Name: Moving to Portugal: Visas, residency & healthcare
Start: 2023-04-27T16:30:00+01:00
End: 2023-04-27T17:00:00+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

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 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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