I have recently returned from my visiting my parents in Surrey, England. My parents are fine but like America, England's economic activity has greatly slowed and (Real) Estate agents are struggling and even going out of business as you can see in the article on the right.   Sales are still happening here in California and fortunatley I have not seen news this bad for U.S. agents.  I for one have enjoyed some activity recently and for people who can afford it they are some very low prices in Santa Clarita.

Will prices go even lower? For sure that is a possibility.  The only given about property investment is that sooner or later they will go higher. 

A note about another effect with international transactions is that the US Dollar is getting stronger. For example, this 50 acre large training center (see below) near London Heathrow Airport  (near my parent's home as my Father is a retired pilot) has decreased by millions of Dollars in sale price simply because of the exchange rate. I doubt any of us have the deep pockets for this commercial property, however, I have met an international colleague who handles reasonably priced residential properties in other countries. 

There are plenty of bargains locally but just in case anyone is looking for a second or retirement home outside of the U.S. give me a call at 661 478 6865.