Ever since the Reagan / Thatcher era in the 1980s more and more people have started buying and selling stocks, or shares as they are called in the U.K. Rewards can be great but you can also lose all your money.
When I was growing up, my parents bought shares in utility companies and other nationalized industries that were privatized – British Water, British Gas, British Airways to name but a few. These were sure fire winners in the economic climate of the time. You simply applied for your allotted number of shares and then got a share trader to sell them on the day of issue. The profits were modest, but to a middle-class family it seemed to be money for nothing.
Now all the crown jewels are gone. The present Tory Party in the UK is trying to privatize any remaining government concerns. I wouldn’t recommend these latest offerings: as I said, all the best concerns have long gone.
When I was at University some of my friends had success with buying and selling shares in companies with new technology. My friends were often the victims of their own success: as with any form of gambling, beginners luck encourages people to foolishly think they have the Midas touch. As a result, they end up investing too much and eventually getting burned by a sudden downturn in the economy.
It seems to me that the best gambles are those based on information about the future. Let me explain. What is going to be valuable in the future? The World’s population is set to double in the next 50 years. The result is going to be a shortage of natural resources such as food and clean water.
Already 66% of the world’s fresh water supplies are spent on irrigation. 1.3 billion People in the world lack access to clean water supplies. Already many parts of the world are water stressed. In the US, according to the National Climate Center, 43% of the country is suffering ‘moderate to extreme drought’. Did you know that it takes 140 liters of water to make 1 cup of coffee? Consumer culture is using up water supplies at a frightening rate.
My recommendation for buying stocks is simple: water is going to be the new ‘oil’. Investing in companies that are making technology to recycle water, to use grey water and to desalinate sea water will produce a healthy long term profit. Also companies that make low flow shower heads and low flow faucet aerators for the home will boom in the future. When water prices go up and up, people will be forced to change their patterns of consumption and will buy water conservation technology.
They say that only two things are certain in life: death and taxes. I would add a third item to that list and that is consumption. As humanity consumes the world’s precious resources those who can provide the basics of food and water will be positioned to make huge profits.
Engaging in overseas real estate is no easy task. Choosing the country and the property itself is difficult, but finalizing all the necessary documentation and paperwork you need to complete your purchase can make the experience a bit discouraging. With the growing number of possible new homes to choose from, how do you find “the one”.
The numbers for overseas property investors are at an all time high with thousands of Americans and British nationals looking to invest in a strong and growing economy. As a result, we have a deluge of foreigners scoping out Cyprus properties for sale, as well as locations in Brazil and other exotic destinatiobns. But what does it actually take to buy and finance an overseas home?
Know your Reason for Buying
Defining your reason behind investing in an overseas property can effectively narrow down your options. If you are looking for a property that can bring in profits, then look for a country with a good tourism portfolio like Cyprus. If you, on the other hand, are looking for a more permanent place for your family, then choose one that has a good education system, diverse community and a strong growing economy. Brazil is a perfect example of this option.
Take the Time to Choose
Real estate in itself is a huge investment and doing it outside of your country increases the risks that can either make or break your investment. This is why it is pertinent that you choose wisely and carefully. Getting overly excited and rushing into buying overseas properties can leave you unprepared for any problems that may arise in the future.
Seek Professional Counsel
The process of buying a property across international borders can be quite complicated, this is exactly you need to arm yourself with the right realtor and lawyer who are equally adept at handling these requirements. Likewise, compare mortgage offers and rules for international purchases. This is also the best way you can protect your interest as an investor.
Conduct your Own Research
Rather than just relying on your hired help, it would be to your great advantage if you also do your own leg work in evaluating and choosing between your options. Do research on today’s strongest real estate economies, weigh their pros and cons, and study their unique environment. These factors will help you decide on whether you are on the right track towards getting your dream realized.
Know Your Needs
Aside from knowing your reason behind making the decision to buy property elsewhere, it is also equally important that you identify your needs and choose a location that you are happy to call home.