No, we are not back at school, hating the dreaded homework as it stopped us doing other "better more exciting things" To clients we ask this question regularly. With so much information at hand on moving to Spain, we ascertain what they know and listen to what they want.
Seven years ago whilst doing our homework on this area, a chance meeting with a British couple who have lived here for over 20 years gave us more of an insight than any books, websites or TV programmes on the subject of relocation to Spain. One comment they made was "if you wouldn't do it at home don't do it here" they warned us about buying property and other services from strangers!! This comment (made like a parents warning to a child) sat uncomfortable with me until I experienced what they meant. In English discussing the menu in a restaurant a few days later the first approach was made, I was polite to the British women offering to show us several houses without knowing our budget or what we were looking for. Eager to get back to ordering our meal I foolishly gave her my mobile number. Oh, what a mistake ......hard selling calls twice a day and her husband was a plumber that would solve all our future needs...........finally I was not so polite. Remembering the warning made to us, I told her that we would use a registered estate agent; buying a house the same way as in England and the services of her husband were not required!!
Using websites to look at what property is available in the comfort of your home is a great way to "window shop" but knowledge of the area is essential. Back to doing your homework. Independently from an agent, spend time travelling in the area visiting villages and towns (remember between 1 - 5pm and Sundays they are more sleepy than normal with shops shut and only restaurants and cafes open). Once you have found areas of preference use these locations to narrow down you new home. The cliché Location Location may sound trite but the right house in the wrong area is impossible to solve. People have waited over a year for the right house in just one village!
If you are at the first stages of looking for a property, use websites giving information on the legal process, do check when they were last updated. Books on the subject tend to be out of date before they are in print, but are a good source about the cultural and social aspects of this area. Try the Consulate and tourist sites, also there are good magazine and forum sites in English.
New legislation Notaries have been instructed by the tax authorities to ensure all foreigners purchasing or selling property do this using a NIE or NIF number. No longer can you use your passport number for this transaction. Your agent should advise you on this subject.
About the Author Helen is the overseas marketing and sales consultant for Immobiliaria Rieres (Estate Agents) located in Tortosa,Catalunya, Spain
