Tuesday, March 1, 2011

A Guide To Purchasing Property Overseas

In these hard economic times, many people are betting their finances to buy overseas property. Whether you are buying for leisure or investment purposes, the last thing that you would wish is to end up spending your money for a worthless piece of property. If you are able to pull off this pursuit properly through sufficient and well-rounded research, a property overseas would surely prove to be a good investment property that would provide you uncapped returns. In order to safely purchase a property abroad, you might want to consider some tips provided below.

The first step that you have to go over is to know if you're legally allowed to buy a property in the country of your choice. It must be taken into account that some countries have strict laws concerning foreigner property ownership in their lands, while there are other countries that implement some form of limits on the kind of property ownership that foreigners could have. For instance, you would like to purchase a Guam house for sale that you saw during your last trip in the said area, you must be informed that Guam laws only allow foreigners to own one owner-occupied property under their name. You could also drop by at your prospective country's embassy or consulate to gain the necessary information that could help you further understand the property acquisition laws imposed in the country along with information about applicable taxes and working permits among others.

It also pays to have a seasonal check on your prospective property; what might appear as a good summer house may not be an ideal place during cold seasons. To carry this out, you could rent a place near the Guam house for sale you are scouting to get a feel of how to live in the area; this is also an ideal strategy to assess the transportation, leisure and shopping facilities in the region. In addition, this is also the perfect time to look at the planning permission rules implemented in the area because you might actually need permission before you could carry out a renovation to the property, or their can be restrictions about what you can do to the property once you are residing there. You could also talk to expats who already own a property in the area as they have the inside information and knowledge that you could use to establish your decision.

Before you make your purchase, it would be wise to set up a bank account in the country where you will buy a property and if possible acquire all the necessary clearances associated with the money importation and inclusive fees so that you won't have trouble with your finances once you transfer in the area. Be sure to keep a contingency fund as a part of your general financial outlay because this would help you in future repairs for you property. Suppose that you've already decided to purchase the Guam house for sale that you've been saving for long, you should consider employing the services of a legal representative who could speak English and knows the laws in the country where you would make your property purchase as this is a means to protect you legal interests and that you won't encounter legal disputes in the future.

You should also make sure that the property you are about to purchase has a clear title. Meaning, the seller of the property indeed has the right to sell. If you would buy overseas property from the of a real estate company or those houses that are yet to be build, review the contract and make sure that it includes insurance and indemnity clauses that would serve as your security in case the company run into some legal or financial troubles. If you're planning to borrow money to purchase the property you like, be sure to indicate it in your contract and include an "opt out- clause that would protect you in case the loan you made is not obtained or sanctioned; as much as possible though, it would be more advisable to pay the property from your own savings so that you won't experience any hassles. Once you are able to purchase the property be sure to pay your due taxes on time as some countries have laws that seize homes in case the owners fail to pay their taxes.

These guidelines are just some of the many things that you have to consider if you decide to acquire a property overseas. The main position that you should understand about the aforementioned guidelines is to be very vigilant, make sure that you are familiar with the laws as well as the country itself before you actually make your purchase, and as much as possible resist sales pressure to avoid running into future problems. Similar to all the major decisions that one makes, the proverb patience is a virtue also applies to the process of purchasing property overseas. If you'll be able to keep all these things into consideration, you could safely buy property overseas, regardless if your opting for a property to retire or a rental investment that you could earn profit from.

To buy overseas property is an ideal means to have a good and profitable investment. However, this could be a meticulous task to accomplish as there are laws that one has to understand and financial perspectives to attend. Regardless if you'll buy a Guam house for sale or a rental investment, the main idea that you have to hold is to be careful and familiarize yourself with the laws in the country where you would buy the property.

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Guide To Purchasing Homes In Guam

If you intend to buy property abroad, consider following a methodical and systematic process, reinforced by careful analysis, planning and execution. However, more often myriads of naive homeowners ignore the essence of these processes and purchase property investments impulsively as they are driven by their emotions rather than logical considerations. Unluckily, such hasty actions often lead to serious consequences. The inability to take appropriate real estate purchasing methods often lead to the procurement of a property without habitation license, refusal of utilities, unable to put the property for resale, poor house construction that may lead to accidents and worst having the house demolished.

