Could I pay less for my new home by going elsewhere?
We offer you your new home at the minimum list price, whether you go directly to the vendor or even another agent, the price will not be less. In many cases you will pay more, and also be offered a vastly inferior range of homes, compared to what we can offer you. We deal directly with the builder or developer rather than go through a middleman, as many other companies do.
Do you sell re-sale properties?
Yes we do. Generally though, new build properties are cheaper and therefore more popular. In addition to the price issue, new build properties are generally of a much higher standard than older properties and do not need any maintenance or immediate expenditure. Clients that buy a re-sale property are usually those who need to move in within a very short period of time, and who are unable to wait for a new property to be built. We will be delighted to show you our re-sale property portfolio on your trip if that is what you would prefer.
How long do new properties take to build?
Because we deal directly with the builders, our build times are on average much less than other companies. The normal time is between six to eight months, though some developments may be as long as 18 months. Some new developments will have properties that are available to move into immediately.
I have a house to sell in the UK before I can buy a property, can you help?
If you have approx. 30% of the purchase price available in cash funds without selling your home, you can reserve a new property, securing its price and then sell your own within the time period agreed by you with the developer. If you don't have approx. 30% of the purchase price on hand and you don't want to re-mortgage or to arrange bridging finance (overdraft facilities) then you will need to sell your own home before you can purchase a property.
I have already made arrangements to travel abroad with a view to buying a property and would like Carasol to meet me and show me properties. Can you help?
We shall be pleased to make arrangements to collect you and show you a selection of properties if you wish. However, as this is an important decision, we recommend that you book an inspection trip to enable you to allow yourself time to view the widest selection of properties.
Should I use a Solicitor in the UK?
This is not at all necessary, as your Lawyer in the UK would still have to use a local Lawyer - meaning two sets of legal bills. All communications from your lawyer will be in English.
What other costs on top of the purchase price can I expect?
Normally you should allow an additional 10% on top of the purchase price for legal fees, Notary fees, Land Registry, VAT (IVA) or Transfer Tax and Stamp Duty. Your Lawyer will give you a detailed breakdown as part of his quotation. If you are considering a mortgage, the bank may charge an arrangement and survey fee, just as they do in the UK.
Will the property we buy be freehold?
Yes and many new properties have a 10 year building guarantee very similar to the NHBC guarantee in the UK.
Do I have to be in the country in which I am purchasing for each stage of the legal process?
No. You can instruct your Lawyer to act on your behalf, even for the final completion. Lawyers are responsible for chasing up all information required by their clients.
What if I change my mind before completion?
You are committed to the Private Purchase Contract, but some people do sell their new property before completion and can benefit from any profits on the money they initially invested.
