How Do You Choose the Right Holiday Home in Spain?

Now that is a good question, how do you choose the right holiday home for YOU in Spain? Well there are lots of things to consider and sometimes it hard to know where to start so let’s see if Properties Spain can help.

Who is going to use it, when and how long for? All of these questions can give you a clue on the best location. It is no good buying somewhere in an area that doesn’t offer the amenities you need / require. If you are going to use it more out of season are there still good flight options and what amenities are still open? Will it be for short breaks? Then you will probably need somewhere that is easy to lock up securely and not need much attention when you arrive. Are you likely to have friends or family staying and if so, will you need extra room?

Your age / health?

Are you going to want somewhere up a steep hill or with stairs in 5 years’ time? You might be Ok now, but sometimes you must consider the future. Do you want an easy walk to amenities?

Your budget?

Be honest with your agent: it is no good going to see something that you really can’t afford because sometimes that will set a standard that is not achievable at you real budget. If you buy a New Build, it will normally need furniture straight away and in many cases, light fittings. A re-sale may need work doing so will that need to be in your budget? Your budget may also decide where you can buy, so are you willing to be flexible on location? Also be honest if your funds will not be available straight away.

Are there any specific requirements?

Try to tell your agent things that are musts or definite no’s. It is no good arriving to start viewings and then tell the agent you don’t like heights (nothing above fourth floor), must have sea views, you only want a separate kitchen, or it must have covered parking. If you don’t inform your agent, you may find that half of the properties you were going to view are no longer suitable.

Give your agent a chance!

In the twenty years I have been in the industry I would guess that 40% of my clients have bought something completely different to their original search. A good agent will listen to and watch your reaction to the first three properties you view and then take some time and sit with you and discuss your reactions. You may find a home in the countryside is a bit too rural, a frontline apartment is a bit too noisy, a private pool is too small or is not cost affective or being close to the beach is more important than you thought! It may be that your agent has to change your search parameters and start the search from scratch. The benefit of this is he will now understand your requirements and so will you now you are in Spain and realise that what you thought you wanted is completely different to what you really need!