Buy A Property In Turkey - The actual purchase

As already mentioned, it's not difficult to buy a property in Turkey (provided you make sure you observe the legalities as mentioned in the last post. And don't even think of trying to get round them - e.g. by buying in the name of a Turkish friend - you will get into serious trouble!)

1. Once you've found a property you're interested in, it's essential to get it checked out very thoroughly. Get a reliable structural engineer to inspect it thoroughly for structural soundness - and this needs to include earthquake safety! If it's a resale property, make sure that there are no debts secured on the property. And check that all bills - e.g. for water and electricity - have been paid in full. Of course your lawyer need to do this for you.


2. Every property in Turkey must have a tapu (title deed). Get your lawyer to check the tapu thoroughly to make sure it's actually for that property and they aren't trying to palm off a different property on you - this has been known!


3. To begin the buying process, you and the seller sign an initial contract. You then begin the application for the tapu in your name.


4. Before the tapu can be issued to you, you have to obtain permits from both the the City Council and the Army Office. This takes about two months - your lawyer will see to it for you.


5. Once the tapu is issued, you then pay over the final purchase price, plus fees. If you have used an estate agent in Turkey, the agent's fee is 3 percent. There are also Land Registry and other fees that amount to about $1,200-$1,400 USD. And remember that earthquake insurance is compulsory in Turkey - a very good idea!

Don't forget you can find some fantastic Turkish properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html - as well as plenty of helpa nd support, so you don't have to struggle with language problems on your own!

There won't be any posts for about three weeks as I am off to our lovely villa/apartment in Crete (the most southerly island of Greece)! More about this when I get back - see you then!

Buy A Property In Turkey - Things To Watch Out For

As we said in the previous post, it's not that difficult to buy a property in Turkey and right now it's one of the best places to choose. But of course there are things you have to be careful of.

• First of all, check that it's actually legal for you to buy a property in Turkey. There's no problem if you're from the USA, the European Union or Russia. If you're from outside these countries, check that your country has a reciprocal agreement with Turkey.


• Foreigners can't buy a property just anywhere in Turkey. It has to be within the boundaries of a municipal area, i.e. a town or village with a population of 2,000 or more. Also make sure it's not in a military zone.


• There is legislation in Turkey covering purchase of property by foreigners (The Land Registry Act, Article 35). This covers property purchased for your own use but there are special regulations for property purchased for business or investment purposes connected to tourism. So if you intend to use your property for a holiday rental business, you should take legal advice.


• Remember that Turkish is a very difficult language for speakers of English and other European languages to learn, as it belongs to a completely different language family. Also English is not widely spoken in Turkey, except by those who have been to bilingual schools. You do need a reliable translator and a bilingual legal adviser.

In the next post we will look at the actual process of purchasing the property. Because of the language situation, a good alternative to struggling on your own is to find a property company in your own country or on the Internet to help you find your property. If you find it through us at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html we will support you at every stage and help you with all the difficult bits!

Buying properties Abroad - Delights of Turkey

More and more people are deciding to buy a property in Turkey. In fact it's becoming an increasingly popular choice for British people to retire to.


A decade or so ago, the idea wouldn't have occurred to many people. The usual choices were places like Spain, France or Italy. However these are becoming saturated and smart people are looking further afield.


And Turkey seems to be a good place to look at. It seems to have everything - a spectacular coastline, a near-perfect climate and ancient sites going back thousands of years.


What's more, Turkey is seen as a hot property market at the moment. The country is anxious to join the European Union and is doing everything possible to be foreigner-friendly. Properties can still be snapped up for wonderfully low prices and if Turkey succeeds in entering the EU, there will be a property boom.


If you want to buy a property in Turkey, the good news is that house purchase is a relatively simple process for foreigners. However, as with most countries, there are things you need to be careful of and we will look at these in the next post. Meanwhile you can start looking for your Turkish property at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

Buying A House In Cyprus

In the last post we noted that before buying a house in Cyprus (as a non-Cypriot), you need to obtain permission from the Council of Ministers. It takes 8-14 months so you should wait to choose your property till it has come through.


Once you have received your approval and identified your property, you can then start the purchase process.

1. First you have to sign the preliminary contract and post a holding deposit with a Notary, or with your lawyer. The deposit can be as little as 1 percent of the purchase price.


2. Your lawyer then draws up a secondary reservation deposit agreement which both parties sign. The property is then taken off the market and it won't be put back on provided you stick to the agreement.


3. The lawyer will then investigate the title through the District and Registry office. Once the investigation is complete, the parties can move to the final contract stage. The contract is signed by both parties and then filed with the Land Registry.


4. If the seller is a Cypriot, an application then has to be made to the Central Bank of Cyprus to approve the transfer of funds. If you are buying from another non-Cypriot, this isn't necessary.


5. If the property is not new, the title will be transferred to you straight away and you are now the owner. If it's a new build, the title will not be transferred for three years, though you are fully protected as the final contract is filed with the Land Registry.

Of course, before getting to the final contract stage, you need to have your finance in place. The easiest way is probably through a bank in Cyprus - most banks will provide mortgages to US and UK clients. Also, if it's a new build, the developers may offer their own mortgage facilities. Alternatively you may prefer to refinance your existing house - for help with this, try http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/lending.html To find some gorgeous Cyprus properties, visit http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/propertyabroad.html

Buying Properties Abroad - Think of Cyprus

Cyprus is the top choice - or near the top - for many people looking to buy an overseas property, whether it's for investment, retirement, vacation or rental.

There are many reasons for its popularity. Living there is easy and relaxed, especially for English speakers, as English is widely spoken there. It is incredibly beautiful, with a special quality of mystery and romance that comes from its connection with ancient myths and legends and its history stretching back thousands of years. Whether you choose the gorgeous coastal areas or the stunning mountain regions, you can be fairly sure of finding a fantastic property at a price you can afford.

