Buying property in Spain

With all the paperwork necessary to complete a Spanish transaction, you might think that paper is a cheap commodity in Spain and it is, especially when compared to the cost of incomplete or erroneous paperwork! Here are just a few of the things we do at Almeria A1 Properties to ensure smooth transactions including some extra tips for you when you're buying in Spain.

• We never use gestorías or asesorías. Almeria A1 Properties uses a team of three lawyers to completely analyse every detail of your transaction.
• Your money is safe in our lawyers' escrow account until every detail is checked and rechecked. We advise our clients to never give cash or cheque directly to a builder or agent.
• The first place to look when buying in Spain is at Internet sites like Spanish Property Insight, to learn every detail, tip, and bit of information about the current property market and buying in Spain.
• Don't listen to Café/Bar Experts. They don't have real expertise; they just have opinions and twice-told tales that will cost you money. Of course, you know about opinions. Everyone has one and - well, they don't all smell like roses!
• Some of the "Experts" may represent themselves as agents. A word of advice, if you want camaraderie, food, drink and relaxation, go to the Café/Bar. If you want to buy in Spain, find a reputable agent (like Almeria A1 Properties!) at their place of business and do use a lawyer!

Always remember that there are significant differences between UK and Spanish land laws. Never sign a contract before consulting with your lawyer!

As you would expect, coastal properties are premium priced, Because of this and the high density building along the coast, inland prices are increasing and building controls have tightened in rural areas. Still, when you use a reputable firm like Almeria A1 Properties, you can quickly find your dream spot, assure yourself that all legalities are in order, and turn your dreams into realities.

Spanish banks welcome business with foreign customers. Many have branches with English speaking personnel who will help you with the lending process. Although they operate under Spanish laws, several UK lenders have branches on either the mainland or Gibraltar as well.

Arranging a mortgage in Spain doesn't mean you need deal in Spanish currency. Many lenders have Euro loans available and some UK lenders also issue loans in sterling. Almeria A1 Properties can help you find the lender and choose the options that are right for you.

Once you've decided on a property, it may take three to four months to complete the transaction. Typically, at the beginning you make a deposit. When you sign the compra venta, you'll need to pay at least 10% of the purchase price. This preliminary contract is legally binding and clearly states the date of completion.

The finalisation takes place at the notario's, a government official who witnesses the signing of all documents. This is also where the escrituras (title deeds) are signed. At this point, you complete payment for the property including all fees and taxes.

Almeria A1 Properties makes sure each step in the buying process is completed legally. In fact, our business has been built on the referrals of satisfied customers. When you're buying in Spain, Almeria A1 Properties is by your side from the first step to the last step and beyond, putting you in touch with the services to turn your dreams of buying in Spain into reality.