With the global economy shifting and urbanization accelerating in non-traditional hubs, savvy investors are identifying growth opportunities outside established regions. As explained by Manny Khoshbin, the appeal lies not only in higher returns but also in diversification, as new cities open their doors to international capital. However, success in these markets depends on more than timing. From evaluating infrastructure and political stability to building local partnerships and managing risk, investors must adopt a comprehensive approach to investment.
Utilizing both traditional and non-traditional research methods, embracing flexible entry strategies, and planning exit routes from the start can all contribute to sustained performance. As countries like Vietnam, Mexico, and Poland rise in prominence, the global real estate landscape is being redrawn, offering challenges and opportunities.
Global Investment Drivers in 2026
Real estate investors are increasingly turning to emerging markets as global trends reshape the industry. Urban migration, infrastructure expansion, and the normalization of remote work are prompting a re-evaluation of where opportunities lie. These shifts are creating new demand across both residential and commercial sectors, particularly in regions with a growing middle class and expanding urban centers.
Markets that offer access to skilled labor, improved digital connectivity, and supportive government initiatives are gaining traction. In Southeast Asia and Latin America, cities with expanding transport networks and economic zones are attracting institutional and individual investments. Political stability and ease of doing business further amplify investor interest.
Evaluating Emerging Real Estate Markets
Identifying a promising real estate market involves more than just economic growth. Investors are paying close attention to political stability, transparency in regulations, and the climate's welcome for foreign ownership. In countries where legal frameworks support investor rights and provide transparent processes for acquiring and transferring property, confidence tends to be higher.
Infrastructure is another critical factor. Cities undergoing rapid urbanization, with expanding public transportation, energy access, and digital connectivity, are becoming magnets for development. In many parts of Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia, improved roads, airports, and broadband networks are helping unlock the value of previously overlooked districts. Educational institutions and healthcare facilities also play a role in driving real estate demand in these regions.
Market demand also plays a significant role. Whether it's the need for affordable housing in fast-growing cities or rising appetite for office and logistics spaces in trade hubs, understanding what types of property are in short supply helps investors align their strategy with actual market needs. Monitoring migration and demographic shifts adds further insight into where demand is likely to grow.
Countries to Watch
Manny Khoshbin explains that Mexico continues to draw attention thanks to its proximity to the U.S., growing manufacturing sector, and nearshoring activity. Cities like Guadalajara and Mérida are seeing a surge in housing demand, fueled by both domestic migration and foreign buyers seeking stable returns in a familiar time zone. Improved safety in certain regions is also making them more enticing to foreign investors.
Vietnam remains a standout in Asia. Ho Chi Minh City is experiencing rapid development, driven by foreign direct investment and a growing middle class. The government's commitment to infrastructure and business-friendly reforms is transforming the urban landscape and opening up new areas for residential and commercial projects. Da Nang and Hanoi are following suit with accelerated growth in the tech and tourism sectors.
In Europe, Poland offers a compelling mix of economic resilience and strategic location. Warsaw and Kraków are emerging as tech and finance hubs, driving demand for modern office space and rental housing. Meanwhile, Medellín in Colombia is benefiting from its appeal to digital nomads and entrepreneurs, who are drawn to the city's revitalized neighborhoods and competitive cost of living.
Entry Strategies for International Investors
Navigating a new market requires an in-depth understanding of local laws, tax structures, and property rights. Investors who take time to partner with trusted legal advisors and on-the-ground property managers are often better equipped to handle unexpected challenges. These partnerships can also help bridge cultural gaps and streamline bureaucratic processes. In some cases, local partners bring access to exclusive deals or insider knowledge that foreign investors might otherwise miss.
In emerging markets, financing options may differ significantly from those in more developed economies. Some countries limit foreign borrowing or impose restrictions on capital repatriation. That makes it essential to explore local lending conditions, currency risk, and cash flow planning early in the investment process. Delays in approvals and construction permits can also affect timelines, making contingency planning crucial.
Establishing joint ventures with local developers or entering through real estate investment trusts (REITs) has become a favored route among global investors. These models can offer lower entry costs and shared risk, particularly in markets where navigating real estate regulations solo can be complex.
Research Methods and Market Intelligence
Reliable data is the backbone of any real estate decision. Investors are increasingly relying on insights from multilateral organizations, local government reports, and property databases to understand pricing trends, vacancy rates, and ongoing infrastructure projects. This layered approach helps ensure a more comprehensive picture of market conditions. Language-specific reports and translation services can further enhance data accessibility and usability.
Conducting site visits or commissioning virtual tours through local brokers can offer timely insights that numbers alone might miss. These visits also allow investors to assess the build quality and the surrounding area firsthand. In volatile regions, on-the-ground insights can be the difference between a profitable venture and a costly misstep.
Managing Risk and Planning Long Term
Emerging markets carry unique risks, but many of them can be mitigated. Whether dealing with currency fluctuations, regulatory shifts, or construction delays, experienced investors build flexibility into their timelines and budgets. That adaptability becomes a strength when navigating unfamiliar terrain. Insurance coverage and political risk assessments are also becoming more common as part of this process.
Diversifying across regions and asset types not only spreads risk but also uncovers growth potential in overlooked segments. A mix of residential, commercial, and hospitality investments across different countries can help shield a portfolio from localized downturns.
Manny Khoshbin notes that long-term success often hinges on having a clear exit strategy. Whether through resale, rental income, or asset transfer, knowing the endgame before entering a market helps shape smarter decisions from the outset. It ensures that short-term moves align with broader goals.
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