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Seven tips to help you learn Spanish or Catalan AUG 2008 |
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The Generalitat’s 012 helpline, a useful resource
One of the more frustrating things about settling in Spain must surely be trying to get clear and reliable information. Whether it’s finding out how to get healthcare or start up a business, somehow everyone seems to give you a slightly different story.
Catalans and Spaniards traditionally accepted this as a fact of life. But for the rest of us —even though things have improved a lot in recent years— this apparent bureaucratic confusion is hard to understand, no matter how long we live here.
So if you need information or have a problem, don’t speak much Spanish and don’t quite know where to begin, a good way to start is by calling 012, the Generalitat’s 24 hour phone helpline, and asking for an English-speaking operator.
Things you can ask about include:
- How to go about getting healthcare
- Help available for senior citizens
- Education, how to enrol children in school, child benefits
- Births, weddings and deaths
- Work, unemployment, rights and benefits
- Consumer complaints, health and safety
- Housing grants and issues
- Public transport
- Agriculture
I regularly use it for all kinds of queries, particularly when I need numbers of government departments. Even when they can’t help directly, they can usually point you in the right direction.
You may already know the Generalitat’s huge website (www.gencat.cat), an absolute mine of information with more English content every day. But it’s so big it’s not always easy to find what you want — it’s often quicker to call 012 than to try and locate the information yourself.
Note that while the service is 24 hours, some queries are transferred to another Generalitat department, that opens in office hours. Most usually have someone that can help you in English.
Outside Catalonia, you can contact the helpline on 902 400 012, from abroad on 0034 902 400 012.
And on the subject of useful numbers, here are a few more:
112: single emergency number. 24h, free call.
Health emergencies, fire fighting and rescue, police and civil protection.
088: Mossos d'Esquadra (Catalan Police). Free call.
900 900 120: helpline for women suffering from violence.
important property issues
including illegal builds and cedula de habitabilitat JULY 2010
We have friends who have had a property built only to find out later that it is illegal. I know there are others out there. My friend has spoken to his MEP, who has asked for more details and also if there are any other people here in a similar situation who would like to send their details to add to the database. The more people who reply, the more likely it is that a solution can be forced upon the government of Spain.
I have forwarded the email from the MEP's secretary. Perhaps some of your readers would like to add their details. regards, Lynn email address in for anyone who wants I can forward the letter to them.
lynn hanson <fincacaballo@yahoo.co.uk>
From: ANDREASEN Marta OFFICE [mailto:marta.andreasen-office@europarl.europa.eu]
Sent: 28 May 2010 13:31
Subject: Spanish Land Grab and other property issues in Spain
I am Accredited Parliamentary Assistant to Marta Andreasen MEP. I am currently updating our database on Spanish property issues, which contains your e-mail address. I would be grateful if you could let me know the following information by return of this e-mail. You may know of other people who might want to submit details - please forward the e-mail to them.
Feel free not to supply any or all of it as you see fit.
1) Name(s)
2) Postal address
3) Contact telephone number
4) Nationality
5) Position in relation to campaign
(e.g. homeowner/victim; activist; supporter; journalist; lawyer; other-please specify)
6) Location of property involved, if any (town/village and province)
7) Nature of problem
(e.g. Ley de Costas/demolition; bankrupt builder; corruption in local/central government; fraud; other-please specify)
8) Dates/timescale (approximate if necessary)
9) Are you aware of any involvement of European Union funding in any of your difficulties. If so please give details.
Thank you for your assistance
With best regards,
Andrew Kinsman
email: andrew.kinsman@europarl.europa.eu or tel:00 32 2 284 7726
WE HAVE SPOKEN TO ANDREW KINSMAN ON THE TELEPHONE CONCERNING THE CEDULA DE HABITABILITAT PROBLEM HERE AND HE WAS NOT JUST UNAWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT ALSO EXTREMELY SHOCKED AT THE NUMBER OF HOMES WHICH THEY ESTIMATE TO BE EFFECTED BEING 50,000 TO 60,000. HE HAS ASKED FOR INFORMATION TO BE SENT TO HIM SO ANYONE WHO HAS A RURAL PROPERTY PLEASE CONTACT HIM TO HELP GET THE PROBLEMS ADDRESSED.
A POTENTIAL PROBLEM WHILE LIVING THE LIFE IN SPAIN....... June 2010
There are a few taboo subjects that people do not like to talk about, one of the subjects, encompasses death and the subsequent funeral for yourself or your loved ones.
Two things you can guarantee in life, taxes and that you will need some form of a funeral arrangement in the future and it is getting more costly every year. So even if you don’t want to plan it now, it makes sense to fix its cost by paying for it now, either by a lump sum or by paying for it monthly for up to 5 years which will guarantee the price to be locked in at today’s price.
The cost of funerals has historically increased above the normal levels of inflation and this is a theme that is predicted to continue. A funeral costing just £850 ten years ago would cost nearer £3,200 now. It is impossible to say what that cost might be in five or ten year’s time. So pre-paying now will save you, your family and your estate a great deal of money. Some people take the sensible attitude and plan for the cost of a funeral by having money set aside or putting into place an investment or savings plan (Insurance policy, ISA, TESSA or Endowment). The possible problem for this action could be the time it takes to cash it in, restrictions on early redemption or in this financial climate that it keeps up with the funeral increases.
The Spanish way of funerals can often lead to misunderstandings with the funeral having to be settled up front and the funeral having to be completed within 48 hours, leaving your loved ones confused and distressed, particularly when your family and friends are a long way from home. Will they know what to do, who can they call?
Pre-planning also gives you the peace of mind of knowing that your planned arrangements will be conducted sensibly and in a dignified manner with respect to your wishes. One phone call and all your requirements in your plan will be carried out without any fuss. Therefore, alleviating the burden on your bereaved loved ones, relatives, or friends.
A Beneficial Funeral Plan, which is provided by Golden Leaves will deal with all these problems in a thoughtful and responsible way. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in safe hands and that your funeral details are planned and well managed. The security of your plan’s funds is held securely in an independently managed Trust, which is tasked to manage stable long term growth, to cover the increasing costs of funeral services.
The services are available throughout Europe and other selected countries. Selected plans have a dual country option - this means they can be applied to a funeral in the UK or in the country in which you have chosen to live.
