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1 2 3 4 Glossary

Annual rates, payable on property, are creeping up but probably still lower than U.K. In some areas a separate charge is made for rubbish collection.

Electricity is quite expensive and, in some areas, so is water.

Some people imagine that it is warm and sunny for 365 days of the year and that they will not have any heating bills. The truth is that in many areas more and more people are installing central heating, as well as air conditioning to cope with those warm and sunny days.

Petrol and diesel are both cheaper.

New cars are generally cheaper but second-hand cars seem to be more expensive.

Road tax is considerably less.

   Language        

   Do they speak the same language all over Spain?
   Yes and no..

Castilian, or Spanish, is the language of Spain. However, many regions have their own language which is not only the main spoken language but is also prominent in schools and public offices.

If you have children who will be enrolled in Spanish state schools, the question of local language is something which cannot be ignored as they will be taught in this rather than in Castilian.

   Buying a Property        

   Can I buy a property without using a solicitor?
   Yes, but don't.

Don't let the sun go to your head - employ the services of a solicitor - there are many English speaking Spanish solicitors in most areas.

Rely on your solicitor for up to date information on regulations and for property checks as well as the drawing up of contracts and tax advice.

All properties also have to be checked to make sure they are free from debt (a final check should also be made on the actual day of purchase). Failure to do this could result in your inheriting debts incurred by the previous owner.

When considering the asking price, bear in mind that you can expect to pay around 10% on top of that in fees, taxes etc.

The final transaction has to take place in front of a public notary who will declare that, to the best of his knowledge, the amount stipulated in the deeds has been paid either at that time in Spain or at an earlier date outside of Spain. The notary's office will provide a Copia Simple (a copy) of the deeds. The original deeds will be available some time in the future, once thay have been lodged with the Land Registry. The notary will have to be paid for his services and for any taxes which are calculated on the sale of the property. Your lawyer, or the person assisting you with the completion formalities, will be able to give you an idea of what you can expect to have to pay.

Sometimes land and/or property is owned by more than one person as a result of a complicated inheritance situation and, if not sorted out, can cause problems.

When considering a property which has shared areas and/or facilities, as in the case of an apartment or housing complex, be sure to find out how much has to be paid each year in community fees. These fees vary greatly and it is something which you are legally bound to pay. You will also be liable to pay any amounts unpaid by the previous owners. It is also worthwhile checking up on the regulations governing such communities e.g. keeping of pets, rules governing use of pool/gardens, installation of satellite dishes, washing lines etc. Rules governing such communities are normally quite strictly enforced.

When considering a property which needs extending or renovating, make sure that the necessary permissions will be readily granted before committing to the purchase. Town hall licences must be obtained for all building work, minor or major.

When buying land it is vital to make sure that the land is classified as a building plot and that the size complies with local bylaws for the dwelling you have in mind. Also, check whether you have to contribute to any infrastructure prior to construction.

If buying business premises, first make sure that an opening licence will be obtainable for the business you have in mind.

Taking out Spanish residency can have certain advantages when it comes to selling your property at a later date. Ask your solicitor about Capital Gains Tax and how it will affect you.