Spanish Properties Direct from the Owners

In most European countries, buying a property directly from the owner is still something of a foreign concept. But in Spain, it is often the opposite. Spanish people are often quite suspicious of real estate agents, and historically, properties have been passed down from generation to generation without the apparent need of a ‘middle man’.

To cater for the tastes of foreign buyers however, hundreds of real estate agents appeared across the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca in particular, looking to act as a bridge between buyer and seller. Buying directly from the owner is not as daunting as you might think. In fact, the main issue is not so much the vendor, but to make sure you contract the services of a good Spanish lawyer, who is also able to speak your native language. He or she will be able to ascertain if the property is legal, if it has any community charges or taxes outstanding, and if all amenities are in order (water, electricity, gas etc.). Ideally, you should also only put down a deposit on the property through your lawyer – the monies will be held in a ‘client’ account, and not held by the seller. A good rule is never to give any deposit directly to the vendor. Be suspicious if they try to push you on this. The deposit system is designed to prevent ‘gazumping’ and also to give you time (around four weeks) to agree on a price and perhaps obtain your mortgage if you need one.

Apart from that, the process is exactly the same as if you had gone to an agent. The only real difference is that if your time in Spain is short, then an agent will be able to show you a lot more properties. But if you have the time to wander around developments (or indeed the properties on this site) then buying directly from the vendor could be advantageous for you.

	Villa for sale Guadalmina Area: Marbella Guadalmina - First line beach-Plot: 900 m2 -Built: 600 m2 -Bedrooms: 4...		Frontline golf Villa Marbella Area: Mountainside Marbella- South facing - Plot: 800 m2 - Built: 580 m2 - Bedrooms: 4
	Villa for sale Sotogrande Area : upper Sotogrande - Plot: 2.000 m2 - Built: 280 m2 -Bedrooms: 3 - Bathrooms: 3