Spanish Property - What People Really Want to Know
“Spain the easy way” one of the premier Spanish property agents operating in the UK have recently compiled a survey of the most commonly asked questions by people considering buying a home in Spain.
(PRWEB) February 6, 2005
Online spokesperson Richard Baker said “what most people interested in Spain want is clear unbiased advice, after hearing many clients ask the same questions we decided to publish the answers to our most commonly asked questions as an easy reference source for anyone who is thinking of buying in Spain.”
Q 1 Can I take my pets to Spain?
Yes, many people take both cats and dogs to Spain, your local vet should be able to help you with the necessary paperwork; usually it is a very straightforward process. Many airlines will now fly pets to Spain for little more than the price of a standard adult flight, alternatively you may feel more comfortable taking them by land.
Q 2 I canÂ’t speak Spanish how will I get on?
Spain now has a very large English speaking population. In the coastal areas most shopkeepers, restaurant staff and indeed many Spanish people in general have a basic knowledge of English. Many menus, signs and prices are in English as well as Spanish. There is even several English language newspapers published in Spain. In rural and traditional Spanish areas you may find English is less frequently spoken.
Q3 Can I drive in Spain on my ordinary UK driving licence?
Yes, a UK driving licence entitles you to drive in any European Union country including Spain.
Q4 How good are the Spanish health facilities?
UK citizens are fully covered by the Spanish health care services whilst in Spain. The Spanish healthcare services, set up in 1986, are amongst the best in Europe, with a standard of care said to be at least as good as in the UK.
Q 5 I am interested in Spanish property but donÂ’t know how to get more information, where do I start?
Buying any property, abroad or not, can be a stressful process. To make sure you get the right advice we always recommend contacting a reputable independent Spanish property agent with offices in the UK as well as in Spain. It is also very important that you find an independent agent who is not tied to only one or two builders. An independent agent should be able to give you unbiased advice and be in a position to find you the property that you want as opposed to just trying to sell you anything on their books.
Q 6 I have recently heard a lot of stories about “land grab” where people are losing their homes. Can I protect myself against “land grab”?
“Land grab” which is a form of compulsory purchase order has been much publicized in the past, there are dangers, but they needn’t affect a sensible buyer. First of all “land grab” only affects certain areas of Spain, a reputable agent should be able to steer you clear of areas where your property could be at risk. Secondly if you have an interest in a particular property, before you purchase, a Spanish Solicitor should be able to ascertain whether or not your property will be susceptible to “land grab”.
Q7 Does Spanish property come with any guarantees, how do I know if we are buying a good quality well built home?
As Spain is part of the European Union Spanish builders have to work to the same regulations and standards as UK builders. All new Spanish homes are sold with a 10year bank backed building guarantee.
Q8 I have heard that there are many people who own a Spanish home and rent it out for a few weeks a year to cover their mortgage costs is this easy to do?.
There are many English speaking letting agents based in Spain who will, for a percentage of the rent charged, handle every aspect of renting out your Spanish home. Once again a good Spanish property agent should be able to recommend several who are reputable.
Q9 Can I get a mortgage to buy a Spanish property?
UK citizens can, subject to status, take out a Spanish mortgage. Currently due to lower interest rate Spanish mortgages are considerably cheaper than UK mortgages, this probably accounts for the large number of UK citizens who are now taking on a Spanish mortgage.
Q10 I have heard a lot about purchasing "off plan", is this a good idea?
That depends on your requirements. When you purchase off plan you will be purchasing a property in advance before it has been built. Whilst this can be a good idea for many people the main drawback is that your property may not be ready for 12 months or more. If you are looking to use your property quickly you may be best advised to buy a resale home. Spanish resale homes are usually sold fully furnished and the legal process will take approximately six to twelve weeks.
Www. spanish-property. ws was created by “Spain the easy way” as a guide for English buyers looking to buy a holiday or retirement home in Spain. They provide information on places to buy, styles of home available and the buying process in Spain. They promise a personal service with access to “real people” to answer questions and guide you through the whole process.
For more information or to ask your own question please visit www. spanish-property. ws if you donÂ’t have access to the Internet please call 01709 721812 and speak to one of the team who will be happy to offer you any advice they can.
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