Offshore Real Estate: Avoid U.S. Real Estate—5 Global Markets That Will Save You 20 Years and $500K!
- Steven Schaerer
- Dec 18, 2024
- 23 min read
Updated: Feb 6
The Harsh Realities of American Economics: Unsustainable Homeownership, Declining Life Expectancy, and a Bleak Future
"It is difficult to free fools from the chains they revere." — Voltaire (1694–1778), French Enlightenment philosopher.
America by the Numbers: According to the National Association of Realtors, the median price for an existing home was $404,500 as of September 2024, with a typical monthly payment of $2,200 on a 30-year mortgage at an average interest rate of 6.81% (source: Bankrate).
"I bought my first home in Europe."
On the surface, that’s a seemingly normal statement you’d expect to hear from someone born in Europe or someone who immigrated there for work.
But what if I told you that statement was coming from American millennials, who don’t live in Europe? What, exactly, would compel young Americans to invest their hard-earned money abroad instead of at home in the U.S.?
And yet, it’s true—I’m one of those American millennials who chose to purchase my first home in Europe rather than in the United States. Conventionally, that’s not how it’s supposed to happen, but as we’ll see, the math makes a compelling case for offshore real estate beating U.S. real estate in nearly every benchmark.
Honestly, these are words I never thought I’d say either. Growing up in the U.S., I always imagined buying my first home right here in America. Sadly, the modern American housing market has devolved into something seemingly irrational. What was once the most joyous milestone of the American Dream has transformed into an unrecognizable nightmare compared to just a few decades ago.
And yes, I recognize how privileged and fortunate I am to even have the ability to purchase a home—anywhere in the world. Sadly, for countless young Americans, the status quo has become increasingly bleak, with many full-time workers facing layoffs, a cost of living crisis and even homelessness, on a daily basis. But don’t just take my word for it—I want you to hear their stories directly, in their own words...
Today’s American housing market feels less like a system designed to provide homes for young families starting out and more like a predatory scam—brilliantly engineered to prey on unsuspecting victims chasing a long-dead American Dream.
Here’s a snapshot of the modern American real estate nightmare:
If I had $3 million at my disposal, I couldn’t think of a worse way to spend that money—short of literally burning it or tossing it into the ocean.
And yet, this is the housing nightmare that boomers have passed down to millennials and Gen Z. You’re expected to pour not only your hard-earned money but also 30 years of your lives into a mortgage for real estate like this?
No, thank you.
But it’s not just the real estate market that’s in crisis—it’s the entire American lifestyle. From diet and health to work culture and financial systems, every aspect feels like a treadmill designed to exhaust you without taking you anywhere. It feels dystopian.
Let’s quantify that painfully bleak picture with some data for the average American.
If you live outside of America, congratulations! Wherever you are in the world, chances are you’re on track to live a longer and healthier life than your parents did.
Tragically, if you live in America, the reality is far bleaker. Americans are now projected to live a shorter and less healthy life than their parents. Why, one might ask, in the very country that outspends literally every other nation on healthcare? Well, everything from chronic stress to cancer, and sleeping problems to obesity. It's an incredibly long and depressing list. Here's a snapshot of the data:
On average, as I've reported, Americans in 2024 can now expect to live to about 77.5 years before kicking the proverbial can. If you’re among the millions of Americans graduating with a master’s degree around age 25 and retiring at 64, which is typical for 25 million Americans, that leaves you with roughly 39 years of your life working!
I'll gloss over the grim reality of sacrificing decades of your life for a degree and a job, and yet still struggling to survive. Factoring for the data above, what will the average American spend roughly 77% (hint: that’s 30 years) of their 39 working years doing? You guessed it—paying off a good old fashioned American mortgage! That’s right—trade decades of your life slaving away, all for the privilege of partial co-ownership with the government (aka lifelong property taxes) just to own shelter.
What a fantastic trade-off...
And just when you thought this reality couldn’t possibly get more dismal. Surprise—it does!
Let’s take a look at the hard data comparing what buying a home in America looked like for boomers less than 50 years ago in 1980 versus today for younger generations in 2024:
And yes, that equation, it gets even bleaker. Let's assume for a moment that your entire life goes perfectly to plan. You are an American anomaly that never sustains a life altering injury or disease, never have to leave work to raise children or care for family members, avoid unemployment and being laid off, and all those other pesky life cancelling things, like death.
