Financial Preparation

• Determine your total investment budget (property + transaction costs + reserves)
• Consider the advantage of USD as El Salvador’s official currency (no currency exchange needed)
• Set up international wire transfer capabilities with your home bank
• Research Bitcoin transfer options if planning to utilize cryptocurrency
• Explore local banking options for ongoing property management
• Evaluate tax implications in both El Salvador and your home country
• Arrange financing if needed (mostly cash purchases in El Salvador)
• Budget for potential renovation or improvement costs

Market Research

• Identify target regions based on investment goals (beach, urban, rural)
• Research neighborhood-specific price trends and rental yields
• Join online forums for El Salvador property investors (Facebook groups, expat communities)
• Subscribe to local real estate listings (encuentra24.com, Remax El Salvador)
• Analyze infrastructure projects and government development zones
• Research tourist flows if targeting vacation rental market
• Plan a preliminary market visit to evaluate areas firsthand
• Consider security situation in different regions

Professional Network Development

• Connect with bilingual attorneys specializing in real estate for foreigners
• Identify reputable real estate agents with international client experience
• Research property management companies in your target market
• Find a recommended notary public (required for property transfers)
• Connect with local contractors if renovations are anticipated
• Join expat networks for referrals and recommendations
• Establish relationship with accountant familiar with foreign investor concerns
• Verify professional credentials and references thoroughly

Expert Tip: El Salvador has two distinct seasons that affect property viewings and construction. The dry season (November-April) is optimal for property visits and evaluations as you can inspect for leaks and drainage issues. However, this is also high season for tourism, so beach properties may be occupied and prices higher. The rainy season (May-October) offers better negotiating opportunities but makes property inspection and travel more challenging. For beach investments, visiting during both seasons is ideal to understand the property’s year-round characteristics.

Bitcoin Considerations: El Salvador’s status as the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender creates unique opportunities for cryptocurrency investors. Properties can be legally purchased using Bitcoin, though most transactions still convert to USD at some point in the process due to price volatility. When using Bitcoin for property transactions, additional documentation of coin origin may be required for anti-money laundering compliance. The government is developing specialized legal frameworks for Bitcoin-based investments, particularly in the Bitcoin City development zone, which may offer additional advantages for crypto-focused investors.

Banking Setup

• Local Bank Account Options:
  • Major Salvadoran banks: Banco Agrícola, Banco Cuscatlán, Banco Davivienda
  • International banks with local presence: Scotiabank, Citibank (operating as Citi)
  • Digital options: Chivo Wallet (government Bitcoin wallet), other crypto exchanges
• Typical Requirements for Bank Accounts:
  • Passport and secondary identification
  • Proof of address (in home country and in El Salvador if available)
  • Reference letters from existing banks
  • Initial deposit (varies by bank, typically $500-2,000)
  • NIT (Salvadoran tax ID number)
  • In-person application process
  • Additional documentation for larger deposits
• Advantages of El Salvador Banking:
  • USD-denominated accounts (no currency exchange risk)
  • Integrated Bitcoin functionality with most major banks
  • Lower account maintenance requirements than many offshore jurisdictions
  • FDIC-equivalent protection up to $10,000 per depositor
• Alternative Approach: Many foreign investors complete property transactions using their attorney’s escrow account and then establish banking relationships after purchase. This can simplify the initial acquisition process.

Financing Options

The vast majority of foreign real estate purchases in El Salvador are cash transactions, as local mortgage financing options for non-residents are limited:

1. Local Bank Financing:
   • Availability: Very limited for non-residents without substantial local ties
   • Down Payment: 40-50% when available to foreigners
   • Interest Rates: 8-12% for USD loans
   • Term: Typically 15-20 years maximum
   • Requirements: Local income, residency status, or significant local assets typically needed
2. Developer Financing:
   • More accessible option for new developments and pre-construction projects
   • Typically structured as 30-50% down payment with remainder over 3-5 years
   • Higher interest rates (10-15%) but less stringent qualification requirements
   • Title transfer may be contingent on final payment
3. Seller Financing:
   • Occasionally available, particularly for properties that have been on market longer
   • Terms vary widely and are negotiable
   • Requires careful legal documentation and security instruments
   • Down payments typically 40-60% of purchase price
4. Home Country Financing:
   • Refinancing existing properties in North America
   • Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)
   • Personal loans or investment credit lines
   • Often most practical option for foreign investors

