What is International Living?

                        

The term international living describes a relatively new phenomenon, beginning in the 1980s and keeping pace with globalization. The term encompasses real property development, sales and leasing transactions across national borders. International living could be viewed as one of the most dynamic branches of real estate although it is, by definition, influenced by fluctuating market value in various sectors between countries, as can be evidenced by the 2008 global credit crisis.

            
                    

International living is best subdivided into two categories: international commercial real estate and international residential real estate. Some examples of international real estate transactions are:

- A citizen of one country purchases a house in another country:

- A corporation headquartered in one country purchases or leases an office building another country

- A corporation or investment group in one country builds a hotel in another country

Most international commercial real estate transactions will take place between corporations and may involve, lead to or be a consequence of legal, design, urban planning, engineering, financing, and construction work. 

Some of the factors leading to the growth in the international commercial real estate sector are:

- The post-war growth in urban development and infrastructure in both developed and developing nations;

- Business' evolution toward multi-national business operations;

- The growth in international investment practices enabling investors to look outside their own countries for above average performing investments.

Most international residential real estate transactions are generated by individuals purchasing lots or built units (including family homes, apartments, and condominium units).

Some of the factors leading to the growth in the international residential real estate sector are:

- The rise in international tourism and travel;

- The baby boomer generation reaching retirement age and looking for more flexible retirement options.

- The increase in available information on the World Wide Web regarding property listings in countries around the world.