Popular countries for couples to buy a second home

The Best Places Abroad to Buy a Second Home

Some people holiday in the same resorts and later in life can find themselves living in the country.Owning a second home overseas comes with a lot of benefits. But what are the best countries to buy in?

Everyone will have a different idea of what a dream home overseas will look like. For that reason, we will take a look at some different countries, with a variety of options available, a caravanning holiday, beach to mountainside and city to country. Our list spans North and Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and even Europe.

Below, we take a look at some of the best countries to own a second home and the reasons why you might want to buy there.

Popular countries for couples to buy a second home include:

• Spain – Spain’s diverse landscape, vibrant culture, and sunny climate make it a perennial favorite among second-home buyers. From the cosmopolitan bustle of Barcelona to the laid-back charm of Andalusia, Spain offers something for everyone. The Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands, including Mallorca and Ibiza, are particularly popular for their stunning beaches and lively expat communities. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, picturesque villages, or beachfront resorts, Spain’s real estate market caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
• France – France‘s timeless charm, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine make it a top destination for second-home buyers seeking a slice of la belle vie. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence, France offers an unparalleled lifestyle. The French Riviera, with its glamorous resorts like Cannes and Nice, is a magnet for the jet set, while the rustic villages of the Dordogne and the Loire Valley offer tranquility and charm. Whether you’re dreaming of a chateau in the countryside or a pied-a-terre in the heart of Paris, France’s real estate market has something to suit every taste, and where many foreigners also send applications for obtaining residency.
• Italy – Italy’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine make it a dream destination for second-home buyers. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Italy’s diverse regions offer a wealth of opportunities for buyers. Tuscany, with its historic cities like Florence and Siena, is famed for its vineyards and olive groves, while the Italian Lakes, including Lake Como and Lake Garda, offer stunning scenery and elegant villas. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of Venice, the history of Rome, or the beauty of the Italian countryside, Italy’s real estate market promises a life of la dolce vita.

• Portugal – Owning a second home in Portugal comes with the added advantage of a European residency visa. This visa allows you to travel freely within other EU countries. It also comes with the potential to apply for a Portuguese passport further down the line. The best places to buy a second home in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Lisbon and Porto are historic cities with solid infrastructure. They’re both safe and vibrant places to live. Both a vibrant cultural scene, you can find great cafes and restaurants as well as museums and galleries. The Algarve is one of Europe’s major tourist destinations. Each summer, vacationers from across the continent head to the Algarve to enjoy the hot weather and pristine beaches. Despite this, you can find stretches of the coast that remain quiet. Inland areas are typically tourist-free too.
• Greece – Greece’s idyllic islands, ancient history, and warm hospitality make it a sought-after destination for second-home buyers. From the whitewashed villages of Santorini to the lush landscapes of Corfu, Greece offers a paradise-like setting.
• Mexico – Mexico’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and affordable cost of living make it an appealing choice for second-home buyers. From the pristine beaches of Riviera Maya to the colonial charm of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico offers something for everyone.
• Costa Rica – Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and eco-friendly ethos make it a haven for second-home buyers seeking a sustainable lifestyle. From the bustling beach towns of Tamarindo and Jaco to the tranquil villages of the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica offers a slice of paradise.
• Cyprus – Cyprus is reachable in a little over four hours from either London, Moscow or Dubai. Along with easy access, its obvious appeal lies in the fact that it’s known as Europe’s sunniest island. Matea Leko, Marketing and Sales Director from Londa Residences says: ‘Offering the biggest port on the island, Limassol is a buzzing destination offering the best of cosmopolitan lifestyle mixed with a rich history and old world charm, with a vibrant centre including restaurants, bars, boutiques and the acclaimed Limassol Marina.  ‘With a dedicated cohort of discerning guests returning year after year, seduced by Limassol’s coastline location and boutique offering, it’s no wonder there is high demand for properties in the area.’

It’s worth noting that these are just a few examples and popularity can vary based on personal preferences, budget, and other factors. It’s important for couples to research and consider all options carefully before making a decision.

Which country is best for a second home?

Whether you’re looking for sun or ski, there’s a hotspot for everyone. ‘For sun-seekers looking for a retreat in a liquid and transparent market with low purchase and ownership costs and strong holiday rental demand Marbella, South West France and Lucca would be hard to beat,’.

‘Skiing enthusiasts should look to Chamonix for a year-round resort, less than an hour from Geneva airport offering good skiing, a range of non-ski activities, a packed events calendar and a broad range of retail and leisure amenities.’

​More options: Dependant on location, lifestyle, and budget include:

• Panama
• Dominican Republic
• Thailand

Or why not enjouy some Caribbean Charm: The Caribbean offers a plethora of options for those seeking a second home in paradise. Islands like Barbados, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands are renowned for their pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and favorable tax environments. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of Barbados’ west coast or the tranquil seclusion of the Exumas in the Bahamas, the Caribbean has something for everyone.

Tropical Tranquility in Thailand: Thailand’s stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and affordable cost of living make it a top choice for second-home buyers in Asia. Locations like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai offer a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. From luxury villas overlooking the Andaman Sea to traditional Thai houses nestled in the jungle, Thailand’s diverse real estate market caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

European Elegance: Europe’s timeless charm and rich history make it a perennial favorite among second-home buyers. Countries like Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro offer stunning landscapes, warm Mediterranean climates, and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you’re dreaming of a whitewashed villa overlooking the Aegean Sea, a medieval stone house on the Dalmatian Coast, or a luxury apartment in the heart of Dubrovnik, Europe’s diverse real estate market has something to suit every taste and budget.

Central American Gems: Central America is emerging as a popular destination for second-home buyers seeking affordability and adventure. Countries like Belize, Honduras, and Nicaragua boast lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and a laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the pristine beaches of Ambergris Caye, the colonial charm of Granada, or the eco-friendly communities of Roatán, Central America offers endless opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

Riviera Retreats in Mexico: Mexico’s Riviera Maya and Pacific Coast have long been favored destinations for second-home buyers from around the world. With its stunning beaches, rich culture, and world-class amenities, Mexico offers an unparalleled lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of other beachfront destinations. Whether you’re looking for a luxury condo in Playa del Carmen, a secluded villa in Tulum, or a beachfront retreat in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico has something for everyone.

Conclusion

Owning a second home abroad is a dream for many, offering the opportunity to escape to a new lifestyle, culture, and climate. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean to the historic streets of Europe, the options are as diverse as they are enticing.

When considering where to buy a second home, it’s essential to weigh factors such as location, lifestyle, budget, and investment potential. Each destination offers its unique charms and challenges, so thorough research and careful consideration are crucial.

Whether you’re seeking tropical tranquility, European elegance, or Central American adventure, there’s a perfect second-home destination waiting for you. With the right planning and guidance, your dream of owning a slice of paradise can become a reality.

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