A Guide to buying in Spain | Logan Spanish Property Services

Faqs - A Guide to buying in Spain

Decide what the property is for

Whether you wish to live the jet set lifestyle of Spain's swish sporting marinas or you prefer the rustic rural landscape theme, the decision will depend on your intended use of the property. You need to consider if it is for holidays only, a permanent residence, to rent out or simply to buy and sell purely as an investment.

Choose your Ideal Location

For many people the most desirable thing about owning a home in Spain is the ability to reach the warmth of Spain in around 5/6 hours door to door. Low cost flights now make regular long weekends away a reality. It is therefore wise to consider a property within 40 minutes of the airports. As a general rule, the more remote the property, the lower the price.

What can you buy?

Right across Spain you will have a selection of developments comprising of apartments, townhouses or villas. They generally offer communal swimming pools and tennis courts often with security, restaurants, bars and shops. Completed developments have the advantage of all the facilities being in place and an idea of the views you will enjoy, but when buying off plan (before construction has commenced) there is often a cost saving with a series of stage payments to soften the purchase over 18 months or more. You should be aware that a view that is currently rolling countryside may become obscured by other developments in the future. Whilst building controls are much more stringent than in the past and it is forbidden to build in a green zone, the status of land can easily be changed.

Prioritise

Unless you have unlimited funds it is likely that your dream villa on the beach will remain just a dream. It is vital that you consider your budget sensibly and prioritise the things that are essential to your "Spanish Lifestyle" with a secondary list of "Would Likes". You may have to compromise when choosing a property, for example, if a sea view is essential then do not settle for anything less, whereas if you would prefer a garage but are offered a parking space you may still be happy to proceed. Stick to your guns and never compromise with the items on your priority list as you may live to regret it.

The weather in Spain can be glorious, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, but remember in the winter evenings, it will be cool and it also rains in Spain. Most people travel to Spain for the sun, so consider purchasing a property that faces south with air conditioning to keep your property warm in winter and cool in the hot summer months.

Come and see for yourself

Once you have decided on your budget and made your priority list, you need to book a 3 to 4 day inspection tour. On arrival, we will collect you from the airport and take you to your chosen accommodation. Our intention is to know your requirements, so we need to discuss your budget and requirements. Before viewing properties, we require to select an area that best suits your needs, so an area tour is important. Once we have chosen the desired area, we will view properties within your budget. Your purchase is a big step, so it is important to see a variety of properties, but not too many, as this could be just as confusing.

We are here to assist in every way.

Choose carefully

When viewing properties in the sunshine there is a natural euphoria simply to be driven by the climate, the views and proximity to the sea, everywhere appears idyllic. However, it is easy to make a decision that is influenced more by the soul than the mind. There is nothing wrong with a little emotion, after all this is a purchase intended to give you an uplifting experience every time you visit.

However, re-selling a property in the future may take some time unless you choose carefully.

Building your own

It is important that you choose an architect who can understand your requirements and taste. Speak to several and see who you make a connection with and this must include very clear communication in English. Make sure everyone understands your instructions and follows them to the letter. Once your requirements are specified it will be easier for a lawyer to draw up a building contract that will detail costs and completion dates. If you make alterations to the plans once construction has started you must remeber that you will incur additional costs and delays. Your lawyer will also ensure that the necessary services, insurance and guarantees are in order.

When the final plans are ready you or the architect will need to present them to a number of builders and ask for "presupuesto" (Quotations). Whilst materials are cheaper in Spain, labour is in demand and overall costs are high. Don't be frightened to negotiate and do fix a price " at the builders risk". Offer a bonus to hit a completion date. The “manana” principle is as active now as it was 40 years ago so keep a tight rein on both architect and builder. Always leave a final snagging payment outstanding and do not be tempted to hand it over until every last handle, build and screw is in place and you are completely satisfied.

Renting

Renting property before you buy is an option that suits many people. Judging travel distances to shops, beaches etc. helps make a clearer decision on the sort of lifestyle you will be living in Spain. Often you find priorities change when you actually live in Spain. Sometimes people who rent take several years to make a final decision as they take time to find the area best suited to them.

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Faqs - A Guide to buying in Spain

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