Bitcoin Considerations

El Salvador’s Bitcoin adoption creates unique financial options:

• Bitcoin Transactions:
  • Properties can legally be purchased using Bitcoin as legal tender
  • Chivo Wallet (government wallet) facilitates conversion between BTC and USD
  • Many real estate transactions still document prices in USD equivalent
  • Some sellers offer discounts for Bitcoin purchases (3-7%)
• Bitcoin-Specific Considerations:
  • Volatility may necessitate quick closing once price agreed
  • Additional documentation for anti-money laundering compliance
  • Bitcoin transfers typically converted to USD at current exchange rate
  • Some attorneys and notaries now specialize in Bitcoin real estate transactions
• Bitcoin Mortgage Alternatives:
  • Emerging DeFi platforms offer cryptocurrency-collateralized loans
  • Some specialized services facilitate Bitcoin-backed property purchases
  • Still nascent but growing with El Salvador’s Bitcoin adoption

For most foreign investors, cash purchases remain the simplest approach. However, El Salvador’s Bitcoin-friendly legal framework opens new possibilities that are continuing to develop, particularly for cryptocurrency investors.

Property Search Resources

• Online Property Portals:
  • Encuentra24 – The largest property portal in Central America
  • Inmuebles24 – Comprehensive listings platform
  • OLX El Salvador – General classifieds with property section
  • Facebook Marketplace – Increasingly important for local listings
• Real Estate Agencies:
  • International franchises: RE/MAX El Salvador, Century 21, Coldwell Banker
  • Local specialist agencies: Proinca, Grupo Roble, Salazar Romero
  • Beach property specialists: Oceanside El Salvador, El Salvador Beach Front
  • Note: Agency representation practices differ from North America, with most representing sellers
• Direct Channels:
  • Developer sales offices for new projects
  • Local newspaper classifieds (La Prensa Gráfica, El Diario de Hoy)
  • Community bulletin boards in expat areas
  • Word-of-mouth in smaller communities
• Buyer’s Agents:
  • Less common but growing service for foreign buyers
  • Represents buyer rather than seller
  • Typically charge 2-4% of purchase price
  • Valuable for language barriers and local market knowledge

Property Viewing Trip Planning

For overseas investors, an efficient property viewing trip is essential:

1. Pre-Trip Research:
   • Identify 8-12 potential properties before arrival
   • Schedule viewings in advance (properties may not be regularly shown)
   • Research neighborhoods thoroughly online
   • Arrange meetings with attorneys and notaries
   • Connect with expat communities for local insights
2. Trip Logistics:
   • Plan at least 7-10 days for thorough exploration
   • Consider dividing time between different regions if exploring multiple areas
   • Arrange reliable transportation (driver recommended in some areas)
   • Schedule viewings in geographical clusters
   • Allow time for neighborhood exploration and local interactions
3. During Viewings:
   • Take detailed photos and videos
   • Verify property boundaries against documentation
   • Test water pressure, electricity, and internet availability
   • Check cell phone signal strength
   • Note proximity to services, transportation, and amenities
   • Visit during different times of day if possible
   • Speak with neighbors if opportunity arises
4. Safety Considerations:
   • Use registered transportation services
   • Work with established real estate professionals
   • Keep expensive equipment discreet
   • Research current neighborhood security situation
   • Consider engaging a local guide in unfamiliar areas

Property Evaluation Criteria

Assess potential investments using these key criteria:

• Location Factors:
  • Proximity to major roads and transportation
  • Walking distance to amenities (markets, restaurants, medical facilities)
  • Neighborhood security reputation
  • Tourist flow (for vacation rentals)
  • Infrastructure quality (roads, utilities)
  • Development plans and nearby construction
  • Flood risk assessment (particularly near rivers and coastal areas)
• Property Quality:
  • Construction materials and standards
  • Age and condition of property
  • Water supply reliability and pressure
  • Electrical system capacity and condition
  • Internet availability and speed
  • Natural disaster resilience (earthquake, flooding)
  • Security features (walls, gates, cameras)
• Rental Potential:
  • Local rental demand (long-term vs. short-term)
  • Seasonal fluctuations in demand
  • Comparable rental rates in the area
  • Potential for value-add improvements
  • Property features attractive to target renters
  • Local property management options
  • Competition assessment
• Financial Considerations:
  • Price per square meter compared to area average
  • Property tax rates for the municipality
  • Utility costs and availability
  • Insurance availability and costs
  • Maintenance requirements and costs
  • Potential capital appreciation based on area development
  • Exit strategy feasibility

