Considering Buying a Second Home? Read This Article First
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Posted On :
May-06-2010
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Article Word Count :
575
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Buying a second home is a major investment, and it can be a daunting task. Read the below article for an overview of things you can do to make the process as smooth as possible.
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If you are considering the purchase of a second home in the UK or abroad, or perhaps have already begun the process of searching for the second home you’ve always dreamt of, now is the time to consider the various practical aspects of homeownership. Buying a second home in another country may not be the same as buying property in your home country, so it will likely be necessary to enlist the help of a qualified professional in order to navigate the intricacies of financing and purchasing a second home. Additionally, arranging to have utilities like electricity, water, and gas connected to your new home can be challenging for newcomers. Here are some hints to help you manage the process more easily.
Choosing the right location
Climate and customs can vary widely within the same country, so it’s best to research the area you are considering before you make a firm decision on where to buy. In some cases it’s best to make a list of the most important elements you are seeking in your second home and to pass that list along to your agent when you begin your property search in earnest. These elements may include:
• Nearby attractions and facilities
• Transportation
• Demographics of the neighbourhood
• Proximity to shopping areas
• Number of bedrooms/bathrooms
• Local property, council, or other taxes
Find the right agent
By working with an agent familiar with the area in which you wish to buy, you can be certain that your time is spent looking at homes that meet your requirements, rather than spending hours and days investigating unsuitable properties. Additionally, when it is time to finalise the sale and arrange financing for the property, your agent can assist you with the legal issues and ensure that all goes smoothly throughout the purchasing process.
Arranging for utilities
In some cases it is necessary to set up a foreign bank account in order to make payments to various utilities. Often a direct debit arrangement can be set up through the utility company to ensure that your service is maintained even when you cannot be there to pay the bills yourself. Most electricity providers and gas suppliers require access to the property in order to begin providing services, so make sure someone is available to let the utility representatives inside on the agreed-upon date. Phone services vary widely from place to place, so consider taking your mobile along in case the landline service installation can’t be accomplished immediately.
Make the right move
When arranging to move into your second home, it’s a good idea to hire a professional moving company to assist you; they are familiar with the complexities of shipping furniture and personal effects overseas and can arrange to have your home in near move-in condition by the time you arrive. This can save you a fair amount of headaches and allow you to relax and enjoy your second home as soon as possible, without worrying about unpacking and rearranging furniture right away.
Find a native guide
If you can enlist the help of a neighbour, friend, or agent who lives nearby, they can often provide invaluable advice on utility providers, shopping areas, and other information that you’ll need as you settle into your new home. If no such guide is available, the local city council may be able to provide some of the same information for new residents.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Considering Buying a Second Home? Read This Article First _18122.aspx
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Author Resource :
Marcus Gallon regularly writes on electricity and home utility companies, including gas suppliers in the UK.
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Keywords :
Home Energy in the UK ,
Category :
Business
:
Home Based Business
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