1. What are the things I should consider when buying a place where I can vacation, versus when I am buying a place where I can retire?

The idea of purchasing a home in a quiant Spanish village, surrounded by nothing by the hills, can sound very romantic and interesting when you are reading the brochure, but do have both feet planted on the ground. If you are not planning to spend the whole year there and see it mainly as a vacation home, then this secluded Spanish retreat is certainly idyllic. But what if you’re thinking to stay here for much longer periods of time? Maybe the whole of the summer or even the rest of your life? Then suddenly the nitty gritty of living in a very far and secluded setting becomes less fun, especially if you’ve got to drive for miles to reach the nearest shop or restaurant. You may also feel lonely if the people in the town don’t speak English. .

2. What’s better, buying a new house or a resale?

One advantage of course of buying a new house is that everything in it is in mint condition. There are many new property developments such as apartments or town houses and they often have very attractive community facilities like pools and security measures.

But some people feel that a new house does not have character and history. They also wouldn’t mind having to do renovation costs if it means being able to live in a place with a romantic history.

3. What’s the process of buying a house in Spain?

Firstly, you will have to give a holding deposit (be sure it’s refundable if the deal doesn’t push through). Get a good lawyer who speaks good English. Research on your mortgage options while negotiating for a better price, then give your standard 10% deposit once you come to an agreement. Finally you will have to get the official document which officially declares you property owner in the land registry.

With off-plan properties you may have to get private purchase contracts, which is often given within a month of your submission. Then you give your first installment, which is a maximum of thirty percent of the price of the house. The title is transferred once you pay the balance of the purchase price. But do expect you need half a month to settle in and work out utility contracts, etc.