So what's involved in buying a house in Cyprus? Well it's not difficult, but there is a specific procedure to go through. The first thing you have to be aware of is that every foreign national has to obtain permission from the government before buying a house in Cyprus. This permission is obtained from the Council of Ministers. You will need a lawyer to help you with the purchase process, so your best plan would be to hire a lawyer now to advise you as to how to go about getting this permission. The process takes 8-14 months so it's best to begin the process before choosing your property.

(Remember that this applies to the Republic of Cyprus. The legal process in Northern Cyprus is quite different.)

In the next post we will look at the process of buying a house in Cyprus. Meanwhile if you are ready to choose your property you can start your search at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

Buying Properties in Egypt - Traps to Avoid

The property market in Egypt has only recently got going and this is good news for overseas investors! However, the fact that it hasn't been going very long has its downside too. For those thinking of buying properties in Egypt, there are things you need to be very wary of.

1. Remember construction standards are lower in Egypt and the standards that do exist are not strictly observed. So don't put down any money on a property until you have ensured that it's structurally sound. Ideally you should commission a structural engineer, preferably a European one. (This may seem expensive but you will be getting a bargain on the property.)


2. You must check whether a property is registered before committing yourself - insist on seeing the original title document, not a copy. Many properties are unregistered - the reason for this is that registration used to be much more expensive than it is now, so many owners just didn't bother! If you don't check, you could find later that you don't actually own the property, even though you've paid for it!


3. Another vital check you must make is if there are any mortgages registered on the property. In Egypt, mortgages are recorded on the actual property rather than being in the name of a person. So a transfer of ownership doesn't make any difference. You don't want to find after purchasing a property that it's mortgaged to a third party! You can check any encumbrances on a property through the Pledge Register at the Notary Public's office.


4. Before beginning the actual purchase process, make sure you get a lawyer who is fluent in your language. Unfortunately, foreigners are sometimes seen as "fair game" and other parties may try to slip something past you! Insist that the initial "Sale and Purchase" agreement document is bilingual and check that it includes all the legal guarantees. You can then complete your purchase by registering the title through the Real Estate Department and the Notary Public.

Yes - buying properties in Egypt CAN be a bit of a minefield - but making the effort can be very worthwhile. You will have a beautiful property at an amazing price and it is almost certain to appreciate in value. Remember, we have a few superb Egypt properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html And the good news is that if you buy one of these, we will help you through all these steps and make sure you have a good clear title!

Buying Properties Abroad - Try Egypt

Have you ever thought of buying a property in Egypt?

If it's never occurred to you, you're not alone. The idea of buying properties in Egypt hadn't occurred to many people at all until recently. However, in the last few years the Egyptian government has made a determined effort to attract overseas property investment. Now more and more people are realizing that it has a lot to be said for it.

Egypt as a place to visit has many well-known attractions. In fact, there are very few places to compare with Egypt for romance, culture and fascination. Everyone has heard of the Pyramids at Giza, the Sphinx, the Valley of the Kings, the Temples at Luxor and the Nile, one of the most amazing rivers in the world. Egypt was home to one of the world's most ancient civilizations and you can see stunning reminders of this everywhere you go.

Unfortunately, a few years ago people were put off visiting Egypt because yjere were one or two outbreaks of terrorism. The government does seem to have made a good job of clamping down on this and Egypt remains one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.

Many experts believe the outlook is very rosy for the Egyptian property market. Prices are very favorable at the moment and there is a high rental potential because of Egypt's popularity as a tourist venue. Because it's early days for the Egyptian property market, there is every reason to believe it would be a very profitable investment as well as a delightful and "different" holiday home. You really would be getting in on the ground floor.

However, for those considering buying properties in Egypt, there are some points to be very careful of and we will look at these in the next post. Meanwhile, you can find a few stunning Egypt properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

Buy Property in Thailand - What About Pattaya?

If you're looking to buy property in Thailand, you are bound to come
across lots of invitations to consider Pattaya. This is a very popular holiday destination about 100 miles south of Bangkok, on the east coast of the Gulf of Siam.


So is Pattaya for YOU? Well, it depends on your reasons for wanting to buy property in Thailand.


If you're interested in the property as an investment, it looks as though Pattaya would be an excellent choice. The Pattaya property market is booming and is increasingly recognized as one of the hottest property markets in south-east Asia. The tourist industry is growing exponentially - it's highly popular with Thai as well as non-Thai tourists. So international property investors are finding great success in buying up property to let out to tourists and vacationers. The recent opening of the Suvannabhumi (or Suvarnabhumi) airport has caused an even greater boom in tourist numbers - and fueled the demand for quality tourist accommodation.


However, if I were looking for a peaceful retirement home, or a holiday home where I could relax and enjoy the local culture and the beauty of the country, I have to say honestly that Pattaya wouldn't be my first choice. Despite the fact that it's called "Asia's premier beach resort", the beaches are not great and not a patch on those in Phuket and other places. The beaches are mostly attractive to people who like watersports and water activities. Pattaya is known as "Funtown" and is famous primarily for its bars, casinos, nightclubs and adult entertainment, and has a very lively nightlife! If this is the kind of holiday that appeals to you, then you would enjoy a holiday home in Pattaya. If you like something quieter, you should probably avoid it.


That's my opinion anyway - if you think differently, do share your views! And you can find properties in Pattaya and other places in Thailand at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buy Property in Thailand - Phuket

For those wishing to buy property in Thailand, and who know something about the country.the stunning island of Phuket has always had a specially magnetic appeal.

Tragically, Phuket was caught up in the terrible tsunami at the end of 2004, and that was how its name became better known throughout the world. Since then, many people have thought that it might no longer be an option to buy property there.

Actually, the opposite is true. Only 5 percent of the coastline was damaged and has now been almost completely repaired. The property industry in Phuket remained stable throughout 2005 and started to grow strongly again during 2006. Growth forecast estimates are about 100 percent every three years.

