Find your home the sensible way... Scroll Down
As you search the web, you’ll come across many real estate agents with property for sale in Spain. Often, these are the same homes because, to meet clients requirements, we tend to share our sellers and developers. We, for example, are part of the largest network of agents in Spain with 550 agencies … all of whom share their property with us, as we do with them.
What that means is that virtually any agent could possibly find a property that might suit you even if it’s not on their website. Given that, how do you choose the right agent to deal with?
Well, the truth is that sharing property is not the same as sharing values.
Sensible Values
At Sensible Spain we try to live up to our name … sensible by name, sensible by nature! People can – and sadly, every day do – get caught up in the excitement of having their place in the sun and, before you know it, they have committed to something which they later regret, not because absolutely everything is wrong with the property … but because everything is not absolutely right … and it must be right because you’re making a very important decision.
Let’s first look at Sensible Values (you can read how to get into trouble below!).
FIRST … we match our clients to the property, not the other way round. We don’t have “pet” developments: “guaranteed” investments: “buy before the price rises” properties. The fact is that there is no shortage of either new or resale property in Spain. We carry out a professional search with the sole aim of exactly matching your requirements for budget, size, accommodation and facilities.
SECOND … we match the lifestyle you want to the right area. It may suit some, but it’s rarely good having property miles from civilisation. Equally, if you want a bit of peace, stay away from seasonal holiday areas … just as, if you’re a party animal, you don’t want to be far from the bright lights. The point is, don’t compromise the lifestyle you want for a “dream” property … we’ll find you a dream home and your dream area.
THIRD … we understand the excitement of buying a holiday home or moving permanently is often accompanied by many uncertainties. Financing the purchase or perhaps selling your existing property are two of the issues that may arise. Then there’s the currency, different laws, healthcare etc. We’re here to guide you through this from beginning to end. You’ll also find sensible answers to most of these uncertainties in our Information section.
To sum up, our aim is to be trusted advisors. The partners and staff in Sensible Spain are mature and aware that all the parts must fit together if you are to be happy with your home in Spain. We’re not here to sell you the Costas … they sell themselves. We’re not here to sell you a property … we’re here help you choose a home. Last but not least, we’re here simply to give our clients the very best advice and service we can … and ensure that your interests drive the decisions.
However, not everyone shares our values …
Questionable Values
While most agents try to offer sound advice, regrettably there are some who behave in a way totally alien to our values. Here’s a few pitfalls that can get you into trouble …
PRESSURE
Many, often large, agencies (you’ve seen them in the press or at exhibitions) put their salespeople under enormous pressure to secure commitment whether to a “no obligation” inspection trip or, when you’re there, to place a deposit on something (anything!) that makes commission for both the company and the salesperson. They're pressure to get results so you’re pressured to buy.
LIMITED CHOICE
Choice is everything but when it’s limited to their “pet” developments which are, as always, either – almost sold out, don’t delay! – a great investment at the price! – only one or two left in the best position! (take your pick) … then choice is the last thing they want to give you. Decide in haste, repent at leisure. Of course, it may all be true – but try selling it on if it’s not.
THE BEST AREA?
While Spain is a beautiful country there are a few spots that have been overdeveloped … and a few in the middle of nowhere – although they may be a “new town” one day! It is in these spots that you might be persuaded to buy a “bargain” property which may be cheaper than the right area for you. It’s always been true … you get what you pay for and no more. Remember the old adage - Location, Location, Location.
FINALLY … Hope you found this advice useful … hope (naturally!) that you’ll consider contacting us … but, most of all, hope you find your dream.
Take care.
Tom Kay – Managing Director