Take the thoughtful and responsible approach today and speak to your local agent, Beneficial Insurance Services. Telephone number 965791222 or email us at info@beneficialspain.com
Grants (beques) available to families with children in infants, primary and secondary education June 2010
Now is the time to apply for grants for your children in the education system: you need to get the application in by the end of June for school meals (earlier than last year) and book grants need to be in by the end of September. Travel costs are applied for between the end of the year and the end of January. It is financially well worth doing so to help reduce these costs.
1) Grants for school meals - are available for up to 75% of the cost so it can work out that you pay as little as €1.50 per day. The amount charged for the dining room (menjador) service pays the company providing it for meals, for minding pupils, & for insurance during that time when the school is not responsible for pupils.
The Education Department directives here stipulate certain conditions for pupil's diets during the dinner hour, such as that fruit is provided, a sandwich is not considered adequate, etc. and that contributes to the costs.
2) Grants for books. – this application has to be in by the end of September. Note: there are usually discounts for books for members of AMPA, the Parents Association.
3) Travel cost (desplaçament) grants in our region families qualifying for this grant are those living more than 4 km from the school/college, so the figure adds up to being a big help. If you live in a neighbouring area you can also check with the school to see if there is any agreement for schoolbus provision with your area to help reduce travel costs.
HOW to apply:
1) Either ask the school/college for what you need to apply, or
(2) contact the educadora social (education worker), whose role covers school-related issues within the community & who can help people can apply for all of these grants. People make an appointment through our Ajuntament office to see her and she helps with the paperwork. You need to have information about the family's income for the year, NIEs, Certificates for Empadronamnet &/or Certificat de Convivencia (for co-habiting, available from your Ajuntament), and your card for large families with many children if you have one (a card entitling you to various discounts/benefits).
Taru Burstall, Agent d'acollida (information & facilitation service for English-speakers).
El Perelló Ajuntament, 977 490 007, perelloyes@gmail.com
Property news update: what’s on the horizon June 2010
Phew, turbulent times indeed! Cancelled flights, volcanic clouds, rollercoaster financial markets and volatile exchange rates… Cameron and Clegg usher in a worrying New Era of austerity and public spending control.
Back in Spain and in the face of growing international fears for the country’s financial stability, president Zapatero —apparently persuaded by a phone call from Obama— drops his ‘no reduction in social policies’ mantra and announces a 5% civil service pay cut, a public sector salary/pension freeze and other drastic cost-saving plans.
Meanwhile, in Barcelona, fellow socialist and Generalitat President José Montilla reveals matching cuts, plus some extra measures that will affect anyone planning to buy or sell a property in Catalonia. Here’s a look at what’s in store:
Higher IVA tax in July
The Impuesto sobre Valor Añadido is the Spanish equivalent of the UK’s Value Added Tax. It is applied at three rates: 4%, 7% and 16%.
Last year the Spanish government announced plans to increase the 7% and 16% rate to 8% and 18% respectively (the extra-reduced 4% rate remains unchanged) to bring IVA more in line with VAT tax in other European countries. This comes into effect in July 2010.
On new-build properties IVA is currently charged at 7%, which will rise to 8% in July. So for example, on a new build apartment costing 100.000 euros, purchase costs will rise by 1.000 euros.
The decision to increase the tax this July was based on predictions that Spain would be halfway out of recession by then. But despite a few encouraging signs many fear that a hike in IVA rates will have a drastic effect on consumer spending.
Resale properties: planned increase in ITP tax
In Catalonia, the Generalitat apparently plans to increase the Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales from 7% to 8%. This is the tax buyers pay when they purchase a resale property.
While this does not mean a huge increase in the total cost of buying a property it will hardly help the market, which is finally beginning to show signs of recovery.
Another tax the Generalitat may increase is the Impuesto sobre Actos Jurídicos Documentados (IAJD), which would raise mortgage set-up costs.
So if you have found a property you really like, don’t delay and buy it!
If you are transferring pounds to euros or vice versa, bear in mind that the exchange rate is extremely volatile. On the Monday after the UK election the exchange variation throughout the day could have made a difference of a few thousand euros on a 200.000 euro purchase.
Regardless of whether you are buying or selling, you can use a currency specialist to get the best rate. Contact me for me no-obligation information.
Cédulas for rural properties: no change in sight
Six months on from the sudden restriction on issuing habitation certificates for rural dwellings and despite rumours of high-level meetings behind the scenes, little seems to have changed.
Some sellers have apparently managed to sell by ‘rectifying’ the land registry description at the moment of sale, so the property is no longer described as a dwelling but as ‘a building’, thus removing the need for the cédula. But it remains to be seen if the banks will finance such properties…
Spanish rural homeowners in the Terres de l’Ebre area are now waking up to the fact that their rural houses are affected too. Some can no longer pay the mortgages granted before this ruling made their homes unsaleable.
Surely it is time local authorities, banks, notaries and land registries found an answer to this? Perhaps Obama should have another word with Zapatero…
In the mean time, if you have a cédula story please post it on Greg’s blog at http://ceduladehabitabilidad.wordpress.com, particularly if you have managed to get a cédula for a rural dwelling.
And a little good news…
The Spanish government has reduced IVA on certain types of refurbishment work for primary homes owned by residents of Spain. Generally speaking, this means IVA will be applied at the 7% reduced rate (8% as from July) as opposed to the general rate of 16% (18% from July).
Eligible work includes:
- Structural work designed to improve a building’s stability or safety.
- Some structural extension work.
- Renovation of facades, internal patios and light/ventilation shafts.
- Refurbishment to improve disabled access.
- Improvements to windows and doors, electrical/plumbing installations, fire protection, energy efficiency and insulation.
So far I haven’t been able to find an English-language information source about how to get the reduced rate applied — I will try to find out for next month’s issue.
Remember that for this type of work the Generalitat has grants available too, apparently the application deadline is mid-June 2010. If you feel you could benefit, call the Generalitat’s 012 information line; they have English-speaking operators.
Local market trends
Economic gloom and doom aside, things are surprisingly brisk in certain areas and price ranges, with predominantly Spanish/Catalan, French and Dutch buyers. I am seeing a good level of interest for houses on the Tres Cales estate up to 250.000 euros and strong demand for anything under 200k.
