Name: Buying property in France: legal questions answered
Start: 2024-06-13T16:30:00+01:00
End: 2024-06-13T17:00:00+01:00

Question 1

What is a “Codice Fiscale” and why do I need it to buy in Italy?

Accepted Answer

The Codice Fiscale is your Italian tax code and it’s required for key steps in a property purchase—signing contracts, opening utilities, paying taxes, and often for banking. Many overseas buyers apply early because it can delay the preliminary contract (compromesso) and completion if it isn’t ready.

Your lawyer can usually guide the application process, or you can obtain it via the Italian tax office or consulate route depending on your situation.

Question 2

What should I check before buying a villa in Altea (especially hillside homes)?

Accepted Answer

For villas in Altea, confirm legal access and parking practicality, and verify planning/build legality for terraces, pools, extensions, and any enclosed outdoor areas. Ask your lawyer to confirm the villa matches its Land Registry description and that any renovations were properly approved and documented. Views add value—so make sure the terraces/view areas are legally part of the property.

Before you buy a property in Spain download our Spain Buying Guide for full information and what to look out for.

Question 3

Is buying property in Murcia a good option for value compared with other parts of Spain?

Accepted Answer

Murcia is often viewed as good value, especially compared with more saturated coastal hotspots. That said, prices vary widely between coastal areas (Costa Cálida), cities, and resort developments. For buyers, “value” should include legal certainty and running costs: confirm title, debts, and that the home has the right planning and occupancy documentation. If your priority is lifestyle (beach access, golf, year-round living), compare neighbourhood services, transport links, and community charges—some resort communities have higher ongoing fees that matter as much as the purchase price.

Question 4

Buying in an Algarve resort -condomínio—what should I check?

Accepted Answer

Ask for a clear breakdown of condomínio charges (pools, gardens, security, lifts), whether there’s a reserve fund, and what major works are planned.

Confirm exactly what you own (terraces, storage, parking) and what needs approvals. If the property is marketed for rentals, verify the management terms and any restrictions that affect guest stays.

For further assistance with finding the right property for you reach out to our in house Portugal Property Consultants.

Question 5

What’s different about buying property in Dordogne compared with other parts of France?

Accepted Answer

Buying property in Dordogne often means older stone houses, farmhouses, and rural plots, so condition and utilities matter as much as location.

Beyond the standard notary checks, focus on septic systems (assainissement non collectif), roof and damp issues, and whether barns/outbuildings were legally converted.

Many Dordogne buyers also target gîtes or holiday rentals, so confirm what’s realistic for access, internet, and year-round liveability before you commit.

Question 6

What should I check before buying a coastal apartment in Málaga province?

Accepted Answer

Start with a Land Registry check (nota simple) to confirm ownership and any charges (mortgages, embargoes).

Then verify building legality: licences for reforms, any extensions, and whether the building has the correct occupancy documentation for connection/reconnection of utilities.

In apartment blocks, request evidence of community fee payments, planned major works, and any restrictions affecting balconies, noise, or holiday rentals.

If sea views and proximity to the beach are key, your lawyer can also flag issues linked to coastal regulations and easements that may affect alterations or future building works nearby.

Question 7

What taxes and fees should I budget for when buying property in Italy?

Accepted Answer

Buyer costs in Italy depend on whether you’re buying a resale or new build, whether it’s a primary residence or second home, and the seller type.

Typical items include purchase tax (registration tax or VAT/IVA depending on the transaction), cadastral and mortgage taxes, notary fees, and often agency fees.

You may also need a geometra/surveyor check and translations.

Ongoing costs can include IMU (often relevant for second homes), local services taxes, building insurance, and condominio charges for apartments.

Visit our Italy Experts directory for further information on various experts to assist you with your property purchase in Italy.

Question 8

Can foreigners buy property on the Costa Blanca?

Accepted Answer

Yes—foreigners can buy on the Costa Blanca, including non-residents.

You’ll typically need an NIE, proof of funds, and lawyer-led due diligence before paying major deposits. The purchase completes at the Notary, followed by registration at the Land Registry.

For full buying process in Spain download our free Spain Buying Guide.

Question 9

Can I legally rent out a home in Murcia as a tourist rental?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, but tourist rentals usually require registration and compliance with regional rules (guest reporting, safety/standards, consumer information).

Your biggest “go/no-go” factors are usually:

(1) whether the property type/location is eligible

(2) whether the building’s community rules restrict short stays, and

(3) whether you can meet compliance obligations as a non-resident owner.

Before you buy, ask for written clarity on registration requirements and check if any local restrictions apply to the specific municipality or resort complex.

For full buying process in Spain, download our Spain Buying Guide.

Question 10

Can I rent out my Algarve property short-term (Alojamento Local)?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, but only if you follow the rules: Aojamento Local must be registered before it can be operated, and advertising/intermediation should reflect the RNAL registration number.

Also note that municipalities can apply local rules to manage AL activity. If rentals matter to your decision, confirm compliance for that specific property and location before signing the CPCV and committing to a property purchase.

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