Real estate is full of surprises. From laws that protect squatters to billionaires buying nuclear bunkers, here are 20 jaw-dropping facts about the global property market that go far beyond “location, location, location.”
1. There Are Skyscrapers Built Just to Block Sunlight
In cities like New York, developers sometimes build “spite towers” — super-skinny skyscrapers designed not just for luxury living, but also to block light, air, and views from neighboring buildings. It’s a brutal way of preserving exclusivity and market value.
2. In Japan, Houses Are Built to Depreciate
Unlike the West, Japanese homes lose value rapidly — often depreciating to zero after just 20–30 years. That’s because many homeowners prefer rebuilding to modern standards rather than renovating older structures, leading to a teardown culture.
3. The World’s Most Expensive Parking Spot Sold for $1.3 Million
In Hong Kong’s ultra-dense financial district, a single parking space sold for over ₹10 crore, more than what most homes cost in India’s biggest cities. It highlights just how scarce and valuable urban land can be — even in miniature form.
4. Ghost Cities in China Have Fully Built Malls, Airports, and Homes — With No Residents
Places like Ordos in Inner Mongolia feature high-rises, roads, and airports — all built, but rarely used. These cities were developed in anticipation of population booms that never came, leaving behind eerily empty infrastructure.
5. In Italy, You Can Buy Homes for €1
Several small Italian towns, suffering from depopulation, now offer abandoned homes for just one euro. The catch? Buyers must commit to renovating the property within a few years, stimulating the local economy and preserving history.
6. There’s a Law in France That Protects Squatters After 48 Hours
If someone occupies a vacant property in France for over 48 hours, they legally gain certain tenant rights under the “Loi DALO”. Evicting them becomes a lengthy legal process — even if they entered without permission.
7. In Dubai, You Can Buy an Island in the Shape of a Country
“The World Islands” off Dubai’s coast are artificial islands shaped like global nations. You can buy your own ‘country’ — complete with luxury villas, private beaches, and even helipads — if you have the millions to spare.
8. The Burj Khalifa Uses So Much Water, It’s Hauled Out Daily
Despite being the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa isn’t connected to Dubai’s sewage system. Waste is collected in trucks and driven out daily — up to 15 tonnes per day — a shocking logistical issue for such a modern marvel.
9. In South Korea, Apartments Come with Built-In Appliances and Floor Heating
Unlike many countries where rentals come unfurnished, South Korean homes are fully loaded with fridges, TVs, washing machines, and heated floors. The built-in “ondol” heating system is a centuries-old tradition carried into modern homes.
10. Billionaires Are Buying Old Nuclear Bunkers as Homes
Former missile silos in the U.S. are being converted into luxury underground bunkers, with features like cinemas, hydroponic farms, gyms, and safe rooms. These apocalypse-ready homes sell for tens of millions and offer ultimate privacy and security.
11. Some U.S. Cities Fine You for Having a Too-Green Lawn
In drought-prone states like California, using too much water to keep lawns green can lead to fines or public shaming. Homeowners are now shifting to xeriscaping — desert-friendly landscaping with rocks and native plants.
12. Tokyo Is So Efficient, It Has No Real Estate Bubble
Unlike other global cities where home prices skyrocket, Tokyo stays affordable because it allows constant redevelopment and vertical expansion. Over 140,000 new homes are built yearly, keeping demand in check.
13. There’s a Country Where You Can’t Own Land at All
In Switzerland’s Appenzell Innerrhoden region, foreigners are legally prohibited from buying land or homes — a unique protectionist policy that safeguards local traditions and housing affordability.
14. Iceland Has No Property Tax on Rural Land
To encourage decentralization, Iceland eliminated property taxes in many rural areas. Owning land outside Reykjavik can be incredibly cheap, even scenic — a dream for digital nomads seeking peace and nature.
15. The White House Is Technically a Rental
Although the U.S. President lives in the White House, it’s federally owned property. Every change — from wallpaper to WiFi upgrades — must be documented and funded by public money or approved donations.
16. There’s a Skyscraper With a Hole to Let Dragons Pass Through
The Repulse Bay Building in Hong Kong features a giant rectangular hole — designed based on Feng Shui beliefs that dragons live in mountains and need a clear path to the sea. Blocking this path is said to bring bad luck.
17. In Germany, Kitchens Are Considered Furniture
German tenants are expected to bring their own kitchens — including sinks, cabinets, and sometimes ovens. That’s why you’ll find “kitchen for sale” signs on rentals, and people moving homes with entire kitchens in tow.
18. You Can Buy a Town in the U.S.
Entire towns, complete with houses, shops, and land, have been sold in the U.S. — like Toomsboro, Georgia, which was listed for $1.7 million. Buyers have included tech founders, artists, and even reality TV producers.
19. Some Buildings Are Built Just Out of Spite
“Spite houses” are tiny or oddly-shaped buildings constructed just to block someone’s view, reduce property value, or annoy a neighbor. Examples exist in Boston, Beirut, and even Delhi — often less than 5 feet wide but still habitable.
20. Real Estate in the Metaverse Is Selling for Millions
Digital platforms like Sandbox and Decentraland sell virtual land parcels for real money. Some companies have spent over $2 million on these non-physical properties, betting on the future of virtual commerce and identity.