Barcelona residents are still buying cheaper village houses within a 2-hour drive of the Catalan capital; price cap is around 140.000 euros. Others want fincas with renovated houses, but usually require a mortgage, so a cédula de habitabilidad is generally needed. Price limit around 200.000 euros.
As always, comments welcome and please contact me if I can help you in any way!
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter.
He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press.
Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice
Cédula de Habitabilidad update – what you need to know april 2010
Unless you’ve been living in a cave for the last few months, you’ll probably be aware that in the Terres de l’Ebre area —that’s the Baix Ebre, Montsià, Terra Alta and Ribera d’Ebre comarcas— many country house owners can no longer get a habitation certificate, the cédula de habitabilidad. Here is the situation as I understand it.
Why is the cédula important?
Since April 2008 the law in Catalonia dictates that all properties registered as dwellings (viviendas, casas or 'casas de campo') at the Registro de la Propiedad (Land Registry) must have a cédula de habitabilidad, issued by the Habitatge department of the Generalitat. Without it the notary cannot conduct the sale and a buyer cannot get a mortgage.
Until late 2009 it was fairly simple to get this certificate, even for a rural dwelling.
However, a strict application of Generalitat decree 55/2009 now means that, at least in the Terres de l'Ebre area, NO habitation certificates are being issued for RURAL dwellings unless the local town council certifies that the house was built with a licence for a vivienda— i.e. a dwelling— or legalised as one with architect’s plans and a retrospective licence.
As country houses are often 30 or 40 years old and may have had several owners, this is not always possible to certify — and local councils may be unwilling or unable to do so. In many cases, any possible action for planning-related offences expired years ago.
The result is that many rural homeowners are now finding that they cannot sell or mortgage their properties. I hear that local notaries and land registrars have instructions from the Habitatge department not to sell or register them.
Previously, a buyer could freely renounce his or her right to the certificate. This is now only possible in very specific circumstances, such as when the house is to be rehabilitated or demolished.
The result is that lots of sellers and would-be buyers —and not just Brits— are seriously affected. Many are retired; some desperately need to sell for health reasons or face financial hardship.
Which properties are affected?
Cédulas are required to sell properties that are registered at the Registro de la Propiedad as:
- viviendas
- casas
- casas de campo and casitas (if these are not habitable you can sell with a technical architect’s certificate)
If a building is not registered in this way or not indeed registered at all, no cédula should be needed to sell.
According to a local notary, it doesn’t matter if the building is registered as residential at the Catastro —the Spanish Treasury’s property tax register— and paying residential IBI rates (usually via the BASE collection agency). What counts is the way the property is described at the Registro de la Propiedad.
And in theory it shouldn’t affect almacenes, whether they are registered as such at the Registro de la Propiedad or not. You don’t need a cédula to sell them.
Townhouse in villages and house on residential estates should qualify for a cédula. The application process has become longer and more complicated though, so allow plenty of time if you are planning to sell.
Cédulas are not needed to inherit a country dwelling.
Why is this happening?
My suspicion is that a law aimed at rightly protecting homebuyers may also be intended to stop people living in the countryside altogether. Although it has to be said that local councils have turned a blind eye to illegal building in the campo for years, and that this problem is finally ‘coming home to roost’…
Rural homeowners, lawyers, notaries, bank managers, architects, estate agents… many are now aware of the situation and its grave implications. Perhaps we will see some pressure bought to bear on the Habitatge department.
Opinion seems to be that the Generalitat will have to do something to remedy this situation. Failing that, some believe the policy will be overturned by a higher-level Spanish court decision in the future. Spain being Spain though, no-one wants to guess how long it could take...
What can you do?
If you are affected or feel you might be, take your property paperwork to a notary —the one you used when you purchased for example— and ask them if you need a cédula in order to sell. Find out if your finca is located in a protected wildlife area like the PEIN, Xarxa natura 2000 or a natural park, as this could be an added problem. Find out if you are likely to get the cédula before you apply.
You can call 012 to find out if your property has ever had a cédula.
If you have been refused a cédula you have a month to appeal from the date you receive the letter: seek legal advice.
Complain to the ‘Síndic de Greuges’ —the Catalan Ombudsman, tel. 933 018 075, http://www.sindic.cat/en/page.asp?id=65. You can do this in English.
Let your your bank in Spain know about the problem, especially if you have a mortgage on your property.
Contact the British Consulate in Barcelona, or euro MPs like Marta Andreasen.
Greg at GoCatalunya.com has kindly set up a blog at http://ceduladehabitabilidad.wordpress.com to share info about this problem.
And last but not least, pressure groups have played a key role in fighting unjust Spanish property legislation like the Valencian land grab laws. Any volunteers out there?
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986. While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.
new eu regulations from may 1 2010
Changes to EHIC regulations affect British pensioners in Spain. Changes are underway to the system of issuing the European Health Insurance Cards to British expatriates living in Spain who are in receipt of a UK state pension. UK state pensioners are eligible for free public healthcare through the form E121 in Spain as their country of residence, and, just as with Spaniards travelling within Europe, may currently apply for the Spanish equivalent of the EHIC for temporary trips to another member state of the European Union. The card is known as the Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea , and is available from Spain’s INSS Social Security Authority.
But that’s all set to change on 1st May next year when the UK will become responsible for issuing the EHIC to UK pensioners who are resident in other EU countries. It’s understood to be part of a new system to coordinate EU social security schemes which is to be implemented across member states next May. The imminent changes in the issue of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), as required under the new Social Security Coordinating Regulations 883/2004 which come into effect on May 1 2010. As from that date the payment of a citizen’s health care, when using the EHIC, will also become the responsibility of the state issuing the form E121, which is available to Pensioners as well as those in receipt of long term sickness benefit and entitles them to state health care in Spain.
The UK is still working on its processes for the implementation of the new regulations and, according to a statement on the British Embassy’s website in Madrid, everyone it affects in all EU member states will be contacted once the processes have been finalised.
The Embassy notes that the INSS has issued some EHICs to British residents in Spain which are due to expire on 28th February 2010, based on a previous planned date for the new regulations to come into effect. The advice to anyone that may affect and who wishes to travel before the new system is in place is to contact the INSS for an extension to their EHIC.
The European Health Insurance Card covers travel in the EU’s 27 member states, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, where it is valid for unforeseen medical treatment during your trip.
