Tax implications of overseas residential property investments : A comparative study.

Abstract

This report aims to provide investors with useful information pertaining to investment in residential real property in Malaysia, Australia and the United Kingdom, particularly in the area of taxation. This research is carried out in light of the fact that most investments are made without consideration or knowledge of the ultimate taxes that have to be paid, and which may constitute a large portion of the hidden cost of the investments. For instance, the Malaysian government has recently imposed a flat tax rate of 30% on any real property gains made by non-residents on the disposal of their properties, regardless of the holding period. Without knowledge of this, ignorant investors will find the profitability of their investments in Malaysian properties greatly reduced. The tax implications will be discussed in the context of both the foreign countries and in Singapore. First and foremost, we will look at how the income from property is taxed in the foreign countries. Then, will we turn and look at the tax implications in Singapore itself, when the income is ultimately received in Singapore. An analysis of the tax implications of investing in the three countries will also be made, to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of investing in these countries. It is hoped that at the end of this report, potential investors will have a better idea of the tax implications of residential real property investment in Malaysia, Australia and the United Kingdom.