Expert Tip: In El Salvador, many properties are still marketed through informal networks rather than official listings. This creates both challenges and opportunities. While it makes comprehensive online research difficult, it also means motivated sellers may accept significantly lower prices than advertised rates. Local connections are invaluable—spending time developing relationships with residents and expats in your target area can lead to off-market opportunities at substantial discounts. Additionally, properties listed in Spanish-only forums typically sell for 10-20% less than those marketed to English-speaking buyers.

Legal Due Diligence

• ✓
  Title Verification: Obtain property registration certificate (Certificación Literal) from CNR (National Registry Center)
• ✓
  Title History Search: Verify minimum 20 years of ownership transfers
• ✓
  Lien Verification: Check for mortgages, judgments, or other encumbrances
• ✓
  Property Tax Status: Obtain certificate of tax payments (Solvencia Municipal)
• ✓
  Utility Payment Verification: Check for outstanding water, electricity bills
• ✓
  Boundary Verification: Confirm legal description matches physical boundaries
• ✓
  Possession Verification: Ensure no third-party possession claims or squatters
• ✓
  Zoning Compliance: Verify current and permitted uses with municipal authorities
• ✓
  Corporate Verification: If seller is a company, verify legal standing and authority

Physical Due Diligence

• ✓
  Property Inspection: Hire qualified engineer or architect for structural assessment
• ✓
  Water System Evaluation: Test water quality, pressure, and reliability
• ✓
  Electrical Assessment: Verify capacity, wiring quality, and safety
• ✓
  Environmental Assessment: Check for flooding risks, erosion (coastal properties), landslide potential
• ✓
  Boundary Survey: Professional survey to confirm legal boundaries match physical features
• ✓
  Access Verification: Confirm legal access rights to the property
• ✓
  Internet Connectivity Test: Verify speed and reliability of internet service
• ✓
  Security Assessment: Evaluate neighborhood safety, property security features

Financial Due Diligence

• ✓
  Comparative Market Analysis: Verify price against recent comparable sales
• ✓
  Property Appraisal: Independent valuation by qualified professional
• ✓
  Cost Projections: Estimate renovation, maintenance, and operational costs
• ✓
  Tax Assessment: Verify annual property tax amounts
• ✓
  Rental Market Research: Confirm realistic rental expectations through local agents
• ✓
  Utility Cost Analysis: Estimate monthly water, electricity, internet costs
• ✓
  Insurance Assessment: Determine availability and cost of property insurance
• ✓
  ROI Calculation: Develop detailed cash flow projections and return analysis

Expert Tip: In El Salvador, informal property transfers without proper registration are not uncommon, particularly in rural areas. This can lead to title issues even when a property appears to have legitimate documentation. Always engage an attorney experienced in foreign real estate transactions to conduct a thorough title search that includes visiting the property registry in person. Pay particular attention to properties that have changed hands multiple times in recent years, which can indicate potential problems. The extra $500-1,000 spent on thorough legal investigation can prevent tens of thousands in potential disputes.

Offer and Negotiation

1. Initial Offer: Typically done verbally through real estate agent
2. Negotiation: Back-and-forth on price, terms, and included items
3. Preliminary Agreement: Often a Promesa de Compraventa (Promise to Purchase)
4. Earnest Money Deposit: Typically 5-10% of purchase price

In El Salvador, verbal agreements may be considered binding in some contexts, but all serious property transactions should be documented in writing. The Promesa de Compraventa establishes the basic terms and typically includes penalties for either party backing out without cause. This document is not the final transfer but creates legal obligations for both parties.