Important information for UK State pensioners living in Spain appears in the official statement issued on the NHS web site see details below:
"Due to changes in European Union regulations, from May 1 2010 the United Kingdom may be responsible for the issue of your European Health Insurance Card instead of the member state where you live.
This will apply if you are a national of an EU member state and live in an EU member state, and you either:
* receive your state pension or other long-term benefit from the UK and you have registered the form E121 with the health authorities in the member state where you live; or
* you are dependent on a citizen working in the UK and have registered the form E109 issued by the UK
You will need to send your application by post. An application form, along with an explanatory letter, will be posted to you during February 2010. This application form will be different from the EHIC application form available in the UK, and will be modified to prove your entitlement to the new UK-issued EHIC card.
These cards will be sent out from April 2010 onwards. If you return your completed application form by the end of March 2010, your card should arrive before the new regulations come into force.
If you are not a national of an EU member state, or you live in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, then the country where you live will remain responsible for issuing your EHIC. In these circumstances, please contact the authorities in your country of residence."
For more information please call the Overseas Healthcare Team on 0191 218 1999. Or visit the NHS website.
http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/Pages/EUregulations.aspx
Health Matters- kickstarting your health-card application (Targeta Sanitària) & the medical translation service March 2010
As all reputable complementary health professionals do, I like to work alongside existing medical services wherever possible and indicated, working together as a combined health team for our patient's benefit. Stereo vision usually helps, and whenever I have been health-challenged myself I have wanted all the available perspectives to make the best informed choices for myself.
However, a lot of us moving to this new country here find ourselves vulnerable & disempowered around our health needs because of the long delay in getting hold of the actual health card. Or forking out a lot on flights to get healthcare back home. Some people have applied for their health card, often at their local health centre, but may still be waiting for the card even up to a year later. This puts people off getting important medical help & check-ups that they need.
When this happened to me the local health centre explained that their help in passing on my application was discretionary, a favour, & that they were unfortunately therefore unable to help me follow up to see what had happened to my application. They advised me to go straight to the CatSalut (health service) office, so I went to the local office in Tortosa where the service was efficient & I was given a temporary document to cover me until the proper card itself was ready 2 weeks later.
So to get your long-awaited health card you can go direct to your local CatSalut office (eg. for Tortosa, C/ St Joan Baptista La Salle, 8, on the corner of La Salle & C/ Despuig, tel. 977 448 170).
To apply for the health card in the first place you need to provide proof of identity (passport/NIE), your Certificate of Empadronament (some places seem to ask for an original, not a copy), and to complete the application form, available at your local CAP (primary healthcare centre/doctors). Details of the targeta sanitària, eg.conditions for accessing it, etc., can be found on the government´s health service website: http://www10.gencat.net/catsalut/eng/index.htm, (you can access an English language version), or tel. 902 111 444. The CAISS office (Centre for Attention & Information for Social Security) is also useful for information about health cards - our local office, for example, has 2 people who speak English & very helpfully field enquiries.
Another useful service is Sanitat Respon, a translation service where you & your doctor can call a translator during your consultation: phone 902 111 444. Translation is available in English & other languages, such as Arabic, Rumanian, etc.
Also good is the internet service where you can change a doctor´s/clinic appointment by entering your health card number into the webpage www.catsalut.cat
And finally, of course, it's always good to know the emergency medical number here, 061.
So, good luck with being well-prepared and informed about your healthcare.
Taru Burstall, Licensed Acupuncturist & Psychotherapist , Massage Therapist, 629 301 509, taruyes@gmail.com
PROBLEM SURGERY JAN 2010
Earlier in the year a friend of ours died. In the course of time we went to the notary's with his widow to change the escritura into her name. But this is when the interesting bit came up: They were not actually married although they had been living together for 15 years. The property was in both their names and they had mirror wills that left everything to each other, but as they were not married nor declared in an official way as a couple the inheritence tax was going to be double. Now when you have just lost someone and furthermore the second income the last thing you need then is to have a tax bill that is twice what it need have been.
So we have been sorting out other people who are in a similar situation. It comes out at under 100Euros to sort the situation out. People do not tend to think that they might die unless they are old and in poor health but no one can guarantee that an accident is not going to happen. It is selfish not leaving things in order for the remaining partner.
If this applies to any reader and they want a helping hand then please direct them to us.
Problem Surgery
Ground Floor Casa de Cultura
El Perelló
Tuesdays 11.00-12.30 TEL: 695 492 487
PS Have you heard about the latest way that thieves are trying to stop victims around Barcelona? They fire an airgun pellet which makes a hell of a noise inside the car. I know, it happened to me. Your first instinct is to pull over but you must not. They are driving a posh Mercedes which of course does not immediately make you think of thieves. If you are in doubt stop at the next toll gate but you will not notice any damage until you look carefully for a tiny indentation left by the pellet. Take the number plate of the car and if there is anybody else in the car get them to phone the Mossos 018 while you are driving, there is an English speaking person available to report to.
Hope this helps
Jo-Ann
are you happy with your children’s education in the catalan system?
Many families arrive from English speaking countries, without the slightest idea that their children will be taught in Catalan. Some of their parents only intend to spend a couple of years here for business, work placement and then are sent back to the U.K, U.S or other European countries..
THIS IS A HUGE HANDICAP FOR PARENTS WHO ARE USED TO HELPING AND ENCOURAGING THEIR CHILDREN’S SCHOOL WORK.
So, where does that leave us foreigners?, whose children would be at a complete loss in an English, Swedish, German school, where the English language is given a much higher priority.
Why do we not consider the fact that in Barcelona there are at least five International schools. Here in Tarragona nothing. WE NEED INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS FOR OUR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION. English is the most spoken second language in the world as well as the MOST REQUIRED LANGUAGE WORLDWIDE to work, do business, study at University.
IT’S TIME TO REACT BEFORE ITS TOO LATE. THE COSTA DORADA NEEDS AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL. The plans can be made, contacts and negotiations have begun but: WE NEED NAMES. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS have to be viable.
IF YOU REALLY CARE ABOUT YOUR CHILDRENS’S EDUCATION CALL US AND VOICE YOUR IDEAS, OPINIONS. LOOK AT MALLORCA FOR AN EXAMPLE, WHERE PARENTS FOUGHT AND ACHIEVED AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL. THERE ARE NOW 500 STUDENTS. THIS MUST BE FOR A GOOD REASON.....
