Location Research and Viewing Trips

When you’re buying property overseas, it’s important that you carefully do your research and take the opportunity to make at least one viewing trip before signing on the dotted line.

It may seem obvious, but some buyers are so taken in with the brochure or sales pitch that any thoughts about going to visit the property or surrounding area fly out of the window. To make sure the purchase you’re about to make really is the right one for you and is in a decent location, it’s always advisable to go and check it out. Many companies run viewing trips, so it’s always worth asking if there’s anything coming up, or you could arrange a trip independently.

As well as viewing the actual property or development, some of the other issues you may want to explore are the location, the immediate neighbourhood, the ease of access from airports or stations and local amenities.

A property in a quiet spot may initially appeal but when you see it in person the impracticability of living far from other neighbours or local amenities may become much clearer. Likewise, holiday homes located a long way from good travel links may look great on paper, but when you’ve travelled there yourself you can get a better idea of how long a journey actually takes. If it’s a drag for you and you’re thinking of renting the property, your potential renters may be put off by the lack of accessibility.

A lot can be gained by exploring the local neighbourhood, looking at the kinds of leisure facilities and amenities available and the reaction of locals to holidaymakers and expats. Positive signs include re-developments, regeneration, new businesses and new shops – all indicators that an area is on the up.