BUYING a home in the sun is a dream come true for many Brits, especially at this time of year when the nights are long, the wind is biting, and the rain never seems to let up.
But before rushing into a decision and snapping up what seems like a terrific bargain, consider the following advice.
Find a good estate agent: yes estate agents rarely feature in dreams but a reputable local agent can make all the difference, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the lay of the land.
Check with locals, lawyers and architects in the area for recommendations, and always get a second opinion.
Set a realistic budget: expect hidden costs and additional taxes and fees, including fees just to find out what fees you’ll pay.
Non-residents may also be expected to stump up a larger deposit than anticipated.
Find a good lawyer: recruiting a lawyer you can trust will go a long way towards your peace of mind.
British consulates will typically provide a list of approved lawyers, but make sure you’re clued up on the processes regardless, two minds are better than one.
Check the property: seems a very simple point but people buying abroad are often swamped with time constraints and immediately blown away by the typical space and beauty homes abroad can offer.
Make sure you know as much as you would were you buying a property at home. This also means researching the building companies behind the home or development through references and advice to ensure the value won’t decrease due to future legal troubles.
