Thousands of Brits pack up and leave these shores every year for a new life abroad. Whether it’s high taxation, rising crime, a rising population with a poorer standard of living, or simply the weather, over 4000 people are applying to leave Britain every week. 

If you are considering being one of them, you may wonder where the most favourable place would be, for you and your money. With sustained weakness in the Pounds to Euro exchange rate, perhaps your money won’t go quite as far on the continent, but remember:

A stronger currency is a good indication of a well performing economy, bringing with it the advantages of improved standards of living and better schooling and education. 

Emerging markets in Eastern Europe are still well worth a look with property prices still relatively low and indications that investment will yield sustainability longer term. If the exchange rate in Europe is too great a factor for you to ignore, try looking elsewhere. Sterling is performing very well against the U.S Dollar currently, a currency that is widely accepted for property all over the world.

South America
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

With pristine beaches and new developments, Mexico offers affordable investing in an area rich with culture and areas of outstanding natural beauty. The market is expected to rise by 8 to 10% in popular areas as recent growth has attracted
new developers with diverse opportunity for investment or relocation.

With markets ailing in the U.S and even Europe, many are looking further a field in areas such as Mexico which promise future returns in a stunning environment.

Property example: 2 bedroom townhouse in Puerto Vallarta, a popular area with high growth potential: $229,000 (£117,500)

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Five years of rapid economic growth above 8% have proved Argentina has suffered from the financial crisis of 2001 and with property in high demand and a buoyant market, high returns are increasingly possible. In recent years house prices in the capital have increased by as much as 25%.

Buenos Aires also has much to offer, it is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with a very European feel.

Property example: 2 bedroom apartment with swimming pool in Recoleta, one of the most sought after neighbourhoods: $112,000 (£57,435)

Florianopolis, Brazil

Under President Lula inflation has been at an all time low of just 5.7%, with foreign investment actively encouraged. Many economists agree that as an emerging market Brazil has huge potential to be one of the economic leaders of the future. Property prices have yielded returns of 20% in some areas, with Florianopolis in the south particularly attractive offering agreeable temperatures, low crime, with golden sands and clear blue sea surrounding the island.  Affordable property prices and excellent rental yield, as well as a low cost of living, mean Florianopolis represents both a solid investment and a suitable area in Brazil for foreigners to relocate to.

Property Example: 2 bedroom house overlooking the beach in a safe area on the East Coast of the island: $68,000 (£34,871)

As well as the U.S Dollar, Sterling is also performing well against the South African Rand, with current rates close to historical highs.

South Africa

With an excellent climate and year round sunshine, as well as favourable tax breaks and a strong rental market, the commercial property market here is even outperforming many Western markets. The 2010 Fifa World Cup will bring with it area regeneration and excellent opportunity for investment with steady growth already exceeding 14% in the Western Cape and 16% in other metropolitan areas.

Well known areas such as the Eastern and Western Cape and now the more attractive south coast area of KwaZulu Natal provide a well developed infrastructure with all the outstanding beauty and lifestyle that South Africa can offer. English is also widely spoken in most areas.

Property Example: 2 bedroom apartment in secure area in Western Cape: R469,000 (£29,700)