Legal Transfer Process

1. Engage a Notary Public: In El Salvador, property transfers must be executed by a Notario Público (notary with legal training)
2. Due Diligence Period:
   • Title search at Property Registry (CNR)
   • Verification of property tax status
   • Confirmation of utility payments
   • Property inspection and survey
3. Preparation of Deed:
   • Notary drafts formal deed (Escritura Pública)
   • Includes full property description and boundaries
   • Establishes final price and payment terms
   • Details responsibilities of both parties
4. Deed Execution:
   • Signing ceremony with both parties present
   • Presentation of identification documents
   • Payment typically completed at this time
   • Notary verifies and certifies the transaction
5. Registration:
   • Notary or attorney submits deed to Property Registry
   • Payment of registration taxes and fees
   • Processing period typically 4-8 weeks
   • Issuance of updated property certificate
6. Post-Registration:
   • Update municipal records for property tax purposes
   • Transfer utility services
   • Register with local authorities if required
   • Obtain physical possession of the property

The timeframe from offer acceptance to completed registration typically ranges from 6-12 weeks. Foreign buyers unable to be present for all steps can grant power of attorney to their legal representative, though personal presence at the deed signing is strongly recommended.

Transaction Costs

Budget for these typical transaction expenses:

• Transfer Tax (Alcabala): 3% of the property value (typically paid by buyer)
• Registration Fees: 0.63% of the property value
• Notary Fees: 1-2% of property value (negotiable for higher-value properties)
• Legal Fees: 1-2% for attorney services beyond the notary (recommended)
• Real Estate Agent Commission: 3-5% (typically paid by seller but sometimes negotiated)
• Property Survey: $300-800 depending on property size and complexity
• Title Insurance: Optional but recommended, 0.5-1% of property value when available

Total transaction costs for buyers typically range from 6-10% of the purchase price. These costs should be factored into your overall investment calculations, and funds should be available prior to the closing ceremony.

Expert Tip: While El Salvador uses the US dollar, large cash transactions are not recommended due to both security and legal concerns. Many property transactions utilize bank transfers or certified checks (cashier’s checks). However, a growing number of transactions, particularly in beach areas and expatriate communities, now use Bitcoin. If considering a Bitcoin transaction, establish a clear agreement in writing about the exact mechanism for determining the exchange rate at the time of closing, as volatility can create complications. Some sellers offer discounts of 3-7% for Bitcoin purchases due to the reduced transaction costs and immediate settlement.

Administrative Tasks

• ✓
  Property Registry Verification: Confirm deed has been properly registered (may take 4-8 weeks)
• ✓
  Municipal Registry Update: Register ownership change with local municipality for tax purposes
• ✓
  Utility Transfers: Change account names for electricity (CAESS/AES), water (ANDA), and other services
• ✓
  Internet/Cable Setup: Establish services with providers like Tigo, Claro, or Digicel
• ✓
  Property Insurance: Obtain coverage for property damage, liability, and natural disasters
• ✓
  Security Services: Arrange for security monitoring if desired
• ✓
  Property Management: Establish relationship with property manager for ongoing maintenance

Regulatory Compliance

Rental properties in El Salvador must comply with several regulations:

• Tourism Registration:
  • Properties marketed for tourist stays must register with Ministry of Tourism
  • Registration includes safety inspection and standards verification
  • Annual renewal required with updated documentation
• Municipal Permits:
  • Business operations permit for commercial rentals
  • Construction permits for modifications or improvements
  • Signage permits if applicable
• Safety Requirements:
  • Fire safety equipment (extinguishers, smoke detectors)
  • Emergency exit plans for multi-unit buildings
  • Structural safety certification for certain buildings
• Health Department Compliance:
  • Water quality testing for properties with wells or water systems
  • Sanitation standards for multi-unit or tourism properties
  • Vector control measures in certain areas
• Community Regulations:
  • Homeowners association rules if applicable
  • Condominium bylaws and regulations
  • Beach access and use rules in coastal areas

Compliance requirements vary by municipality and property type. Tourist-focused areas like La Libertad have more formal processes, while rural areas may have limited enforcement of certain regulations. Working with a local property manager familiar with local requirements is advisable for foreign owners.

Record Keeping

Maintain comprehensive records for tax and legal purposes:

• Property Documents:
  • Original deed (Escritura Pública) with registration stamp
  • Property registry certificate (Certificación Literal)
  • Property survey and boundary documentation
  • Municipal tax records and payment receipts
  • Construction permits and modification approvals
  • Insurance policies and claims
• Financial Records:
  • All property-related expenses with receipts
  • Rental income documentation
  • Utility bills and payment records
  • Property tax payments
  • Service contracts and payments
  • Renovation and maintenance expenses
• Tenant Information (if renting):
  • Lease agreements
  • Tenant identification and contact information
  • Security deposit records
  • Property condition reports
  • Maintenance requests and resolution documentation
• Business Records (for commercial properties):
  • Business licenses and permits
  • Tax identification numbers
  • Employee documentation if applicable
  • Commercial insurance policies

Digital record-keeping systems with secure backups are strongly recommended, particularly for overseas investors managing properties remotely. Store physical copies of critical documents like deeds and title certificates in secure locations, with duplicates in both your home country and El Salvador.

