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BUYERS GUIDE
Spanish Property-Buyers Guide
Buying property in Spain does not need to be a difficult process, although great care and attention should be afforded to the various aspects involved and the steps along the way. By working with reputable and experienced companies as GCF and Solimar, the process can be achieved in the most efficient manner possible.
Choosing a Location
As the old adage goes "location, location, location..." so consider the location first and foremost. Decide on a particular area where you think you will be happy spending a lot of your time. Speak to friends and family who may have valuable experience you can gain from and feel free to use GCF and Solimar experienced staff as we pride ourselves on our knowledge of Costa Blanca, Mar Menor and Costa Calida.
Budget
It is important to have a clear idea before you start, of the budget you have available, and broadly speaking the type of property you are interested in buying. GCF and Solimar will be able to advise you much more clearly on what is available realistically once a budget has been set.
Deposit
When purchasing a property in Spain, you will generally be required to pay an initial deposit and then remaining balance or stage payments.
Initial Deposit: an initial deposit of 3,000 euros will be required. This will guarantee removal of the property from the market.
Remaining Balance or Stage Payments: through Solimar, you can benefit from 20% deposit and balance on completion in the purchase of any of Solimar properties. This may vary with other developments which are not from Grupo Solimar.
Appointing a Lawyer
It is advisable though, by no means compulsory, that you appoint a Lawyer (Abogado in Spanish) to ensure that you are covered against all contingencies. GCF and Solimar can introduce you to an English speaking Lawyer in Spain, or should you so desire, you may wish to choose your own legal representation.
Buying Process
The legal process of buying a house is generally done in two stages. The initial contract signed between the two parties is known as the "contrato privado de compraventa". The final exchange of deed is known as the "escritura de compraventa".
Property Purchase Costs
Normally you should allow an additional 10% on top of the purchase price for legal fees, notary fees, Land Registry and VAT.
The lawyer will give you a breakdown before completion.
Other Compulsory Costs Involved In Owning Spanish Property
Rubbish Collection and Water Rates.
The rubbish collection rate is applied by the local Town Hall payable every six months at a maximum rate of 258 euros per year.
Water rates are charged by consumption in cubic metres on a quarterly basis.
Community Fees
Community fees are applicable for properties that have the benefit of services such as swimming pool, 24 Hour security, up-keep of gardens and general maintenance. The budget for the annual expenses is set at the annual general meeting of homeowners.
Non-Compulsory Costs To Be Considered
Insurance
A standard insurance cost for a 300,000 euros apartment, with contents valued at 40,000 euros, would be approximately 300 euros per year.
Telephone lines
A standard fixed line provided by Telefonica costs in the region of 120 euros to install. Thereafter the bill is charged on a bi-monthly basis.
Mortgages
Spanish banks freely lend to non resident purchasers. Mortgage rates are generally lower than most European Countries. Non status mortgages are available.
To apply for a mortgage, the following information normally needs to be supplied:
Last income tax return. P60. If self-employed, statement of accounts for 3 years.
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