Your dream house in the sun must start with finding the right agent
Buy right, own well
We’re entering the busiest time of year in the overseas property industry. People return from holidays full of that relaxed Mediterranean vibe and determined that they want a permanent slice of it!
Your right to own a home abroad
Autumn is full of property shows where potential buyers with fading suntans are determined to find their place in the sun – and why not? According to some reports 41 British people a day are buying a property in Spain, undeterred by the political situation (or possibly because of it?!). And regardless of the (eventual) Brexit outcome, your right to own a home abroad will not be affected, or your ability to travel there, so if you were planning a purchase we see little reason to hold off.
Fixing your currency maybe prudent so at least you are assured of what your budget will buy and that it will be worth the same when you come to actually pay for your new home overseas. See our section on Currency here to see how to proceed. And you will need to know what that budget is. Read the advice on our Overseas Mortgage Information page – even if you don’t think you need a mortgage it may be more advantageous to purchase with one.
Choosing the right agent is also something we recommend you do very carefully…
How to choose an agent
When you are buying abroad your agent will play a far more significant role than in the UK. Local knowledge is absolutely key, as is an indepth understanding of the purchase process in that country.
They could encompass tour guide, chauffeur, translator and general advisor – you may spend hours driving across the countryside with them, share meals. Even become life-long friends!
Simple safeguards
We know that buying a property overseas is one of life’s landmark moments and some simple safeguards can be forgotten. There are few, if any guarantees when buying property – at home or overseas. So how do you choose an agent and ensure a safe and smooth purchase?
Word of mouth always counts for a lot, as do genuine testimonials from previous clients, or advice from online forums.
Bear in mind that agents are not always regulated or accredited in any way – this differs hugely from country to country. In some countries, anyone with a phone and internet access can promote themselves as an agent – and buyer beware – just because a company is exhibiting at a property show doesn’t mean they are automatically trustworthy or belong to a regulatory body. Do your due diligence and don’t be afraid to ask questions – it could save you much heartache in the long run.
Membership of the AIPP is a critical benchmark, and means agents are bound by a professional code of conduct and disciplinary process.
Industry Trades Body
First established in London in 2006, AIPP is the trade body for professionals around the world dealing with buyers of a foreign property. It’s mission is to improve standards for buyers of a foreign property and to promote industry best practice – and all of its 382 members are covered by the UK Property Ombudsman.
Buying property abroad could be one of the most emotive and challenging decisions you ever make, which is why you want to be sure your purchase is pain free and those you are dealing with are professional, committed and trustworthy.
The badge of AIPP membership is a reminder to you, the consumer, that a company must follow professional standards and act with honest, integrity and transparency. When you see a company is a member of the AIPP, it means that they have voluntarily agreed to follow and be bound by the industry Code of Conduct.
You can search AIPP member properties direct from this site!
Simply click the button at the top of this page or this link here for a safer search experience. There are thousands of properties listed, with more added daily!
Heading to A Place In the Sun Birmingham?
Below is a list of all AIPP members who will be exhibiting at the NEC later this month – or just look for the AIPP member badge on the stand:
Elisa Overseas Property Consultancy
GoldAcre Estates (Canary Islands)
Irlanya Homes
Quadratia Property Consultants
Spain Property Specialists
Buy right, own well
And, as knowledgeable and helpful as your agent proves to be, they will never replace the need for independent legal advice. Always use a qualified English-speaking lawyer NOT supplied by the agent or developer. He or she might cost extra but this essential spend could save you thousands further along the line, especially if there is some oversight that comes to light due to the language barrier.
We have plenty of free downloadable buyers guides for you to read before you start your search, so you can go informed and ask the right questions. Scroll below or go to our downloads page.