Hi,

We are planning to buy a rural property. It would not be rented out and we plan to move there in two years. Can anybody fill me in on the costs we would incur leaving the property empty for periods of time (local taxes etc).

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Jackson

Welcome to Expat Focus, I do hope that you will become a regular poster to our forums. I have lived her in Spain for four years now and enjoy the life it gives me. As for your question, it is a simple one to answer i.e.; electric, gas, water, local counsel tax, land tax, rates, telephone. Where are you planning to move to? As this depends on what Province of Spain you plan to settle in?

The life here is good, but remember that you are here to live and the language is Spanish, so you must be able to speak at least the basic terms.

I must warn you that if you don?t have a little bit of "The Lingo" then you will be taken for a ride. By the English and the Spanish. So think carefully and do not leave you brain at the seven sisters. Sorry for the down talk about Spain but if you are not warned before hand you will be seen as easy pickings.
Thanks
Jaime

Hello Jackson,

Here is a particular Spanish Island where you can consider living with. I am referring to an island with coastal beaches and sunny climate, Tenerife. I support you in your search for valuable information before considering buying a Tenerife property or other properties. It would help make that informed choice.

Hi Jackson,

If I were you I would consider buying in a development that would finish in a couple of years time.

AI

for what it is worth -

we lived in La Herradura - Granada on the med for a few years and agree with the above comments about getting taken advantage of if you do not have language skills - we also learned that even though La Herradura is the singular 'tropical costa' in spain, our heating costs in winter month would run over €400 - that and the outward dislike for american nationals is why we now live in Costa Rica - and will continue to live in Costa Rica ...

annual house tax is normally pretty low outside of developments - about 200 to 300 per year, other fixed costs are also quite low if the property is empty

If you are planning to live ruraly Spanish is a must, start learning now. Get all the CD's and any kids spanish books (for basics in numbers etc) you can and knuckle down.

Can i ask what approximately what is your budget?