Question
& Answers
General questions about Spain and Living in Spain |
HOME FROM HOME |
Q
I am a socially active person…what social activities will I find there?
A You will easily find hobbies and pastimes to keep you busy: Line dancing,
bridge, chess, bingo, keep fit, choirs etc. Learning opportunities -
Spanish classes, computer courses, art classes, charitable organisations
(for voluntary work), etc. Spirituality - all faiths and beliefs are
represented. In fact, every activity under the SUN !.
Q What is access to television like in Spain?
A All your home comforts are available; digital satellite TV (Sky, BBC)
as well as MMDS (Multi channel TV via aerial reception) and Spanish
language TV.
Q How good is the public transport?
A You'll have easy access to local and long distance buses, an excellent
network of train services and a wide availability of taxis. Public transport
in Spain is reasonably priced.
Q Will getting my child into school be a problem?
A Spain offers many private bi-lingual schools - English (GCSE curriculum),
Norwegian, Swedish as well as free Spanish state schools.
Q Can I bring my pet(s) with me?
A Yes - but your pet(s) must be fully vaccinated (particularly against
Rabies) at least one month prior to your arrival in Spain. Consult your
Vet before making any plans.
Q Will I be safe ?
A Simply adopt the same common sense precautions as you would in your
home country.
Q Is my home secure?
A As at home, many companies offer 24 hour security response alarm systems.
Alternatively, door and window grilles provide excellent protection
and are both popular and decorative.
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MOTORING FREEDOM |
Q How do I rent a car in Spain ?
A Spain has a wide choice of car rental companies. You will be surprised
how cheap and easy it is to arrange. Of course, you will need a valid
driving licence.
Q How about bringing my OWN car over to Spain?
A This is not a problem - however you must transfer your vehicle onto
Spanish plates if staying for longer than six months (E.U. Citizens).
Q What documents do I need to carry in my car?
A Whilst driving a car in Spain you are required to carry:
Driving
Licence.
Certificate of Ownership.
ITV (MOT) Certificate of road worthiness.
Road Tax.
Certificate of Insurance.
Q
What is the road system like in Spain?
A Spain has an excellent road network, with sophisticated motorways
and toll roads. Please remember, driving in Spain is on the right hand
side.
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YOUR HOME IN THE SUN |
Q Will I have problems getting a mortgage?
A Obviously, subject to criteria, mortgages are readily available. Generally,
mortgages are granted for up to 50% of the value of the property and
over a period of 10 years. Occasionally, it is possible to obtain higher
amounts. The documents you will need when applying for a mortgage are:
Income
Tax Return (Form P60).
Proof of Earnings (last 3 pay slips, Pension statement).
Copy of Passport.
Copy of Purchase Contract.
Q
What are the additional costs I should be aware of?
A Additional costs amount to 10% of the purchase price and include:
7%
IVA (VAT).
Notary/Land Registry fee.
Legal conveyancing fee.
Water and electricity contracts.
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THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND |
Q What is an N.I.E. Number?
A The N.I.E. is a foreigner's identification number. All foreigners
living in Spain must apply for this identification number.
Q How do I apply for permanent residence (Residencia)?
A You must apply for Residencia if you live in Spain for more than 183
days. The documents you will need when applying for Residencia are:
Passport.
Photographs.
Proof of Monthly Income or Pension.
Proof of Private Health Insurance or E121 Form.
Consult us for further details.
Q
Can I set up a Spanish will?
A Property owners are strongly advised to make a Spanish will, an uncomplicated
process.
Q What is the "Community Of Owners"?
A The community of owners comprises all those who own a property in
an urbanisation/apartment block etc. It is responsible for the maintenance
of all communal areas, swimming pool etc. There is an elected President
(Presidente) and an Administrator (Administrador). Community fees (cuota)
are based on the m² of the property and communal facilities available.
Community fees are generally paid on a yearly basis - this is a legal
obligation.
Q What is "The Padrón"?
A If you live in Spain for more than six months, you must sign on the
local Town Hall Register (Padrón). To register, you will need your Title
Deeds (Escritura) or utility bill and your passport.
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RUNNING YOUR HOME |
Q Explain for me my running costs?
A Running costs in Spain are low. You will expect to pay for:
Utilities
- water, electricity, telephone etc.
Community of Owners fee.
Home insurance.
Fiscal fee (see tax obligations below).
Property management fee - if you are renting your property.
Note that bills are paid via direct debit from your Spanish bank account.
Q What are my tax obligations?
A These are as follows:
Income
tax (Renta).
Wealth tax (Patrimonio).
Property tax (IBI) - similar to rates.
Your fiscal representative will handle payment of your taxes. Consult
us for further details.
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SELLING YOUR PROPERTY |
Q How
easy will it be to sell my property?
A There is a thriving market for resale properties - high appreciation
in value. We have a Resales Department - your property will be advertised
locally and internationally. If you are looking to sell your home, the
documents required include:
Title
Deeds (Escritura).
Water, electricity contracts and receipts.
Photocopies of Passports and N.I.E. Numbers.
Contact
us for further details.
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