Can non residents buy
property abroad...?
Non-residents have been buying property in abroad in larger
numbers for at least the last 20 years. Buying property is easy and safe in the
majority of countries as long as you follow the advice of the agents we partner.
The low cost of living,
friendly locals and warm weather have made the purchase of a nest egg abroad the
number one choice for thousands
of British people, many working there, others retiring and many just investing. |
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What if I decide to buy...?
If on your visit you decide to purchase a property, the
property advisor will explain the buying process in detail.
A bank account is normally required in all countries to facilitate your
property purchase. Accounts can be opened easily in any bank normally by
presenting your passport. Internet bank facilities are readily available in most
countries. If
required your representative will assist with the bank details.
If you are purchasing off-plan, you will receive a
builder’s contract until such a time as your property is complete and the
title deeds are signed. This is an advantage to the 'Buy to Sell' purchaser as
there are normally no further costs involved until the title deed stage.
Your property purchase is completed at the Notary’s office
once the building work is complete. The Notary’s function is to oversee all
legal proceedings. Formal attire is required for visits to the Notary. |

How can I finance a property abroad
?
Mortgages are usually easy to arrange and the interest rates
in foreign countries
are currently usually the lower than in the UK. A number of properties on offer
already have a mortgage package in place (subject to your status). To raise the
money in the UK we suggest that you will get the best deal by using and
Independent Financial Advisor. To transfer money abroad you can save large
amounts by using a Foreign Exchange Company.
Mortgages are arranged upon completion of your property.
Banks require basic proof of income (eg. last year’s P60 and three pay
slips). As a general rule they tend to lend up to 80% of the property value and
over a maximum of 30 years. Mortgage rates start from as little as 2.75%
interest (subject to status). |

What will buying a property cost me?
Typically you should allow 10% - 15% of the property cost to cover
all the legal expenses, this will normally cover all solicitors fees, property
VAT and the connection of services.
In some deals legal fees are included in the price structure.
Additional costs...?
It is advisable to make a new will some countries recognise
English wills, we recommend seeking
legal advice on matters of inheritance. |

Is it expensive to live abroad?
In one word: No.
The cost of living is typically less than that of the UK,
although it will be higher in some popular tourist coastal areas, it will also depend
on whether you insist on buying imported brands of food etc.
A community charge is payable by property owners on complexes
and some developments which is calculated as the sum of your community’s costs,
divided by the number of owners. Usually each apartment block or group of houses
forms a community. Community fees include maintenance of communal facilities
such as swimming pools, door security systems, lifts and gardens.
Property tax rates could be as little as £80 a year based on
an apartment with two bedrooms. |

When your property abroad is ready
As the time approaches for you to exchange contracts you will
kept informed of the building progress and advised when your property is ready
for inspection.
Once you have moved in to your property, you may find with a
new property that you are using the builder's electricity and water until the
development is completed. The builder may charge you for this depending on how
long you are using his service. This should be detailed to you on the original
contract.
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