Is the pound's rise tempting you into a place in the sun? Make sure you avoid the pitfalls of buying property abroad

Published 23rd May 2012

Brave bargain hunters are being tempted by overseas property again, thanks to the pound's steady climb against the euro and the woes affecting popular European destinations.

Headlines about Spanish villas at a 40 per cent discount to the peak of the property boom prices combined with a pound riding 10 per cent higher than a year ago certainly sound tempting.

But if you do find yourself falling into the fellowship of those who eye up a Spanish apartment from the beach, or contemplate a French villa as they sip Pastis of an evening, then you need to be cautious.

Too often holidaymakers get seduced by sales patter and the wistful desire of a break from grey old Britain, find themselves lured into dud deals.

Make sure you know exactly what you are signing up to and always ask yourself, is this really right for me and will I use it?

Here, with some help from overseas property finance specialist Conti Financial Services, we present ten things you need to to look out for when considering a home abroad.


1. Contracts

Never sign a contract that you do not understand (e.g. if it's in a foreign language). If two versions are provided, i.e. English & local language, ask your solicitor to confirm the English version is a true translation.

Always read the contract! Ensure you are fully conversant with the terms and conditions you are about to agree to. Specific points to be clear about include: What deposit is required? Is it refundable and under what circumstances?

For new properties, what stage payments are required and when?
What is included in the price and what is the cost of the extras?
Check the due completion date

2. Arranging finance

If you require mortgage finance, obtain an 'Agreement in Principle' for your mortgage before agreeing to purchase the property, or before signing any contracts and paying a deposit.

If you are arranging finance on the property, ensure that this is stated in any contract and, where possible, seek an 'opt-out clause' if the loan is not agreed (which will ensure any deposit paid is refunded).

Remember your mortgage will probably be in the local currency and you must consider the impact of fluctuations in exchange rates. However, if the intention is to receive rental income from the property, this may also be in the local currency.

3. Specialist advice

Always ensure that you seek specialist advice from independent solicitors, valuers, architects and surveyors before considering a purchase overseas. They should be proficient in your chosen country's laws and processes and also know the specifics involved in buying a property there. It is essential they confirm to you that all required permissions, licences and planning consents have been obtained.

4. Valuation

Before proceeding with the purchase (especially with a re-sale property, regardless of age), ensure an independent valuation of the property is carried out, which should point out any problems with the property, e.g. subsidence, damp, wiring defects - and could also highlight any possible boundary disputes.

5. New Build

If buying from a developer, what's their track record and how long have they been trading? Are references available from previous buyers? Check comparable properties in the area and any re-sales offered on the same development. If the developer mentions 'rental returns', what are these based on?

Check they're feasible and have been achieved in the past.
Before making any commitment, try to give yourself a 'cooling off' period if you see a 'must-have' property and are tempted to put down a deposit there and then. You must be sure that you're making the right choice.

6. Title/Property Ownership

Does the developer or seller have full title to the land or property? Ensure you do not inherit a debt on the property before you purchase, which your solicitor should also be able to check. For example, if the developer has borrowed money to build the development and this amount has been allocated against each plot as additional security to the developer's bank.

7. Location, location, location

Conduct thorough research about local facilities and transport. People gravitate to locations with a nearby airport, especially if it's served by a budget airline. But remember there are no guarantees that cheap flights will continue indefinitely in one location.

Proximity to basic facilities like restaurants, shops and a beach are also important.Talk to people who already live/own property in the area you like to get a better understanding of what it's like to live there. And consider the property off-season - many resorts (beach and ski) are seasonal and practically shut down when the tourists return home.

8. Local money

Open a bank account in your chosen country and, where relevant, ensure you obtain a Certificate of Importation for the money you bring in from your home country. Set up standing orders in your local bank account to meet local bills and taxes. Failure to pay your taxes in some countries such as France, Portugal and Spain, could lead to action by the authorities.

9. Extras

Bear in mind that bills don't end at the asking price. Lawyer's fees, IVA, local and national taxes, insurance, etc must all be met in your host country and can often add at least a further 10% to your cost of acquisition. Ensure you are, therefore, aware of the costs charged by the legal and government authorities for purchasing a property in your chosen country.

10. Tax

Check the inheritance and capital gains tax laws of the country where you are buying. For example, in France your children automatically inherit rights to your house; your estate may not automatically pass to your spouse and you may, therefore, need to compile a separate will.
If you take a mortgage out on a property in France or Spain, it may reduce your inheritance tax liability as there is a debt on the property. If you rent out your property you will be liable for income tax

Source: ' 'ThisIsMoney' '

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