So really it's hard to see how you could do better than Phuket for buying properties abroad, whether it's for investment, to rent out or to live in. Phuket is the wealthiest province in Thailand. It has a superb infrastructure and a well-developed tourist industry including an international airport. Not to mention its beauty and its abundance of amazing natural features, and wildlife including elephants!

Properties in Phuket don't come up very often and they aren't always available on our site http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html However, if you're interested, do keep checking so that when one comes up you can quickly snap it up! And of course it does feature beautiful properties in other parts of Thailand.

Buy Property In Thailand - the Process

In this post discussing how to buy property in Thailand, we are looking at the basic process. Don't forget that if you buy your Thai property through our site at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html , we will help and advise you at every stage.

1. Appoint a lawyer who is fluent in English, or in your own language if it is not English. (If you use us, we can help you with this. Otherwise you can ask the nearest consulate of your own country, or other expatriates from your own country.)


2. The lawyer needs to make various checks: that the sellers have the correct title to the property; whether there are any charges or debts owed on the property; and that the contract is drawn up correctly.


3. The lawyer will then help you through the transfer of funds and ensure that the property is registered correctly in your name.


4. To buy property you have to transfer funds from a bank outside Thailand to a bank inside Thailand. You can use any Thai bank, but Bangkok Bank seems to have the most organized set-up for international transfers. Make sure the transfer document states clearly that the funds are for the purchase of property. Bangkok Bank has also recently opened a facility for offering mortgages for overseas buyers.


5. The Initial Purchase Agreement will set out price, settlement date etc. and a 10 percent deposit is required at this stage. The deposit is refundable if the purchase does not go through, as long as it is not your fault.


6. Fees and taxes for buying property will total about 2-3 percent of the purchase price. They include a stamp fee of 0.5% and a transfer fee of 2%.


7. At completion the property will be registered in your name.

You should not find it too diifficult to buy property in Thailand - most people find it reasonably stress-free compared with many other countries. If you have personal experience, let us know if you agree or disagree!

Buy Property In Thailand - How To Own Land

In the last post about how to buy property in Thailand, we mentioned that although you as a foreign individual can own a building - e.g. a house or villa - in Thailand, you cannot own the land on which it is built.

There are a number of ways you can get round this - quite legally.

• You can set up a limited liability company registered in Thailand. There is nothing to prevent a foreign individual or couple from doing this and it will enable you to own land. However you have to pay a fee up front which comes to approximately £6,000 GBP or $12,000 USD, and there is also a monthly payment that amounts to around £50 GBP or $100 USD.


• You can purchase a 30-year lease, which you can register as renewable for consecutive periods of 30 years. You have to go to the local Land Office to sign the contract for the lease, which will be in Thai accompanied by a notarized translation into English or whatever your language is. The fee is 1.1 percent of the appraised value of the property.


• Many westerners choose to own a condo (condominium) rather than a villa. There is clear provision in Thai law for foreign ownership of up to 49 percent of units in a condo complex.


• There is another option which can be called the "romantic option"! A lot of westerners decide to marry a Thai national, which means they can buy property in the spouse's name. It is especially frequent for western men to take Thai wives. This is fine as long as it's a genuine marriage. However if you try entering into a sham marriage for the sake of owning property, you will find yourself in trouble as the Thai authorities take a dim view of it - not surprisingly! And if the arrangement breaks down, there will be all sorts of legal complications.

In the next post on how to buy property in Thailand we will look at the actual process of buying. If you would like to get started, you can visit http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html And if you have had experience of buying, or trying to buy, property in Thailand, do let us know your comments!

Buying Properties Abroad - Thailand

When you think about buying properties abroad, have you ever thought that you would like to buy property in Thailand? Maybe you have ruled it out because you had no idea how to go about it.

Thailand must be one of the most attractive places in the world to own property. You can't visit there on holiday without falling under the spell of this amazing country - its lush, exotic scenery, its wealth of beautiful temples and its delightful, friendly people. And of course it has an almost perfect climate from the point of view of sun-starved northern people!

The good news is that it is not at all difficult for foreigners to buy property in Thailand. In fact it is a lot easier than in some European countries. And of course it seems an increasingly attractive alternative to the traditional Europe holiday spots which are becoming more and more crowded.

The only catch is that although non-Thai nationals can own buildings, they can't acquire property rights to the land on which the building stands. There are a number of ways to get round this, and in the next post we will look at these. Meanwhile if you can't wait to look at some stunning properties in Thailand, you can find some at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

How To Buy Property In Spain - More Tips

In previous posts we have been looking at some of the pitfalls to beware of in buying property in Spain, and suggestions about choosing the right property for YOU.

Once you have picked your property and (excuse the repetition but it's so important) double and triple-checked that there are no legal problems that could cause you to lose the house, you're ready to make the purchase.

In Spain there are initial charges that have to be paid up front. These include transfer tax, stamp duty, fees to the notary public who supervises the sale, and payment for name change on the title deed. Allow about 10 percent to cover these.

You also have to pay a 10 percent deposit to the vendor. Once this is done, the sale is legally binding on both sides. If you pull out, you lose your deposit. If the vendor pulls out, he/she not only has to repay the deposit but pay you an additional 10 percent.

If you need a mortgage, it is usually not too difficult for foreigners to arrange one with a Spanish bank. Another possibility is to refinance your existing property.

Your lawyer then draws up a contract which includes details of the sale and sets a completion day. (Remember what we mentioned in a previous post - do NOT agree to any request by the vendor to enter a smaller purchase price in the contract to help the vendor pay less tax.) Between now and completion day, the lawyer will be doing all the legal checks.

On completion day, you and the vendor meet in the presence of the notary public (notario). You must bring the balance of the payment with you, either as a banker's draft or in cash. Once the notario is satisfied that all is in order, he or she will disappear with the contract and return in about 20 minutes with the stamped copies. Your dream property is now yours!

