Wanted: Buy

There are lots of variations to the rules for moving to Spain, generally around if you are an EU citizen or not? Are you retired or do you want/need to work? Are you bringing dependants with you? Buying a property is not dissimilar to buying a property in the UK, etc.

As per "Kisses from Ire" - if you are an Irish (Eire) citizen & passport holder, then the process is simpler than if you are a UK citizen.

You need to apply to live in Spain and prove that you have a minimum income of €7,000 per person; and take out private healthcare cover (unless you are already a pensioner in Eire).

Buying a property...

I would recommend renting somewhere for a few months while you choose where you want to buy - it's hard to get a feel for a place in a short visit. 

If you need a mortgage, you will generally need a 40% deposit and then similar rules to elsewhere re- affordability apply.

Always use an independent solicitor, not one recommended by the estate agent.

You need to allow an additional 12%-13% on top of the purchase price to cover the associated costs.

Your solicitor should advise you on the process and requirements (e.g. you should always ensure a property has a 'certificate of habitation', etc.)

There are always plenty of properties for sale - if something doesn't feel right about a property, just walk away and look for something else.

Hope this helps - and happy to answer any more questions you may have...