Brazil: There has been a marked increase in interest from British and international investors in Brazilian property this year, driven by the country’s growing economy and strong economic fundamentals.

“Brazil offers huge opportunities in the lifestyle property market. The tourism industry is undeveloped and as new flight routes open up from North America and Europe, the market is set to increase rapidly,” says Christopher Chadd of Property Frontiers, the international property consultancy.

A growing middle class has led to a surge in demand for housing, which is good news for buy-to-let investors. Property Frontiers is currently marketing a project in the north of Brazil with two-bedroom apartments available from £55,000 which come with a guaranteed 6 per cent net yield for four years.

Investors should bear in mind the strength of Brazil’s currency, the Real, which would add significantly to the cost of buying property in the country.

Florida: Property analysts believe Florida is worth a look due to price falls of as much as 40 per cent since the credit crisis.

“Buyers should look into this market because it probably represents the best value real estate in the world at the moment,” says Chadd.

Nigel Lewis of FindaProperty.com agrees. “Florida’s market is staging a significant recovery in the more desirable areas including the Gulf Coast and near to Disney World.”

Investors can achieve net yields of between 8 to 10 per cent but mortgages continue to be thin on the ground so most deals would require a cash purchase.