Buying Property Overseas

Buying a property abroad is becoming more and more popular; however, the process is not at all straightforward, and you will need to thoroughly research the procedures relating to the particular country where you are buying.

However, here are a few general tips when buying abroad:

Lawyers

Always hire a lawyer to act for you - make sure they are English speaking if you are not fluent in the local language. In some countries, the locals do not use lawyers but you should insist. The lawyer will check that the seller owns the property and that there are no debts attached to it and that planning regulations have been met.

Agents

Make sure you buy through a qualified and licensed agent. In most countries (including France, Spain and Portugal), agents legally have to be licensed and using an unlicensed agent means that you will not be protected if things go wrong.

State Notary

Make sure you understand the role played by the state notary (notaire in French, notario in Spanish). They are a state official, whose responsibility is to see that the sale is completed - they do not act for you or the vendor.

Searches

Local searches are not always regulated, and it's often a case of making informal enquiries at the local town hall.

Contracts

Do not sign anything until you are absolutely sure that you understand it.