Which platforms to look at for investing in overseas property

Buying an overseas property could be a highly rewarding investment decision. A large number of Singaporeans have already profited by purchasing real estate in various international locations.

But buying commercial space or a residential unit in Australia or Japan is very different from making a similar investment in Singapore. Each country has its own set of laws and regulations governing the acquisition of property by foreigners.

Additionally, every market follows different practices and norms. If a buyer is unaware of how a particular country’s real estate market operates, there is a very real possibility of making an incorrect investment decision and putting the transaction at risk.

Thankfully, Singapore has a number of property dealers who specialise in overseas real estate and who can help investors in their search.

Here are some platforms you can look at:

 

PropertyGuru

Source: PropertyGuru

The site groups properties in various categories. Investors can choose between houses, condominiums, villas, apartments, and commercial property.

PropertyGuru includes listings from the UK, the US, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, and several other countries. Buyers can select from units that are ready for occupation and those that will be completed in subsequent years.

 

Propertyinvestment88

Specialising in Cambodian and London properties, Propertyinvestment88 has a website that provides a great amount of useful information.

This table prepared by the firm provides a snapshot of the critical issues involved in investing in several countries.

Detailed information is provided about the properties listed on the website. The particulars furnished include distance from various amenities, the down payment required and the reasons why the property’s value is expected to rise in the future.

 

Jones Lang LaSalle

Source: JLL

This is a Fortune 500 company with offices in 80 countries and a workforce of more than 60,000. It has an international marketing team that helps identify suitable London properties for South East Asian investors.

The firm also represents major developers in Australia, Japan, the US, and other Asian markets.

The Singapore website of Jones Lang LaSalle provides a wealth of information about international projects and resale properties. The listing includes apartments, townhouses, and condominiums. Investors can also select from retail, office, and industrial properties.

 

Knight Frank

Source: Knight Frank

Founded in 1940, Knight Frank Singapore helps investors buy residential and commercial properties. It also provides valuation and consultancy services in addition to property and facilities management.

The firm’s website lists developments in New York, Australia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

The advantage of dealing with Knight Frank is that investors get access to an entire range of services. The firm advises its clients about the best fit for their investment needs. After arranging the purchase of the property that has been identified, Knight Frank also provides property and portfolio management services.

 

Savills

Source: Savills

Another global giant, Savills has 700 offices across the world. In addition to arranging for the purchase of international properties, the firm also offers its clients asset management expertise, consultation on real estate matters, and property management services.

Savills’ property search page lists residential and commercial units in Liverpool, London, Phnom Penh, and Melbourne. The firm has tie-ups with several overseas developers. This association helps them provide Singapore’s investors with access to information on new projects.

The firm’s wide international presence can also help owners who want to sell their overseas properties. Another advantage in dealing with Savills is gaining access to their international cross-sell skills.

 

Strawberry Star

Source: Strawberry Star

London is one of the most attractive international property investment destinations. Strawberry Star is a property company with a dedicated focus on developing London properties for local and international investors.

The company has a presence in Singapore, making it very convenient for the city’s investors to gain first-hand information about upcoming real estate projects in London. According to information released by Strawberry Star, it has completed over £500 million in property investments in the last five years.

Strawberry Star’s website lists various new developments in London. Extensive details along with maps are provided. Each property description also includes information about the surrounding area. Prospective investors can also see videos that provide details about the property.

 

Begin your search for overseas property in Singapore itself

Investors can obtain most of the details that they require to take an investment decision on an overseas property without leaving Singapore.

It is possible to contact several local agents and international developers with a presence in the city and make a comparison between their proposals.

But it is advisable to visit the overseas property at least once before taking a final decision. After all, an investment of several hundred thousand dollars or more should not be taken lightly.

(By Ravinder Kapur)

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