With an average life expectancy of 77.5 years, after allocating 25 years of your life to growing up and studying, 30 years working to pay for shelter, and your elderly years in retirement, you’ll have about 9 years of your life left over to truly call your own!
My thoughts exactly—‘lucky you’...
You were fortunate enough to be born into one of the world’s wealthiest nations, and if you play all your cards perfectly, this is the painfully bleak promise that boomers, who spent decades carefully crafting domestic policy, have left to you—their posterity. Congratulations: in a best case scenario, you'll have free rein over roughly 12% of your life (excluding retirement) and if you're lucky, own shelter...
And what do you, the average American receive, in exchange for 30 years of painstaking labor? A 30 year debt-box, sandwiched in the middle of other people's 30 year debt-boxes, where you will spend decades of your life stuck in a place that looks like this:
Congratulations!
And we wonder why America has become arguably the most medicated and depressed country in the world? Sorry, but humans were not meant to live this way. But I digress...
If you're lucky enough to end up owning one of these isolation chambers, what is the actual build quality of those modern $400k, 30 year debt-boxes, you might ask? Well, here, see for yourself:
And yes, it gets worse...
Modern American Real Estate Hoax: The World's Worst Property Market
Let’s start with a simple disclaimer: Yes, I'm fully aware that poorer third-world countries exist, and yes, I've both traveled to and lived in them. No, I am not attempting to compare pockets of wealthy U.S. suburbs to third-world slums—that would be a false equivalency. If you’re getting worked up about how your suburban home has a 3-car garage while homes in rural third-world countries do not, you’ve fundamentally missed the point.
That said, there are indeed many developed countries that certainly can be held to the proverbial flame and are more than able to stand on their own as alternatives to this fundamentally parasitic American real estate market. Those are the countries I do intend to compare America with in this article. Ok, with that said, let's get back to the discussion.
So, what does it take for you, the average American, to get into one of these snazzy 30-year debt boxes that roughly 80% of the American population can't afford, you ask?
Well, let's start by examining the deception within the number itself. Sure, the median sticker price for a home in America might be listed at $404,500 on paper. In reality? That home is likely closer to $450,000 once you factor in a range of hidden closing costs—taxes, fees, moving, and insurance—that quickly add up.
But let’s even set all of that aside for a moment. How much does it cost just to get through the front door and start the conversation; AKA a down payment?
If you’re trying to avoid mortgage insurance, lenders will require a 20% down payment. For a $404,000 home—the U.S. median price—that means you’d need $80,800 upfront.
But hold on, the expenses don’t stop there. It’s not just that you have prove that you're liquid enough to enter the club; you also have to prove that you have sufficient funds to buy bottle service once you're in. These are called reserve funds, and lenders may require you to show 6 months’ worth of reserves in addition to your down payment. For a $404,000 home with a $2,600 monthly mortgage, that translates to:
6 months of reserves = $15,600
But wait, there's more! Remember those closing costs I talked about earlier? Tack those on, and suddenly you’re staring down a price tag that’s well over $100,000 just to start playing the 'buy a home in America' game.
Are you having fun yet?
Now let's assume you're an average American earning the median individual income of $42,220 in 2023 (Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis). Even at a 20% savings rate, you would save roughly $8,444 per year. At that 20% savings rate, it would take approximately 11.8 years to save over $100,000. In other words? You're still paying off your home in retirement.
What if you're in the top 40% of American income earners, you ask?
If you’re in the top 40% of individual income earners, with an estimated annual income of $58,000, and you save 20% of your income ($11,600 per year), it would take approximately 8.6 years to save over $100,000.
What if you're in the top 25% of American income earners?
If you’re in the top 25% of individual income earners, with an estimated annual income of $80,000, and you save 20% of your income ($16,000 per year), it would take approximately 6.25 years to save over $100,000.
What if you're in the top 15% of American income earners?
If you’re in the top 15% of individual income earners, with an estimated annual income of $100,000, and you save 20% of your income ($20,000 per year), it would take roughly 5 years to save over $100,000.
Yup, even if you’re a top dog that's managed to out-compete 85% of the broader U.S. population, it will still take you roughly 35 years to own a home in America outright.
Oh and fun fact: The personal saving rate in the United States is not anywhere near our assumed 20%. What is it? At the end of 2023 it was 3.7%, which was up from 3.4% at the end of 2022. Translation? In a best case scenario Americans can realistically plan on working 39 years and will still be entirely unable to purchase a home even in retirement.