If you have carefully followed all these tips about how to buy property in Spain, your new home should be suitable for you in every way AND should be free of any legal traps and pitfalls. So there's no reason you shouldn't be able to enjoy it for the rest of your life!

You can start right away by looking at some of the gorgeous Spanish properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html If you're in the USA and would like to find out how to refinance your existing property or get a home equity loan, come and visit http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/lending.html

How To Buy Property In Spain - The Next Step

Once you have chosen the area where you want to buy your property, book into an hotel for a few days and explore. If possible and practicable, try to visit the area more than once at different times of the year, to make sure you like it in the off-season as well as at the peak of the holiday period. Of course if you live in the USA, you may not be able to do this.

Before starting your search for your actual property, write down your budget and stick to it. Most properties in Spain look so gorgeous in the sunshine that it's easy to get carried away, especially after a few glasses of Rioja! If you are tempted to offer more than you can afford, you will soon find yourself in serious problems!

When you find properties you are interested in, make sure you are able to view them as often as you wish. If any owner wants to restrict you to a single viewing, walk away. After your first viewing a lot of questions will occur to you so write them down before you go back. Try to view the properties at different times of day and in different weather conditions.

I know this has been said already but it can't be emphasized often enough. Before making even a preliminary offer MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A LAWYER. And make sure it's one who speaks both Spanish and your language, one who knows all the ins and outs of Spanish property law, and one you can trust. If you are using an estate agent, don't accept the lawyer recommended by your agent. This may be tempting as it would save you time, but you must have someone who is acting in YOUR interests. You can't be sure that the lawyer would not be acting in the interests of the estate agent as a return for putting business his way. Ask around other expatriates from your country - they may well have someone they can recommend (or someone they can warn you against!). Or ask your local consulate who will probably have a list of recommended lawyers.

I hope these tips on how to buy property in Spain are proving useful - do join in with comments if you agree or disagree or if you have anything to add from your own experience. If you are ready to start looking for your property, you can try http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html - you'll get lots of help with the practicalities as well!

How To Buy Property In Spain - Where To Start

When considering how to buy property in Spain, the first question to ask yourself is: "Why do I want to buy this property?" That is, do you want it primarily as a holiday home or a possible retirement home for yourself and your partner/family? Or is it primarily as an investment or a lettings business?

The answer to this question will help you decide where to start looking for your property. If it's primarily for yourself, you should consider looking inland, as property is much cheaper inland than in coastal areas. However, if it's for business or investment purposes, you'll get a better return if it's near the coast.

Of course you must also look at the question of accessibility. However gorgeous the property might be, you won't be able to enjoy it if it's difficult to get to. If it's near an airport, think how you would manage if the airline you normally use ceased flying to that airport (this does happen). If you have fallen in love with the property while on holiday, make sure you visit the area at different times of year to make sure you still like it all year round! Find out about local amenities such as shopping and sports.

One thing you must remember is that, in Spain, if ownership of a property is transferred while there are mortgage or other debts still owed on it, the new owner becomes legally responsible for those debts! So if you are buying an existing property, make sure you check and double-check via your lawyer that there are no debts on it. You can't count on the seller to tell you!

Remember that you can start your search for your Spanish property at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html You'll receive every possible help right from the start, including advice on where would be the best location for you.

How To Buy Property In Spain - A Few More Warnings

In order to understand how to buy property in Spain safely, there are a few more things you need to be aware of.

• The most usual way for foreigners to buy property in Spain is to purchase a plot of land from a developer and agree the design of your house from a brochure of standard designs. If you are buying the land and the building from the same company, INSIST on separate contracts for the land and the building.


• Make sure you get hold of the title deed for the land BEFORE signing a building contract. (Your lawyer will help you with this.)


• Also before you sign the building contract, insist on seeing the "termination guarantee". This is a kind of insurance policy that protects you if the builder goes out of business before the work is complete - which does happen. If the builders can't produce one, walk away!


• If the property is on a new development or "urbanisation", get your lawyer to check that it's legal. Most are, but as mentioned in previous posts, some foreign buyers have found their property is built on an illegal development. This means the authorities can confiscate and demolish your property without compensation. This applies even if you purchased an existing property in good faith and it then turned out to be built on an illegal development.


• Check the water supply and sewage. In many areas where excessive development has taken place, the effect on the local water supply and sewage systems has been severe. This could seriously affect your enjoyment of your new home.

Remember all these warnings are to ensure you really enjoy your property in Spain! You can avoid a lot of these pitfalls by finding your property at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html We take you by the hand and support and guide you through every step of the process!

How To Buy Property In Spain - The BIG Trap

Many people, when they start wondering how to buy property in Spain, think of one thing - that is the so-called Land-Grab laws.

These have resulted in so many heartrending stories that they have almost entered into folklore - and have discouraged some people from buying property in Spain.

So let's try and separate the myth from the reality. These laws were originally passed in the province of Valencia in 1994. The object was to assist local authorities in the development of undeveloped areas and enable them to build low-cost houses.

Unfortunately, however, the authorities in recent years have cynically made use of these laws to enable them to "grab" property from foreign owners. These owners were informed that the land was required for development to help local people - their houses were demolished and they were given NO compensation whatsoever! Of course they were heartbroken especially if they had put all their savings into the property and looked forward to a retirement in the sun. It seemed to some as if it was a deliberate targeting of foreign property owners. It happened in Andalucia as well as Valencia.

Recently this has been declared illegal under European law - which clearly it is! Nevertheless, many owners report that it is still happening.

So what can you do about it? Well, first and foremost, at risk of being repetitive - GET A GOOD LAWYER! Make sure it's a lawyer who understands SPANISH law thoroughly, who speaks your language, and whom you can trust to act in YOUR interests. Before you pay any money or commit yourself to any property, make absolutely certain that your title to it is 100 percent sound. If there is any possibility in that local area of confiscation for ANY reason, or if there is any ambiguity about whether the property is legally built on that land, WALK AWAY.

