One of the most important decisions when we have decided to buy a property in Spain is whether it is new or a resale. There is a wide variety of second-hand property in the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida, and if there is something that catches the attention of these properties, it is undoubtedly its price.
Since 2003, Complete Spanish Property have been helping people from many different countries to buy property in Spain. Our experience allows us to understand the particular needs of our clients in order to offer professional advice throughout the process. In this article, we will review seven aspects to consider when you are looking to buy a resale property.
When looking at a resale property, ensure you look thoroughly at all aspects of the house including the external finish, internal finish, to see if there is any damage which could be casued by cracks or damp. Checking the electrics work, the windows open and close properly and other details are important when making a decisión on buying a property. Make sure the room sizes and living space match the description you have been given. Also, i fan extension has been added to the property or some reforms, then ensure the paperwork is available to be checked.
Having a quick chat with the neighbours can sometimes be a priceless excercise. Sometimes a property is too cheap for a reason in that maybe there will be some extra money needed to be spent on the property or there is an issue with it. This information should be known before it's too late.
It is essential to approach the Land Registry to obtain vital data on the ownership and possible charges / debts that may be linked to the property. A Nota Simple is the document that provides all of this information. The Nota Simple can contain many surprises that are worth knowing prior to you buying the property. This is something which you can do or your solicitor can assist with.
You should verify that the owner of the property has been paying his community fee´s and is up to date, otherwise, the debts could move onto you as a buyer. Again, your solicitor will be able to assist in checking this prior to completion.
Every year homeowners have to pay an annual tax called SUMA or IBI. If you are looking to purchase a resale property then you need to vertify if this tax has been paid.. You can obtain this information at the Town Hall or ask the seller for receipt of the last payment. From a legal aspect, your solicitor will also be able to check this.
If you require finance to assist you with the purchase, before you make any payment, make sure that the bank has pre-approved the mortgage application. This will prevent unnecessary suffering if you find the property which you like and then cannot get the mortgage.
When you buy a resale property, you must pay a series of taxes and fee´s liked to the Price of the property, which includes IVA (VAT), Notary fee´s, Land Registry fee´s and also check the catatstral value. Clearly understanding the additional legal costs before you pay a deposit on a property can again, save any unneccessary problems moving forward.
If you are looking for a resale property on the Costa Blanca or Costa Calida, then please have a look at the selection of properties on our website or contact us via telephone or email or by using the online forrm, found within the website. We are here to assist you with everything relating to the whole buying process in Spain.