Please contact the English secretary urgently on:
977 17 20 27
Expanded regional welcome service for the Baix Ebre Comarca : agents d'acollida (welcoming agents)REUS Nov 2009
Throughout Catalunya there is a network of agents d'acollida, workers who speak the language of the main groups of foreigners moving here ('novingudes', or newcomers). Their role is to help make the process of arriving here & adjusting easier, and facilitate access to opportunities for integration & participating. This network has been broadened with the addition of an English speaker, Taru Burstall, working part-time to assist the English speaking community of the El Perelló area. She will work through the local Ajuntament office with an office in the village's Casa de Cultura. There are existing welcome agents, speaking Arabic and Romanian, for the Camarles, Roquetes and L'Aldea areas, and the regional team will also work together to help welcome English speakers in the broader Comarca area.
This service is part of the Catalan Government's 2005 Plan on Citizenship and Immigration, which defines as catalan citizens all those of us who live in Catalunya. It contains strategies to improve equality of access to basic services and human rights in areas such as work, health, education, housing, etc. Many of us find that when we move here we can feel disempowered due to the language challenges and difficulties in finding out basic information. This can range across many key areas, such as knowing how to get the health card and medical services here; understanding what the school is saying about our kids or help for school book/travel costs; knowing what is on offer in the local community, where and when classes are; or finding out how to navigate the employment system to get work or take up training opportunities - all kinds of things that directly affect our quality of life, sense of independence and ability to participate & integrate if we want to.
The agent d'acollida's role is also to facilitate cross-cultural activities and opportunities to learn more about each other's cultures. Catalunya has historicallly been a culturally diverse society, benefitting from newcomers' input. Young catalan people particularly, for example, are keen to get to know the English language & culture, often with a view to spending time there later, & a network of language practice/exchange, including castilliano, could help many of us.
When: This facilitation & information service will be available on Wednesday & Friday evenings from 5-7 pm
Where: Sala de exposició, Casa de Cultura, Carrer Colom, El Perelló (the first floor, underneath the library)
How: Please phone the Perello Ajuntament on 977 490 007 & ask for an appointment to meet with Taru. People from other townships can ring their local Ajuntament to find out about the available agent d'acollida service for their area.
Getting a Cédula de Habitabilidad: important changes for country properties Feb 2010
A belated Happy New Year to everyone, and let’s hope we’ve seen the last of the snow for a while! 2010 is well and truly underway and with it changes in the world of local property. Here’s one new development that could affect you if you’re selling a country dwelling in Catalonia.
Habitation certificates: new requirements
Since April of 2008, to sell, rent or get a mortgage on any resale property registered at the Land Registry as a dwelling —vivienda in Spanish— you must have a habitation certificate—the cédula de habitabilidad.
This certificate is issued by the Habitatge department of the Generalitat, and lasts for fifteen years.
It requires an inspection and a simple, stamped report from a technical architect (aparejador), and usually takes about a month to come through.
However, changes over the last two months mean that cédulas for dwellings built on rural land (suelo rústico) now also need a special document from the local council, stating:
-That there are no proceedings or fines, current or pending, for breaches against planning regulations
-If the property was built with a licence for a dwelling (quite rare in the campo), and if not, that any past breaches against planning regulations have expired.
-The exact zoning classification of the land on which the house is built
-The age of the building
As this requirement is either new or has only recently been enforced, my impression is that most local councils have so far issued few documents of this type for the purposes of issuing a cédula (lawyers acting for buyers regularly ask for this information of course).
Consequently, my guess is that councils will err on the side of caution and may well require extra documentation from the owner. This can all lead to delays — not what you want if you are in the process of selling your property.
So if you have a house in the campo for sale or are thinking of selling one, get the cédula application underway as soon as you can: remember, you cannot sell without it and it’s essential for a mortgage.
Your estate agent should be able to organise this for you, but most technical architects can also handle the application for you.
I am also hearing about cases where notaries require a cédula when the house to be sold is registered at the Land Registry as a casa de campo. If you are selling one, you might want to contact your notary, lawyer or real estate agent to check.
The Generalitat’s 24-hour 012 phone helpline is a good source of information about cédulas, and usually have English-speaking operators too.
Not all country properties qualify for the cédula of course. I believe the value of those that do will remain steady and eventually rise — the supply of well-built, legal houses in good rural locations is limited.
Market check: what buyers are looking for now
Right now I’m seeing considerable interest in the following:
Barcelona dwellers are on the lookout for village townhouses. 3 or 4 bedrooms are the most in demand, and buyers will pay up to 75.000 euros for houses to reform and up to around 130.000 euros for houses that are habitable. Good vehicle access, natural light and outside space like a terrace are all plus points.
3-bed villas for 200.000 euros or less, on coastal residential estates like Tres Cales. I have some mainly Spanish potential buyers looking for a keen bargain. Own/community pool and garden area are the plus points, as is good rental potential.
Fincas with registered, 3-bed dwellings up to 10km from the coast. Buyers are looking for a year-round residences with good views, and will pay up to 250.000 euros. Non 4x4 access, electricity and/or water are all pluses. Buyers include Spaniards, French, Dutch, Belgians and Brits.
Fincas with 2-3 bed casas de campo or similar, habitable or needing non-structural refurb. Buyers looking for a weekend retreat, prepared to pay up to 140.000 euros. Inland or coastal locations, water and good access are important.
As always, please drop me an email at
jeff@fincasdirect.com if I can help you in any way.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.
Spanish property trends and tips for 2010
Christmas is coming round again and the end of the year looming fast — where does the time go!? While 2009 hasn’t been an easy year in the property world, things are starting to move again. Time to take stock and look forward to the New Year, so here goes…
How low can prices go?
While Spain’s economy remains in poor shape and unemployment sadly continues to rise, indications are that property prices are now dropping at a substantially slower rate. The October 2009 valuation index from TINSA —Spain’s leading appraisal company and one of the few sources of reliable information— confirms this.
We are seeing a gradual but steady increase in enquiries and sales, with interest from Spanish, French, Dutch and Belgian buyers, mainly looking for second homes. They all have one thing in common: they are after a bargain and only buy if they feel they have a really good deal.