If you have any questions or any experiences of your own to share, do get in touch. And there are some wonderful Spanish properties - with NO legal problems - on http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

How To Buy Property In Spain - More Traps to Avoid

As mentioned before, this focus on traps and pitfalls is not intended to put you off. The idea is to ensure you are aware of how to buy property in Spain in the right way so you can enjoy it for life! Lots of people have already done so - but many others have lost everything and wish that somebody had warned them. So here are some more tips:

• Remember that anybody can set up as an estate agent in Spain. This means that there are lots of unregistered and inexperienced ones around, wanting to take advantage of the property boom. This in turn has led to, at best, mistakes in the purchase process being made and, at worst, would-be buyers being deliberately exploited. Do ask around for an estate agent with a good reputation - find ones recommended by people from your own country who have had a good experience.


• Make absolutely certain that your lawyer understands the local planning regulations properly and checks them out in exhaustive detail. Even if you are buying an existing property rather than a new build, it is possible that this property was not legally built on that land in the first place. Of course the seller may know this but may be hoping you won't find out before the sale is complete. If the authorities discover this they will demolish the property with no compensation - as many, especially from UK, have discovered to their cost.


• As mentioned in the previous post, it is crucial to ensure that your lawyer is someone you can trust and someone you can communicate with. (Don't accept a lawyer recommended by the estate agent - find your own.) This becomes especially important when checking title to the property. Many have found when it was too late that they were not in fact legal owners of the property. Again, the authorities can and will evict you without compensation if this is found to be the case. Sometimes people have mistaken the initial permit for the legal title - a good lawyer should never allow this to happen.

More tips on how to buy property in Spain in the next post, and do add your experiences and tips. Plenty of super Spanish properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html - plus help and advice at every stage, including help in avoiding the pitfalls!

How To Buy Property In Spain - Some Traps To Avoid

Buying properties abroad in countries like Spain is one of the most exciting things you can do, and it can enhance your lifestyle in a big way. But it's absolutely essential for you to understand how to buy property in Spain in a way that actually WILL enhance your lifestyle and not leave you bankrupt!

First and foremost, you absolutely MUST get a lawyer - don't even think of trying to proceed without one. And of course, unless you speak fluent Spanish, it need to be a lawyer who speaks English, and one you can trust. Personal recommendation is probably one of the best ways to find the right lawyer, or the consulate from your own country may have a recommended list. Some UK and US legal firms have set up businesses in Spain specifically to help expats from their own country. But sadly, even some of these have been proved to be "on the take" - so don't take ANYBODY at face value.

Once you have a good lawyer, do use him (or her). Don't even think of entering into private transactions without going through the legal system, though some vendors will try to persuade you to do just that. One of the reasons for this is that sellers of property in Spain have to pay tax on the profit they make on the house. So they will try to persuade you to put a reduced price into the purchase contract and make up the difference in cash. It's actually quite a common practice in Spain.

It may be very tempting for you to do this if you believe you have found your dream property. If you refuse, the seller might well withdraw from the sale and your dream house has gone!

Your problem is, if you do this, the price in the contract is the price you have "officially" paid for the property. So when YOU come to sell the property, your capital gain will be assessed on that price, not on the real price you paid, so YOUR tax will be much bigger! Your only hope will be to try to persuade someone else to enter into a similar illegal transaction! So don't even go there!

Have you been caught out in this way, or been tempted? Do let us have your experiences. More tips in the next post on how to buy property in Spain. Meanwhile if you want to start looking for your property, come and visit http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html We definitely won't try to involve you in any illegal practices! In fact we'll help you with the legalities from Day 1.

Buying Properties Abroad - Spain

Spain is probably the most popular destination for buying properties abroad, at least as far as British people are concerned. People from UK have been buying properties in Spain for decades now - mainly as holiday homes or places to move to permanently. Unfortunately, Spain is also the place where the most "Property Horror Stories" come from!

It's not really surprising that Spain is so popular for buying properties abroad. Of course it has always had a particular magnetism for sun-starved Brits! The year-round sunshine is a big attraction.

But it's not just the weather. Spanish scenery is sensational - starting in the north with the Pyrenees, one of Europe's most magnificent mountain ranges. It has an incredible wealth of Roman and medieval remains. It has a terrific coastline with warm blue seas and many of the world's most famous beaches and resorts. And it offers a great lifestyle - visitors love the easy, relaxed pace of life and the exuberance and happiness of the Spanish people - exemplified by the fiestas in every town and village.

So yes, Spain is magical. But it is just this magical quality that you need to beware of when it comes to buying property! Buying property is a hugely expensive transaction so you need to make sure you ditch the rose-colored spectacles and keep a totally realistic and down-to-earth perspective.

In the next few posts we will look at some of the pitfalls to avoid. This is NOT to discourage you from buying property in Spain - far from it! The idea is to make sure that when you do buy, it's a good and happy experience, not a nightmare! Anyone who has any experiences to share or any tips to provide, please get in touch!

And if you would like to start your search for properties in Spain, you can do so by visiting http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

Buying Homes In France - The Legal Bit

As we said in the previous post, there is nothing especially difficult for the foreigner about buying homes in France. However, the process is quite different from that in the USA or UK, so it helps to know what happens.

1. When you have chosen your property - whether from an estate agent or through a private arrangement with the owner - you go along with the vendor to a legal official called the Notaire or notary. There is one for every local area. You will be required to pay the Notaire a deposit of 10 percent of the purchase price.


2. You and the vendor will then need to sign a contract called compromis de vente, in the presence of the Notaire. This becomes legally binding after seven days - before this, either side may withdraw without penalty.


3. One important difference from the US or British systems is that in France the house purchase process doesn't necessarily include an appraisal or survey. However, in most cases it's not advisable to leave this out, so during the seven-day cooling off period it would be a good idea to hire a local builder to check that the property is structurally sound. If you discover major faults AFTER the end of the seven-day period, you will still incur major penalties for pulling out!


