AIPP • WHA T IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE...?
“It is no surprise that my number one piece of advice is to use an independent lawyer when buying a property abroad, just as you would do in your own home country.” Peter Esders, Chebsey & Co
“Buying overseas is quite different from buying at home in the UK; some countries do not have a proper land registry system and you could fi nd yourself the owner of a piece of paper but not the real property! I strongly advise to use a solicitor no matter the country, to be sure that you buy in safe hands.” Matthieu Cany, Acumen Properties
“Don’t buy abroad without an independent specialist international lawyer reading all the paperwork fi rst, and don’t be fooled into signing any paperwork or handing money over beforehand, unless it is a fully refundable fee of only a few hundred pounds. If the agent tells you it is the last one or that the deal is only open for today... move on, as there are always better deals in the current marketplace.”
Stefano Lucatello, The International Property Law Centre LLP
“Visit as many places in the country where you wish to purchase as you can before making your selection; you will know when you see the place you like. Think of how convenient it is to reach from the nearest airport, the cost of air fares and the travelling times. Check the yearly weather records, and consider the amenities which you would like to have. Restaurant menus and prices are a good guide to the type of visitors. If buying an apartment, check what arrangements there are for maintenance and what the ongoing costs will be. If buying a house, fi nd out what arrangements can be made for the property to be looked after when you do not use it, or while you are letting it out. Remember in hot countries gardens grow fast and need constant care as do swimming pools. Get a good reputable lawyer who is a member of a local law association to represent you.” Bernard Ellis,
Croatia Acquisitions
“As obvious as it might seem I would strongly recommend that if you are seriously thinking of investing your hard earned cash overseas that you give yourself the best opportunity of success in your search by using honest, experienced, and professional agents. I would also strongly recommend that you choose an agent who has extensive knowledge within the country, region or area in which they are promoting these properties for sale. I would ask, why would you choose NOT to use a member of the AIPP?”
Rob Watchorn, Deal Hunter Spain
“First, look at the rental market; many people advise to rent somewhere for 6 months before you buy and I would agree if buying an overseas property to relocate to either full- or part-time. If buying more of a holiday home, fi rst look at both holiday lets and long-term rentals in the area. Even if you’re not buying a holiday home with the sole view of renting it out, times can change, and what can be a dream home full of family and friends in the good times can quickly turn into a fi nancial drain with the property empty for up to 52 weeks of the year. This needn’t limit your choice as all types of property from rural fi ncas to new build studios can rent well if there is a good rental/management company nearby and demand in that area.” Guy Tolhurst, Intelligent Partnership
“Before you buy, instruct a building survey by an RICS Chartered Surveyor as you would in UK. It can save you £1,000’s and avoid much grief. There are many working in Europe and elsewhere.” Campbell D Ferguson, Survey Spain
36 AIPP CONSUMER GUIDE
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