Buying a Property in Spain Factsheet: Inspection Trips.

This information is provided by Advanta Homes, specialist in country houses and golf property in the Alicante and Murcia areas of Spain.  Please visit www.advantahomes.com for more information.


Things to do ...

Talk to your agent on the phone before you come over  - call us on our freephone number (0800 652 8890) or e-mail us your number and we’ll call you.   This helps us get a much stronger understanding of what you are looking for.

If you find a property that you’re interested in, always take a second look.  It’s amazing what you see the second time that you didn’t see the first time.

Ignore the decoration.  The Spanish don’t get “House Doctor” and some of the older properties are not well presented - but look past this and see the potential.

Bring a camera and take lots of photos - make sure the first photos at each house is an obvious picture of the front of the property so you know which photos go with which house.

Be open and honest with us about what you like and what you don’t - this will help us make sure we don’t waste your time with unsuitable properties.

Make a check list of questions so you don’t forget to ask.

Make sure you ask as many questions as possible, don't worry about asking silly questions, gain as full an understanding as you possible can.

Have fun!  It’s a really exciting experience buying a house, especially in a new country like Spain - so relax and have a good time.



Things not to do ...


Don't accept free inspection trips - nothing is free.  Pay your way and then you keep control of the situation.  Advanta Homes, and other reputable agents, will reimburse your costs if you choose to purchase, so if you are serious about buying, pay for your trip and get assurances regarding what will be repaid if you decide to go ahead with any of the properties.

Don’t bring money for a deposit - this may make you feel under pressure and may make you rush into a decision. If you find the right property, you can send the money once you get back home.

Make sure before you book an inspection trip that the agent will give you plenty of free time to think and discuss what you have seen - too many agents will stay with you for every waking moment.  If this happens, refuse to continue with the trip.   If necessary, call us and we'll help: 96 568 0660.

Don't be pressured into buying a property by stories of other interested people - take your time, consider what you have seen, make the decision that is right for you in your own time.

Don't worry - most agents in Spain are very reputable and only want to do a good job and, of course, sell houses.