Sorry, but in my opinion, that entire system is a predatory scam, even if you are one of the few who is able to afford it. What developed wealthy country is incapable of providing shelter to its productive working class?
The reality? Most Americans today not only struggle to save anything, but many can’t even afford rent and are finding themselves homeless—despite working full-time jobs:
After reviewing the data, I firmly believe that for roughly 90% of Americans, U.S. real estate is arguably the worst property investment you can buy globally.
And sadly, it gets worse. I haven’t even touched on a lifetime of property taxes, HOA fees, and the endless maintenance costs that guarantee your so-called “paid-off” home is never truly yours. And that’s without even accounting for a range of other compounding interconnected negative variables like inflation, rising mortgage interest rates, and stagnant American wages.
Once you've had a chance to comb through the data in its entirety, it’s nearly impossible to avoid one glaringly obvious conclusion: American real estate is no longer the great investment it once was—in fact, it is my opinion that it is arguably one of the poorest investments you can make today.
From Dominance to Decline: Why America’s Recovery Is Highly Improbable
For better or for worse, the era of American dominance has passed. Is it possible for it to resurface in some capacity? Sure, but in my opinion that is highly improbable. As the data clearly shows, there’s no reason to shackle yourself to one of the world’s worst-performing countries simply because you happened to be born there. Before I dive into your other options, let's review some of the scary trends:
Education: American students ranked 34th in math on the 2022 PISA study, trailing countries like Malta, Portugal, Spain, and Vietnam.
Life Expectancy: The U.S. ranks 48th globally in life expectancy (both sexes), behind nations such as Panama, Albania, Kuwait, Oman, Chile, UAE, and Portugal.
Homeownership: The U.S. ranks 54th globally in homeownership rates, trailing countries like South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, Argentina, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Mexico.
Healthcare: The U.S. ranks 69th globally in healthcare performance, lagging behind countries like Jamaica, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Uzbekistan, Cuba, Seychelles, Belarus, and Turkmenistan.
Crime: The U.S. ranks 88th globally in crime rate, trailing countries like Zambia, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Tunisia, Pakistan, the Philippines, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Russia.
GINI Index Coefficient (Wealth Inequality): The U.S. ranks 117th globally, falling behind countries like Iran, Senegal, Tonga, Morocco, Sri Lanka, El Salvador, Liberia, Mauritius, Vietnam, India, and Ethiopia.
Irrespective of your personal opinion on America, these trends clearly showcase a nation in severe decline.
For better or worse, the U.S. has plummeted to the bottom of global rankings for nearly every measurable metric by which developed nations are evaluated. Is an American recovery technically possible? Sure—many things in life are technically possible. But is it likely that the addict, of their own volition, will see the error of their ways and stop gambling or abusing? Probably not. I find it highly improbable that the U.S. will muster the political will to address and resolve the deeply rooted issues at the heart of its decline irrespective of which political party is elected.
In fact, I am forecasting that things will become significantly worse for the United States and the average American citizen. Based on my interpretation of the data, I predict continued inflation, long-term declines in S&P 500 returns, stagnant wage growth, rising unemployment, expanding U.S. fiscal deficits, increasing mortgage rates, higher taxation, and a steadily worsening cost of living.
Difficult decisions must be made, but America's political elite are unwilling to get their hands dirty. Unfortunately, the victim in this equation is you, the average American bystander. Without responsible leadership, the system crumbles, and the citizen-government relationship devolves into a parasitic dynamic. Ultimately bureaucrats are left with no other recourse but to desperately try to extract blood from that proverbial stone. However, every society has its breaking point, and when there is nothing left to leech, nations implode, and history repeats.
Sad as that may be, the irresponsible actions of the greedy elite are not yours to bear. It is a deeply entrenched, foundational problem—one that no individual U.S. citizen, public servant, president, influencer, or corporation could ever hope to solve alone. Luckily for you, there’s a wealth of good news—a literal world of alternative options and a future that can shine as brightly as you choose to make it.
My prediction? The 20th century can be summarized as follows:
My parents were born in ________ and immigrated to America for a better life.
The 21st century?
My parents were born in America, and immigrated to ________ for a better life.
For better or worse, the world is shifting course.
Are you ready?
The Good News: A Literal World of Better Opportunities Awaits
What's the good news?