4. During the next few weeks, the Notaire will carry out legal searches. This usually takes 2-3 months, though the Notaire won't be able to give you an exact date in advance. If you go home during this process, you should provide contact details so the Notaire can let you know when the completion date will be.


5. During this period you need to ensure that the full purchase price is in the Notaire's bank account. The easiest way to raise finance is usually by getting a mortgage with a French bank. Alternatively you can refinance your existing property or obtain a home equity loan.


6. On the completion date you and the vendor will sign the final contract called the Acte Authentique. Once this is signed - the property is yours!

All you have to do now is enjoy your French home! If you can't wait to start your search, go to http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html If you are in the USA and would like advice on refinancing your existing property, visit http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/lending.html (It's a bit easier in the UK to find mortgages for buying properties abroad.)

Buying Homes in France - How To Do It

Buying homes in France is actually easier for foreign nationals than it is in many other countries, such as Greece. There are actually no legal restrictions on non-French people buying property and I haven't heard many horror stories - if YOU have a horror story, or have heard any, please get in touch! The only problem some foreign buyers have met with is that in some areas that are very popular with overseas buyers, the local people have sometimes shown resentment at their village or town being "taken over".

Of course you can't really blame them for this, especially when the "incomers" insist on speaking English, setting up shops, cafes and restaurants selling their own type of food, etc. Half the enjoyment of buying properties abroad is in learning about other people's way of life. And the French way of life has A LOT to recommend it! (Likewise French food!) So I would suggest if you want to get the maximum pleasure from your new home, that you are prepared to learn some French, and fit in with your neighbors a bit. They may even become your friends and you will enjoy your property so much more! That's my experience anyway - let me know if you agree or disagree!

Of course, when buying homes in France, the first step is choosing your property. You can do this the same way as you would at home - by looking in the windows of estate agents (immobiliers). However, if you buy your property through estate agents they will charge you 10 percent. The other way is to drive round looking for houses with an "A Vendre" (For Sale) notice. It's very common in France to sell property privately so if you see a house you fancy, there's nothing to stop you starting negotiations with the owner. However, if you don't speak French, it's a good idea to take a French speaker with you. A lot of French people wouldn't appreciate someone turning up at their house and insisting on talking English to them, even if they do speak English themselves.

In the next post we'll look at the legal process of buying homes in France. And if you can't wait to start your search for your perfect French property, you can go to http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html for a wonderful selection!

Buying Properties Abroad - France

As we have observed before, there are many reasons for buying properties abroad. In recent months, the problems in the home property market in both the USA and the UK have become one of the foremost of these reasons. People are looking for an opportunity to invest in an area where property can still found at quite a low price, but where there is a good chance of growth in the market.

France is increasingly attracting people looking for this type of property. France is really a very seductive place to look for your home. As you drive through the French countryside, you really marvel at the absolutely magnificent scenery with its wealth of ancient castles and medieval villages. And if you stay for even a few days, you will be completely won over by the delectable food and the amazing variety of superb wines.

UK residents have been buying homes in France for many years now. Of course it's very easy for British people to get to - even before Eurostar, it was a fairly short hop across the channel. Many British folk find the lifestyle delightful and much more relaxed than living in the UK. Plus, of course, they have probably paid a lot less for their property than they would have done in Britain!

Now, the idea of buying homes in France is becoming increasingly attractive to US citizens too. It seems like an escape from the growing problems in the property market in the USA.

But how easy is buying homes in France for the US or UK resident? Well - there's one thing you can be sure of, and that is that real estate processes are very different from those in either the USA or UK - though not necessarily all that difficult. In the next post we will go through the house-buying process in France step by step. If you have any tips or experiences to share, please do! And you can find some lovely French properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buy Real Estate in Greece - The Process

Today we are looking at how you actually buy real estate in Greece. Make sure you have your tax number (AFM), your bank account, and your vital "pink slip"!

Once you have made the decision as to where you want to buy your property, you can now select your property and make an offer on it. You can either do this through an estate agent or directly to the owner. Once you have made the offer, the transaction has to be overseen by a public notary (symvoliographo). This person will draft a preliminary contract and ask you for your deposit of 10 percent. The notary will then start the process of checking the title of the property. If there turns out to be a problem with the title, your deposit will be refunded - it's not refundable for any other reason.

Your lawyer will also need to do some checking on the property - for instance that it really belongs to the person who is selling it and that he or she has the right to sell it. It's quite common in Greece for a property to be owned by several members of the same family. The seller could be selling it behind their backs, hoping to make a quick buck before they find out! If you buy without checking this kind of thing, you could find that you only own part of the property - and there's absolutely nothing you can do about it. You see why I said you must have a lawyer!

You also need to employ a civil engineer (politikos michanikos) to check things like zoning/planning laws - these will determine whether you can make any alterations or extensions. This official will also check whether the boundaries of the land actually correspond with what is indicated on the deeds. This is not necessarily the case!

Once all these checks have been completed, the symvoliographos will draw up the final contract and you transfer the remaining funds from your bank to the seller's account. The contract has to be signed by you and the seller, in the presence of the symvoliographos, your lawyer and the agent if you have one. And the property is yours!

The main thing to remember is, don't expect everything to work exactly as it would in the USA or UK. Spend time getting to know Greece and the Greeks and understand how things work - and it will all seem like part of the charm of the place! Believe me, once you have fallen in love with Greece, it will be a lifelong love affair! And to find some stunning properties to start your search, come to http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html

Buy Real Estate in Greece - What You Need

So you want to buy real estate in Greece. And you have decided where you want your property to be! A very difficult choice - unless you had already fallen in love with one special spot. So what do you do now?

There are some things you need to do before you start the purchase process.

• The first thing you have to do if you're a foreign national is get a tax number. This is called AFM which stands for "arithmo forologiko mitro". (As you will guess, "arithmo" means "number"!) You can get this number from any tax office. If you are from USA or UK, you have to produce your passport and fill out two tax forms, the M1 and the M7.


