., that would make a foreign property very difficult and/or very expensive to get through underwriting.

There are alot of foreign investors that want to retire in the US who will readily loan or invest 500K to 1M to get their Green Card.

My wife is a CIPS (Certified International Property Specialist), and loves working with and assisting foreign Investors.Welcome to BP!

There is obviously a big difference between student rentals, national rentals and perhaps the most lucrative of all, those of foreign residents wishing to live all year round.

I encountered ideas and people with ways of thinking that were absolutely foreign to anything I had ever seen. 

Lastly, regarding an influx of foreign buyers, New York and London also enjoy the same sort of trophy buyer that is looking for a safe haven for their money.

I strongly believe you could make a good deal in joining a foreign market since the criteria you use for evaluating a deal are likely to be different than the local people due to the cultural differences.

It seems to me if there is a lack of local demand there might be a market to buy and hold as rentals for foreigners visiting or moving to Japan, or affordable 2nd homes.

For starters do you know if I, as a foreigner, have the right to buy and rent in USA ?

@Dawn Anastasi   as a foreigner he will not be able to get regular bank financing on non owner occ .. 35 to 50% down at 8 to 10% interest with points and closing cost adding another 10% to the cost of funds up front ....