In a few countries, tax regulations can work to the advantage of relocating families who buy property. However in many other countries, very high prices, restrictions on ownership of real estate by nonimmigrant foreigners, high inflation rates demanding that buyers pay cash, resale restrictions and exchange controls that might prevent a foreign seller from taking proceeds out of the country at the end of an international assignment are just a few of the obstacles to buying housing. But when a purchase is a possibility, the foreign buyer needs a very good and trustworthy local attorney to guide him through the jungle of contract negotiation and registration. Therefore, it is no surprise the majority of expatriates choose to rent their housing.

Even the renter needs to make sure things are done correctly. Seek advice about whether it is helpful or necessary to have legal assistance in negotiating the lease, or whether this will add complications and delays to the negotiation process. The lease should indicate the rent and duration of the lease. In addition, it should outline the details of the security deposit, including the conditions of the security deposit refund at the termination of the lease, the property’s maintenance, which utilities are included in the rent and the conditions under which the lease can be terminated.

Practical Considerations

Even in countries where there are no obstacles to prevent the expatriate from buying a home, many choose to rent. There is the convenience of being able to walk away at the end of the assignment or lease without having the pressure of selling the property before leaving the country, or the difficulty of trying to conclude a sale after you returning home. Also, if you own the property, you are directly responsible for arranging maintenance and upkeep, which can be a daunting prospect for newcomers who do not have the necessary network of service people.

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