Buying Property Abroad: Laos
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Laos is a communist country without a coastline. So, if you dream of loungin by tropical beaches - forget it!

The capital is Vientiane, and as you might guess from this name the French had a colonial influence here.

Laos is a very interesting place to visit for a holiday - and it's always a good idea to go on holiday somewhere first to see if you like the place. It's much cheaper than buying a house, and can help preventing problematic mistakes.

The first step in buying a property abroad is to do lots of homework - narrow down the region or country where you want to buy, work out your budget, and it's worth buying some books. There are country specific, region specific and general books on buying a house overseas.

It pays to be skeptical at all times - and get a keen eye for spotting whether people or articles are as independent as they may claim.

Private ennterprise has been increasing in the country, since the austere communist times.

The privinces are: 1. Attapu 2. Bokeo 3. Bolikhamxai 4. Champasak 5. Houaphan 6. Khammouan 7. Loung Namtha 8. Louangphabang 9. Oudomxai 10. Phongsali 11. Salavan 12. Savannakhet 13. Vientiane (municipality) 14. Vientiane 15. Xaignabouli 16. Xaisomboun (special zone) 17. Xekong 18. Xiangkhoang

Ask a Professional

There may be investment prospects in Laos, but it is essential that you seek independent expert professional advice before undertaking any property purchase. There are lots of things to bear in mind, including local laws and regulations, taxes, surveyor's assessments of the building, financial currency exchange, dealing with interbank transfers, volatility of the housing market, etc. etc. In some countries there are various restrictions on foreigners owning land or property, so this needs to be checked out fully. It may even not be possible to own a property in Laos - you need to check it out with the professionals! Any property purchase is a major undertaking.

Surge in Interest

The interest in purchasing property abroad has increased at an amazing rate in the past five years, fuelled in the UK by a booming domestic housing market making overseas properties seem good value for money. Also, TV programmes like Channel 4's `A Place in the Sun' have made everyone realise that owning a property abroad is no longer just for the rich and famous. People are interested in purchasing a home overseas for a variety of reasons - enjoyment, investment, a new life, retirement, and more.

All links and text on this site have been provided for information purposes - they are not recommendations.