Buying a property in a different country can be an exciting prospect for many homeowners in Ontario. From the sunny beaches of Florida to the charming streets of Portugal, owning a home abroad can be a dream come true. However, before taking the leap, it’s important to understand the mortgage process for international properties.
Common Ways to Finance a Mortgage Abroad
Financing a mortgage abroad can be accomplished through various methods. One of the most popular methods is to leverage equity from your Canadian home, which means borrowing against the value of your current property to purchase a property overseas. Alternatively, you can obtain a mortgage through a foreign bank or lender, or use a local lender in the country where you intend to buy your home.
The Importance of Currency Exchange Rates
Purchasing an international property is going to involve quite a bit of movement of funds. Initially, a deposit will be sent to secure the purchase. Later, the balance of the monies owed will be sent. Ongoing payments will include property tax payments, payments for utilities, property management fees etc.
There is sometimes a significant amount of time in between the initial deposit payment and the ultimate balance payment for a property. Currency fluctuation can impact the balance owed by quite a bit! Currency Converters can help to manage that risk by securing today’s rate for a future date. Let us tell you about forward-contracts to manage this exposure!
Often, international properties can generate income, and this will offset the outgoing payments. While Currency Converters offers an inexpensive option to moving funds, it’s still cheaper to not have to move funds at all. Please reach out to our team to discuss the best way to decrease your expenses related to moving money.
Risks of Owning a Home Internationally
There are certain risks to keep in mind, including the inability to constantly monitor your property and being subject to foreign laws and regulations. It’s crucial to assess these risks carefully before making any decisions. One way to mitigate these risks is to hire a property manager or caretaker who can keep an eye on your home while you’re away.
4 key risks to consider are:
- Legal and regulatory issues: Each country has its own laws and regulations regarding property ownership, and these can differ significantly from those in Canada. It’s important to research and understand the legal requirements for property ownership in the country you’re considering.
- Maintenance and upkeep: Owning a property abroad can be challenging, especially if you’re not there all the time. Maintenance and upkeep can be difficult to manage from a distance, which can lead to additional costs and potential damage to the property.
- Political and economic instability: Some countries may experience political or economic instability, which can affect the value of your property and your ability to maintain ownership.
- Limited use and accessibility: If you don’t plan to visit the property often, it may be difficult to make use of it or rent it out to others, which can affect your return on investment.
Do The Benefits Outweigh The Risks?
Location, cost, the potential return on investment, and frequency of visitation are all important factors to consider. It’s critical to carefully evaluate each of these factors to determine if the advantages of owning a property abroad outweigh the risks. If you’re unsure about whether owning a home overseas is the right choice for you, it may be beneficial to begin by renting a property in the area. Doing this will give you a better understanding of the local real estate market and lifestyle before making a significant investment.
It’s important to approach purchasing a home abroad with caution and careful consideration. By doing thorough research and working with trusted and knowledgeable professionals throughout the process, you can make an informed decision about whether buying a property abroad is right for you. If you have questions about financing your mortgage abroad, or how the process works, reach out to our team!
