May 16, 2008

Buying Property Abroad



It is probably true that no two countries in this world have the same legal system. So this means that the policy for acquiring property in each country is going to be different, relating to taxes and the legal system. To assume otherwise is foolish, and you would run the risk of violating laws related to real estate in the foreign property market.

However, the European Union has taken a proactive approach to this. They now have enforced a uniform law that buying property abroad is now subjected to the same rules and regulation as the locals or any other European Union citizen.

Yet still, even with this unification, there's been some amendments made locally by each country, so the buying procedures are not necessarily uniform. Individual countries still have their own laws, related to purchasing property.

For example, in Spain, outstanding debts attached to the property are now the responsibility of the new owner. In Italy, your neighbors, if they are farmers, have the right to pre-emption. These are two laws that are not necessarily true for other countries in the European Union.

The fact is, buying property abroad is complicated in the area of law and tax. This means it is important to consult the proper experts in these areas before purchasing any property abroad.

And to make matters worse, it's not only countries that have their own property regulations. Now, even regions within the countries have their own specific laws.

It is important that you do not ignore the terms when buying property abroad. If you're not familiar with the laws and regulations, learn about them or talk to someone who is. Do not assume that what applies in one country will apply in another, when it comes to taxes and property regulations.

Otherwise, you may find yourself in trouble with the authorities or out a lot of money!

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