1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

It may sound easy but a lot of people going to Spain to buy a property don't actually know what they want!. Yes, we would all love that big cliff top villa with its own private pool, but if your budget is for a 2 bedroom apartment, just look at those. Its easy to get carried away by looking at properties way over our budget but don't. Set a budget with a small amount of leeway and stick to it!

2. WHERE DO YOU WANT TO BE?

Spain is a vast country and prices vary tremendously across the regions. Costa Del Sol is the most well known area but is generally the most expensive. Inland Murcia is a great place for a villa on a large plot which can be a lot cheaper. However don't fall into the trap of trying to get the biggest property for the cheapest price. You might get a villa inland in Murcia for the price of an apartment on the Costa Del Sol, but do you want a 30 minute drive to the beach? Will anybody rent it if you need some income?. Don't be tempted by the cheapest price. Buy in the area that suits your needs and get the best property you can for your budget.

3)FIND AN INDEPENDENT LAWYER

It might sound strange but many people will buy in Spain and don't use a lawyer. Although its perfectly possible to do this and many people have no problems at all - but what happens if it goes wrong? A lawyer will cost about 1% of the purchase price, not a lot for peace of mind. a list of trusted lawyers can be found at the Spanish Property Insight website. Make sure the lawyer is independent of the builder.

4)CURRENCY EXCHANGE

It might sound obvious but Spanish properties are sold in Euros. When you have converted the price to your currency remember it can fluctuate depending on the currency markets. Use a currency exchange company. Not only will you save money on transfers fees, you will also be able to get a fixed price for your currency so you know what you will need to pay, even if its not needed for many months. Fix your currency in advance and know the price you will be paying.

5)GET A BANK GUARANTEE

If you are buying a new build property demand a bank guarantee. This will protect your money should the property not get finished by the builder. They are free and are required by law. Don't let the builder tell you you don't need it or you have to pay. It's your right - demand it!

6)BLACK MONEY

Black money or "B" money as it's known in Spain is when they buyer gives some cash to the seller and a lower price is declared on the deed. You will save a little bit of tax on the price, but when you sell you will have to pay Capital Gains tax on the difference of that lower price and your selling price unless you can find someone to give you cash. However the authorities are wise to this now and even if they just think you did this the penalties can be hefty. Don't do it and walk away from a seller who will only sell if you give black money.

7)HABITATION LICENSE

Any property new or resale should have a habitation license. It confirms that the property has received its final inspection and is in accordance with the town hall. Without it you cannot get connected to the water and electricity supplies and will be on temporary supplies until then. If it's a new build property demand your lawyer has this from the builder. If it's resale make sure the previous owners provide it. No habitation license - walk away

8)DON'T GO IT ALONE

Buying in Spain can be very simple. There is lots of help out there - but who can you trust?. Ask your friends who they bought with, check out forums and message boards, get your lawyer to run a check on the builders and agents. The most important thing is don't go it alone. It's common in Spain, you meet someone in a bar, he sounds like he speaks a bit of Spanish, he is from your country and his friend is selling a place - what luck! "He won't rip me off will he?" Well, we have heard many horror stories this way including people selling property they don't even own! Build trust with someone before committing to buy.

9)DON'T LET THE SUN GO TO YOUR BRAIN

There you are in Spain. It's hot and sunny and you have enjoyed a hearty lunch with some sangria. Every property will look beautiful. Swimming pools, lush gardens, tropical flowers - just the perfect place for your new home. But is it?. Make sure you compile a list of essential requirements. How many bedrooms you must have... distance to the beach... price...location... how close are the shops. Narrow down your search before you start looking and stick to your guns. Only buy the property if it fits your requirements. It might sound silly but - sun, sangria and property searching are not a good mix!

10)LEARN THE LANGUAGE

If you are going to buy a property in Spain you will be surprised just how much happier you will be even with a little Spanish. What happens if you need to make a phone call?, speak to a doctor?, pay your water bill?. You will find the Spanish very helpful if you can show you are making an effort in THEIR country. There are many ways to learn Spanish, evening classes, tapes, CD's and books. One of the best ways to learn is on the internet and can be found here Click Here! Don't expect everyone to speak English!