Our step by step buying guide

"If you're looking to buy property in Spain, then spanishsalesdirect.com is the place for you."

Use our search facility to view the properties on offer, and benefit from …

	Transparency: No conflict of interests, misinterpretation or any hidden agendas.
	Savings: Without the burden of agent fees put upon the seller, you benefit from their savings & pay a fair asking price.
	Control: See properties chosen by you…not what an estate agent wants you to see.
	Speed: Find the very best value for money properties in your area of choice.

Find a mortgage

Firstly, establish what you can afford. Add up savings and what you can borrow, you will soon find out what budget you have.

A good, independent mortgage adviser has access to the whole market, and will help ensure any mortgage fits your needs.

"Use our mortgage calculator to see what your repayments may be here ".

Here is a summary of the types of mortgages available:

• Fixed Rate: This will not change during the specified term. Many people like the security of a fixed rate as they can manage their budget knowing their outgoing will remain constant. However, if interest rates fall you will not benefit.
• Variable Rate: This rate moves according to changes in the European base rate. There are several types of variable deals, some track the rate, and some change with the lender’s policy. If interest rates look like they may fall, then it may pay to be on a variable rate.
• Repayment Mortgage: This mortgage is an arrangement that is made based on the principal that you pay the full amount back, plus interest.
• Interest Only Mortgage: This mortgage is appealing because repayments per month are (in most cases) lower than that of repayment mortgages. But you only pay the interest on the loan.

Looking for property

Decide where (click to see maps of Spain) you would like to live and think about the type of property you are looking for.
Before you view any properties, have a drive or walk around the area at different times of day.
Make a list of your needs. But keep an open mind…often people buy what they were not expecting to!

Considerations when viewing

"The only way to make your mind up about a property is to go and take a good look at it."

In the time a viewing lasts you need to gather as much information as you can. Take someone with you as a second pair of eyes may spot things you miss.

It is a safe bet that you will make your mind up within a couple of minutes! But if it is love at first sight, do not let that cloud your judgement. Ask yourself:

• Will my furniture fit?
• Is there enough storage?
• Is there enough natural light?
• Do I need to renovate or redecorate, and can I afford to do so?

The roof and (if present) guttering are important, Are there any missing tiles?

Take note of nearby properties, how many are for sale? If there are a lot, take note of the agents and see how long they have been on the market.

Are there damp patches or potential signs of water leaks?

Is there evidence of ground movement or subsidence?

Good questions to ask the seller when viewing;

• What fixtures and fittings are included?
• How old is the property & how long have you lived here?
• What are the neighbours like?
• How many people have viewed?
• Has anyone put an offer in yet and if so, how much for?
• Why are you looking to move?
• How soon are you looking to move?

Put in an offer…How?

"It is all about negotiating and agreeing a price. Don't be afraid to offer what you think the property is worth. "

If you have viewed a property advertised here and want to make an offer, then you must contact the seller directly.

Ensure that both yourself, and the vendor are clear on the offer and that it is “subject to contract”.
When closing the deal, your position can be attractive to a seller for a number of reasons listed below. If any of these apply to you, then use them to your advantage:

• First time buyer?: If yes, then the sale can go through more quickly.
• Large deposit?: When borrowing money and getting mortgages approved, it may help. The more money you have to put down the more attractive a proposition you are!
• Flexibility: Are you flexible about dates? The more flexible you can be to the vendors needs, the better.

What a solicitor does

"This is the part where you have to part with your hard-saved cash!..."

Once you have an offer accepted you need to instruct a solicitor. The cost varies. Most charge a fixed fee, but there are other things they may charge for. These are known as disbursements and include transfers, postage, taxes etc. Ideally, it is best to go to someone who is recommended to you independently. Under no circumstances use a solicitor recommended by anybody who has an interest in the sale.

Normally in Spain there is a non returnable 'holding' deposit which effectively takes the property off of the market.

Next, a 10% down-payment is made when a private sale contract is drawn up by the solicitor.

The last stage is completion, when the balance of the purchase price is paid to the vendor, and the keys to your new home are released after a visit to the Notary.

Moving

If you're moving to your new home from a rental, make sure that you give notice to your landlord. You don't want have to pay rent for a property you are no longer in. And leave the rental in good condition. Not only is it common courtesy to do so, but it will also ensure that you get your deposit back.

When you move:-

• Change services into you name.
• Take meter readings on the day you move in.
• Arrange building and contents insurance.
• Get your post redirected.
• Let your friends, family and service providers, such as your bank and mobile phone provider etc, know your new contact details.

Agree your moving day in advance and sort out any removal transport. If you have pets or children, you may want to get someone to look after them.

Finally pack yourself a survival kit and keep it somewhere where it won't get muddled up with other boxes! Include all ingredients for making tea and coffee, and you may want to make a packed lunch. Also include toilet roll, toiletries, and towels in case you want a shower at the end of the day.

"It takes time to find a perfect home. Remember that our website is being updated with new properties all of the time. So bookmark us, and return often to see the very latest bargains."