The promise of sunshine, stunning scenery and a new outlook on life continues to attract British buyers overseas.

In the past, hopping backwards and forwards between the UK and a bolthole in the sun was a popular way of life, thanks to the rise of budget airlines. Today’s buyers are dividing their time more evenly as the climate crisis and new working patterns signal a move beyond short-stay trips away.

If you are thinking of buying a home away from home abroad, here are some tips to help:

HYBRID LIVING

The latest survey of our global residential agents shows that the concept of hybrid living, with owners spending longer in their second homes and turning them into true secondary residences, appears to be a real lifestyle shift in the wake of the pandemic rather than a passing trend.

Post-Brexit, the length of time UK citizens can spend in the EU without a visa is limited to 90 days in 180 but even so, many are staying for longer than they would have done before, conscious of their carbon footprint and because they can now work from anywhere. If you are searching in Europe, be aware of the restrictions
and plan to make it work for you.

BE PREPARED

Today’s buyers are increasingly well informed about the area they want to move to before they begin their search, fast-forwarding the decision-making process. This is particularly relevant in constrained markets like Lake Como, for example, where supply is limited. So if you want to steal a march on the competition, the earlier you do your research, and the quicker you can act, the better.

CHECK OUT THE DETAIL

Don’t dismiss a property because the online listing appears to be light on detail. Because properties used as second homes may be empty at times, for reasons of security, or privacy, the information advertised is often limited and maps often don’t show the exact location. Publicly available floor plans are also a rarity in some markets. Always contact the agent to find out more. 

Understand the agent's role

When it comes to agents, UK buyers may be surprised to discover that the role may not be what they are used to. In Italy, for example, the agent doesn’t only represent the seller but is a mediator tasked with finding a solution for both the buyer and the seller with both sides paying agency fees.

THE RENTAL ROUTE

If income is an important consideration and you want to be able to let the property out, make sure you check the rules first. In certain markets, Mallorca, for example, a property must be licensed for touristic lettings and some cities have introduced rental caps.

If renting isn’t your primary reason for purchase but you do plan to go down that route, is there space to store your belongings or could the layout allow you to compartmentalise the accommodation, so you can let part of it and have a portion set aside for yourself?

Further information

Contact Jelena Cvjetkovic