Looking for your new home abroad? Spain might be just the place. Whether you imagine yourself in a villa by the coast enjoying those long summers, or a trendy apartment in a vibrant city, we’ve got you covered!
Spain is a country of vast culture, fantastic cuisine and a high standard of living. Its cities have great architecture around every corner, and its countryside and sunny coasts are famous for their stunning scenery. Spain boasts first-class healthcare, education and no restrictions on foreigners buying property. As there are property types to suit every buyer, it won’t be hard to find the perfect place. Already tempted? Here are some of the most important steps in the process.
A good agent means the difference between a stress-free buying process – or the disaster of buying a property that just wasn’t meant for you. Fortunately, your RE/MAX agent will speak your language and take you step by step through the entire process. As a local expert, your agent can recommend properties the moment they come onto the market, and their information about the region is indispensable – they’ll advise you on the schools, transport links and neighborhoods, as well as cater to your specific needs.
Knowing the purchase process in advance will help you avoid stress, problems, and shocks in the future. Your agent will inform you about the various mortgage products that you can access in case you need financing, as well as the minimum savings you will need to carry out the purchase. There are many aspects to consider in this process, but do not worry because your REMAX Agent will guide you through every step!
To buy your new home, you will need an Identification Number in Spain.
If you are not going to be a resident in the country, you must apply for the so-called NIE of temporary non-resident, which is valid for 90 days. The request can be made in Spain, by going to your nearest police station, or through a power of attorney with a local law firm in case you are abroad. The NIE is essential to be able to sign the deed of sale and mortgage and it also needed in many banks in order to be able to request a study for a mortgage loan, so it is convenient that you do it as soon as possible if you are decided to buy a property in Spain considering two aspects:
A very important step before looking for the house of your dreams is to define a realistic purchase budget, considering the expenses of the purchase and in the case of assistance with financing, your maximum borrowing capacity and the savings necessary to undertake the investment. Again, your REMAX Agent will help you in the process.
If you are going to need financing, you should take into account some aspects:
However, the REMAX mortgage department is at your service to help you, without cost or commitment, to choose the best financing for your purchase and be alongside you throughout the financing process.
Once you have chosen the house of your dreams, you must make an offer to the owner and in case of being accepted, sign the deposit. The role of your REMAX Agent is this step is key to help you make informed decisions. He knows the market, the last sales made in the area and the actual closing price of other homes in the same neighborhood which it will give you valuable information so you can buy your house at the best price possible.
Your REMAX agent will defend your purchase proposal with the owner and/or his representative agent, praising your strengths as a buyer. He will also define a negotiation strategy with you in case the seller makes a counteroffer.
Once your offer has been accepted, you will express your intention of purchase in a document called ARRAS PENITENCIALES, which will be signed by both parties along with the delivery of a percentage of the purchase price on your part as a symbol of firm commitment.
In case of breach of contract on your part, you will lose the amount delivered, and if the other party is the one who breaches it, the seller must return the amount of the deposit doubled as compensation. It is very important that at the time of signing the ARRAS, you are clear that you have the necessary savings and the bank approval for a loan in firm, if you need it, so as not to incur in the loss of the money delivered.
The next step is to go to a Notary to formalize the deed of sale and the mortgage, if necessary.
Your REMAX Agent will be responsible for carrying out all the document and registration checks to ensure that your purchase is made with all the guarantees.
Deciding where to buy in Spain will come down to taking into consideration some factors such as: your budget, the lifestyle you are looking for, the weather, the gastronomic offer or public transportation. If you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle in the sun, the coast could be your place.
Questioning whether you prefer city, the coast, or the countryside, is much more than the landscape you dream of waking up. Do you expect a friendly expat community where you can adapt easily, or do you prefer to integrate with the locals and fully immerse yourself in their lifestyle?
Each region of Spain has its own culture and traditions to explore, so don’t take the decision lightly. The reason you’re choosing to move, or buy a second home, could define the type of property you’re looking for.
Visiting the country several times allows you to get a better idea of the type of neighborhood and property you want to acquire.
Your RE/MAX Agent can show you the best homes in the places you like, maybe even areas you hadn’t thought of yet, that´s why he will spend a lot of time getting to know you, your family, and your needs. This is the best way to help you find your home, your new home!
If this all sounds good, you’re ready to take the first steps. We invite you to visit different areas of the country to define your purchase area, look at some properties online and familiarize yourself with the market, but the most important thing is that you have a professional on your side, so get in touch with a RE/MAX agent to get going and solve all doubts. You’ll see how easy it is!