It doesn’t matter which country you are thinking about moving to, there is one thing you should always bear in mind; view before you buy! This is more important than ever when you are buying in a foreign country where legal proceedings and the way things are done can be very different to what you are used to in the UK.

Where possible, it is a good idea to arrange a trip to the country in mind specifically for the purpose of viewing properties or THE property if you have already got your eye on one. Make a list of the must-have qualities you want in your new home and try not to be swayed from that list, no matter how nice a property looks. When it comes to living there you may find that the missing things are very noticeable. Looking at new property is exciting but try not to let that excitement distract you from the more important aspects of the property.

Remember that it is not just the property itself that is important, the area surrounding is just as important to look into. You will need to know how far you are from local amenities, parks, police stations and hospitals and how you could get there in an emergency. Look around at the local community and try to get a feel for it whilst you’re there; is it somewhere you think you can fit in?

If you are thinking about working in your new country then have a look at local jobs and try to find out how easily you could obtain a job once you are in the country. Many people turn to expat forums for things like this and it may be a good place to start, especially if you are researching from the UK. Forums are also a good way of exchanging information and tips with people who have “been there, done that”.

Below are some important things you should bear in mind when viewing properties abroad:

• Take pictures of every property; this will help you to remember one property from the other. Also make notes about each property to avoid confusion.

• Make sure you have enough money for a deposit before you go. You might find the perfect property for you and need to put a deposit down before you return to the UK.

• You might wish to apply for a mortgage whilst you are abroad. Remember to take photocopies and the originals of identification and other important documents as you will need this if you want a mortgage.

• Be sure you know how to get to the nearest police station and hospital, and make a not of the emergency numbers in the country.

• When looking around the local shops, note the things they sell, where can you go to get groceries/toiletries etc.

• What is the local public transport like? Is it efficient/cheap? Would you need a car when you move abroad?

• Local jobs – what are the requirements and do you meet them?

Most importantly, have fun looking at properties and see as many as you can, perhaps 3 or 4 per day. Don’t be afraid to look at properties that you may not usually view, properties abroad differ greatly from the UK and you might find that something unexpected turns out to be your ideal home.

Start your hunt for a home abroad here…
If you’re searching for an overseas property, a good place to start is the Overseas Guides Company’s new property search facility. To start your search now visit http://www.emigrationguide.com/content/emigration-properties