According to the United Nations, there are nearly 200 other countries (193 Member States to be precise) scattered across this large and beautiful world that we collectively inhabit. The United States is but just one of those 193 Member States, representing less than 5% (4.2% to be precise) of the global population. That leaves you with 192 other countries—many of them quantifiably better—to consider for buying real estate.
And yes, leaving the U.S. is entirely affordable for the vast majority of Americans.
For reference, the United States is widely considered one of the most expensive countries to live in globally. In 2024, the median monthly car payment for Americans was nearly $800. To put that into perspective, a flight ticket from the U.S. to Latin America, Europe, or Asia could cost significantly less than a monthly car payment with enough planning. Additionally, the median apartment rental price in 2024, $1,700, is also significantly higher than the cost of flight tickets to nearly any destination worldwide from the U.S.
With those numbers in perspective, it is entirely feasible for nearly any American to travel just about anywhere in the world—especially when considering the staggering cost-of-living data in the U.S. and the comparative value and significant savings potential of real estate abroad. Adding to this is the sheer variety of incredible real estate opportunities globally, from €1 homes in Italy to affordable off-plan real estate in Dubai.
As with all significant decisions, always conduct thorough research and consult with a licensed attorney in the relevant jurisdiction before proceeding with any property purchase. Before diving into my list of the five best real estate markets for Americans looking to purchase abroad, let’s first explore where Americans are currently choosing to settle internationally.
How many Americans are currently living abroad?
While the exact number remains unclear—since the U.S. State Department does not track Americans living overseas—they have estimated that roughly 9 million U.S. citizens reside outside of the United States. To put that into perspective, if those 9 million Americans formed a state, it would surpass the individual populations of Arizona, Washington, or Virginia and be roughly equivalent to New Jersey, which ranks as the 11th most populous state in America.
So, where do the majority of these Americans call home? Well, according to the estimates:
No. | Country | Estimated US Population |
1. | Mexico | 1,182,346 |
2. | Canada | 1,050,898 |
3. | United Kingdom | 325,321 |
4. | Israel | 281,137 |
5. | Germany | 238,652 |
While these may be the most popular destinations for Americans living abroad, not a single one of these countries actually made my list of the top five global markets for real estate.
The Methodology: How I Identified the Top 5 Offshore Real Estate Destinations
When considering international real estate, I identified five countries that stand out as ideal destinations for Americans seeking a vibrant offshore lifestyle.
How did I come up with this list? Great question! Here are the three criteria I considered:
In my opinion, safety isn’t just paramount—it’s absolutely essential. Without a secure environment, productivity is compromised and nothing can truly thrive. In other words, you're incapable of becoming the best version of yourself.
Unfortunately, the United States no longer ranks among the world’s safest nations. Instead, it has become one of the more dangerous places to live, sitting at 88th on the global crime index. This means U.S. crime rates as worse than countries like Morocco, Egypt, Zambia, Ghana, Tunisia, and even Iraq.
To create this list, I focused exclusively on nations ranked among the world’s 50 safest countries. This criterion led to the exclusion of many popular destinations for American expats, as 4 of the top 5—Mexico, Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom—fall outside the top 50 in terms of safety.
The second variable I examine is a country's level of development. The United Nations tracks this through the 'Human Development Index' (HDI), which evaluates how developed nations are based on key factors such as health (life expectancy at birth), education, income, and overall standard of living.
What’s particularly insightful about the HDI is that it not only ranks countries globally but also tracks their progress over time, highlighting trends in performance since 2015. Unfortunately, the United States has experienced a significant decline, ranking 20th overall and dropping 5 spots from its rank in 2015.
To compile my list, I began with the top 50 safest countries and further refined it by considering only those that also ranked among the top 50 in overall HDI rankings.
Real Estate Affordability
After evaluating safety and development, my final variable focused on the affordability of real estate compared to the United States. Using the U.S. median home price of approximately $404,500 USD (as of September 2024) as a benchmark, I sought locations that offer greater value for money without compromising on quality of life.
My selection criteria emphasized diversity, considering regions across multiple continents and climates. I included both bustling urban hubs and tranquil settings, ensuring options for individuals seeking dynamic city life as well as quieter retreats.
Additionally, I prioritized destinations that align with welcoming policies, economic stability, and a strong potential for long-term investment growth. These factors ensure a balanced mix of affordability, lifestyle appeal, and opportunities for those looking to relocate or invest offshore.
