Most people calculate what a move costs if it works. This worksheet calculates what it costs if it doesn't. Fill in your estimates. Even rough numbers will change your perspective.
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SECTION 1: YOUR SITUATION
SECTION 2: DOWNSIDE COMPONENTS — What Could You Lose?
Required real estate purchase or investment for visa/residencyYou get the property back when you sell — but this capital is tied up and can't earn returns. Enter the full purchase price. Your actual loss is captured in "Property Loss" below. (Panama: $200K+, Portugal: $280K+, Greece: $250K+)
If you buy and sell at 30–50% lossTypical expat-market resale discount: 30–50%. Selling takes 12–18 months. Calculate as % of your Property Investment above.
Disputes, contracts, immigration issuesBudget $10K–50K if any legal issue arises. In civil law countries, expect longer timelines.
Moving there + potentially moving backShipping, flights, temporary housing, setup costs — multiply by two.
Lost income during transitionEven retirees: capital reallocation has long-term compounding consequences.
Breaking leases, closing accounts, selling assetsLeaving is often more expensive than arriving.
What your tied-up capital would have earned over 3 years at 6% annual returnBased on ALL capital tied up in the move (Property Investment + all other costs), compounded at 6% per year over 3 years. This is money that can't work for you while it's locked in a failing move.
YOUR MAXIMUM DOWNSIDE
$0
The Key Question
If you lost this amount, would it change your retirement? Your lifestyle? Your options?