• You have to open a bank account in Greece. When you transfer the money to the seller it has to come directly from a Greek bank.


• Another very important requirement is that you have to account for the money you are using to buy the property. You have to satisfy the authorities that it is from a legal source. If your funds come from outside Greece, as they almost certainly will, you must transfer them in to the Greek bank account you have opened. It is absolutely essential that you keep a copy of the bank transfer and the "pink slip" issued by the bank. You have to be able to account for the full amount of what you pay for the property - if you can't, it will be assessed as "unreported income" and be liable for full tax!


• Finally, you must hire a lawyer (dikigraphos - the "d" is pronounced "th" as in "the"). Unless your Greek is very fluent, you need one who speaks English! You should be able to get a list of recommended ones from the US or British consulate.

Now you are ready to start your buying process! This where the fun begins! In the next post we will go through the process in detail. If you have been through it and have anything to add, please do - likewise if you have any questions. And if you can't wait to start your search for a gorgeous Greek property, you'll find a fantastic selection at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

How Do I Buy Real Estate in Greece?

If you're looking to buy real estate in Greece, the first step is to do your research. Learn about all the steps in the process and all the legal requirements. The purchase process for foreign nationals is a bit more complicated in Greece than in some countries but many, many people have done it successfully. If you feel nervous, find some people from your own country who've already been through the process. They will be only too happy to chat to you over a glass of ouzo or three! They are the best people to provide practical tips, and warn you against pitfalls you may come up against.

The next step is - decide where you want to buy your property! If you've been to Greece a few times, you'll know what an immense and varied area it covers. Dozens of islands, all very different (for instance the Ionian islands are very different from the Dodecanese islands near to Turkey). The mainland - north or south, mountain or coast. Beautiful towns and cities or tiny sleepy villages. It's highly advisable to get to know Greece before you start - unless you have totally fallen in love with a particular spot. Getting to know the country won't be an arduous task! It can only be sheer delight!

When you are deciding where to buy your property, there's one thing you have to bear in mind. If you are from the USA or another country outside the European Union, you need special permission to purchase in certain areas of Greece. These are areas that are on the outer fringes of the country. They include islands close to Turkey such as Rhodes and Kos; Crete to the south; and the northern parts of the country. This approval isn't usually difficult to obtain - you get it from the local prefecture and your agent, if you are using one, will help you.

If YOU have found it easy or difficult to buy real estate in Greece, please share your experience - it would be really helpful. And if you're interested in buying properties abroad, in Greece or anywhere else, you'll find a gorgeous selection at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buying Properties Abroad - Real Estate in Greece

If you're interested in buying properties abroad, you could start your search in Greece!

So why would you want to buy real estate in Greece?

Well, I have to confess to a special interest here - because I have loved Greece all my life! To me it's one of the most magical places on earth. For a start it's the cradle of European civilization. Everywhere you go there are reminders of our history, back to Homer, the Trojan War and beyond. There are mighty mountains wrapped in ancient myths and legends. There are white bougainvillea-covered houses tumbling down steep hillsides to an azure sea. There are islands bathed in eternal sunshine....

But of course there are much more down-to-earth reasons for wanting to buy real estate in Greece. The property market in Greece shows all the signs of being on the up. Greece's entry to the EU, followed by the Athens Olympics, provided a major jump-start to the real estate market and this upswing shows no sign of slowing down. If you want your property as an investment, you can look forward to handsome rental returns, especially in holiday hotspots like Crete, Rhodes, Zakynthos/Zante and Corfu. AND you can expect a virtually certain steep appreciation in value.

But how easy is it to buy real estate in Greece? Well, it's not the easiest place, but lots of people from other countries including UK and USA have done it successfully. You just need to understand the process and we will look at this in the next couple of posts.

If YOU are wondering whether to buy real estate in Greece, or if you've already done so and have tips to pass on, or good or bad experiences to report, please let us know. Meanwhile you'll find some gorgeous Greek properties at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buying Properties Abroad: The Day Of Reckoning!

There's only one real downside about buying properties abroad - that is, they have to be paid for!

In the UK there are a number of mortgage companies who will provide finance for buying properties abroad - mostly within Europe - though since the credit crunch started, this type of finance is getting harder to find. In the USA there are VERY few such lenders. Lenders have this strange idea that they need to be able to seize your property if you default on a mortgage! And of course this is a lot more difficult - or even impossible - if the property is in a different country.

So if you're buying property abroad, what are your options for financing?

Obviously, the easiest option, if it's available to you, is to buy with cash. Given the attractive prices of many overseas properties, this is not as outrageous as it might sound. But even if you haven't got that sort of money lying around in your bank account, you may well have it in your home. There are two ways you can get hold of this money - either by seeking a home equity loan (http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/homequity.html ) or through refinance funding (http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/lending.html) .

However, if you do need a loan, you can often use a bank in the country in which you are buying the property. This is usually a lot simpler and involves less hassle than trying to persuade a bank in your own country to lend to you. In future postings about specific countries we will look at the countries where it is reasonably easy for foreign nationals to get a mortgage.

If YOU have had experience of buying property abroad using other financing options, we'd love to hear from you! Meanwhile, for some gorgeous properties, many at amazing prices, have a look at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buying Properties Abroad - To Live In!

A third major reason for buying properties abroad is the biggest step of all. You're planning to sell up in your home country and to move into your new home permanently.

As I mentioned a few days ago, this is something Brits have been doing for several decades now. Most of them have made the move for their retirement, but an increasing number find it possible to live in France and commute to Britain, or else carry on working from their home or set up businesses in their new country. The largest number probably move to Spain, but lots also find homes in France, Italy, Greece, Bulgaria and other European countries, Turkey, and even further afield in countries like Thailand.

