Smart Investor Tips

69 Expert Tips for Successful Real Estate Investment Abroad from Shoval Yazamoot

1. First, define your goal – are you looking for a short-term investment or a long-term asset?

2. Interested in real estate investment abroad? Location, location, location – central areas with high-quality surroundings are always best.

3. Buying property in Greece? Choose areas with growing employment and corporate presence.

4. Low price? Make sure you understand why – it could signal poor renovation quality or a problematic location.

5. Before buying property in Greece, check the apartment’s layout and whether it meets market demand.

6. Real estate is a product – the more you invest in finishings, design, and amenities, the higher the rental or resale value.

7. Smart investors don’t use essential cash flow for investments – even if real estate is seen as a stable asset.

8. Did you know? Cash purchases over €500 without an invoice can strip you of legal ownership rights.

9. Don’t overlook the neighbors – check noise levels and acoustics before buying an investment property in Greece.

10. In joint ventures with a developer, both sides should invest equally – most fraud happens when only one side funds the deal.

11. Guaranteed high returns? Walk away – if someone guarantees it, you’re probably the one paying for it.

12. Work with a reliable property management company – if the developer manages the property, insist on written accountability.

13. Align your interests with the developer – is this a short flip for them, or are they in for the long haul?

14. Diversification is not just advice – reduce risk by spreading your investment across different properties and locations.

15. You can’t time the market – real estate values generally rise with inflation and up to the point of interest rate hikes.

16. Never pay the full amount upfront – always keep a portion for final stages.

17. Who are you paying? If through a broker, make sure the invoice is in your name – avoid off-the-record payments.

18. Always read and understand what you’re signing before granting power of attorney.

19. Buying property in joint ownership? Understand who your co-owners are and how their decisions could affect your deal.

20. Your living preferences don’t matter – what matters is what your future tenants are looking for.

21. Taking a loan for investment in Greece? You’ll need to repay it – even during vacancy periods.

22. Liquid investments in capital markets carry greater risks due to price fluctuations.

23. Before buying property abroad, conduct thorough due diligence – or use an experienced real estate investment company in Greece.

24. Budgeting must include all associated costs – flights, accommodations, and basic travel expenses.

25. Walk the street where you plan to invest – see if other developers are active there.

26. Renting out the property? Don’t skip tenant background checks – it’s your asset.

27. Before investing with a developer, check their track record and financial stability.

28. A ready-to-move-in apartment may cost more but carries far less risk.

29. Promises of high returns = red flag. Returns are never guaranteed and usually tied to risk.

30. Some countries restrict foreign investment – know the laws before buying.

31. Dreaming of living by the sea? Your tenant may have other priorities – think like a renter.

32. Compare your property’s value to current market rates, not historic prices.

33. Purchase agreements in Greece should cover seller identity, price, property condition, etc. – leave no room for surprises.

34. Using leverage? Always focus on net return.

35. Low interest rates = higher property prices.

36. Local brokers disappear after the deal. With a developer, you always have someone to call.

37. No gimmicks – a price that’s too low without a clear reason likely means you’re being misled.

38. Know the local tax laws before investing abroad.

39. Track foreign investment trends in your area – rising foreign investment typically leads to price increases.

40. Do professional market research – analyze area pricing, demographics, and demand type.

41. Align interests with your co-investors – shared goals create stronger outcomes.

42. Don’t buy based on your own living standards – buy what your target renters would want to own.

43. Identify your target audience – know who your future tenants are and tailor the property accordingly.

44. Speak to the deal’s legal advisor – ensure they are licensed and knowledgeable in the relevant jurisdiction.

45. Yield = risk. Higher returns mean higher risk – proceed accordingly.

46. Heard of an AL check? Use a firm that performs AL assessments – including pricing and location benchmarks.

47. Maintain strong, accessible communication with your property management company.

48. Understand tenant protection laws in your investment country.

49. Faulty electrical systems reduce yield – demand warranty from the developer and conduct inspections.

50. Check the plumbing before buying – faulty pipes can cause major issues.

51. Verify that the property is not mortgaged or encumbered.

52. In Greece, no bank guarantee exists – secure your ownership by registering in the land registry (Tabu).

53. Developer delay? Demand compensation terms in writing – if they’re late, they pay you.

54. Real estate investment in Greece requires an experienced partner who understands taxes and construction law.

55. Know the income levels and socioeconomics in your investment area.

56. Is the price final? Ensure the price isn’t indexed and no hidden fees apply.

57. Government investment signals strong markets – avoid politically unstable or neglected countries.

58. Some countries have tax treaties with your home country – avoid double taxation.

59. Buy property in Greece today, not tomorrow – opportunities won’t wait.

60. Transparency is everything – full visibility from the developer and management team is a must.

61. Always calculate the full costs of your investment – accurate yield predictions depend on it.

62. Make sure the property is registered under your name – it’s your biggest safety net.

63. Israeli lawyers cannot represent you abroad – use a licensed, local real estate attorney.

64. Invest where access is easy – prioritize public transportation and connectivity.

65. Always research local employment hubs – companies like Google, Pfizer, and Cisco have helped turn Thessaloniki into an investment hotspot.

66. No illegal construction – always verify the property’s legal status.

67. Don’t delay your decision – buy now, benefit later.

68. Location, location, location – central is better, and know who your neighbors are.

69. Our properties in Thessaloniki are located in the city center – where it all happens!