Exploring Real Estate Opportunities: Top 5 Countries for Americans Investing Offshore
In no particular order, here are the 5 best real estate alternatives to buying property in the United States:
Dubai, UAE (Middle East): A Global Expat Hub for Wealth, Business, Success, and Networking
I've extensively highlighted why Dubai stands out as a significantly better place to live compared to just about anywhere in America today. Here are a few additional reasons why Dubai ranks high on my offshore real estate list:
Cosmopolitan Hub: Dubai’s vibrant cityscape, home to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the luxurious Palm Jumeirah, offers unparalleled investment opportunities. As a cosmopolitan hub of culture, commerce, and innovation, Dubai features thriving real estate markets with properties that provide excellent access to world-class amenities, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and dynamic urban lifestyles. Perfect for Americans seeking a sophisticated getaway or a base in one of the world’s most dynamic cities, Dubai delivers an unmatched blend of luxury and opportunity.
Dubai Real Estate: For approximately $200,000 USD—less than half the median home price in the United States—you can secure a stunning condo in some of Dubai's most desirable neighborhoods or invest in off-plan developments. Off-plan properties not only offer high-potential investment opportunities but also come with flexible payment plans, allowing buyers to spread costs over time while purchasing directly from developers for buildings under construction.
Non-resident mortgages: The United Arab Emirates stands out as one of the few countries globally that offers non-resident mortgages to qualified buyers. In Dubai, these mortgages can finance up to 60% of a property's value, requiring a down payment of 40%. Several banks, including Mashreq Bank, provide accessible options for non-resident investors. Additionally, Dubai mortgage rates are currently around 3.75%, compared to the nearly 7% average mortgage rate in the United States. This significant difference makes homeownership in Dubai an even more appealing option for international buyers.
Total Savings: By investing in Dubai, you could secure a home for half the price of the median U.S. home and potentially save up to 25 years of your life and well over $500,000 in interest compared to a traditional U.S. mortgage on a median-priced home.
Here is a snapshot of some of the other relevant Dubai data:
United States | United Arab Emirates | |
Crime Index | 88th | 2nd (safest) |
HDI Rank | 15th | 17th |
Mortgage Rate | 7% | 3.75% |
Effective Tax Rate | Up to 50% | Up to 10% |
Average Life Expectancy (Years) | 77.5 | 83.07 |
Japan (East Asia): A Gateway to Prosperity, Culture, and Global Connections
Japan is rapidly becoming one of the most desirable destinations for those pursuing a higher quality of life, exceptional safety, and unparalleled opportunities. Here’s why Japan stands out as a top choice on my offshore real estate list and a compelling alternative to the U.S.:
A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity: Japan’s dynamic metropolises, celebrated for their unique fusion of tradition and innovation, present outstanding investment opportunities. Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are cosmopolitan hubs of culture and commerce, offering properties with excellent access to world-class amenities, cutting-edge infrastructure, and thriving real estate markets. Perfect for Americans who crave the energy of a vibrant city with a 24-hour lifestyle, these urban centers offer world-class public transportation, endless nightlife, and a thriving scene of bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Home Prices: The headlines are everywhere—thanks to the weak Yen-to-Dollar exchange rate, Americans are buzzing about buying $30,000 USD homes in Japan, a move that could truly transform their lives. While these cases may be exceptions, some Japanese homes even offer more land than most American families could afford in the U.S. Many Americans are already seizing Japan’s remarkable affordability, securing larger properties and enjoying an enhanced lifestyle for just a fraction of what a typical U.S. home would cost.
Foreign Mortgages: Yes, foreign nationals can secure a mortgage in Japan! While it typically requires permanent residency and meeting the lender's criteria, you can finance up to 90% of a property's value with just a 10% down payment. With mortgage rates in Japan currently around 3.5%, that’s approximately half the current average U.S. mortgage rate of 7%, making Japan an attractive option for homebuyers.
Total Savings: Recent data shows that the average price of a single-family home in Japan ranges from ¥30 to ¥50 million (approximately $273,000 to $455,000 USD) in 2024, depending on the region. Yet, Japan offers exceptional opportunities, including stunning newly remodeled homes for as little as ¥30 million (~$190,000 USD)—a price that’s less than half the median cost of a U.S. home.
