Buying Spanish Property

When you start looking for property, it is a good idea to create a checklist beforehand. This way, you can decide what is best for you and your situation, which could save you both time and money.

Create A Checklist

Would you rather live in the town or in the country?
Would you prefer to be inland or right on the coastline?
Do you prefer total isolation or a less remote location? (Many people do not wish to be more than an hour's drive away from towns and shopping.)
Do you wish to have a big garden and lots of land?
Do you want your neighbours nearby, or far away?
Are your neighbours pleasant, and would you want to socialise with them if you lived near them?
Are there stores, bars, restaurants, and clubs in the area? Do you want to be close to them?
If you need to use public transportation, is it available, inexpensive, and close? Do they run on a frequent schedule?
Will you be close to the beach, if you're considering waterfront property?
Is the nearest airport convenient and easy to get to?
If you like sports, are their facilities nearby? For example, golf courses, tennis courses, swimming pools, etc.?
Are there adequate and close health services and social services, such as hospitals and doctor's offices?
Are there many entertainment options close by?

Seek Professional Advice

The purchase of a new home should involve the use of professionals in order to make it as stress free as possible. Real estate agents are perhaps the best way to go, as they are in the business and can give the best advice. Make sure to go through a reputable company, and only use a real estate agent that holds a license in that state or country and is registered. Also, make sure that your lawyer speaks and understands English well, and whatever native tongue that is used in the area where you plan to buy property. An example of this would be if you plan to purchase property in Spain. If you do, you will have to make out a will in Spanish before you purchase a home, and consider that you may be responsible for any debts incurred by the previous vendor.

Research The Costs

Before you purchase a home, be sure to take care of all legal issues and costs. Your lawyer can give you sound advice and assist you in this process. Make sure beforehand that you are aware of all the costs associated with your purchase, check your finances, and obtain professional advice. It is important to be aware of your finances, as taxes can be high when buying a home. It may be wise to set up a direct debit to pay your bills from a nearby bank. If you are using a foreign bank, be careful as they are not lenient with late payments. For those who choose to sublet their property, remember that in the United Kingdom a property abroad may mean taxes for both American and foreign authorities.

Your offer should be made in writing. Include the price, amount of your deposit, when you will be paying, when it will be paid off, what is included in the whole price, and that all functions of the property (for example, machinery, heating and cooling) are in proper working condition.

For those who need more information about purchasing property in Spain, please refer to Access Spanish Property