Why are you buying?
Key question… you must ask yourself WHY you are buying abroad, this in mind, you will undoubtedly follow up with a list of more questions to ponder on. Do you want somewhere for regular holidays or do you want somewhere as an investment, retirement home or do you seek a genuine second or semi-permanent home? Maybe you will need to cover your costs by renting it out too? Further choices include do you choose Rural or urban? New or old? Standalone home in tranquil privacy, on a urbanization or build your own? Amongst expats or mainly locals? Other key considerations include how far you want to be from an airport, beaches and key amenities such as supermarkets and local restaurants. Consider the practicalities of owning a home abroad and how much time and money you are prepared to spend on your property.
Upkeep costs are a key consideration or to be within walking distance of cafes and restaurants because many people don’t want to be reliant on a car. If you are relocating full-time with a family then schooling options will need to be investigated early on (and securing a place months in advance), whilst retirees will need to check on medical facilities and pharmacies. On the other hand if you are banking on renting out your property you will need to consider the ideal size and type of property, the sort of features that rentals might expect (outside space? Use of a pool?) as well as popular locations. You should create a brief that sets out your list of requirements, from number of bedrooms, location, type of property to the features you wish to have.