Home / Buying abroad
Buying a home abroad, step by step
Everything UK buyers ask us, in plain English. How it works, what it costs, and the paperwork for each country.
From first look to the keys
Tell us what you want
A 30-minute call about where, why and how much. We shortlist homes that fit, including some that never reach the portals.
View on video
Walk round your favourites live with our local agent. Most buyers fly out once, to see a final two or three.
Get your tax number
You’ll need a foreign tax number (NIE, NIF or codice fiscale) and usually a local bank account. We arrange both.
Instruct a lawyer
An independent, English-speaking lawyer checks the title, debts, permits and planning before you commit.
Reserve and agree
A small reservation fee takes the home off the market, then you sign the private contract and pay a deposit, usually 10%.
Move your money
A currency specialist can fix your exchange rate, so a moving pound doesn’t change the price of your home.
Complete at the notary
You sign the deeds at the notary, in person or through your lawyer with power of attorney, and pay the balance.
Settle in
Utilities, insurance, keyholding and rentals, all set up. We stay in touch long after you have the keys.
What you’ll pay on top
Pick a country and a price to see typical taxes and fees for a resale home.
Good to know
Does owning a home abroad let me live there?
No. Since Brexit, UK citizens can spend up to 90 days in any 180 in the Schengen area without a visa, whether or not they own property. To stay longer, you’ll need a visa or residency permit from that country. We can introduce you to immigration lawyers who handle this every day.
Can I get a mortgage as a UK buyer?
Often, yes. Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian banks lend to non-residents, typically up to 60 to 70% of the value. We work with an independent overseas mortgage broker who’ll compare them for you.
Do you charge buyers a fee?
Not in Spain, Portugal or France, where the seller pays the agent. In Italy it’s normal for buyers to pay an agency fee too, and we’ll always tell you up front.
Can I rent it out when I’m not there?
Usually, but holiday lets need a licence in most regions, and the rules are tightening in places like Mallorca and parts of Portugal. We flag homes that already have a licence, and your lawyer will confirm it transfers to you.
How long does it take?
From agreeing a price to collecting the keys usually takes 6 to 12 weeks in Spain and Portugal, and around 3 months in France and Italy.
Talk it through with us
A relaxed 30-minute call about where you’d like to buy and what it’ll really cost. No pressure, ever.
Call 01632 960562