Real estate may look similar on the surface—a one-bedroom apartment, a rental unit, or an investment property—but once you cross borders, the rules completely change.

Taxes, return on investment (ROI), and residency eligibility differ dramatically from one country to another. This is why smart global investors don’t just buy property—they buy into systems that protect and grow their wealth.

Below is a country-by-country breakdown showing how the same asset performs under different legal and financial environments.

Thailand: Affordable Entry, Limited Residency Benefits

Thailand

Thailand attracts investors with its relatively low entry prices and strong tourism demand.

• Tax: Around 15% (varies by structure and ownership)

• Residency by ownership: No

• Average ROI: 5–7%

• Average price: $900–$1,100 per sq ft (Bangkok)

While yields can be attractive, the lack of residency benefits means investors typically buy purely for income or capital appreciation—not long-term settlement.

United Kingdom: Stability with Heavy Taxation

United Kingdom

The UK remains a global safe haven, especially in prime cities, but taxes significantly reduce net returns.

• Income tax: 20–45%

• Capital gains tax: ~24%

• Residency by ownership: No

• Average ROI: 2.5–4.5%

• Average price: $1,800–$2,000 per sq ft (Prime London)

This market favors long-term capital preservation rather than high cash flow.

United Arab Emirates: High Returns, Zero Personal Tax

United Arab Emirates

The UAE has become one of the most investor-friendly real estate markets in the world.

• Income tax: 0%

• Capital gains tax: 0%

• Residency by ownership: Yes (from AED 2M)

• Average ROI: 7–9%

• Average price: $900–$1,100 per sq ft (Prime Dubai)

Strong rental demand, tax efficiency, and residency options make the UAE a preferred destination for global investors.

Singapore: Premium Market, Lower Yields

Singapore

Singapore is known for its stability and strict regulations, which keep prices high and supply limited.

• Rental income tax: 0–22%

• Capital gains tax: 0%

• Residency by ownership: No

• Average ROI: 2–4%

• Average price: $1,700–$2,200 per sq ft

This market is typically chosen for wealth protection rather than yield maximization.

Portugal: Popular Lifestyle Market, Moderate Returns

Portugal

Portugal attracts lifestyle buyers and retirees but offers more modest investment performance.

• Rental tax: 28%

• Capital gains: Taxed

• Residency by ownership: No

• Average ROI: 4–5%

• Average price: $1,200–$1,500 per sq ft (Lisbon)

Investors often prioritize lifestyle and long-term holding over short-term income.

Turkey: Low Prices, Residency and Citizenship Options

Turkey

Turkey offers one of the lowest price points among major markets, with strong residency incentives.

• Income tax: 15–40%

• Residency by ownership: Yes

• Citizenship by investment: From $400,000

• Average ROI: 6–8%

• Average price: $140–$300 per sq ft (varies by city)

This market appeals to investors focused on entry affordability and citizenship options rather than stability alone.

United States: Scale and Demand, Complex Taxes

United States

The US offers one of the world’s largest and most liquid property markets, but taxation is complex.

• Income tax: Up to 37% (federal) + state taxes

• Capital gains tax: 15–20%

• Residency by ownership: No

• Average ROI: 5–7%

• Average price: $2,300–$2,800 per sq ft (New York City)

Returns can be strong, but tax planning is essential to protect net profits.

The Real Difference: Why Systems Matter

The same apartment can produce very different outcomes depending on where it is located.

• Taxes can cut returns in half

• Residency rules can unlock long-term security—or block it entirely

• ROI varies not because of the property—but because of the system behind it

Smart investors don’t chase properties.
They choose environments that work in their favor.