Internationalization Insights

I join my Kenyan real estate agent Pratik to visit three developments in Nairobi (where I ultimately purchased four apartments myself earlier in the year), focusing on the premium neighborhoods of Kilimani and Kileleshwa. We explore one and two bedroom options with varying degrees of amenities and finishings, and provide detailed purchase costs, rental estimates, holding costs and management fees to arrive at realistic net yield figures. We also visit some off-plan developments and explain the benefits of different payment plans on offer. I explain my thesis for investing in Nairobi real estate despite the obvious risks, and important factors to consider when investing in the African context.

Join me on a motorbike journey through Sihanoukville, Cambodia, where a real estate bust of epic proportions has taken place during the last few years. I go into the background of the construction boom and subsequent crash, visit a new development and also explore units on the secondary market for sale. I also explain why I think the real estate market in Sihanoukville may well be exhibiting characteristics of a bottom.

I took a recent trip to El Salvador to see how the much-publicized economic transformation has progressed since my last visit. I examine the implications of government initiatives such as volcano bonds, the new Aeropuerto del Pacifico and the impact of bitcoin as legal tender. Other key themes like tourism growth, the importance of remittances and US immigration policy, and the consequences of the recent IMF deal are explored as well.

I join Keith, my real estate buyer’s agent in Istanbul, to view four properties on the second-hand market in Istanbul’s Şişli district. All of the apartments are pre-owned and also suitable for the Turkish citizenship by investment program. We demonstrate what size and quality of apartment is available at different price levels in Istanbul’s most desirable, central neighborhoods.

I join my Malaysian real estate agent Serena to explore lifestyle real estate in Georgetown, Penang. We tour two condos and explain why Penang is a compelling destination for investors looking to pursue the MM2H residency program, those seeking tax advantages, and also for Muslim families seeking a foothold in a first-world Islamic country with beautiful lifestyle and amenities.

I join my Riviera Maya real estate agent Luigi to do a deep dive on living in Playa del Carmen as an expat. We discuss beaches, safety, education, transportation, expat infrastructure improvement as well as topics related to real estate and obtaining residency in Mexico.