EP369 Navigating U.S. Real Estate Strategies for International Investors with Amresh Singh

A Canadian Investing in the U.S. with Glen Sutherland

In this episode, Glen Sutherland interviews Amresh Singh, who runs Home Abroad, a firm that assists international investors in purchasing U.S. real estate. Amresh shares insights into the challenges foreign investors face and how his company provides a comprehensive solution. Key Points Discussed: Introduction to Home Abroad: Home Abroad is a one-stop shop for global investors, offering services from property search to financing, setting up LLCs, and property management. Amresh has a background in mortgage financing and real estate technology, which inspired him to create Home Abroad after recognizing the difficulties foreign investors face in the U.S. market. Investment Strategies: Investors range from value-focused individuals looking for properties in the Midwest to those interested in luxury second homes or short-term rentals in popular locations. Common strategies include long-term rentals for cash flow and fix-and-flip projects. Amresh emphasizes the unique ability of U.S. real estate to generate cash flow with leverage through long-term fixed mortgages. Advantages of U.S. Real Estate: U.S. real estate offers a distinct opportunity to generate cash flow while leveraging properties through favorable mortgage options (e.g., 30-year fixed rates). Investors can appreciate their assets in U.S. dollars, providing additional benefits for foreign investors. Common Mistakes by Foreign Investors: Amresh warns against insufficient due diligence on properties, including understanding property taxes, HOA fees, and rental regulations. He advises investors to ask thorough questions and ensure their loan programs align with their investment strategies. Due Diligence and Financing: Home Abroad utilizes a DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan, allowing investors to qualify based on rental income rather than personal income. The process includes obtaining an appraisal to ensure the property will cover its costs, which helps investors make informed decisions upfront. Services Offered: Home Abroad assists investors with property searches, financing, and connecting them with real estate agents. They have a property search platform that matches investment objectives, streamlining the research process.