Now it seems that more and more people in the USA are having the same idea. The most common reason for British people is probably the British climate! They fancy the idea of moving to the sun. The main reason why it has increasingly been catching on in the USA in the past 12 months is probably the problems in the property market. You can often get more house for your money in many of these countries. But many people are also becoming more and more attracted to a more relaxed and less pressured lifestyle.

For those buying properties abroad to live in permanently, there are a number of things to look out for. It's really not a good idea to spot a property in a place where you have enjoyed a couple of weeks' vacation, and decide this is where you want to live.

First and foremost, you need to be hard-headed about the decision. Go home, get out of your holiday frame of mind, and make a list of the pros and cons.

You must get to know the area before you can decide if it's a place where you want to live. You can manage without good shopping facilities for a couple of weeks, but would the shops meet your needs on a permanent basis? Visit at different times of year to see if you can handle the climate in the off-peak season. Can you get along easily without speaking the language? If not, is it an easy language to learn?

Are you sociable people? Are you happy with your own company or do you need to have friends around? If you need folks around, are there plenty of congenial people in the neighborhood whom you know you can get along with? If not, you could get very lonesome and start missing life back home - this happens to many people but they only realize when it's too late. If you have hobbies, are there the facilities there for carrying on your hobby?

And DO check out tax, pension and health care arrangements. Many people have been caught out by finding out too late that their pension is not payable in full in another country. Find out what medical facilities are available and how much medical care costs, especially if you have a medical condition.

Many, many people find a happy, fulfilling life in another country - but they are the ones who have considered it carefully beforehand. Don't be one of the ones who live to regret it! Take lots of advice and make sure it's the right decision for YOU. And when you've made your decision, find your property at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buying Properties Abroad - Holiday/Vacation Homes

Another very common reason for buying properties abroad is to use as a vacation or holiday home. This could be primarily for yourself, perhaps just letting it out occasionally or allowing family and friends to use it. Or it might be with the intention of setting up a vacation rental business - in which case you may well have a number of properties.


If people are buying properties abroad for holiday/vacation use, the factors to consider in choosing a locality are different from those for investment properties. They include:

• Ease of travel. This applies whether it's for yourself or for rental, or both. You may be choosing the area because it's near an airport, but make sure there are flights there from an airport that's convenient for you. Suppose those flights were discontinued - would there be a reasonable alternative?


• Is it a place where people WANT to go on holiday? If it's just for yourself, it doesn't matter too much if it's in a fairly unknown area - in fact that might be a plus. But if you're setting up a business, you need to be certain you would have enough rentals to make it pay.


• For the same reason, check local competition. Even if it's a fabulously popular location, you would struggle to break into the market if there's already an established rental culture.


• And check the length of the rental season too. Can you only count on letting it out in a fairly brief peak season, or is there a pleasant year-round climate which might mean you could count on letting it out for most of the year?


• Whether it's for yourself or for rental, DO be thorough about looking into local planning/zoning laws. It has been known for purchasers to have their property demolished by the authorities because the land was developed without the correct permission.


• And while doing this, check whether there are any developments planned in the immediate neighborhood of the property. You may have fallen in love with it because of its stunning sea view, but arriving the next year to find a huge apartment block between you and the sea might rather spoil your enjoyment!

This isn't meant to be gloom and doom! If you're expending the money on an overseas property, it makes sense to avoid the pitfalls. Buying properties abroad should mean excitement, pleasure and fun! So make sure you avoid risks that could ruin your experience!

I'm sure there must be other points to note. If you've had personal experience, good or bad, please share it. Also if you have a question, please ask - if I can't answer it, perhaps someone else can. And if you are looking for a property, there's a gorgeous selection at http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html or http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/overseasproperty.html

Buying Properties Abroad - A Great Investment

Yesterday we looked at different reasons for buying properties abroad. One of these was buying as an investment. This could be a way of investing money you have inherited or received as a bonus.

If buying properties abroad is seen as an investment, rather than as a holiday home, obviously the first consideration will be the extent to which a property is not only going to hold its value, but appreciate in value. So if this is your intention, the first thing you need to do is investigate the market.

Now this is where things get a bit complicated. You don't have a crystal ball - so you can't predict precisely whether a property is going to hold and increase its value. Just the fact that a property is cheap doesn't necessarily mean it's going to go up. Quite a lot of people have bought property overseas because the salesman assured them the market would take off - only to find that this never happened.

Some people say you should buy in countries with a proven track record, such as Spain and France. Others say that these are saturated and you should look further afield. In actual fact there are still some remarkably low-priced properties to be found in France so you could possibly find a good investment here. If buying in Spain you need to be VERY careful - many people have got their fingers burnt through not checking the legalities thoroughly enough.

Some of the things you should check include:

• Is inward investment in the country on the increase? For instance, countries which have just joined the EU, such as Bulgaria, could be a good prospect.


• Is the government making major efforts to improve the infrastructure? There are good reasons for believing that Egypt and Turkey, where properties are quite low-priced at the moment, will prove a profitable market. In Egypt because the government want more people to come to the country, and in Turkey because they are desperate to join the EU.


• What are the prospects for political stability in the country? Most EU countries are relatively stable. If there is the prospect of political upheaval in a country, obviously a property bought there might not be a good investment.


• Are there problems with the climate? Many people buy properties based on the fact that they enjoyed a holiday in that country - but that would have been in the peak holiday season. In places like the Caribbean where there is a risk of hurricanes and tornados at certain times of the year, a property might not be a good investment.


• Take expert advice on the economic outlook of a country where you are considering buying investment property. Economic conditions have a powerful effect on the property market and therefore on the chances of your property proving a good investment.

These are certainly not all the factors to consider, but they are some of the main ones. Buying properties abroad, and all types of investment, always carry some degree of risk but you can make sure you keep the risks to a minimum. I would love to hear your views or experiences - have you made a good or bad investment in property abroad? Have you got any tips or warnings for people considering taking this step? If you want to find a fantastic selection of properties go to http://www.bizwrite.co.uk/realestate/propertyabroad.html