The perception is that prices will bottom out towards the end of 2010, so these buyers are starting to look now.
While the banks are still extremely cautious we are seeing more mortgages granted, an encouraging sign.
Which properties will sell in 2010?
Barcelona area buyers will be looking for cheap 2-4 bed townhouses in villages, especially those less than two hours’ drive from the city. In Tarragona province they will pay up to 130.000 Euros for houses in good condition, less if renovation is required. Picturesque and well-known locations like Miravet, Tivissa and la Vilella Baixa are always popular, as is anywhere near the coast.
French, Belgian and German buyers will continue to buy easy-to-maintain and rentable second homes along the coastal strip, whether in the countryside (not too remote) or on popular estates like Les Tres Cales.
Many Dutch, Irish and Brits will still look for good deals in scenic locations in inland areas. Media coverage of illegal properties in Spain mean that buyers are very aware of potential problems. If you plan to sell a country house in 2010, be sure to deal with any potential obstacles as early as possible.
Increased interest in rentals
Rental enquiries are up from Spanish and French clients looking for long-term lets. While many people in countries like France rent rather than buy their homes, Spain has one of the highest percentage of home—and second home— owners, so perhaps the Spanish government’s efforts to foment rental culture are working.
Right now we have a few Catalan clients looking for nice farmhouses with land in production, available for long-term lets of up to five years.
I’m also seeing more enquiries for rentals for small tourism-based businesses.
Finally, it’s worth bearing in mind that rentals with option to buy are becoming very popular with Spanish buyers, particularly those that can’t get finance to purchase right now.
Grants for refurbishing your home
Every spring the Generalitat —Catalonia’s autonomous government— makes a limited number of grants available for reforming older properties.
They are for first homes of full-time residents of Spain, aimed to help with things like making houses compliant with habitation and sanitary standards, re-wiring, insulation, installing new bathrooms and adapting dwellings for the handicapped.
As you might expect, they will involve bureaucratic procedures and a fair amount of paperwork…
They could make all the difference to the viability of a renovation project though, so if you are planning to refurbish check now to see if you qualify and get information ready for next year.
Funds available in any year are limited, so it’s vital to get your application in as soon as grants become available.
For more information, call the Generalitat’s 012 information helpline and ask to speak to the ‘habitatge’ department. English and French-speaking agents are available.
Renegotiate your mortgage
With the Euribor index at a historic low, now is an excellent time to renegotiate or change your Spanish mortgage.
Check out rates at overseas-based banks that are keen to increase their market share in Spain, like Deutsche Bank or Barclays.
Maximise your currency exchange
For anyone selling a property and moving back to the UK the current sterling-euro exchange rate is a blessing. But I’m still surprised how many sellers negotiate a good sale price but then don’t use a currency exchange service to maximise the money they make.
The right exchange rate can mean making or losing thousands on a transfer, and you can fix a rate for a set period in the future too.
If you’re buying a property here then a good exchange rate is just as important, while new services mean you can also save money on smaller transfers like pension payments.
Drop me an email at jeff@fincasdirect.com if you would like more information. Finally, I’d like to wish all Olive Press readers a Bon Nadal/Feliz Navidad/Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year! Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
Off the beaten track: discovering the Cardó valley SEPT 2009
Back in 1987 when I first visited Benifallet, my future wife took me to one of the most spectacularly beautiful places I had ever seen then or since: the valley of Cardó. From the centre of Rasquera a narrow road wound its way past the Ermita de Sant Domingo, up through a lush landscape of green pastures, almond groves and pines.
After a few miles steep limestone cliffs loomed on the left. On our right a sheer drop with astounding views of the Costumà valley and distant mountains. With a few worn concrete bollards between us and a very long drop; we edged along the mountain-ledge road, hoping we wouldn’t meet another car coming down!
Then we passed through a small tunnel and into the valley of Cardó, to a breathtaking view of the old spa, perched on a huge cliff with a backdrop of dense forests and mountains.
At that time you could just walk into the derelict hotel, and it was eerie to wander through abandoned halls to the old dining room, with its once-splendid terrace and incomparable views.
My father in law worked at the spa until it closed in the 1960’s. He spoke fondly of a lost era, when its now overgrown grounds and paths were impeccably kept, and innumerable springs and streams trickled through the woods…
The monastery, hermits and the barefoot monks
The spa has a long history though, and was originally the monastery of Sant Hilari de Cardó, founded by the barefoot Carmelite order in 1605. Around it the monks built eleven hermitages in cliff top locations with difficult access but sublime views. Some still stand today.
The monastery grew rich; historic livestock routes passed through Cardó and the monastery levied a heavy tolls on herders and local farmers alike.
But Spain’s economy gradually declined, and in the first Carlist war the monastery was seized by the state. In 1836 the monks fled Cardó. Objects of value were sold, the library’s books were burned, and the monastery buildings gradually crumbled into ruin.
The golden age of the spa resort
In 1866 a group of Tortosa entrepreneurs, attracted by the medicinal qualities of the water, decided to set up a spa. Between 1870 and 1874 they converted the monastery buildings into a hotel.
It became a great success with Barcelona’s new bourgeoisie, helped in 1904 by the new road from Rasquera: visitors could now come from the railway station at Mora. At its peak Cardó was a fashionable resort with an army of locally-recruited staff.
The 1930’s saw turbulent times once more, and in the Spanish Civil War Cardó served as a local headquarters of the International Brigades and a Republican field hospital during the battle for the Ebro.
In 1940 the spa opened again, but hampered by outdated facilities and the rise of beach resorts, closed in 1965.
In the 1970’s the property was sold and a water-bottling plant set up, later acquired by Nestlé, then by the Pascual group. Their modern plant lies just below the old spa buildings, employed a handful of local people, and closed in 2007.
Cardó today
For those that loved and remembered Cardó, the arrival of the water plant must have been a heavy blow. Its springs were tapped at source; the sound of running water to be heard no more… Today Cardó is a wild, beautiful but somehow slightly sad place.
However, better times may soon be at hand. The Pascual Group’s long-mooted plans to turn the old hotel into a five-star spa resort finally appear to be progressing, with a new promoter to be announced soon.
