Buying a property in Spain can be a great decision, whether you use it as a holiday rental, for your own use or to move to Spain for good. And whatever Brexit will bring, the Spanish property market has always been popular with the Brits, with no evidence to assume that this will suddenly change.
That said, a Spanish property purchase can be both exciting and daunting. While it’s easy to get carried away by the allure of all that this beautiful Mediterranean country has to offer, you should keep a clear head about the bricks and mortar you’re about to invest in. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Spanish villa on the coast, a rural getaway or a contemporary new build apartment, don’t be so naïve as to assume that living in Spain is no different than in the UK.
Crucially, do your homework and find out about the key criteria that make Spanish properties desirable so you know whether the asking price is justified. Especially if you’re not that familiar with the country you’re about to make a major investment in, it makes sense to collate as much information about property and the Spanish way of life as you can, so you can make the right decision.
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1. Find the right location
In Britain as in Spain, location is everything, as every estate agent will tell you. If you are moving to Spain because of a job, your options as to where to go may be more limited than if you are choosing the perfect holiday pad, and you may prefer vibrant cities such as Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia.
Spain being such a magnet for British expats, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to locations with a thriving British community. Take a look at the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol and particularly the areas around Malaga and Marbella – popular areas to buy property.
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2. Choose a property with air con plus heating
We may think of Spain as having hot summers and mild winters, but it’s not quite as simple as that. Granted, most older, traditional houses will have been built with thick walls to keep the heat out. During the summer months, staying cool, particularly at night, is a big advantage that ensures a pleasant stay for you and your visitors. Air conditioning is a standard feature in most (but not all) modern properties, so it’s worth checking before you buy.
Central heating, on the other hand, is a home feature that’s often neglected but may be sorely needed during cooler winter months. Coming from the UK where central heating is a standard utility, you may be surprised to learn that this is not the case in Spain. Again, check before you buy.
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3. Make sure there’s an outdoor pool
One of the most desirable features of any Spanish home has to be an outdoor swimming pool. More than a luxury status symbol, a pool is a staple of Spanish life and a great amenity for all to enjoy during the long, hot Mediterranean summers. Of course, having a pool also adds real value to your property asset.
If your shortlisted property doesn’t have a pool, this need not necessarily be a deal breaker. If there’s enough outdoor space to install a pool, get competitive quotes from local builders and factor the cost into your purchase price. If you’re not au fait with speaking Spanish, local building regulations or business etiquette, it pays to consult with an English speaking (and British owned) pool construction and building company, such as ProMas in Marbella.
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4. Pay attention to outdoor living spaces
One of the main attractions of the Spanish way of life is to take full advantage of the glorious Mediterranean climate. Together with all the usual indoor accommodation, outdoor spaces are essential to allow you to enjoy alfresco living, transitioning seamlessly between the interior and the exterior.
When viewing Spanish properties, look out for shady terraces and sun decks, balconies and roof terraces, outdoor cooking and BBQ areas. Go one step further and complement outdoor pools with an additional jacuzzi and shower area, or lush gardens with loggias and pergolas. And if you’re considering a coastal property, what could be more luxurious than having your own private beach?
Whether you’re a summer party animal or prefer to sunbathe in peace and quiet, your Spanish home’s outdoor spaces can make it all possible. As a key ingredient of life in Spain, it’s a welcome contrast to life back in Blighty.
