The starting point is which ownership rules apply to foreign buyers. A number of countries permit freehold ownership of flats but restrict land; real estate in benalmadena spain other places, the authorities ask for a locally registered company or a long-term lease instead. Such restrictions shift periodically, so confirm them at the time of the deal, not from an old forum post.

What follows concerns the legal status of the property. A local lawyer you hire yourself should check the ownership record, any mortgages or liens, construction approvals and whether the seller has the right to sell. In many markets, unpaid local taxes follow the piedmont property, not the previous owner.

The funding requires as much attention as the property. Setting up a local account is frequently a requirement glyfada real estate for sale paying taxes afterwards, and banks will ask for proof of the source of funds. The exchange rate can move the amount you actually pay significantly, so treat it as a datca real estate line item.

The reservation agreement usually comes first: a holding deposit freezes the price for an agreed window. Check carefully the terms of the deposit if the legal review reveals a problem. A properly written clause refunds the money when the problem lies with the property.

Completion normally takes place before a public notary or an equivalent official, according to local practice. The change of ownership only becomes final when the register is updated, which can take days or months. Retain every document — the signed agreements, tax receipts and the ownership certificate. They will be needed at resale.