Initial plans project a luxury hotel with 91 rooms —with 40 ‘thermal suites’— plus apartments and a spa. The bottling plant is set to become a thematic village, with space for local artists, craftsmen and potters. A new access road to the spa from Benifallet is rumoured. Perhaps Cardó will relive its golden years?
For now it really is worth a visit if only for the fantastic drive—the reconditioned road is now perfectly safe! Good walks include the gentle stroll to the Ermita de la Columna, the track to the Creu de Santos and the steep hike up to the centuries-old yew grove of the Font de Teix. The mountains above Cardó are densely forested with both pines and deciduous trees, delightful in autumn.
Fauna includes wild boar, foxes, badgers, wild cats, martens, various species of eagles and owls, while flora includes orchids and many types of wild herbs. Cardó is part of a PEIN protected wildlife area, so camping and lighting fires are prohibited
How to get there: by the Bar Martí and drinking fountain at the beginning of the Carrer Pla de la Bassa in Rasquera, look for the signpost to Cardó on your left. The TV-3021 local road takes you to the old spa, distance is about 10km.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
Off the beaten track: discovering the Priorat JULY 2009
Just over 30 minutes’ drive inland from the Costa Dorada’s beaches, the Priorat wine region is like stepping back into a remote and different world. Quiet country roads wind round dramatic rocky terrain and steeply-terraced vineyards, many of which can only be harvested by hand.
The area’s harsh, slate soil —known as llicorella— and abundant sunshine produce some of Spain’s finest and most expensive wines, blending local Grenache and Cariñena grapes with international varieties like Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Over the last decade, young winemakers from around the world have settled here to produce strong, intense reds of great character that have won international prestige and acclaim.
Winemaking has a long history in the Priorat though, back to the Middle Ages and the Carthusian monks of the La Cartoixa D’Escaladei monastery. The region’s name stems from the ‘Prior’ of this powerful order, who ruled over the present-day Priorat area and beyond. The region also produces outstanding olive oil, made from the small arbequina olives.
Until recently one of Catalonia’s poorest comarcas (counties), the Priorat’s green and stunning countryside has remained virtually unchanged —apart from some startlingly avant-garde winery buildings— while its timeless villages retain their traditional stone houses and quiet charm.
So why not take a day out and explore this fascinating corner of Catalonia? Here are a few of my favourites:
Falset
Capital and winemaking centre of the Priorat, Falset is a small but bustling town clustered around a pretty square with porched arcades, and a distinctive, Modernista-style wine cooperative. Selection of wine shops and restaurants (try La Quinoa for a sophisticated, excellent value weekday menú del día).
La Vilella Baixa
One of the areas’ most picturesque villages, nicknamed the ‘New York of the Priorat’ for its spectacular seven and eight storey buildings overlooking a stream.
The narrow road from La Vilella Baixa to Scala Dei, Poboleda and Cornudella is particularly scenic —watch out for the space age hilltop bodegas!—but not recommended to anyone that gets car sick.
Scala Dei, the ‘stairway to heaven’
Headquarters of the Priorat wine DO (denomination of origin), a visit to this tiny hamlet is a must. Bars, restaurant, wine shop and tasting.
About a mile away the ruined monastery of La Cartoixa de Scala Dei is well worth a visit too, with its reconstruction of a monk’s cell.
The holy mountain: Montsant
The little village of Morera de Montsant nestles at the foot of the fantastic cliffs of the sierra de Montsant range, a natural park. Seemingly impossible paths snake up the mountain; some involve sheer drops, rocks overhanging very narrow paths and iron rings hammered into the rock!
Once you’re at the top —on a clear day you can see the Pyrenees— a network of paths lead through beautiful scenery with streams, pools, caves and woodland. It’s easy to get lost though (particularly in autumn), so go with a local guide unless you’re an experienced excursionist.
A good place to stop for lunch is the Venta de Pubill, where the T-702 Poboleda road meets the C242. An old coaching inn, it serves traditional Catalan cuisine with fresh ingredients at a reasonable price. Great for hearty breakfasts too.
Siurana
Tiny, quaint hilltop hamlet with a Romanic church and ruined castle, and fabulous views of the surrounding mountains and reservoir below. Siurana is a Mecca for rock climbers worldwide, and you will be sure to see some on the spectacular drive up to the village. There is a campsite, a mountain refuge, a bar and a restaurant.
Siurana is rich in legends, and was one of the last Moorish villages to surrender to the Christian re-conquest, after a long and bitter siege.
Porrera
Large, picturesque village much loved by Barcelona weekender's; Catalan singer-songwriter and cultural icon Lluís Llach has a home and winery nearby. Porrera suffered substantial damage in catastrophic floods in 1994.
Pradell de la Teixeta - La Torre de Fontaubella - Marçà
The route through these pretty villages runs through softer countryside, close to one of Catalonia’s loveliest train rides: the Reus to Mora line. A large ruined masia near Marçà was headquarters of the International Brigades in the Spanish Civil War.
Fincas Direct new website!
After what seems like an age, I’m happy to say that my new website is finally live and online at www.fincasdirect.com.
I hope to gradually add more content and information, time permitting! Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
DRIVING IN SPAIN MAY 2009
We have received a number of emails asking if the law has changed recently regarding the re-registration of UK plated vehicles.
It hasn’t. The law remains the same.
UK registered vehicles in Spain can only remain on UK plates for up to 182 days in any 365 then they either have to leave the country for a full, continuous six months or be re-registered with Spanish national plates.
During the first six months before it is re-registered it must remain fully road legal in the country of registration i.e. it must display a current, valid UK tax disc and it must have a current, valid MOT from the UK. A Spanish ITV is not valid on a UK registered vehicle.
Trailers are treated exactly like cars and must be re-registered within six months. Trailers must have a Ficha Tecnica, current ITV and liability insurance.
Safe driving. By Chris Dann, Car Import Spain www.carimportspain.com tel 689 178 319
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NEWS RELEASE
NEW MASONIC LODGE PLANNED IN THE COSTA AZAHAR
A group of British Freemasons who now live in Spain is planning to start a new Masonic Lodge based in Vinaros later this year. They are inviting Masons and people who might consider joining to get in touch so they can join the development from its beginning.
In Britain, Freemasons have adopted an open door policy in recent years to demonstrate that many myths and suspicions about the ancient brotherhood are unfounded and ill-informed. Modern Masonry in Spain is still relatively new, having been re-instated in 1987. The first English speaking lodge was formed a year later in Javea.
