'Do your research and reap the benefits', overseas property-seekers told

Despite a few horror stories, many people who have bought property abroad are reaping the benefits of their investment, reports the Independent.

According to the news provider, buying for the right reasons and researching extensively are the best ways to help guarantee a dream investment.

Buyers are advised to choose a property in a place they love rather than making a decision purely on market factors, so if the worst happens and value falls, at least they will still be able to enjoy holidaying there.

Andrew Hawkins of Chesterton International told the newspaper: "I cannot stress enough the importance of doing your research and only dealing with reputable agents and developers."

He added that nightmare experiences were "the exception, not the rule", and that the majority of buyers were happy.

David Dixon bought an apartment on Lake Maggiore, Italy, in 2006, and is now earning £20,000 a year from his investment. However, he warned that potential investors need to be aware of the culture they are buying into, as in the case of Italy, an extremely relaxed national attitude can mean processes take longer.

Meanwhile, buyers have been advised to insure their overseas homes through British insurance providers.

According to homesgofast.com, Tonic Underwriting has said language barriers and unfamiliar systems can result in policies being misinterpreted, meaning buyers could lose money.