Name: French property purchase contracts: The legal process and pitfalls to avoid
Start: 2023-07-27T16:30:00+01:00
End: 2023-07-27T17:15:00+01:00

Question 1

Can non-residents get a mortgage in Spain?

Accepted Answer

Often yes—many Spanish banks lend to non-residents, typically based on income, age, credit profile, and the property valuation. Non-resident mortgages commonly require more documentation (proof of income, tax returns, bank statements, ID) and may offer a lower loan-to-value than resident mortgages.

Expect the bank to commission an official valuation and to review the property’s legal status before final approval. If speed matters, get a mortgage assessment early and coordinate timelines with your lawyer so the financing conditions match the purchase contract dates.

We recommend speaking with a mortgage broker to understand the application process and get access to the latest mortgage deals in Spain.

Question 2

What’s different about buying property in the Algarve?

Accepted Answer

The Algarve is Portugal’s most established second-home and holiday-rental market, so buyers should plan for seasonality and operational realities (management, cleaning, maintenance).

Coastal exposure can also increase long-term upkeep.

The best Algarve purchases usually balance lifestyle appeal with “easy ownership”: reliable air-conditioning, parking, simple access, and low-friction maintenance if you’ll be abroad for parts of the year.

Question 3

What property checks and diagnostics are required when buying in France?

Accepted Answer

Most purchases in France include a seller “diagnostics” pack, commonly covering items like energy performance (DPE), lead/asbestos (where relevant by age), gas/electric safety (where relevant), natural/technological risks (ERP), and local requirements such as termites in certain zones. These reports inform you but don’t replace a deeper inspection—especially for older rural homes.

If you’re buying a character property, consider an independent surveyor to check structure, damp, roof condition, drainage, and renovation quality before you commit.

Question 4

Is buying property in Málaga different from elsewhere in Spain?

Accepted Answer

The legal purchase steps are Spain-wide, but Málaga buyers often deal with high-demand coastal stock, apartment communities, and new-build developments.

Due diligence should focus on planning/licences, any renovations or terrace enclosures, community rules (statutes), and whether the property has the correct habitation/occupancy documentation for utilities.

If you plan to rent, check Andalusia’s holiday rental registration requirements and whether the building community restricts short-term lets. A local lawyer should also confirm there are no debts attached to the property (community fees, IBI) before you pay major deposits.

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

Question 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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.

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