With 2025 just around the corner, for some of us the new year will be the starting pistol for a whole new project, buying a home overseas. The viewing trip is when that all gets very serious. Indeed, it can all be a bit overwhelming, but a little preparation and the right mindset will make it easier.
After many years of dreaming, a decision, then some serious planning and maybe a property exhibition or two, eventually you will find yourself boarding a plane for that all-important viewing trip. While the spring and autumn are the most popular seasons for a viewing trip, there is a lot to be said for a winter viewing trip.
If you like a property when the weather is cold, the nights are long and the trees are bare, you’ll probably love it when summer comes around. One thing is certain, you will beat the rush if you head out in January or February. Plus, you’ll benefit from cheaper travel and accommodation costs. Moreover, rental properties will be empty.
But how do you go about your first viewing trip?
Here we make it easy for you, the S-M-A-R-T. way.
Self-confidence
A common mistake on a viewing trip is becoming overwhelmed by choice. When you can buy anywhere in the world, how do you settle on one place? Is the perfect home in the next village; around the next headland? To be able to say ‘No’ you have to have confidence you know what you want.
The trick is to prepare as much as possible beforehand, with plentiful checklists separating your must-haves from your nice-to-haves. Be absolutely honest with yourself about what you want and need in a property. What are your red lines?
Methodical
Buying abroad is large undertaking, and that can become overwhelming if you let it. But it is just a journey of putting one step in front of another. Most countries have a similar buying process.
There may be quirks or specialists you need, such as the presence of a notary, but the basic steps are the same. You make an offer, sign a preliminary contract and send your deposit, solicitors perform searches, you sign the final contract and pay the final balance.
Alert to risk
Buying a home abroad takes you out of your comfort zone. You’re in a different country, in a different language, maybe operating out of a hotel room. International buyers can sometimes feel discombobulated.
The best way to protect yourself is to ensure you have someone you trust looking out for your interests. Make sure you use experts, lawyers and surveyors who know what to look for. They can support and guide you through an overseas purchase.
Another expert to consider is a finance specialist. Movements in the exchange rate can cause significant harm to your budget. Fluctuations in the market can reduce your buying power. If you have already started the process of buying a property, you may be on the hook for thousands of pounds extra, or have to pull out of the purchase entirely. Call Smart today to discuss budget risk solutions.
Ready to transfer
If you find the place you love, you will often be asked to sign a holding or “reservation” deposit. Autumn is buying season so if the agent says you need to move fast, she could be right. This is where having your lawyer and currency expert chosen, briefed and ready for your call, pays dividends.
You can have the contract checked and be ready to put a holding deposit down straight away. If you leave it until you get home, the best places will be gone. Make sure you open an account before you go.
Technologically savvy
These days you can save a lot of the legwork by using technology. Check out the neighbourhood and kerb appeal via Google Streetview. All agents should have decent photos. Some agents will have video, drone footage, even VR (virtual reality) so you can experience being “inside” the property.
Smart Currency Exchange also uses technology to make your purchase simpler. Check out our automated and regular payments solutions.
