Buying a property in Spain should be an exciting experience for you, your partner, family and friends. Although it may initially seem challenging, the process can be smooth sailing with the support of a reputable Spanish property agent.
At Spanish Legal Homes, we have helped over 10,000 people to safely purchase a property in Spain and continue everyday to help UK buyers find their perfect home abroad.
To help you get started we have pulled together our top 10 rules for buying a property in Spain and ways we can support you on your journey to buying in Spain.
1. Understand your motives for buying in Spain
Whether you would like to retire in Spain, are looking for a holiday home, buying for investment benefits or simply to relocate, it’s important to be clear on why you want to buy a property in Spain. Alike in the UK, property is a large investment which should be highly rewarding assuming the purchased property matches the objectives of the purchaser.
2. Know what you want from your property
Once you know your motive, it’s important to understand what type of property you’re looking for and the key features you require. Some may be essential to you, such as ground level access or proximity to bus stop, and others may be desirable depending on the property, these could include a private swimming pool and roof terrace. Read more tips here.
3. Get an idea of the types of property available on the market
Looking online at popular property portals such as Rightmove and A Place in the Sun will give you a good idea of the types of property available. It will also allow you to view property styles you particularly like, which can then be shared with your chosen property agent. However, the good properties do get snapped up quickly so to stand the best chance of securing the property of your dreams it is essential to view properties in Spain ASAP. Learn more about our £99 per person viewing trips to Spain.
4. Using a reputable agent
Buying property through an established agent is the safest way to ensure your purchase goes through legally and securely. A reputable Spanish property agent should:
- Ensure the correct paperwork is completed
- Show you only 100% legal properties
- Be fluent in both English and Spanish communications
- Understand your needs and only show you property that suits your requirements, including budget and essential criteria
- Keep you informed on the progress and remind you of key dates for required actions, such as signing paperwork and making payments
- Provide advice on locations and be highly informed on what the local areas offer
- Demonstrate real knowledge and experience of the local property market
- Access to expert legal and financial advisors
At Spanish Legal Homes, we are proud to be an AIPP member (Association of International Property Professionals) which demonstrates our commitment to uphold professional values and strive to improve standards for British buyers. Our experienced and friendly team have worked in the property market for many years and will ensure your property purchase runs smoothly. Read our testimonials to hear what our clients say.
Established in 1985, our group has helped 10,000 people safely buy a property in Spain.
5. View the property before you buy
Found a property online you like? Please make sure you see it before handing over a deposit! On many occasions, properties may be slightly different to how they appear online as you cannot be clear on the location, what surrounds the property, the quality of the build and interior, size of the rooms and the overall feel. Therefore we always recommend getting out to Spain to view before any exchange of money, despite what the property owners or real estate agents say.
We provide weekly ‘all inclusive’ viewing trips to Spain, which allow UK buyers to view 8-10 properties per day that suit their requirements and budget whilst also exploring the local area. This way you can get a real feel for the property’s location and size, and decide if it’s truly the property for you!
6. Going on a viewing trip? Make sure you have a deposit ready
To make sure you don’t miss out on the property of your dreams, please ensure you have the appropriate funds in place for the deposit that will be required if you decide to make an offer. We’re are certainly not saying you need to purchase a property on your viewing trip, however if you do see a property you love you will want to secure it there and then.
On a viewing trip with us, clients have absolutely not pressure to buy. If you don’t like the properties we show you, it’s no problem!
When getting your deposit ready you’ll want to know you’re getting the best exchange rates, our partners at GCEN (Global Currency Exchange & Money Services) can help obtain the best rates and will give you educated advice on managing money for buying a property in Spain. Speak to GCEN for advice on funds for a deposit and obtaining the best exchange rates.
7. Get your finances in place and consider additional funding
Purchasing a property in Spain is a huge and rewarding investment, therefore it’s important to be clear on what funds you have available. Whether you have come into some money, are using savings, plan to relocate to Spain or using retirement funds, having a figure in mind that considers the cost of the property plus additional fees will be vital when searching for the appropriate property.
We also like to educate our clients on options for additional finance from either Spain or the UK. These may include a Spanish mortgage, equity release on your UK property, loans both secured and unsecured and remortgaging. Our recommended, UK based financial advisors can assist you and discuss your options for gaining extra funds.
There are many benefits to getting extra funding including:
- Offsetting the weak £ Sterling
- The ability to afford a bigger and better property in a more desirable location
- If you need to save a little or are waiting for money to be released, obtaining finance may enable you to purchase your property sooner
Read more about the benefits of financing a Spanish property.
8. Use a reputable solicitor
A qualified solicitor is an essential resource who will ensure the process of buying a property is legal and legitimate. Despite the fees, we always highly recommend you do not bypass this, due to the potential future costs, risks of purchasing an illegal property and overall stress that can be avoided with the help of a professional. Our team can introduce you to English speaking solicitors who specialise in property. It is not a risk worth taking.
9. Take advantage of the after-sales services
When moving to Spain there are lots of things to think about, so to make things easier we employ an expert after sales team who will be on hand to help. Whether you need assistance moving in, advice on renovations or restaurant recommendations, our friendly team are only ever a phone call away.
10. Enjoy the process!
Most importantly, enjoy your journey to buying a property in Spain! Despite the occasional stressful moments, the process should be one you’ll remember for all the right reasons and set you up for a lifetime of good memories you can share with family and friends!
Always remember your motivations for buying a property in Spain and remind yourself, it will be so worth it!
Next steps?
If you have any questions about buying a property in Spain or are looking to start your journey, please get in touch with our expert team on 01202 971614 or email sales@epspain.com.
If you’re seriously looking to buy within the next year, why not book one of our ever-popular viewing trips for just £99 per person? View property, the area and get all the guidance and advice you need on an inclusive trip. Book yours today >