When buying an overseas property, it's vital that you get reliable independent legal advice before you purchase a property.  Instructing an overseas property lawyer will be an additional cost, but this needs to be factored in to your figures.  Using a lawyer when buying abroad is probably even more important than when buying in the UK.
 
An independent lawyer (not one recommended by a developer or who is in some way involved in the transaction) will help to inform you about possible problems and issues, and protect you from future problems with your new home.  Your lawyer will conduct revelant searches, translate documents, check licences and ensure the property has been built legally without any legal claims on the property from a third party.

Typically, lawyers fees will be between 1% - 2% of the purchase price, although can vary by country or property price.   Don't be tempted to scrimp on legal costs - following the right process now could save you a lot of trouble down the line!

Next Steps: If you're thinking about buying a property abroad and you need help understanding the process, price and procedural framework of the sale, a company like Judicare can offer an English speaking contact point throughout the purchase process, and put you in touch with specialist lawyers in different jurisdictions.

Judicare can also help if you've experienced problems with an overseas property purchase or investment such as late delivery (or non-delivery), planning disputes etc.  They can conduct a viability report and provide a legal opinion on the best course of action to resolve your problem and help recover your investment. Judicare currently operate in the following jurisdictions Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Germany, Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria, Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, Cape Verde, United States of America, Dominican Republic, Turks and Caicos, Brazil, United Arab Emirates.