INTERNATIONAL BUYERS - INVESTING WITH CONFIDENCE

For many decades, New York City real estate has been a beacon for international investors, playing a key role in a diversified portfolio. Though our political climate can feel chaotic at times, many international buyers see the city as a safe and reliable place to invest. They value the long-term stability and potential growth of the market here, knowing their investment will appreciate over time and remain relatively liquid. According to the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Wealth Report, it’s the top metropolitan area for high-net-worth individuals (those worth over $5m) whether they are looking for a primary residence or a secondary home.

ALIGNING YOUR GOALS

If you are considering a move to NYC or a 1031 exchange, or looking for the perfect pied-a-terre, partnering with an experienced broker who understands the nuances of the market as well as your goals is crucial. Even among investors, each buyer has different priorities: some focus on rental income, others on price appreciation, while some who consider themselves to be opportunistic look for the “values” in this competitive market. Buyers who have a limited time to visit should be prepared to make swift but smart decisions -- for some these decisions even happen virtually.

THE ULTRA-LUXURY MARKET

We think it’s important to touch on the ultra-luxury market, as international clients who are not only individuals but also represent corporations have sought luxury “trophy” condos, such as those along Billionaires Row. These ultra-luxury buyers are often drawn to the state-of-the-art amenities, dramatic architectural spaces and unparalleled views, often in the form of sought-after penthouses. For these buyers, these properties are not only a status symbol, but are, more often, a strategic one-of-a-kind investment. Buyers for whom price is no object still want to make savvy decisions and in this niche market, the prices can vary by the tens of millions of dollars; to a buyer unfamiliar with this specialized market, the prices can seem arbitrary. But rest assured, there’s a reason why one penthouse is $12M and another is a cool $48M, it’s just that it might not be obvious to everyone.

ENTITY SELECTION

International real estate buyers frequently purchase U.S. properties through LLC’s or corporations. New York City real estate can be complex, and this approach can offer several advantages. Buying through an LLC or corporation can shield ownership, offer liability protection and privacy, and make estate planning and tax management easier. When it comes to helping our clients acquire luxury properties, we also understand that it is paramount to help them safeguard their assets.

AN EXTENSIVE NETWORK

As an international buyer it is especially important to have a skilled and trustworthy broker who is in your corner and knows this market. With limited inventory in the most coveted properties, we also leverage our relationships in the industry to know about opportunities that will become available in the future. In addition, we can introduce you to tax, financial and legal professionals who can advise on purchasing in an entity, disclosure requirements, FIRPTA, and US financing options.

It is not uncommon to hear the cadences of dozens of languages bouncing off the marble walls of storied New York City buildings. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of New York that it continues to draw buyers from all corners of the globe, who choose New York not only for an investment but because they choose to spend part of the year here, enjoying the cultural vibrancy and economic opportunities of the city.