[JMBroad]

That's where we differ in opinion... I don't think trusting a friend or family in Brasil who have no knowledge of real estate should be used to negotiate a property investment in any country, especially Brasil.

I do agree that you should get someone competent in the real estate field to help you with your investment but I don't agree with the idea that someone is more or less competent because of where they are located.

They should be evaluated based on their knowledge of the legal system and of the market, how much care they take on behalf of their clients before, during and after the purchasing process and their track record. The choice should not be based on their residential address. All of the arguments being given to support the theory that Brazil is a dangerous place to invest (no extradition, etc) only supports my personal opinion.

Find someone who you trust but who you can also "hold accountable" nearer to where you live who to negotiate the deals on your behalf, based on their knowledge of the market and legal system. It is easier to verify the reputation and qualifications of a company in your own country or region than it is to verify the reputation, qualifications and existence of someone in Brasil.

Basically what I'm saying is why "trust" someone who you don't know in a foreign country. You can't. Trust yourself after doing thorough checks on the people you chose to represent you.

However, I agree with Ralph that finding the right person to represent you, either in Brasil, Europe, US or Timbuctoo (depending on where you live) is the hard part.