The mistakes that one make when he or she buy property abroad could result to legal troubles, stress and uncertainty that could stretch in the future results that any prospective homeowner would not like to experience. Purchase a property abroad hastily and you would surely lament your decisions in the near future. To avoid these mistakes from firing back at you, getting things done properly could mean doing things one step at a time and doing a lot of property-related researches. Once you are able to do things accordingly you would definitely enjoy the fruits of your patience without getting caught up in any legal problem.

It certainly is tempting to look for property investments while you're in a holiday, and it certainly makes sense to buy a property in a place you know and fond of as opposed to purchasing a property in an unknown territory. However, you should also take into account that holidays aren't the appropriate time to scout for property investments because it is more likely that you are not on your logical mind during these times, which means you have to organize a schedule for your property-hunting visits. You should also consider looking at a range of locations and real estate investments in order to make comparisons. A well acknowledged location that holds functional property investments that you could try are the homes for sale in Guam.

The price of homes for sale in Guam are way competitive than the ones found in other countries, though the biggest fees could come from real estate agents, with 4% to 10% of the property value payable by the seller, while the buyer shoulders all the remaining fees like title insurance, recording fees and escrow fee. There are no restrictions on foreign property ownership, but in Guam foreigners are only allowed to purchase one owner-occupied property under their personal names if they are not citizens of the USA and have no intention to become permanent residents in the said territory.

Let's just say that you finally found your dream house in one of the homes for sale in Guam, the next thing that you would have to do is to check if there are associated issues with the property you like to purchase that could posit future problems on your side. The first thing that you should consider doing is to have a survey or inspection undertaken to know the physical condition of the house, whether it is safe to live in and whether there are structural problems like subsidence or roof issues that could be burdensome for you. If you're assured that there are no associated problems with the property there would be some sort of a title, written documents regarding who owns what, and series of contracts that you have to address, which falls in two general categories: first, the preliminary contract that stipulate the owners willingness to sell the property and the buyer's willingness to purchase such property accompanied with some form of deposit, and second, the signing of the closing contract that would finalize the deal. With all the legal aspects that you have to oversee, it is essential for you to seek the assistance of a personal legal representative and not the one suggested by your selling agent so as to ensure that your interests are legally represented, property bounds are well delineated and that ownership disputes would not arise in the future.

If you will buy a property in Tamuning, for instance, with the objective of using it as a profitable investment, you must give emphasis on the financial elements of such prospective property. If your objective is to get an income through rentals, it is advisable to search the local rental market so that you could establish the return that you should expect. It is also advised to take a consumer research to have an idea about the rental occupancy rate in the area of your prospect property as oppose to nearby locations that offer same property investments as well as the costs of utility bills, taxes and housekeeping to make realistic estimation whether you would profit from such property or not. Generally, there are many pitfalls that one could encounter when purchasing a property abroad especially if you are a nai¿1/2ve prospective home buyer, but this should not be a reason to put you off since owning a property of your own is far more rewarding than any other experiences that you might have.

To buy property abroad, whether it is one of the homes for sale in Guam or a holiday house in Spain, it is essential to carry out your purchase with careful analysis, planning and legally adherent execution. For example you wish to purchase a rental house in Tamuning, your decisions should not be persuaded by your emotions but should be based on rational considerations.

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Sunday, September 5, 2010

Real Estate Investment Possibilities In Tumon Guam

Buying properties to get a hold of either a home or condominium unit and moving ahead of the property ladder is perhaps the best means to secure long term financial stability. No investment today offers stability and excellent returns than property investment. Even though the stock market could provide high returns, it is an unstable place that could decline anytime, especially now that it is apparently underperforming. Because of this, many people are acknowledging the value of property ownership to the point that they consider property investment as the best means to build financial wealth that could last for long.

Owning an investment property overseas has become popular than ever. In fact, more and more people are purchasing properties abroad in order to have a getaway home for their families, assets to have them rented for good returns or just to have an investment that would acquire them capital gains in the future. There are many reasons why it is preferable to have a property investment overseas. To start with, there's reduced taxation and you could have regular income source if you're having your property rented by other people; you and your family have regular vacation destinations especially if you own several properties in different foreign regions; and since your property increases in value over the years, you could take advantage of this opportunity if you would decide to resell your property.

