Guide to Property Buying in Spain
Who is this guide from and what will it tell me?
AIPO asked supporting partner and independent overseas property experts, AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals) to bring you answers to the most asked questions – and to share their top tips about buying a home abroad.
Buying a property overseas is a big decision which involves several steps and, of course, some thorough research. Our guide covers the following subjects:
- Where do I start?
- Brexit implications on living, working and pensions in Spain
- Where in SPAIN should I buy?
- What type of SPANISH property is available – and at what cost?
- How can I finance a home in Spain?
- What other costs are involved?
- Who do I need to help me with my purchase?
- What can I expect from the legal process?
- What potential pitfalls should I be wary of?
- Is there anything else I should consider?
View Properties in Spain here – from approved members of the AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals).
Where to buy property in Spain
We asked Peter Robinson, Director of the AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals), for an overview.
“If good weather and simplicity are high up on your priority list, the Costa Blanca, which is south of Valencia on the east coast of Spain, is expat-friendly and has a climate judged by the World Health Organisation to be the healthiest in the world. Head slightly north up the coast from there and you’ll find the towns of Dénia and Jávea, both of which are good alternatives for the same criteria. Or if you’re after a more authentic Spanish lifestyle, head slightly inland to the Jalon Valley.”
“If you travel south from Costa Blanca, the landscape becomes more arid. But the Costa Calida and Murcia, both rich in history, have seen huge amounts of development due to the much-anticipated new Paramount theme park. The project has been beset with problems and the resulting oversupply of property means there are plenty of bargains to be had. Look at the coastal towns of San Pedro Del Pinatar, Mar de Cristal and Santiago de la Ribera which hosts an international Jazz festival. Or head inland to the picturesque Ricote Valley.”
“Continue down to the southern coast of Spain and you hit the classic British buying destination of Andalusia and the Costa del Sol. Resorts like Nerja, Marbella and Estepona are energetic, vibrant and offer great facilities. But if you prefer a more traditional environment just a few miles inland are the grand old cities of Granada, Seville and Cádiz with plenty of rural villages to explore in the surrounding countryside.”
“Keep heading west along the coastline and you’ll meet the lesser known Costa de la Luz – a perfect spot for those who enjoy surfing, horse-riding and a generally more ‘undiscovered’ feel. Check out Tarifa, Bolonia and Zahora for unspoilt beaches and views of Africa. Travel inland to the region of Extremadura and both the climate and landscape changes dramatically taking on a very ‘foreign’ feel. Peaceful, rural villages set in an area the size of Switzerland are dotted with huge lakes and mountains. Zafra is a charming old Roman town and Tajo-Salor contains a world heritage site.”
“In the north of Spain at the Costa Verde the weather becomes much wetter which is why it’s known as ‘Green Spain’. Costa Verde stretches from the Portuguese border all the way west across to (and along) the French border. This part of Spain is much less touristy than its other coasts. And if that’s what you’re after, Lugo in Galicia and Llanes in Asturias are worth looking at, where you will find authentic townhouses with stunning views.”
“Moving round to the north east, the most well-known city is Barcelona and the most famous coast, the Costa Brava. Resorts here including Blane, Lloret and Tossa de Mar, offer good property choices and, although historically the area has had a ‘cheap package holiday’ reputation, it has made a concerted effort to edge upmarket in recent years. Sitges is its most famous ‘trendy’ resort – but has prices to match.”
“This leaves us with the islands of Spain. The Canaries, which are warm all-year-round, each offer something a little different. Gran Canaria is sandy and quieter than its volcanic and vibrant neighbour Tenerife while, with no direct flights, La Gomera is quieter still. However it still has a sound infrastructure. The Spanish islands all have a year-long holiday vibe making them a good opportunity for rental. The three main Balearic Islands each have different personalities. Quiet, easy going Menorca is popular with families and less expensive than its neighbours. The Spanish Royal family holiday in Mallorca and classy resorts sit alongside the madness of the infamous Magaluf. Ibiza has inherited a cult status as the ‘party that never stops’ but often less celebrated attractions include hidden coves and pine-covered hills. Property is widely available at a range of prices.”
View Properties in Spain here – from approved members of the AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals).