Buying High End Property in Spain

At the high-end of the property market, Marbella, the geographical, commercial and holiday heart of the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, offers some of the world's most stunning real estate. Sometimes referred to as the St.Tropez of the south, the area has long been a playground for the rich and famous, with celebrities such as Antonio Banderas owning property there.

As well as in Marbella itself and on its famous Golden Mile, there are many exclusive properties in other nearby locations – La Zagaleta, Sierra Blanca, Sotogrande, El Madronal, Monte Mayor, Puerto Banus, and Nagueles to name but a few.

Buyers in the market for top end real estate in Spain can choose from a wide range of fully finished, top-grade homes in these prestigious areas. However, as the high end of the property market hasn't been as affected by the downturn, it's necessary to look that bit harder to find real value for money.

Today's advantageous market conditions mean investing makes sense, with the most spectacular and prestigious mansions, houses, villas, chalets, penthouses, exceptional apartments, luxury residences and large country estates coming to market maybe a little more often than previously.

Typical buyers in this sector of the market lead very busy lives, so using a well established, competent and professional real estate agent with in depth knowledge and experience of the area to take care of as much of the process as possible makes a lot of sense, and can be especially useful when completing more complex purchases where the process can become time-consuming. For instance, a reputable agent will be able to help with many of the formalities of bank accounts, paperwork and finance. All of this will allow you to realise your dream of owning a luxury property on the Costa del Sol with the least possible time and effort on your part.

Of course, buyers should still never "sign on the dotted line" without taking proper legal advice. Incredibly, there are still agents who inform eager-to-buy clients that you don't need a lawyer here in Spain, and that they can handle everything on your behalf.

While it is true that it's not a legal requirement to have a lawyer in Spain to enact a property purchase, the agent, even with the best intentions, cannot be impartial enough to keep your best interests at heart, so soon as you have found the property you want, the next step is to employ the services of a reputable lawyer with a proven track record in property conveyancing in Spain.

By using a good well known real estate agent and a reputable lawyer, buying a high end property in Spain today can be a simple and satisfying experience, and by taking advantage of current market conditions you could be the proud new owner of that luxury home you’ve always dreamed of!