marta proves Colombia can offer bargain real estate on the Caribbean coast. While most tourists go to Cartagena, Santa Marta is a short trek up the coast and offers everything Cartagena has but at lower prices.
Founded in 1525 by Spanish conquistador Rodrigo de Bastidas, Santa Marta is the oldest city in Colombia. Its Spanish-colonial historic center has been carefully preserved, while recent investments have modernized infrastructure and added amenities, like the new marina.
The real estate market extends beyond Santa Marta itself to several areas. To the north lies Taganga, a fishing village with nice beaches and a bohemian vibe. South of the city, newer luxury developers overlook quiet stretches of coastline.
El Rodadero is one of the most popular areas, featuring a gently curving beach, clear blue waters, and a lively strip of restaurants backed by attractive apartment buildings. Here, the average two-bedroom apartment (about 1,055 square feet) costs $255,000 at today’s exchange rates.
More on real estate in Colombia…
#2. Cheap Real Estate In Mexico
While areas of Mexico have experienced rapid property-price increases, especially resort towns like Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen… Beachfront property is no longer the bargain it was 20 years ago. However, in lesser-known areas, you can still find a range of prices.
Mountain Towns In Mexico
Álamos is a town located in Northwest Mexico that dates back to the late 17th century. It lies in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental and retains its original charm. Mansions line cobblestone streets on a backdrop of mountains and rugged countryside.
Homes sell from under $100,000. The smaller your budget, the more basic the home, but it’s still a bargain considering the amazing lifestyle on offer. A bigger budget can buy you an authentic colonial mansion.
Xalapa is another town where you can pick up property for about $80,000. Based in Veracruz State, Xalapa is about 200 miles east of Mexico City and a one-hour drive from the Caribbean.
Volcanoes and mountains surround this small town that sits at an altitude of 4,650 feet. Mexico’s highest mountain, Pico de Orizaba, can be seen from Xalapa.
Prices are unlikely to appreciate quickly, meaning Xalapa is not somewhere for a short-term investment. But it has a rich cultural life, excellent restaurants, and shopping.
Buy A Home Where Your Favorite Western Was Filmed
Durango is a mountain town offering a slice of authentic Mexican life. Used as a filming location for many old Westerns, the landscape will feel familiar to anyone who used to watch cowboy movies.
The weather is cooler in December and January, averaging 69°F, with temperatures reaching 86°F in May and June. At night the temperatures drop to around 60°F. In this pleasant climate you have no need for air conditioning or heating.
Durango has a limited expat community. You will need to learn Spanish if you want to thrive here. Property prices are lower because of this, but it also means that resale can take longer.
Durango is modern and clean with everything you would expect from a big city plus classic Spanish colonial architecture.
More on real estate in Mexico…
#1. Real Estate In Italy Is Surprisingly Affordable
Outside of major cities and tourist destinations, cheap properties abound in Italy. In fact, some areas of Italy have the cheapest properties on this list.
Take Sicily. Here, many old villages have adopted a new incentive to attract foreign investment. You can find homes in historic countryside towns for as little as €1 (about $1.18).
The reason for this enticing deal is that young people have left the town in search of work. With an aging population, villages are dying, so the government has intervened to attract newcomers.
The fine print shows buyers must restore these €1 homes, often spending at least $27,000 on renovations. This investment must take place within three years, and the houses cannot be sold within five years. The regulations vary from town to town.
These are almost always intensive renovation projects. The homes will need work—sometimes significant work—before you can live in them. But for traditional Italian countryside homes set in the rolling hills of Italy, the price is right.
Italy’s Last Undiscovered Region
The next region in Italy for cheap real estate is Abruzzo. Situated to the east of Rome along the Adriatic, Abruzzo is one of the wildest and last undiscovered places in Italy.
Boasting hills, mountains, and ancient towns, it’s unlike anywhere else in the country. Yet everything you would expect from Italy is present: delicious food and wine, hot summers, beautiful coastline, and architecture.
But Abruzzo also has other charms, like snow-capped mountains where you can ski in the winter. In Abruzzo, the towns and way of life have a timeless quality and seem a million miles from the major cities.
If you are looking to live the quiet life in a remote village, you can buy houses for under $80,000. If you prefer a small town, the likes of Teramo and Chieti have properties around the $100,000 mark.
Prices tend to be lower in winter, but there are fewer homes available. You will find fewer open houses, and the conditions for house hunting may not be the best.
The popular stone buildings in this region keep the houses cool in the summer and have open fireplaces to keep things cozy in the winter.
Plenty of expats live in Italy, but in the countryside, few will live close by. Learning Italian is all but essential to avoid isolation. Italians are a generally welcoming and family-oriented people, but English is not as widely spoken as you might think.
More on real estate in Italy…