Expert Tip: Power outages can occur in El Salvador, particularly during the rainy season (May-October). For properties that will be vacant for extended periods or used as vacation rentals, installing surge protectors and a small backup power system is highly recommended. Additionally, many foreign owners install water storage tanks (cisterns) to ensure continuous water supply during occasional service interruptions. These practical improvements typically cost $1,000-3,000 but significantly enhance the property’s functionality and rental appeal.

El Salvador Tax Obligations

• Property Transfer Tax:
  • 3% of property value paid at purchase (typically by the buyer)
  • Due within 60 days of transaction
  • Paid through notary as part of closing process
• Annual Property Tax:
  • Varies by municipality, typically 0.1-0.25% of assessed value
  • Assessed and collected by local government
  • Often collected through utility bills in urban areas
  • Due dates vary by municipality
• Income Tax on Rental Income:
  • Rental income is taxed at 10% for non-residents
  • Annual declaration required if renting property
  • Deductions allowed for property maintenance, management, and depreciation
  • Rental income typically reported on Form F-11
• Capital Gains Tax:
  • 10% on profit from property sale if held less than 3 years
  • Exemption for properties held longer than 3 years
  • Based on sale price minus purchase price and qualifying improvements
  • Declaration due within 30 days of sale completion
• Value Added Tax (IVA):
  • 13% VAT on short-term vacation rental income (under 30 days)
  • Applies to properties marketed as tourist accommodations
  • Monthly or quarterly reporting required
  • Registration with tax authority (DGII) required

Home Country Tax Obligations

Both the United States and Canada have tax treaties with El Salvador that help prevent double taxation. However, the interaction between tax systems is complex and requires professional guidance from tax advisors familiar with both jurisdictions.

Tax Planning Strategies

• Entity Structure: Evaluate whether personal ownership or corporate structures optimize tax position
• Holding Period Planning: Consider El Salvador’s capital gains exemption for properties held more than 3 years
• Expense Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all allowable expenses to maximize deductions
• Rental Type Classification: Structuring between short-term and long-term rentals affects VAT obligations
• Improvement Timing: Strategic timing of property improvements can enhance deductions
• Residency Considerations: Tax implications vary based on residency status in both countries
• Bitcoin Strategy: Understand reporting requirements and tax treatment of cryptocurrency transactions
• Professional Services: Fees for accountants, attorneys, and property managers are typically deductible

El Salvador has introduced various investment incentives, including tax benefits for specific economic activities and zones. Foreign investors should consult with tax professionals with expertise in both El Salvador and their home country to develop a compliant and efficient tax strategy.

Expert Tip: El Salvador’s tax system has undergone modernization but still faces challenges with consistency in application and interpretation. Working with a local accountant with experience serving foreign clients is highly recommended. The capital gains exemption after three years of ownership is a significant advantage for medium to long-term investors. However, documentation of the original purchase price and subsequent improvements is critical to claiming this exemption effectively. Keep all renovation receipts, construction contracts, and improvement documentation with both digital and physical copies to ensure proper substantiation when selling.

Selecting a Property Manager

Evaluate potential property managers using these criteria:

• Experience with Foreign Investors:
  • Previous experience with North American clients
  • English language proficiency
  • Understanding of international client needs
  • Transparent reporting systems
• Local Market Knowledge:
  • Specialization in your property’s location
  • Understanding of local rental rates and trends
  • Established tenant and guest networks
  • Relationship with local service providers
• Communication Capabilities:
  • Digital reporting systems for remote monitoring
  • Responsiveness across time zones
  • Regular updates with photos and condition reports
  • Transparent financial reporting
• Service Network:
  • Reliable contractors for repairs
  • Proven emergency response procedures
  • Established cleaning and maintenance teams
  • Professional security services if needed
• Technology Integration:
  • Online payment processing
  • Digital communication platforms
  • Property management software
  • Virtual tour capabilities for vacation rentals

