Property advice
Navigating the property ladder is a significant undertaking wherever you live is complicated, to say the least, and the complexities amplify when considering a move across borders let alone an ocean. Spain, with its appealing lifestyle and diverse property market, attracts many international buyers, sellers, and renters. However, understanding the nuances and local customs is vital for a smooth and successful transaction. From securing financing to understanding purchase agreements and navigating tenancy laws, the process can be daunting. Therefore, before committing to any major decisions regarding property in Spain, speaking to those who have already made the move is highly recommended. Helping you to realize your dreams of owning a property in Spain. We are deeply committed to excellence in everything we do, constantly striving to improve our services and exceed expectations. We are truly passionate about helping expatriates like you find the perfect property and settle comfortably into your new lives. We are readily available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and offer personalized guidance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Here’s the good news: Americans can buy property in Spain without any restrictions. The Spanish real estate market is open to foreign buyers, and Spain remains one of the most attractive locations for luxury real estate investments. We've diligently cultivated strong working relationships with these specialists, ensuring they meet our high standards of quality and reliability. By choosing to work with them, you'll bypass the time-consuming process of vetting professionals yourself, and significantly reduce the risk of encountering unforeseen difficulties. We're confident that their knowledge and experience will prove invaluable. If you're interested in learning more about how our network can support your project, please complete the form below, and we'll be delighted to provide you with personalized assistance.
Here are some basic guidelines to follow:
3 Do’s
Hire a qualified registered lawyer
You would never buy a property in the USA without instructing a lawyer and yet a surprising number of people choose not to instruct a lawyer or legal representative when buying abroad. While it is possible to buy a property in some overseas jurisdictions, including Spain, without having to appoint a lawyer, it would be very unwise to do so. Only a qualified and registered Lawyer can give you legal advice in Spain. The golden rule is to always ask a lawyer in Spain for his registration number número de colegiado.
Ensure the title is clean
You need to verify the property is sold free of charges and debts. In Spain, unlike in other countries, the golden rule is that debts and taxes follow the property, not the taxpayer. Community of owner’s arrears, unpaid taxes (both local and national), administrative debts, planning charges, etc are associated with a property. Your lawyer must ensure you are acquiring a clean title.
Use all the resources available
Embarking on this type of project independently is certainly an option, but the process often involves navigating intricate details and potential challenges. To streamline your experience and ensure optimal results, we highly recommend leveraging the expertise of our established network of professionals.
3 Don’ts
Don’t pay in cash
Would you seriously pay in cash for a home in the USA? So, why do it in Spain? This only benefits the person asking to be paid in cash, it does not benefit the buyer in any way. When you come to sell the property later on, you will be hit by a massive capital gains tax bill.
Don’t be pressurised to sign on the dotted line
There is no cooling-off period when you buy property in Spain, the deal is complete when you sign the contract. If you wouldn’t rush ahead and sign on the dotted line in the USA, don’t do it in Spain. Focus, breath in and take your time before you sign any binding document giving away your life’s savings.
Don’t cut corners
Don’t try to outsmart locals by cutting corners; it is a one-way ticket into a world of pain. If you follow set procedures in the USA, why skip them in Spain? In Spain there is a lot of red tape, you simply need to follow or better still hire someone - such as a lawyer - to help you streamline it and help you wade through the administrative minefields safely.