Now that you are aware of the many benefits that could be derived from having an investment property overseas, why not start purchasing your own property abroad? Many places around the globe offer premier investment properties, and Guam is among these premier investment sites. Guam is one of the island territories of US, and is strategically located at the crossroads of Asia-Pacific countries including Japan, Korea, China, Hong Kong and Philippines. It is an island of regional economic hub because of its location, modern telecommunication and developed infrastructures.

In the early part of 2005, the governments of the United States of America and Japan announced that 8,000 marines from Okinawa would be relocated to Guam in 2010. This then requires $10 billion of new construction and procurement of infrastructures that would support the enlarged presence of people. Due to this, many investors from Asia, United States and other countries have seen the potentials of Guam to be transformed into one of the newest hub for investment property overseas. True enough, Guam is now experiencing an unprecedented expansion when it comes to property ownership.

Tumon of the Tamuning district is one of the best places where one could own a property in Guam since it is the island's economic and tourist center. Tumon Guam holds several benefits that families, investors and individuals with properties in this area could enjoy. As it is the major hub of the island, it is here where notable high rise hotels, souvenir shops, malls, and upscale boutiques can be found, making it a premier shopping destination for many foreigners as well as local citizens. It is also regarded as one of the areas in the island that has the best greenery and beaches that are all wildlife preserved.

As for its financial services, Tumon provide its inhabitants with a whole lot of services that includes collections, letter credits, money transfers, automated tellers, money markets, and commercial and residential estate loan just to name a few. Tumon also has a very competitive education, transportation and business outlook that could be credited to its US standard adherent infrastructures and information technology. Similarly, the entire community's safety is protected due to military presence and political stability. Apparently, Tumon Guam is indeed a good property investment location for both investors and homeowners.

Having an investment property overseas is fast becoming popular due to the many benefits that could be derived from it. There are many places where one could purchase properties, and Guam is one of the hottest real estate destinations today. Buying properties in this US territory, specifically in Tumon Guam has significantly increased after the joint decision of the US and Japanese governments to transfer 8,000 marines from Okinawa to Guam.

-Alison Ward

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Guam: Property Investment Perks

The past decade witnessed a tremendous increase in the purchase, interest and hype of buying an investment property overseas. Since the late 90's until today, there are significant surges in the value of real estate and the decline in the ticket costs of airline destinations. Due to these, average families are now experiencing excess equities from their current homes and are granted financial opportunities to have investment properties abroad. As most of us are aware of real estate is one solid investment that increases in value overtime.

Of course, location is probably the most important factor when one considers purchasing an investment property overseas. Europe and the Americas are regarded as the major real estate destinations, but why settle for these areas if you could own a property in an area that is equally at par with these locations and could offer you more business opportunities? Guam is an island territory of the United States that is currently experiencing unprecedented economic and real estate growth fueled by its tourism and military expansion.

Just seven hours away from Hawaii and just four hours short from Japan and other Asian countries, Guam is considered as the place where America's day begins. That is, it enjoys a US dollar economy, and is a major melting pot for diverse backgrounds as seen from its rich Asian and local Chamorro cultures. While the US mainland is encountering crisis in its mortgages, Guam is showing strong performances in real estate due to the military relocation that posits $15 billion of expected expenditures. Hence, many real estate investors are closely looking after the said relocation and are moving forward to expand their reach by offering investment property overseas.

The geographic location of Guam is what makes it the ideal overseas residential location for families and business avenue for American and Asian investors. The territory is highly accessible with modern routes directly linked to main roads, stations, ferry ports and international airport. As its transportation, technology and telecommunication standards are entirely US-based, the business climate in this place is truly competitive and could fulfill the expectations of differing industries. Hence, if you are to purchase a Guam home for sale, you will not only enjoy the pristine appeal of the location but also be able to take advantage of the business opportunities it offers.

