Hi All

Hi Jon,

We fell in love with this area years ago but did purchase a villa in Benissa just ahead of Brexit.

We used various agents but were happiest with Anthony and Sally at Spanish Property Sales as they were incredibly friendly and professional and didn’t pressure us at anytime. They also introduced us to a great solicitor, Juan at Romeu, and many areas of interest that we hadn’t discovered.

We had a fabulous walk and picnic in the Jalon Valley today and the weather was fantastic. 

We will not be seeking residency until I have a better grasp of the tax implications. We have looked into getting a golden visa as a non eu resident which you may be able to apply for depending on what you intend to spend on a property.

Good luck with your search and don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any further input.

Helen 

Thank Helen,

The tax implications of residency are also something I need to look into. I have a teachers pension I have yet to draw on and my wife has an NHS pension and I think these are treated differently for tax purposes. CGT and IHT are also things I need to investigate further.

I will have a look to see what that agent has to offer and thank you for your suggestion of Solicitor. Did they deal with associated matters such as bank accounts, NIE and utility DD's etc?

I do not think we are prepared to commit enough (?500k) for a golden visa as I am not sure about going for residency and losing UK citizenship yet but the 90/180 restriction is a major downside for non-EU citizens post EU withdrawal

In terms of seeking residency it may be easier to do it this year during the transition period but will work on that once we have a property. Even if I leave it until next year I think we are ok income wise etc although I'm not sure how much private healthcare will cost.

We love the Jalon valley and the blossom and have managed to catch it in full bloom on several visits.

Regards

Jon

Hi Jon,

It is best to obtain your NIE ahead of time, which we obtained via the Spanish embassy in the U.K., as you will need it to open a bank account etc. 

Our solicitor helped us with everything else including direct debits for utility bills, the post, and has advised us in all sorts of ways such as tax implications and setting up appointments at the notary.

Happy villa hunting!

Helen

Good luck

NIE is necessary for lots of things but we opened a bank account with Sabadell with just our passports and 100e to deposit.

Hi Jon

We are in the same position as you and are also over in February with a view to buying a property and retiring in Moraira.

Based on the government website information, it would appear that if you purchase before the end of December you will still be entitled to healthcare and other benefits of you live there full-time.

We have enlisted a UK lawyer who specialises in Spanish law and will be applying for our NIE number in preparation to purchase.

We wish you luck in your search.

Kindest regards

Amanda and Scott

Hi Amanda,

Good luck to you too. 

I am not sure about applying for residency myself but as far as I can tell, the only difference in applying post transition will be having to demonstrate a larger income. As I am not a pensioner I would have to show I have purchased health care before or after transition.

Regards

Jon

As part of your research can I suggest that you have a look at Jim's Guides on this site.   The Citizens Advice Bureau Spain can also be helpful.   Just bear in mind that after the 31st January 2020 many things may change.   Also be aware that many provinces and town 'tweek' the national rules and regulations for their own procedures.   

Another helpful site for anything to do with driving in Spain is the N332 website.   This is run in conjunction with officers of the Guardia Civil for English speaking people and has an English version of the Spanish equivalent of the Highway Code.

Hi.... I have been doing the same, busting for 15 years and just bought in Moraira! 

Me advice to you is look at as many properties as possible.... all the agents, and there are many seem to have each other’s properties, unlike UK. Make sure they do not charge you anything. Some do,  you can expect about 11% on top of your buying price for tax and costs. 

As for Brexit, well I decided it was a good idea to move Brexit or not, you are a long time dead 👍 

We looked st about 29 properties I am sure the agents got fed up with us, but we found the ideal premises in the end. I think it’s a big move but well worth it 👍

If you want any info do not hesitate to contact again ! Mick

Thanks Mick. 

What do you mean by agents charging or not. Do you mean comission on the sale or taking you on visits?

I am currently looking at properties with HomeEspana, Hamilton's, W&W and Spanish properties. We have looked at lots online and currently have a shortlist if around 12 to visit.

I'm sure I'll be back with questions. 

Jon