Do you already own a property in Spain but are now thinking of moving here permanently? Many people begin their journey as non-resident holiday home owners and then take the plunge and become resident. It’s not just a case of ensuring that you can acquire the correct visas. It’s also important that you make sure that your property will continue to suit your changing needs as you live here permanently. In this article we consider some of the questions you need to ask of your existing property and some of the other implications there can be in a move abroad:

From holiday home to permanent residence in Spain

You’ve probably heard that the Spanish government is threatening to tax non-EU non-residents a 100% tax rate for buying property in Spain or even ban them completely:

However, if you do live in a non-EU country and have been considering buying property in Spain, don’t panic. There are many obstacles in the way and there is plenty of uncertainty about whether it will ever become a reality:

A Place in the Sun has published a detailed article about the proposals and why they think potential purchasers need not change their plans:

The Spanish government tax proposal: what now for buyers?

However, if you are planning to buy, as with most things, now is probably as good a time as ever. Here we have a selection of articles about the conveyancing process in Spain:

In this article we organise the process into six clear steps on the way to clinching the deal on your ideal Spanish property:

How to buy a house in Spain in 6 steps

If you are keen to set the process in motion as quickly as possible then you might be interested in this article about how long it might actually take:

Why not download our ebook ‘The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Property in Spain’. It provides more detailed information about the process:

The first impression that most people have of this coastal town in North Costa Blanca is of houses decorated in all the colours of a painting pallete. In the centre of the town it is true that its multi-coloured cottages do make an impact but David Ruiz explains how Villajoyosa is much more than this brightly-coloured façade. Find out more about its coastal walking routes, beaches and the range of additional attractions you’ll find within close proximity:

Living in Villajoyosa Spain: The Definitive Guide

Did you know that the ‘Canary’ is nothing to do with birds. Apparently, the Canary Islands translates to ‘Islands of the Dogs’ ‘Canariae’ in Latin. David Ruiz explains that this is believed to be because of the large number of dogs found there by the early Romans.

In this article David describes how the islands became Spanish territory and introduces us to their unique geological features: the diverse landscapes of Tenerife and Gran Canaria; the volcanic wonders of Lanzarote and the idyllic beaches of Fuerteventura. Find out more about what this archipelago has to offer:

A Place in the Sun can be addictive viewing and if it is one of your favourite shows, you might already have seen Bev and Errol choose their property in San Pedro del Pinatar, in the region of Murcia. In this article we find out a little more about the couple and their choice of Spanish holiday home:

“We didn’t expect to have a home 2 minutes from the beach for £60k”

The website Spanish Property Insight, provides in-depth information about the Spanish property market. In this article, they explain what the title deeds are, what happens when a property is transferred and the role of the notary. If you are in the process or considering a purchase then this article will help you understand more about it and how it is designed to protect you:

Spanish property title deeds or ‘Escritura Pública’

Whatever your reason for selling your home in Spain, you want to make the most profit that you can. This needn’t entail engaging in extensive home improvements. In this article from Think Spain, they provide some suggestions for adjustments that could be made in each part of your home to improve its value. From a lick of paint to a more ambitious project:

The talk about visas continues. With the golden visa on the brink of disappearing from the options for those wanting to live in Spain, what is left? This article on the Idealista website provides quite a detailed overview of the alternatives and who they might be most suitable for:

If you drive a diesel car then you need to be aware that there are plans for the price of diesel to fall into line with that of petrol. The directive is from the EU and requires that a new tax will be imposed on diesel engines from February 20th:

A word of warning if you are in Spain over the winter period. Electricity prices are due to increase as a result of the extra demand:

In this newsletter we’ve covered a few price increases, so just to sweeten the pill a little, here is an opportunity to take part in something free! San Pedro del Pinatar is hosting a free guided walk on March 23rd around its Salt Flats. If you live in the area or are visiting why not take advantage of this gentle stroll:

You’ve moved to Spain and you want to make friends. How do you go about it? Think Spain offers some suggestions for how you might make those first contacts and feel more at home:

How to make friends when moving to Spain

The world has been shocked by the images of LA in flames. The threat of wildfires is something that Spain is well aware of, particularly during the summer months. In this article, Spanish News Today tell us about how the Canary Islands are preparing for the possibility, ensuring that they can take action early:

It’s not to everyone’s taste but the news is that Wetherspoon’s chain of pubs is considering setting up business in Spain. According to this Euro Weekly News article it’s the range of taxes that have recently been imposed in the UK that are driving the project. Of course, Spain also has plenty of taxes so we’ll wait and see if it transpires:

Wetherspoon to open in Spain?

We would welcome any suggestions for future themes you would like us to cover either in the newsletter or in an article on Spain Explained.

Please let us know by email at newsletter@abacoadvisers.com.

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