Thinking of going global? Places to buy property and those to avoid

If there could be only one rule of investing, it would be diversify — and then diversify some more. That typically means buying a mix of domestic and global stocks and bonds. More adventurous investors have, however, found another way to broaden their asset mix; investing in global real estate.

Buying homes and condos in the right markets — those that are still growing, are popular with international visitors interested in renting and have a thriving local culture. It can be a good way to keep a portfolio afloat during downturns, says Ashley Osborne, a Hong Kong-based executive director of international properties for Colliers International.