Top countries where expats love to buy homes
Buying a foreign home is the ultimate dream of every expat, and there are always a few countries at the top of the wish list. With their sun-kissed beaches, cosmopolitan cities, and lifestyle advantages, these countries also offer good property investment prospects.Â
In this article, we examine some of the leading countries in which expats like to buy homes and reveal the benefits of property ownership in each of them. Whether you have a dream of a beachfront villa or a city apartment with international style, these countries offer diverse alternatives to suit tastes and budgets.
8 Best Countries To Invest In Real Estate In 2025
If you are considering a move or investing in a foreign property, read on to discover which of these countries might be the perfect choice for you. Scroll down and find the list of the 8 best countries to invest in real estate.
1. United Arab Emirates
Expats like to invest in real estate or buy a home in the UAE because of its cosmopolitan culture, world-class infrastructure, and tax-free earnings. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are some of the cities that offer luxury living, quality healthcare, and high security levels. The property market is well-regulated with a range of property types from modern city flats to beachside villas.
Recent changes, including long-term residency visas tied to property investment, have also helped the popularity of homeownership. Moreover, the UAE’s strategic location makes it a travel and business hub. For expats seeking comfort as well as opportunity, the UAE is one of the most popular places to invest in real estate.
2. United Kingdom
People are interested in UK property due to its history of stability, strong protection of the law, and strong demand in city and suburban areas. The UK property market yields long-term stable returns, and the established rule of law ensures that it is a safe bet for foreign investors.
London, Birmingham, and Manchester are some of the cities that attract expats with their rich heritage, business prospects, and stunning rental opportunities.
The clear property buying process and availability of professional services also ensure that it is easy for foreigners to invest. For personal occupation or rental returns, UK property is a great choice for expats interested in secure investment in one of the world’s most respected markets.
3. United States of America
People are drawn to USA real estate investment because it has a strong economy, a diversified real estate market, and high potential for returns. From the concrete jungles of New York and Los Angeles to the emerging markets of Austin and Charlotte, America has it all to cater to every investor.
Property rights are safe under the judicial system, and foreigners can buy property with minor restrictions. Most expats invest in rental yields, long-term appreciation, or as a tool to acquire residency. The stable market, availability of capital, and global popularity of American cities make the USA a favorite among expats to amass wealth in real estate.
4. Singapore
The majority of expats find it fitting to invest in Singapore property because the city-state enjoys political stability, a robust economy, and good infrastructure. City living in the city-state is clean, efficient, and secure, and therefore very attractive to live in and invest in. The Singapore property market is also well-regulated, and therefore ensuring transparency and investor protection.
Foreigners are excluded from owning property in certain types of property, but expats can easily invest in private condos and high-rise apartments. The fact that the country is an international financial center, has world-class education, and a strategic Asian location makes it even more attractive. As a safe, long-term investment option for expats, Singapore is still the best.
5. Japan
People are investing in Japanese property as it is cheap, secure, and profitable in the long term. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto provide a mix of modern living and rich cultural heritage, and hence are in demand for lifestyle and rental yields.
The Japanese real estate market is stable with no foreign ownership restrictions, and it is simple for expats to buy homes or investment properties. Japan’s good transport network, clean air, and low crime rate make it a desirable place to reside. With stable infrastructure, a mix of innovation and tradition, and increasing tourism, Japan is a wise, secure investment destination for property.
6. Portugal
Expats love to invest in Portuguese property for its stunning views, low property prices, and high quality of life. In-demand places like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve offer idyllic seaside living, rich culture, and high rental yields. Portugal’s Golden Visa scheme has also attracted overseas buyers by offering residency in exchange for property investment.
The country has a mild climate, friendly locals, and top-notch healthcare and infrastructure. With unlimited foreign ownership and a hassle-free buying process, Portugal is investor-friendly and expat-friendly. For lifestyle and value hunters, Portugal is one of Europe’s top real estate hotspots.
7. Australia
Expats are drawn to Australian property due to its sound economy, affluent lifestyle, and secure property market. City centers like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer diversified investment opportunities that range from city center apartment blocks to suburban dwellings. The open legal framework and well-governed property market of Australia provide foreigners with the confidence to invest.
The natural environment, quality healthcare centers, and quality education offered in Australia make Australia an expat favorite destination to pursue lifestyle as well as financial returns. Foreigners do have certain rules to abide by, especially in the secondary property market, but the process is straightforward and transparent. Australia offers expats an intriguing combination of security and growth.
8. Spain
Expats love to invest in Spanish property due to its warm weather, relaxed way of life, and affordable prices of property. Costa del Sol, Barcelona, and Valencia are the most in-demand places, which boast beautiful coastlines, a rich heritage, and low rental returns, especially for holiday rentals.
Spain’s Golden Visa program attracts foreign buyers with the possibility of residency through property purchase.
The cost of living is extremely low, and healthcare, transportation, and food are all of the highest quality. Foreign buyers have no serious restrictions, and there is a straightforward buying process, so Spain is Europe’s go-to destination to buy a second home and a good investment.
Final Verdicts
In 2025, the most expat-friendly countries for real estate investing are driven by stability, prospects for growth, and expat-friendly policy. The UAE appeals because of tax relief and high-quality infrastructure, and is apt for high-end consumers. The UK is a proven market with consistent returns and stability.
The USA offers diversified options and solid long-term options. Australia offers stability with a high-end quality of living. Portugal and Spain are appealing because of budget-friendly property options and Golden Visa programs. Singapore stands out through its high-prospects economy and regulations, and Japan thanks to its secure long-term investment opportunities.