Rental properties in Guam are also gaining momentum in the real estate market. The rise on the sales of Guam rental homes could be credited to the increased volume of tourists visiting the island to enjoy its panoramic beaches and culture. Notably, the rental yield in the area is up to 14%, with 220 meter residential homes earning up to $3,000 a month and up to $700 a month for 80 meter properties. The rental income tax in Guam is very low and its tenancy laws are very amiable to landlords; hence, earning profits from rental could be a good business in Guam.

Overall, the real estate industry in Guam is expected to augment in the following years as more and more investors are realizing the possibilities of earning increased profits in the island. By all means, this is the right time to cash your money in for an investment in Guam. If you are thinking of purchasing a Guam home for sale, it is now easier to finance your desired overseas property because many estate agents are now willing to help you with your investment. With the island's accessibility, excellent culture, business opportunities and unprecedented growth, owning a property in Guam is a worthwhile investment that you could definitely enjoy for the long term.

When buying an investment property overseas location is a primary factor to consider. Guam is currently in the period of strong growth and development in the field of real estate, making it an ideal location for investments properties. In fact, Guam home for sale as well as rental properties have now turned into a big industry, as they are expected to earn huge amount of profits once the military expansion is carried out.

Commercial And Residential Properties In Guam: Why It Pays To Have One

Buying properties overseas is now made easier. With the increased interest in investment properties, lower air travel costs made it possible for travelers to easily visit one place to another, and more property ownership opportunities are achieved by many homeowners to cheaply buy overseas for their prospective properties. In this regard, many homeowners feel that having a second home abroad is an ideal concept that can be accomplished. These are all apparent from the booming industry of the real estate market.

Though Italy, Spain, Canada, France and Europe are among the most sought-after locations to purchase investment properties, new real estate markets are now emerging in Guam, where potential buyers could find competitively priced homes and other real estate properties. The increased attention toward investment Guam properties are fueled by the relocation of Marine Corps personnel and their families from Okinawa. In addition, the continuous profusion in military population requires construction programs that is expected to exceed billions of dollars of expenditures and would require significant additional laborers, which in turn would require more accommodations. Hence, Guam real estate market is expected to grow over the next years.

Another factor that contributes to the growing real estate market in Guam is its tourism industry which is noted to have 1.2 million visitors annually and is generating about $1.35 billion in revenues for the island. Guam is considered as a melting pot of diverse flavors, mixing together the influences of American, Chamorro, Spanish, Micronesia and Asian cultures. The combination of its natural aesthetics and modern lifestyle warranted its reputation as the place to visit and to stay for life. As this island enjoys an American dollar economy and the developments in many of its industries, many investors are seeing the value of investment Guam properties and turning them into lucrative financial businesses.

With its strategic location, Guam is an ideal destination both for families and businesses. As a matter of fact, the highly structured commercial and residential real estate market of Guam has persuaded many homeowners and businesses to own properties in the island. Price range of residential real estate properties could start from $120,000 and rises to $370,000 for high-end condominiums located in Tumon, which is the island's major tourist center. Its residential rental property on the other hand yields monthly rents of $1,200 for town houses within small villages, and can be as high us $4,500 in Tumon.

When it comes to commercial investment Guam properties prices are also dependent on the location of the properties. A commercial building situated in Hagat±a is valued at about $61 per square feet. A similar property on the other hand could cost $158 per square feet if it is located in Tumon. Basically, the prices of properties in Guam are comparably competitive than other overseas properties, which is why it is a suitable location for families who wish to have a second home abroad, and for businesses that wish to expand their financial reach.

If you would like to buy overseas for some properties, Guam could be the most preferable location where you could own competitively priced properties and the place that could give you several other benefits. For businesses, Guam offers a comprehensive program of incentives for those investors who wish to operate in the island, attractive income tax structure, and modern infrastructures. For families on the other hand, the island could provide differing modern conveniences, a strong US- based educational system, cosmopolitan shopping and entertainment options, and the culmination of comfortable island living. Basically, Guam combines comfort, culture, style and international business standards that no other location could provide.

Having an investment abroad is probably one of the best means to secure one's future. Hence, if you would like to buy overseas for a residential rental property, you may want to try looking at Guam. Currently, investment Guam properties are now being sold fast due to the financial potentials they present. The booming tourism industry and expected relocation of military personnel from Okinawa are the primary catalysts for the booming real estate market in Guam.