First-time buyers: Take that first step with a Spanish Property

By: Andrew Regan
March 09, 2007

Over recent years the substantial growth in UK property prices has outstripped the income generated by people in their mid/late twenties. For single people, finding a deposit is certainly difficult enough, and with the need for a substantial mortgage, repayments are not within their income realm.

Will this phenomenon continue? Forecasters are concluding that although there may well be a period of stagnation, or even a reduction over the next 10 years, the UK property market will continue to stretch away from earned income. As there is a long standing tradition for UK youngsters to fly the family nest much earlier than in other European countries, the UK alternative is for youngsters to rent a property.

Whilst renting property does provide an element of freedom - and for many, helps avoid early commitment and responsibility - rent paid out is effectively disposed of with no real tangible return. Parents of course consider it an absolute waste. Coming out of University with a student debt is a millstone and contributes to youngsters’ inability to make their first home purchase.

With more disposable income at their finger tips than all previous generations, this does present the risk that the current generation might squander their income and dispose of it - without the benefit of securing an asset or attain some long term financial security.

So, other than rent a property, what alternatives do those not fortunate enough to be able to make their first property purchase have? Well, why not buy in Spain? Either as a solo consideration or bolstered by sharing with a partner or sibling, the potential is obvious.

Is this a crazy notion or a viable option? Other than the obvious attractions of the climate, the Spanish economy is buoyant and the property market has seen healthy growth over many years, and is anticipated to continue doing so. Entry-level property is much lower than in the UK and first time buyers can make a purchase with a mortgage as support and generate income through property rental.

Buying a Spanish home in the well regarded Costa Calida area offers a good example of what can be achieved. For a little over 100,000 Euros, one bedroom Spanish properties can be secured in a coastal area, while a good quality two bedroom Spanish apartment can be purchased for a small additional cost. With regular all year round flights to and from many UK airports into the heart of the Costa, a long weekend away or a revitalising short break is an added attraction.

For those with an interest in diving, fishing, golf, surfing, relaxing on the beach or walking in the mountains, owning a Spanish apartment has many advantages over its UK counterpart. Add into the equation lower living costs, no heating costs and lower community charges; plus the ability to take annual holidays there, and the facility to easily rent the apartment to friends and work colleagues all makes it a significant viable option.

For those switched-on youngsters considering buying a property in Spain, choosing a knowledgeable and reliable Spanish property agent can make the purchasing process in Spain a straightforward matter. And in today’s world dropping into casual conversation being an owner of a Spanish property is the ultimate in ‘cool’.

Andrew Regan is an online, freelance journalist.

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