4 May 2008

Preparation is half the Battle; Avoid the Pitfalls

Buying a Property Overseas as an Investment?

Preparation - The Key Message, Going to look at properties should be the LAST stage in the process, not the first. The process of buying a property - whether for your personal use or as an investment - SHOULD start with thorough preparation. This will save to a lot of wasted time AND money. We STRONGLY recommend that you make contact with us BEFORE you go to look at any property. That way we can deal with all of the key issues (such as those listed below) calmly and clearly, before you get involved in the rush and pressure always associated with buying a specific property anywhere in the world.

Preparation Check List
Why are you buying the property? Is this for retirement, a holiday home, a holiday home that you want to pay its way or a pure investment. If you are buying a property as an investment, see our Guide to Buying Investment Property.

Which country and area will suit you best? If this is an investment, where are you likely to make the most money?

Which type of property is best for you? Villa, apartment, town house, finca, condo, penthouse, loft, rural, beach font, city centre. This is not always obvious.

How are you going to pay for the property? Are you going to take out a mortgage? If so, where and for how much? What are you doing to guard against the risk of fluctuating exchange rates?

How are you going to manage the property? If you want to let the property, who are your target tenants? Who will manage the lettings? How much money will you make?

Who should be the legal owner of the property? The right choice here can save you £/€/$THOUSANDS, even on an ordinary holiday home. See below for more information

We will be happy to assist you with all of these issues.