If there's one thing we should have learned from the financial crisis, it's that there's no such thing as a sure thing. Who could have ever predicted that the S&P 500 would fall to 1997 levels and GM stock would fall to as low at $3 a share? Many individuals have seen their retirement portfolios fall tragically because they were invested solely in stocks. While not free from risk, one diversification strategy is investing in international real estate which has the potential to grow during a global recession if you invest in the right locations. Tom Kelly, author of Cashing in on a Second Home in Mexico, recently told Realty Times that he advocates investing in Mexico real estate, specifically "fly in" resort locations rather than "drive in" locations that are near the border. According to the article, one of the key reasons that Mexico real estate is a smart investment is because of the much lower building costs compared to the US. "Investors can pick up a two-bedroom, two bath fourteen hundred square foot condo unit with a golf course or water view in Mazatlan for $180,000". You can buy cheap real estate in many Mexican destinations, like Merida for example. “You can still purchase an old colonial under $100,000 and have it redone for pennies on the dollar,” said Jim Mann of Mayan Living Real Estate Company who was interviewed by NuWire Investor on real estate in Merida. While there are many opportunities that can appreciate well in the future, it is also important to look at several other factors that come into play when investing overseas. Is the infrastructure for utilities sound in the area? How is demand for vacation rentals? Would you feel comfortable living at the location? How is the quality of health care? Are there reputable property management services available? Many of these questions can only be answered by spending some time at the destination you are interested in. You can also refer to our many interviews of expatriates living in Mexico or attend a real estate tour and seminar in Puerto Vallarta (see Mexico Real Estate Tours). Check back for more interviews of those who have sucessfully invested or moved to Mexico.