Decide on an area
Before doing anything else decide on an area in Spain in which you would like to
buy property. Your choice of area will depend on many factors such as climate,
facilities and infrastructure. Remote rural regions will not have the same facilities and infrastructure as the costas and major cities.
The climate in Spain can be very different in various parts of the country. The south coast area tends to be mild in winter and very warm in summer. Central areas such as Madrid have huge fluctuations with very cold winters and stifling summers.
The north of Spain will be cold in winter and pleasant in summer.
Personal reasons are also important. Are you going to live in Spain, or is your property for holiday or investment purposes?
If you intend to sell the property in the future, choosing an area with quick turnaround times is important.
If you choose a popular tourist area you will find that staff in most shops, bars, restaurants and offices will speak English and often many other European languages. You will also find English-speaking doctors, dentists, pharmacists etc.This makes the transition easier for non-Spanish speakers. It is also to your advantage to move to an area where you can find a lawyer with whom you can communicate. If you move to an area away from the tourist resorts, you will definitely have to become competent in Spanish.
If you are bringing children this can have a significant role in deciding where you move to. The younger a child is the easier it is for them to integrate into Spanish schools. Older children will need to find a school which teaches in their native language. It is not realistic to expect a 14 year old to become competent enough in Spanish to do well in the important Spanish examinations.
Buying property in Spain - First Steps - Choose your area
Calculate your budget and arrange finance
Decide on the type of property you want and see what is available
Arrange an inspection visit to see available Spanish properties
Arranging a mortgage on your Spanish property
Tax considerations when buying Spanish property
