How can an Indian citizen buy real estae in US?

[Abeer Bagul]

Hi,

I am an Indian citizen living in Pune, India. Am looking to buy an investment house in US.

Have been to various parts of US a couple of times, especially South Bay, Silicon Valley and Baltimore.

My budget is $100k, and can do a downpayment of $50k. The property should be in a decent neighbourhood, and want to also give it on rent.

But generating income from rent is not the primary motive, the main motives are:
1. A long term investment with appreciation in the next 10 years.
2. Rent to offset the monthly payments, especially since I can do a 50% downpayment.
3. Decent neighbourhood so that I can have some bragging rights back here in Pune, Mumbai. So a small 2 BHK apartment in a nice University area would be great.

How should I go about this?