How to Find Your Dream Home in a New Country

Moving Tip: Moving with my pilot husband means finding homes in new places like Macao and Italy. Now, the search continues in Qatar!

One of the most exciting—and sometimes daunting—parts of moving internationally is finding the perfect home in a completely new environment. With each move we’ve made as a pilot family, from Macao to Italy, and now preparing for Qatar, we’ve learned that every country offers its own set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to housing. Each location has its own way of life, and choosing a home that fits both our family’s needs and the local lifestyle is key to making the transition smoother.

Here’s a look into how we’ve navigated finding our dream homes in different countries, along with some tips to help you on your next international move.

1. Researching the Housing Market in Your New Country

Before you even step foot in your new country, it’s crucial to start researching the housing market. Each place has its own unique real estate trends, rental norms, and quirks, so understanding what to expect ahead of time will save you from surprises later on.

What to Research:

Rental vs. Buying Options: In some countries, it might make more sense to rent, while in others, buying might be a more stable option. In Macao, we found that renting was the best option for a short-term stay, whereas Italy offered more affordable homes for purchase, depending on the region. For Qatar, we’re exploring rentals that are more family-friendly and suited for expat lifestyles.
Cost of Living: Housing costs can vary dramatically between countries and even cities within the same country. Macao, for example, has a high cost of living due to its urban density, while in Italy, rural areas offered more space for less money. Qatar seems to be in between, with a range of housing options depending on the neighborhood.
Types of Housing Available: Some countries are known for high-rise apartments, while others offer sprawling houses with yards. Knowing what’s commonly available can help set your expectations. For example, Macao’s housing market is dominated by apartment buildings, while Italy offers a mix of apartments, townhouses, and countryside villas.

2. Know What You Need in a Home

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that every country and home will have its own advantages, but it’s important to make a list of must-haves that fit your family’s lifestyle. Moving as a family with a toddler, as well as with the unpredictability of my pilot husband’s schedule, means there are certain non-negotiables that always top our list.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Home:

Location, Location, Location: Consider the neighborhood’s proximity to schools, parks, grocery stores, and your workplace. In Macao, we prioritized being close to my husband’s flight base and a safe neighborhood for our son to play in. In Italy, we looked for a quieter location with access to outdoor space. In Qatar, we’re looking for family-friendly neighborhoods with international schools and easy access to the airport for my husband’s frequent travel.
Size and Space: The size of the home is another key factor, and this can vary greatly from country to country. In Macao, apartments are smaller and more compact due to the city’s density. However, in Italy, we had more space and even a small yard, which was perfect for family life. For Qatar, we’re looking for a spacious apartment or villa with room for our son to play and my mother to feel comfortable living with us.
Safety and Security: Safety is always a top priority when choosing a home, especially in a new country. Make sure to research crime rates in potential neighborhoods and check the security features of your building or house. Many apartment buildings in Macao had security guards, which gave us peace of mind. In Italy, we found that rural areas were quieter and felt very safe for family life. Qatar has a reputation for being safe, but we’re still considering properties that offer gated communities or added security.

3. Apartment Living in Macao vs. More Spacious Homes in Italy

Each country we’ve lived in has had its own unique housing style, and we’ve had to adapt accordingly. Here’s a comparison of the two very different housing experiences we’ve had in Macao and Italy, and what we’re anticipating in Qatar.

Apartment Living in Macao:

Macao is a bustling, densely populated city, so high-rise apartments are the most common housing option. While the apartments tend to be smaller, they are often modern and well-equipped with facilities like gyms, swimming pools, and security. We had to adjust to living in a more compact space, but the convenience of being close to shops, restaurants, and public transportation made up for the lack of space.

One challenge of apartment living in Macao was finding a place with enough room for a growing family. We had to get creative with storage solutions, making sure every inch of space was used efficiently. Despite the size, the vibrancy of the city kept us entertained, and being in the heart of the action meant there was always something to do.

Spacious Homes in Italy:

Italy was a stark contrast to Macao. We lived in a more rural area with access to a larger home and plenty of outdoor space, which was perfect for our son. Italy offers a mix of housing options, from quaint apartments in historic cities to more modern homes in the countryside. We opted for the latter, enjoying the peaceful environment and the luxury of more space.

One of the things we loved most about our home in Italy was the outdoor area. Having a garden meant our son had space to play, and we could enjoy family meals outside in the warmer months. The slower pace of life also allowed us to enjoy our home and surroundings more fully.

Looking Ahead to Qatar:

As we prepare for our move to Qatar, we’re looking for something that combines the best of both worlds. Qatar offers a range of housing options for expats, from luxury high-rise apartments to spacious villas. We’re leaning toward a villa with a yard, as we value having outdoor space, especially with our son and my mother living with us.

We’ve heard that many expat communities in Qatar are well-equipped with family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, and community centers, which will help us settle in more easily. Since Qatar has a high expat population, we’re also hoping to find a neighborhood where we can connect with other families and build a support system.

4. Resources for Finding Your Dream Home

Finding the perfect home in a new country can be daunting, but there are plenty of resources that can help make the process easier. Here are a few tools and tips that have helped us along the way:

Where to Look for Housing:

Real Estate Websites: Sites like Property Finder, Expat.com, and local real estate platforms are great for browsing listings before you even arrive in your new country. In Qatar, Property Finder has been particularly helpful in narrowing down neighborhoods and housing types that suit our family’s needs.
Join Expat Groups: Connecting with expat communities online, such as Facebook groups or local expat forums, can provide invaluable insights and recommendations for neighborhoods, rental agents, and housing tips.
Work with a Relocation Specialist: If your move is work-related (as it often is for pilot families), see if your employer offers relocation assistance. Many companies have relocation specialists who can help you find a home, handle paperwork, and even negotiate rental contracts.
Visit Before You Decide: If possible, try to visit your new country before making a final decision on housing. We’ve found that seeing a place in person gives you a much better feel for the neighborhood and the property itself. This was especially helpful when choosing our home in Italy, and we’re planning to do the same in Qatar.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Dream Home Abroad

Moving to a new country with a family can be challenging, but finding the right home can make all the difference in how smoothly you settle in. Whether it’s adjusting to apartment living in Macao or enjoying the spacious homes of Italy, each country has its own unique housing opportunities. As we prepare for our move to Qatar, we’re excited to find a home that fits our needs and provides a comfortable environment for our family.

With a little research, some flexibility, and a clear idea of what you need in a home, you can find your dream home in any new country. Happy house hunting!

What’s your experience with finding a home abroad? Share your tips or challenges in the comments below!