By choosing a home in Japan, you could potentially save over $400,000 in mortgage interest compared to financing a median-priced home in the U.S. What’s more, Japan’s fixed-rate 21-year mortgages allow you to pay off your home nearly 10 years faster than a traditional 30-year American mortgage, offering greater financial freedom and peace of mind. This combination of affordability and efficiency makes investing in Japanese real estate a game-changing opportunity:
United States | Japan | |
Crime Index | 88th | 9th (safest) |
HDI Rank | 15th | 24th |
Mortgage Rate | 7% | 3.75% |
Effective Tax Rate | Up to 50% | Up to 45% |
Average Life Expectancy (Years) | 77.5 | 84.85 |
Montenegro (Balkan): A Mediterranean Paradise for Investment, Lifestyle, and Coastal Living
Third up is my personal favorite, Montenegro! This charming, off-the-radar Mediterranean nation is emerging as an exceptional place to live and invest, offering stunning Adriatic coastal beauty, the luxury of destinations like Porto Montenegro, affordability, and untapped potential. Here are a few additional reasons why Montenegro ranks high on my offshore real estate list:
European Coastal Vibes: Montenegro’s breathtaking Adriatic coastline, often referred to as the "hidden gem of the Mediterranean," presents numerous investment opportunities. Coastal towns such as Budva, Tivat, and Kotor offer stunning views, easy beach access, and significant potential for long-term value appreciation. Ideally located near other renowned destinations like Croatia and Greece, Montenegro serves as a gateway to the best of the Mediterranean. Perfect for Americans seeking a European vibe with a slower pace of life, Montenegro seamlessly combines charming coastal living with outdoor adventures in its picturesque mountains and countryside.
Home Prices: For approximately $150,000 to $200,000 USD—less than half the median home price in the United States—you can purchase a beautiful property near the Adriatic coast or in Montenegro’s picturesque mountain regions. This affordability allows buyers to enjoy luxury and tranquility without breaking the bank.
Off-Plan Investing: Montenegro welcomes foreign nationals looking to invest in property, offering flexible off-plan properties tailored for international buyers. Developers typically require a down payment of 20% and allow the remaining balance to be paid over a 5-year term. This straightforward approach, combined with Montenegro's favorable tax policies and growing appeal as an offshore destination, makes it an excellent choice for real estate investment.
Total Savings: By investing in Montenegro, you can secure a home for $200,000 USD, significantly less than the median U.S. property price of $404,000 USD. Even with a 5% interest rate on a 5-year payment plan, you can save over $350,000 in total interest compared to a traditional 30-year U.S. mortgage at 7% interest. Additionally, Montenegro’s lower property taxes and affordable living costs make it an even more compelling option for those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle with substantial financial advantages.
United States | Montenegro | |
Crime Index | 88th | 43rd (safest) |
HDI Rank | 20th | 50th |
Mortgage Rate | 7% | 5% |
Effective Tax Rate | Up to 50% | 9 to 15% |
Average Life Expectancy (Years) | 77.5 | 77.25 |
Tallinn, Estonia (Baltic): A Digital Haven for Innovation, Investment, and Modern Living
Estonia is rapidly emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for those seeking a high-tech, forward-thinking lifestyle combined with affordability and exceptional opportunities. Here’s why Estonia ranks high on my offshore real estate list and stands as a compelling alternative to the U.S.:
Charming European Living: Estonia’s cities offer a captivating mix of old-world European charm and modern convenience, making them highly attractive for investors and expats alike. The capital, Tallinn, is renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as its vibrant café culture and slower, more relaxed pace of life. Combining historic cobblestone streets with cutting-edge infrastructure and thriving real estate markets, Tallinn provides excellent access to public transportation, walkable neighborhoods, and a flourishing arts and cultural scene. Perfect for Americans seeking a European vibe with a balance of tradition and modernity.
Home Prices: Tallinn’s real estate market offers exceptional value compared to the U.S. For $150,000 to $200,000 USD, you can own a modern apartment in the heart of this historic yet innovative capital. With its blend of beautifully preserved medieval architecture and cutting-edge infrastructure, Tallinn provides a unique urban living experience at a fraction of the cost of a median U.S. home.
Foreign Ownership: Estonia welcomes foreign buyers, allowing international investors to purchase property outright with few restrictions. However, to finance a property with a mortgage, foreign buyers typically need a residence permit and proof of stable income. Mortgage rates in Estonia are currently around 5%, making them competitive compared to global standards. Be prepared to make a down payment of 10-20% of the property’s value.
