The pandemic has really changed a lot of people’s perspectives on life – from the places we visit to the places we live. In the UK, we have seen homebuyers’ preferences change dramatically since the beginning of the Covid-19 lockdowns with more people searching for properties in rural or coastal locations with bigger gardens and space for a home office than city centres. But what about the people craving a simpler life abroad? Is life as an ex-pat still a viable option in this post-Covid world?
Being stuck at home for weeks on end has not only driven people to turn their backs on city life, but they have also been craving overseas escapes. However, unexpected changes to the countries listed on the UK’s green, amber and red travel lists have caused travellers a lot of confusion and expense as they scramble to buy tickets home to avoid having to isolate.
However, with the new double jab rules, where people in receipt of two Covid-19 vaccinations will not need to isolate when travelling to many countries and returning home, coming into force, it does appear that travel abroad will return to a new kind of normal very soon. Along with this global unlocking, we wonder if the opening of borders will spur people on to up-sticks and leave the UK entirely to escape to a simpler life in another country.
If a move abroad is on your mind, we’ve got your back. We’ve been searching Rightmove’s overseas portals to find some property gems you can secure for a mere £100,000 investment. Want to take a look?
Arichat, Nova Scotia, Canada
USD $115,000 (£82,911)*
The first property we have found for you is this 1,242 sq. ft. (115 sq. m.) home on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, which overlooks Arichat Harbour.
The large, well-maintained property being marketed by Cape Breton Realty, Canada features a family room, living room, large kitchen, dining room, four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The main floor living space boasts lots of natural light and lovely views of the harbour.
Outside there is a wraparound garden, a driveway and a shed with power. The property is in a quiet area and enjoys stunning, unfettered views of the sea. Want to see more? View the video tour below.
A traditional Finca Pizarra, Málaga, Andalusia, Spain
€116,000 (£98,973)*
Get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life living in this rural property located in the Andalucian countryside between the pueblos of Álora & Pizarra. The estate comprises a fully fenced, 6,000m2 plot of relatively flat land which hosts a wood-built rural retreat of approximately 484 sq. ft. (45m2) that’s powered by mains electricity.
The agent Alora Properties in Malaga writes that the current owner is a talented carpenter who built the charming casita, which offers an attractive lounge/dining room, 2 bedrooms plus a mezzanine level that’s ideal for use as a children’s sleeping area, a shower room and a fully equipped kitchen.
The surrounding land is planted with mature olive trees as well as a variety of other fruit trees including orange, lemon, pomegranates, figs and vines.
There is also an area dedicated to a kitchen garden for growing vegetables and herbs.
This property exudes charm and tranquillity yet is only 40 minutes drive from Málaga’s city centre and international airport.
Hua Na, Thailand
£100,000*
If you are looking to buy a home or an investment property in the beautiful country of Thailand, we’ve found a stunning four-bedroom, three en-suite bathrooms detached villa you might want to consider.
Located in Hua Na village, which is approximately 10 minutes from Hua Hin town centre and 2.5 hours from Bangkok, the vendor describes the villa as being located in a peaceful area populated by mainly western residents that’s close to all amenities including beaches, restaurants, bars, a newly opened water park, golf courses and shops.
As well as all the mod-cons, the villa boasts a large private swimming pool with an attached jacuzzi all set within a private, walled garden with wrought iron entry gates.
Buyers may like to use the villa as your their private residence or rent it out. The vendor indicates that the property’s rental value is approximately 40,000 baht per month (£930).
The property, being marketed by MagnoliaProperty.co.uk Stadhampton on Rightmove Overseas, also benefits from air conditioning throughout.
Apartment in an 18th Century Castle, Panicale, Perugia, Umbria, Italy
€115,000 (£97,908)*
Own a piece of Italian history, with this super apartment located in an 18th-century castle that is situated on top of a hill that enjoys a stunning view of Asissi, Perugia, the valley and Lake Trasimeno.
The apartment, which is located on the first floor of the castle, comprises a large living room with a fireplace, kitchen and dining area and a separate bedroom and bathroom. Being marketed by agents Il Castello di Tara, Perugia the castle residence is full of old-world charm with wooden beams on the ceilings, terracotta floor tiles and exposed stone walls.
Another big selling point is that the residence includes a communal swimming pool, tennis courts, a large parking area, an all-year-round caretaker and a park of 17 hectares. Check out the listing on Rightmove Overseas.
Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
USD $99,000 (£71,376)*
Located close to a sandy beach and surrounded by jungle in the Amana residential development in Quintana Roo, Mexico, this lovely one-bedroom studio flat measuring 37 m2 offers residents a touch of tropical, luxury living. The resort is home to several luxury condominiums set in beautifully landscaped grounds featuring a pool, ‘swing-up bar’, gym and plenty of outdoor seating. Take a look at the video to see a bird’s eye view.
Do any of our five overseas properties for £100,000 or less appeal?
*Prices and availability are correct at the time of writing.