Management Agreement Essentials

Ensure your property management contract includes these key elements:

• Scope of Services: Detailed description of exactly what is included and excluded
• Fee Structure: Clear explanation of all management fees, commissions, and additional charges
• Contract Term and Notice Period: Duration of agreement and termination procedures
• Reporting Schedule: Frequency and format of financial and property condition reports
• Maintenance Authority: Spending limits for repairs without prior approval
• Tenant Selection Criteria: Parameters for approving potential tenants
• Rent Collection Procedures: Methods, timing, and handling of deposits
• Insurance Requirements: Coverage expectations and liability boundaries
• Regulatory Compliance: Responsibility for taxes and local regulations
• Dispute Resolution Process: Procedures for addressing disagreements

Request references from current clients, particularly other foreign investors, before signing with a property management company. Many El Salvador property managers have variable quality standards, so thorough vetting is essential.

Expert Tip: In El Salvador, property management is less standardized than in North America, with quality varying significantly. Consider starting with a probationary 3-6 month contract before committing to a longer term. For vacation rental properties, particularly in beach areas, managers with international marketing experience can often command 15-25% higher nightly rates compared to locally-focused managers, more than offsetting their higher fees. Look for managers with established relationships with both Airbnb/VRBO and traditional booking channels. Many of the most effective property managers in El Salvador are expatriates who understand both North American expectations and local realities.

Exit Options

Sale Process

When selling your El Salvador property:

1. Pre-Sale Preparation:
   • Property improvements and repairs
   • Professional photography and marketing materials
   • Title verification and documentation organization
   • Tax clearance certificates
   • Property valuation by local expert
2. Marketing Strategy:
   • Local agency selection vs. international marketing
   • Online listing optimization for target buyer demographics
   • Social media marketing (increasingly important)
   • Expatriate and investor network outreach
   • Bitcoin community targeting if appropriate
3. Offer Negotiation:
   • Clear terms regarding included items
   • Deposit structure and amount
   • Contingency parameters and timelines
   • Flexibility on financing or Bitcoin payment options
   • Closing date negotiation
4. Legal Process:
   • Promesa de Compraventa (purchase agreement)
   • Buyer due diligence period management
   • Final deed preparation by notary
   • Closing ceremony and payment
   • Property registry transfer
5. Post-Sale Requirements:
   • Capital gains reporting if applicable
   • Municipality notification
   • Utility account transfers
   • Tax clearance documentation
   • Fund repatriation planning

The selling process typically takes 3-6 months from listing to completed transfer, though premium properties in high-demand areas like El Zonte can move more quickly, particularly with Bitcoin-ready buyers.

Market Exit Timing Considerations

Several factors should influence your exit timing decision:

• Capital Gains Tax Planning: The 3-year holding period for capital gains exemption creates a natural milestone for potential sale consideration
• Tourist Season Cycles: Listing during high season (November-April) can attract more visitors but faces competition; off-season can attract serious buyers
• Bitcoin Market Conditions: In certain areas, Bitcoin price trends can significantly impact buyer demand and liquidity
• Infrastructure Completion: Timing exits to coincide with completion of nearby infrastructure projects can maximize value
• Regional Development: Government initiatives like Bitcoin City or tourism development can create value inflection points
• Residential Momentum: Areas reaching critical mass of expats and amenities often see accelerated appreciation
• Political Cycles: Presidential elections (every 5 years) can create temporary hesitation or opportunity in the market
• North American Market Synchronization: Strong US/Canadian markets often correlate with increased buying interest in El Salvador

While timing markets perfectly is challenging, understanding these cycles can optimize exit positioning. Most successful investors focus on the property’s inherent value and improvements rather than relying solely on market timing.

Expert Tip: El Salvador’s real estate market has unique buyer segments that affect exit strategy. Properties in areas like El Zonte (Bitcoin Beach) can command premium prices from the cryptocurrency community but require targeted marketing through specific channels. Traditional beach properties often find buyers through expatriate networks and international marketing. For maximum liquidity, consider implementing improvements that appeal to both local and international buyers – security features, reliable utilities, and modern internet infrastructure almost always provide strong returns on investment when selling. Additionally, seller financing can significantly expand the buyer pool, as local mortgage options remain limited for many properties.