Total Savings: Assuming you purchase a $175,000 apartment in Estonia, you could save over $375,000 in interest and overall costs compared to financing a median-priced home in the U.S. at $404,000 USD, based on a similar 30-year mortgage structure. Moreover, Estonia’s lower property taxes and energy-efficient developments translate to substantial long-term savings, making it an ideal location for those seeking financial and lifestyle advantages.
United States | Estonia | |
Crime Index | 88th | 12th (safest) |
HDI Rank | 15th | 31st |
Mortgage Rate | 7% | 5% |
Effective Tax Rate | Up to 50% | 20% |
Average Life Expectancy (Years) | 77.5 | 79.31 |
Lisbon, Portugal (Western Europe): A Mediterranean Gem for Investment, Lifestyle, and Modern Living
Portugal stands as the epitome of one of Europe’s most established and desirable destinations for expats, celebrated for its relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, affordability, and exceptional opportunities. Here’s why Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, earns a top spot on my offshore real estate list and serves as a compelling alternative to the U.S.:
Coastal Elegance: Lisbon combines the charm of old-world European architecture with the allure of coastal living, making it a standout destination for expats and investors. Perched along the banks of the Tagus River and just a short distance from the Atlantic Ocean, the city offers stunning waterfront views, a vibrant cultural scene, and historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Lisbon’s excellent public transportation, and relaxed Mediterranean pace of life make it ideal for Americans seeking a European vibe with the added beauty of seaside living.
Home Prices: Lisbon’s real estate market presents incredible value compared to the U.S. For $250,000 USD, you can own a modern apartment in the heart of the city or a historic property in a charming neighborhood. With its blend of beautifully preserved architecture and contemporary amenities, Lisbon offers an unparalleled urban living experience at a fraction of the cost of a median U.S. home.
Foreign Ownership: Portugal welcomes foreign buyers with few restrictions, allowing international investors to purchase property outright. Non-residents can also acquire mortgages in Portugal, though they typically need to provide higher upfront capital compared to residents. Foreign buyers should be prepared to make a down payment of 20-30% or more of the property’s value and provide proof of stable income. Mortgage rates in Portugal are currently around 4%, making the market competitive and accessible for international investors seeking financing options.
Total Savings: Assuming you purchase a $250,000 apartment in Lisbon with a 4% mortgage rate, you could save over $300,000 in interest and overall costs compared to financing a median-priced home in the U.S. at $404,000 USD with a 7% mortgage rate, based on a similar 30-year mortgage structure. Additionally, Portugal’s lower property taxes, affordable cost of living, and warm Mediterranean climate translate to significant long-term savings, making it an ideal destination for those seeking financial and lifestyle benefits.
United States | Portugal | |
Crime Index | 88th | 32nd (safest) |
HDI Rank | 15th | 42nd |
Mortgage Rate | 7% | 4% |
Effective Tax Rate | Up to 50% | Up to 48% |
Average Life Expectancy (Years) | 77.5 | 82.55 |
The Final Nail in the Coffin: 90% of American Millennials Regret Buying U.S. Real Estate
Despite grim housing data, the subpar build quality of modern American homes, and superior global real estate alternatives, many Americans continue to force themselves into the pursuit of homeownership—clinging to an outdated version of the American Dream while ignoring overwhelming evidence that the numbers simply don’t add up.
Sadly, predatory and parasitic American real estate companies are all too eager to exploit this mindset. They lure unsuspecting buyers into financially devastating outcomes through legal yet lax lending requirements—such as FHA loans, costly mortgage insurance, and historically high monthly payments. These deceptive mechanisms convince young, aspiring buyers to chase a version of the American Dream that is, unfortunately, long gone. Many only realize the gravity of their mistake after the purchase is complete, when the "math isn't mathing."
As of 2024, roughly 90% of Millennials who have purchased a home in the United States regret that costly decision. This regret stems from a variety of reasons, ranging from maintenance costs and financial strain to the size of their home, unexpected issues, or undesirable locations. The post-purchase reality for many is a harsh reminder that horrifically overvalued American real estate is simply no longer worth the sticker price.
For decades, homeownership was a cornerstone of the American Dream, symbolizing success and security. However, today’s market tells a different story—one of inflated prices, predatory lending practices, and diminishing returns on investment.
That said, the decision to buy a home is deeply personal. My role is not to dictate your choices but to provide you with the data and insights needed to make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations and long-term goals.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult a professional before making decisions.