Workation Trend 2025: New Hotspots Where Remote Workers Are Buying Second Homes

Remote work stopped being an emergency experiment years ago — it’s a lifestyle. In 2025 the side-effect is clear: more remote professionals are buying second homes in places that combine reliable internet, lifestyle perks and community. About one in five remote workers say they plan to relocate in 2025, a signal that migration and second-home buying tied to work flexibility are still growing. Howdy

Here’s where demand is heating up this year — and what agents, developers and buyers should know.

Why second-home purchases are following the workation boom

Two big forces are at play. First, employers increasingly allow hybrid or fully remote arrangements, which frees buyers from city-centric home purchases and encourages lifestyle-driven choices. Second, governments and regions are actively courting remote workers (digital-nomad visas, incentives), which make longer stays and property ownership more attractive. These structural shifts are reshaping residential demand and creating new “zoom-towns” and holiday-work markets. McKinsey & Company+1

Hotspots to watch in 2025 (mix of India + global)

Below are proven and emerging markets where remote workers are not just visiting — they’re buying.

1. Goa, India — beaches + coworking = repeat buyers

Goa has shifted from seasonal vacations to year-round remote living. Improved co-working options, coliving operators and a strong nomad community mean remote professionals are comfortable buying second homes (villas, serviced apartments) near Panaji, Anjuna and Mandrem. Local agents report more long-term stays turning into purchases. Zingbus

2. The Himalayas (Dharamshala, Dharamkot, Bir) — nature + calm productivity

Himalayan hill towns are popular for month-long workations that often become longer stays. Buyers are choosing small cottages and townhomes to escape city heat and noise while keeping an online job. Reliable broadband and a Westernized hospitality scene are making ownership feasible. JoinYourTrip

3. Portugal (Lisbon & the Algarve) — EU access and friendly visas

Portugal’s digital-nomad visa options and high quality of life continue to attract remote workers who see buying as an investment in lifestyle and residency options. Portugal remains a magnet for Europeans and non-EU remote workers seeking a stable second-home market. Citizen Remote

4. Bali (Canggu & Ubud) — tropical work + strong expat ecosystems

Bali’s coliving brands, affordable services, and large expat networks make it a choice spot for those who can purchase or invest in leased villas and serviced apartments. Many remote workers transition from short stays to long-term ownership with local partners or long leases.

5. Smaller European & rural initiatives — incentives to move

Regions across Spain and Portugal are offering grants or incentives to attract remote workers (e.g., rural repopulation schemes), which sometimes include housing support — another reason to buy where the local government wants you. Condé Nast Traveler

What remote buyers are prioritizing in 2025

• Workable internet and backup connectivity — non-negotiable (fiber or reliable 4G/5G).
• Dedicated workspace at home — buyers want an office nook or spare room.
• Community & coworking access — a nearby coworking or coliving hub increases resale value.
• Healthcare and transport links — even remote workers want easy access to clinics and good airports.
• Short-term rental income potential — owners often expect to rent their property when they aren’t using it.

Tips for realtors & developers

1. Showcase connectivity and workspace — list broadband speeds, UPS/backup power, and a staged home office.
2. Package experiences, not just property — include introductions to local coworking, coliving and community meetups in sales decks.
3. Offer flexible ownership models — co-ownership, managed rentals, or serviced-apartment formats appeal to transient remote buyers (and reduce friction).
4. Know visa and tax basics — help clients understand temporary-stay rules, residency paths and short-term rental regulations for your market. CN Traveller

Smart advice for buyers

• Test the market first. Book 1–3 month stays and test morning Zooms, power reliability and weekend life before buying.
• Run numbers on remote-seasonality. If you plan to rent when away, understand local tourist seasons and marketing channels.
• Think long-term total cost. Factor in maintenance, property management fees, local taxes and insurance — especially in coastal or mountain climates.
• Work with a local agent experienced in remote-worker buyers. They’ll understand permits, community dynamics and demand drivers.

The big picture for 2025

Remote work is still creating new pockets of demand outside traditional metros. With dozens of countries offering digital-nomad pathways and regions actively incentivizing remote residents, the market for second homes tied to workations is maturing — and with maturity comes opportunity for real estate professionals who can package lifestyle, connectivity and community into a compelling purchase.