Introduction: A New Frontier for Wealth Growth
Singaporeans have long been known for their strong appetite for real estate. But in 2025, this appetite is evolving. Increasingly, affluent millennials, Gen X professionals, and HNWIs are setting their sights beyond our shores. Rising local property prices, stricter cooling measures, and global opportunities are prompting a clear question: is it time to look abroad?
With global connectivity at an all-time high and platforms like AcquireAbroad.com making cross-border property investing more accessible, investing overseas is no longer reserved for ultra-wealthy institutional players. Everyday investors now have the tools, knowledge, and networks to explore international opportunities.
Why Singaporeans Are Looking Beyond Borders
1. Tightened Local Regulations
Government cooling measures such as higher Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) have made local residential property investment less attractive. For example, ABSD rates for second properties for Singapore citizens have jumped to 20% in recent years. This has directly impacted yield calculations for local properties.
2. Currency Opportunity: GBP Strengthening Potential
The British pound (GBP) is currently exchanging at approximately S$1.73, making it relatively attractive for Singapore-based investors. The exchange rate has hovered around this level for the past month, providing an advantageous entry point for UK-based investments. This favourable rate increases effective yield when converting rental income back to SGD and lowers entry capital in SGD terms.
3. Portfolio Diversification and Global Exposure
Investing abroad offers investors not just geographical diversification, but also access to different economic cycles. The UK, Australia, and selected European markets continue to show long-term capital appreciation and strong rental demand in urban centres.
4. Familiarity with Global Markets
Thanks to strong historical, educational, and cultural ties with countries like the UK and Australia, many Singaporean investors are comfortable navigating these markets. English-speaking environments and common law systems make legal processes, documentation, and ownership rights more straightforward.
The Rise of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
One of the most prominent overseas asset classes gaining traction is PBSA – Purpose-Built Student Accommodation. These are professionally managed, fully furnished residences located near universities, offering stable yields and low vacancy risk.
PBSA provides:
- Fixed rental income via leaseback or direct tenancy agreements
- High occupancy rates driven by university demand
- Hassle-free property management (ideal for remote landlords)
Enter: AcquireAbroad.com
AcquireAbroad.com was launched to give Singaporeans and Southeast Asians direct access to vetted overseas property investments. Starting with PBSA opportunities in the UK, the platform bridges the gap between credible global property developers and investors who want:
- Transparency and verified listings
- Local legal support and due diligence
- Market education and insights
- Financing support via our specialist partners
Case Study: The Junxion, Lincoln
As part of its launch, AcquireAbroad.com is offering units in The Junxion, a fully operational PBSA property located in Lincoln, UK. It is just minutes from the University of Lincoln and has demonstrated consistent rental demand over the years. Investors enjoy long leasehold ownership, professional property management, and projected net yields of 7–7.5%.
Learn more about The Junxion project here
What About Financing and Ownership?
Contrary to popular belief, owning overseas property doesn’t have to be complex. With the right team:
- Singaporean investors can use international mortgages through specialist lenders
- Long-leasehold properties (typical in the UK) offer full ownership rights
- Rental income can be collected in GBP and repatriated efficiently
There are also no restrictions on foreign ownership in many jurisdictions we list on the platform, including the UK.
What to Consider Before Investing
Before diving in, investors should carefully evaluate:
- The political and economic stability of the destination country
- The currency exchange outlook
- The strength of the local rental market
- Tax implications (e.g. withholding tax, capital gains tax, estate tax)
AcquireAbroad provides onboarding guidance for all these aspects. We work with local legal and tax specialists to ensure investors are protected.
Final Thoughts: A Trend That’s Just Beginning
Overseas property investing is no longer a fringe pursuit for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. With platforms like AcquireAbroad.com, it’s now a credible, accessible pathway for Singaporean investors to diversify, build generational wealth, and tap into global growth markets.
As with all investments, knowledge and diligence matter – but with the right partners, the world becomes your investment playground.
Start your overseas property journey with AcquireAbroad.com today.
