Buying Property Overseas

Buying a property in the sun is a dream shared by many British people. Blue skies and warmth appeal after the grey skies and cold at home. Millions of us jet off for our annual two weeks holiday and it's no surprise that many of us decide to turn that daydream into reality.

Perhaps it's the sun or perhaps the sangria but it's a sad fact that many of those who buy property in Spain find the dream turning into a nightmare as their normal caution is thrown to the winds.

When buying a property in the UK we look at a number of factors and there is no reason not to consider those same points when buying abroad. Below are a few of the factors you should consider when buying property overseas.

Factors to Consider When Buying Property Overseas to live in permanently

• Area Is this the right area of Spain to live in rather than just holiday?
• Location What is the immediate area like? Is it in decline or on the rise?
• Schools What schools are available locally if you have children and can they help them learn Spanish and fit into the local culture?
• Local taxes What are the local taxes like?

Another point to keep in mind is the difference between winter and summer. A busy holiday resort is fine for two weeks but can become wearing for a whole season. If you like it busy, then remember it may be half empty in the winter and you might find it too quiet.

Spanish Property Lawyers are Important

The biggest mistake made when moving overseas is to fail to use professional help. Whilst nobody in the UK would consider undertaking their own conveyance unless they were qualified, once abroad they lose all caution and have been known to pass over cash only to find they don't actually own the property.

Always find a qualified local lawyer (abogados) who specialises in property and has experience of overseas purchases. Do not assume things are the same as in the UK, they aren't. Always ask your lawyer to explain everything and to clarify any points you are unsure of.

Spain has a huge amount to offer from Catalonia in the north with the amazing city of Barcelona and the Costa Brava resorts to the more southerly regions of Granada, Cadiz, Malaga and the Costa del Sol. Before making the move to Spain it is worth sampling the different lifestyles and approach of the different provinces.