Powers of attorney

A large number of properties in Spain are jointly owned by spouses, partners or sometimes by brothers and sisters who have inherited property from their parents. It is not always possible for all the joint owners to travel when it is necessary to sign documents, attend banks and local authorities who may then require proof […]
Buying property in Spain

When you are buying a property in Spain it is advisable to appoint an independent specialist lawyer – abogado – who speaks your language. The lawyer will obtain a copy of the Land Registry entry or Escritura – conveyance deed – which will show who owns the property, that the seller is are authorised to sell it […]
Property and marriage or divorce

Many people will remember signing their Deeds, (Escritura), for their property at the Notary. Spanish Notaries are officials of the state and have extensive experience and knowledge. Sometimes the Notary asks a couple about their “matrimonial regime” and this can cause confusion with English and British nationals who are not aware of the concept. it […]
Holiday rentals in Andalucia
PLEASE NOTE THE NEW LAW HOLIDAY RENTALS LAW WILL COME INTO FORCE ON 12TH MAY – PLEASE READ OUR ARTICLE AT https://decottalaw.redlinecompany-hosting.com/holiday-rentals-new-law/ FOR THE NEW RULES We are pleased to report that we have held another consultation with the Junta de Andalucia, the regional government, and the information they have provided confirms our interpretation of […]
Selling your Spanish property

Selling your Spanish property When you are selling property in Spain it is important to get independent legal advice. It is particularly important to ensure that your funds can be transferred back to Holland, Belgium, the UK or elsewhere having completed all the necessary documentation on leaving. If you have been resident in Spain and […]
Declaration of new work – Obra Nueva

Property ownership and declaration of new work – Obra nueva During the building boom in Spain many properties were extended with new rooms, garages, patios and swimming pools built to increase the value and attractiveness of the property. In most cases the owners were advised to ask for and obtain a licence from the Town […]
Ghent Property Exhibition
Gisele van Meer our Dutch conveyancing partner attended a major property exhibition in Ghent in Belgium in March. Dutch and Belgian estate agents and Spanish banks sponsored and took part in the event. Gisele was able to give prospective buyers good advice on the legal and practical aspects of purchasing with more than 20 years’ […]
TAX DEMANDS SENT TO NON RESIDENT PROPERTY OWNERS
The Spanish tax authorities – Hacienda – have begun a new campaign to ensure that non-residents who own property in Spain do pay their taxes. For many years we have been advising property owners of the importance of paying this tax annually. Now the tax authorities are actually sending demands giving an estimated or provisional […]
HOLIDAY RENTALS UPDATE

PLEASE NOTE THE NEW LAW HOLIDAY RENTALS LAW WILL COME INTO FORCE ON 12TH MAY – PLEASE READ OUR ARTICLE AT https://decottalaw.redlinecompany-hosting.com/holiday-rentals-new-law/ FOR THE NEW RULES RENTING YOUR PROPERTY IN ANDALUCIA – AN IMPORTANT UPDATE A great deal has been written about the regulations and laws governing the use of tourist apartments and renting property […]
TAX CAMPAIGN FOR UNDECLARED PROPERTY

The Spanish tax authorities have commenced a campaign to identify properties where the owners are not paying the correct local taxes. The properties they are looking for are those where a luxury 4 bedroomed Villa has been built on land only zoned for toolsheds – casa de apéros or where a water deposit has been […]
An important reminder for non resident property owners

Escaping to a property in southern Spain and the Canary Islands during the long winter months is a real joy for many people. Owning a property and having a second home here has many advantages. Now is the time of year when owners also need to think about their obligations. Some non residents who have […]
Selling your Spanish property

Selling your Spanish property When you are selling property in Spain it is important to get independent legal advice. There are important obligations on the seller and you should be aware of these. The tax authorities are now much more vigilant and you will not want to be looking over your shoulder once you have […]