WHEN TO BUY PROPERTY

New Property: If you are planning to make arrangements to come over to Spain looking for property on a new development I would advise that you ensure that the show house or apartment is completed. Only when this is done can you really get a feel of the inner build and if you think the area and layout is suitable for your needs.

Buying off-plan is one thing but trying to get a feel of the inside completely blind is very difficult. You really need to walk around a property first to ensure you get the right vibes.

Many new developments build in stages and it is not uncommon for the architects to change the layout and design if they have found the original plans were too costly or time consuming to build. When this happens they have to get new planning permission for the changes.

For the buyer this is not a bad thing because if you can stay in contact with the agents then they will be able to update you when the next phase is being released. You can then fly over on this day and you will have first selection of the entire phase to ensure you get the best plot or apartment.

Resale Property: Although resale properties come onto the market everyday there are times when there are more advantageous times to buy. One of these is October when home owners who have been renting out their property will wait to the holiday season is finished before selling their property. Being in Spain in October will present you with an opportunity to view these properties as soon as they come on the market.

These properties will also be empty for rental occupants so you can have a better viewing of the property in an empty and tidy state so you can make a better decision. There is nothing worse than viewing property when there are occupants either inside or have been told to vacate the property for your viewing. Nothing is more of a turn-off than seeing dishes in the sink, towels decorating the terrace and a living area with the remnants of last nights party.

January is another time when resale property comes onto the market. It is a time for change for many people and January is a true milestone for this. I would wait until at least the second week of January to visit due to the Christmas and New Year holidays.