Buying an overseas property is an exciting experience. Whether you are buying in Spain, France, Italy or Portugal, follow our simple steps to ensure the purchase process goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Check Your Finances
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Whether you are a cash buyer, releasing equity on your home in the UK, or applying for an overseas mortgage, it's important to not let your heart rule your head and make sure you work out what you can actually afford to spend. |
Do's and Don'ts
- Find out about pension investments.
- Visit our Mortgage Zone for more information on overseas mortgages.
- Make an offer on a property without checking if you qualify for a mortgage.
- Waste time searching for property above your budget.
2. Select Your Location
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There may be countries and areas you are already considering buying in but you need to do your research. For help working out the country you want buy in, use these simple steps. |
Do's and Don'ts
- Have a look at our Country Guides.
- Read about other people's purchase experiences buying abroad.
- Search Rightmove Overseas to gather contacts and start making a shortlist of potential properties.
- Choose a location that is going to be difficult for you to access, think about flight routes and airlines from airports local to you.
- Base your choice of location on an estimation of returns from your investment.
3. Get an Independent Lawyer
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Getting good independent advice from an specialist lawyer in the country you are buying in is absolutely vital. Don't be tempted to accept the first lawyer that comes along, particularly if they also have a relationship with whoever you are buying from. |
Do's and Don'ts
- Visit our Legal Zone for more information.
- Look out for property companies who are registered with the AIPP.
- Think about purchasing without legal representation.
- Sign any documents without translation and legal advice.
4. Visit Your Location
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Armed with your shortlist of properties, the next step is to go and see them. |
Do's and Don'ts
- Book appointments with the property agents and developers.
- Book a flight and accommodation.
- If possible, hire a car.
- Explore the area and speak to the locals or expats.
- Put in an offer on the first property you see.
- Get tied in to spending your time with just one agent or developer.
5. Buy Your Property
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When it comes to decision time make sure the property you choose ticks the boxes in terms of the investment you are making. |
Do's and Don'ts
- Choose somewhere that has rental potential if it's going to be your holiday home.
- Instruct your lawyer once you've had an offer accepted.
- Make sure you get regular updates from the agent or developer.
- Exchange your currency through a specialist, such as Smart Currency Exchange.
- Go above your budget.
- Use your bank to exchange your money, you'll get better rates with a specialist currency service.
6. Move In
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Congratulations on owning your home overseas! Now think about...
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