Spanish Property News

The Spanish property market has taken a bashing from the British media in the last few years, some of it deserved and some not. Newspapers and TV had their heart set on a Spanish property crash but it simply has not happened in the way the doom mongers predicted. OK, the boom days are over and there is definitely a shakedown. The weaker (and some of the biggest) property businesses are going to the wall and prices are falling in most areas – in others they are continuing to rise or are holding steady. Spain, however, remains the favourite destination for Brits looking for overseas properties - either for holidays or for permanent living.

A shrewd investor doesn’t buy when the market is at its peak, he buys when he thinks the prices have bottomed out and are set to rise again. Spain is now a buyer’s market, there are bargains to be had and excellent deals to be struck. If you know what you are doing and you have the nerve you can save thousands on the price of your property, your estate agents fees and, in addition, get some sweeteners thrown in. Property developers must sell their properties no matter what the state of the market to keep their cash-flow moving. Shop around - there are some amazing deals to be had.

The new eastern European markets appear comparatively inexpensive but Spain will always have the advantage in that flights are short, cheap (and the global warming issue is only going to force the cost of flights in one direction) and regular, summer and winter. In addition you can drive from the UK in a day so bringing your car for those longer stays is a practical option.

When you have made up your mind to buy your dream home in Spain you will be at a distinct advantage if you get to grips with how the Spanish market works and the key players in the business.

Get to know who does what in the Spanish property market. The more you know, the greater the likelihood that you will be able to select the right people and organisations to help you in your search and purchase. And importantly the harder it is for anyone to take advantage of you.

This guide is being updated and improved on a regular basis, from time to time you can download the latest version.

Do the following and you will be OK.

Do your homework before you set out on that inspection trip to Spain.

Be cautious.

Take your time.

When you purchase always use an independent solicitor.