So you are thinking of moving to another country. Spain may be a good choice, the climate is warm for most of the year, the cost of living is lower than in a lot of European countries, and as part of the EU there is no points system in place if you have or are entitled to a passort from a member country.
However, if you are looking to move to Spain, how would you go about it? Some people would suggest that you take a holiday in the area/region that you are thinking of moving to or have experience of, and whilst there look for some where to live. However a vast of time this results in a lot of new residents living on the coast. Spain has much more to offer the potential resident than just the coastal resorts. In addition to the coastal areas there are the towns (urbanizations) the countryside (campo), the mountains and the lakes.
Maybe as suggested by some people who are all ready residing in Spain the best way of finding what you really want from your move to Spain is firstly to come on holiday. Preferably choose a central location and then don’t limit yourself to one of the coastal resorts, maybe try something a bit further a field. There is so much more on offer to you inland as well. Once you have arrived, get settled in for the first few days, take it easy and relax (it isn’t very hard too do, the Spanish seem to have got this relaxation and taking things easy off to a tee). Then when you are ready start venturing further a field, away from the confines of the hotel.
If you are able to whilst on your holiday contact some people who have already taken up residency. A good way of making contact with such people is to go on to the internet and find forums that have been set up by ex-pats now living in Spain, also other places you may be able to make contact with ex-pats is bars or restaurants that are run by people who are already living in Spain. By making contact with these people they will usually know all the right people to talk to and even provide you with details of any clubs or facilities that you maybe looking for. They will also be able to give you the information you may need regarding schools and medical facilities etc.
Now you have made a decision on the area that you are looking to move to, now is the time to start making contact with the local estate agents and you will also find a number of ex-pats who have also set up agency’s (Inland Property Services) as well, many of these you can find on the internet. You will find that many of the Estate Agents here in Spain will have being dealing with people looking to move to Spain.
Another good idea would be to contact local rental agencies, as it is often a good idea to rent a house for a few months while you are looking for a local property. This will help you in making sure that both the are and the property that you are buying are the right area for you, as you don’t want to find that you have brought a property in an area that you are not really happy with.
Finally, enjoy your time in Spain, whether it be for a holiday or the rest of your life.
Should you require further assistance contact Inland Property Services.
Allison Thompson, now lives in Spain and has 15 years experience in the property field.