Homeowners are not using remortgages just to gain funding for tight budget needs nor just to secure a low interest rate.  Many are using the cash released from a remortgage to invest in properties for either a buy to let situation or a second home in which to vacation to occasionally while offering it for holiday rental as well.  There has been a definite decline in house prices in many areas of the UK but investors have found that looking outside the UK can offer up a great deal.

According to a recent study of properties outside the UK it has been noted that there are eight top markets where an investor can find a great bargain.  Ireland tops the list of the eight top countries with real estate bargains for buyers.  The US follows close behind and then there is Hungary, Greece, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Spain and Portugal.  Not only are house price levels at attractive levels but lenders are also offering cheap deals on mortgage lending.

Experts agree that there are excellent property bargains available in these markets but they also warn that investors should be careful.  Some areas are so distressed and have such low house prices that the areas could remain in a distressed state for decades and some may never recover.  If the area remains distressed and house prices do not recover then the investment could be a bad deal.  It is important to do your homework thoroughly when choosing to buy in a foreign market and buyers should beware of those hoping to offer a bargain and sell off a bad investment property to an unprepared buyer.