Two years ago, White River Lodge – which carries out its ceremonies in English – was established in Valencia and some masons from Vinaros and further north enjoyed the opportunity of continuing an affiliation they had to leave behind when they moved from Britain to Spain.
Now, with encouragement from their colleagues in Valencia, a venue has been found in Vinaros for monthly meetings once the new Lodge is formally consecrated at the end of this year.
Edward Ward, who lives in Riba Roja is to be the first Master of the new lodge and says he is delighted to be actively involved in the movement again. Edward had enjoyed sharing in a number of lodges in the Bristol area before he and his wife moved to Calatunia.
Mr Ward says; “I am delighted that we have a nucleus of people who share the same aspirations and enjoy their membership of Freemasonry. Many people who might consider joining us are reassured encouraged by the fellowship we enjoy and heartened to see sums of charity money raised to help worthy and needy causes in Spain. It is a sure sign that masonry is international.”
The new lodge will be recognized by the governing body of freemasons in Spain, the Gran Logia d’Espana, which means that fellowship will be shared with existing Spanish speaking lodges in Castellon and Tarragona. Many of their members are looking forward to the dedication of the lodge in Vinaros.
The new group is looking for Masons, former Masons and would-be initiates (new members of Freemasonry) to join them during the coming months. They are willing to answer any questions about what is involved and to welcome people to this new and exciting project.
Contact for more information:-
In Cataluna – Edward Ward
977 416 476
teddy.edward2@virgin.net
In Vinaros and Costa Azahar
– Les Beech 678 357 713
lesbeech@hotmail.co.uk
What you need to know about buying a property in Spain: a quick guide-Aug 09
Summer is here once more, and the Costa Dorada with its relaxed, easy-going lifestyle seems so much more attractive than back home!
Perhaps you’re visiting for the first time, or maybe you have friends and family here and already know the area. Either way, you might be thinking that the time has come for you to buy a property in Spain. With falling prices, an improving exchange rate and good buys to be had, right now is a great time to buy.
So how do you get started? Read on: buying a property here is actually much simpler than you might expect.
Two things you must have
1) An account with a Spanish bank.
Opening a 'cuenta corrient' —a current account— in Spain is quite simple: you just need your passport. Choose a bank with English speaking staff that can help you with finance, services and money transfers, and make sure it provides easy-to-use Internet banking in English, so you can easily keep track of your account.
2) An NIE number - the foreigners’ fiscal ID number
Non-Spanish buyers must have an NIE number in order to buy a property in Spain, and a non-Spaniard selling a Spanish property needs one too.
For EU citizens, getting an NIE number is easy and the only charge is a small tax — less than 10 euros. See our buyers’ guide at http://www.fincasdirect.com/en/buying-in-spain.html for more info.
Finding a property
There are lots of factors to take into account of course, but most importantly (particularly with country properties):
- Is the building legal and registered?
- Will I get planning permission to extend, reform or rebuild?
- Will I be able to resell later if I need to?
We have good local contacts with town halls and planning departments, and can help you choose the right property and avoid problems later on.
Carrying out a survey
Structural surveys are not automatically carried out here as part of the purchase process. Unlike developers of new properties that must have insurance to cover possible problems, sellers of resale properties are not necessarily liable for structural defects.
Surveyors can also advise you about planning issues and the scope and price of any work needed.
Negotiating the price
Most sellers are now prepared to consider sensible offers, with very few holding out for the full asking price, so feel free to haggle!
At this stage you need to know the costs and expenses involved, which come to roughly 10% of the purchase price (more if you take out a mortgage), and are:
- Notary's fees
- VAT and Stamp Duty
- Land Registry Fees
For detailed info see our buyers’ guide at http://www.fincasdirect.com/en/buying-in-spain.html.
Securing the property: the deposit contract
While you can go straight to completion, once a price is agreed it’s usual to sign a private contract with the seller — the contrato de arras. This details:
- Property to be sold
- Purchase price
- Completion date (usually 2 or 3 months from signing the contract)
- Deposit paid (usually 10%)
- Any special conditions
The 10% deposit is not refundable if the buyer pulls out. But if the seller pulls out or fails to meet the contract conditions, he or she must refund the buyer double the deposit paid.
This arrangement protects both parties, affords peace of mind, and greatly reduces any risk of ‘gazumping’.
Completion: signing the Escritura
The sale is carried out by a state-approved Notario —a Notary Public— who prepares the Escritura Pública de Compraventa —the Deed of Transfer— in accordance with Spanish Law.
Before the sale, the Notary checks that the property is registered in the seller’s name, and knows if there are mortgages or other charges that must be cleared.
The Notary acts in the interests of the State, and doesn’t represent the buyer or the seller. But Spanish notaries are generally very helpful, and can provide detailed information and advice. Some speak English.
Registering the Deed of Transfer and paying expenses
After the sale the buyer has to pay taxes.
Most notaries can do the tax payment and registration process for you. If you are using an independent lawyer, he or she will often handle it. Either way, you will be asked to make a payment to cover estimated costs.
The Transfer Deed is then recorded in the Land Registry and the property put in the new owner’s name. This usually takes around six weeks.
2-3 months later the formal Escritura document will be ready for you to collect.
As always I’d be very happy to answer any questions or help you find a property, just email me at info@fincasdirect.com!
The points contained in this article do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Prospective property buyers should seek independent legal advice before paying a deposit.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
10 TIPS TO HELP YOU SELL YOUR HOME JUNE 2009
With so many homes in Spain for sale right now, buyers really are spoilt for choice. Gone are the days when they would hesitate before making a cheekily low offer, so be sure to maximise your property’s appeal and don’t give buyers any extra opportunities to negotiate a price reduction.
Avoid spending too much money on your property trying to ‘do it up’ to sell — simple cosmetic improvements are the most worthwhile in the current market. Ask your real estate agent what’s worth doing, and keep it simple.
1. Kerb appeal. Entrances, drives, facades, outside areas etc. are the first thing prospective buyers see, and first impressions are the strongest. These areas should be neat and well presented. A freshly painted facade, front door etc. can make a big difference.
2. Clean up. It sounds obvious, but dirty windows, dusty furniture, stale smells etc. are a total turn-off for potential buyers. Get everything clean and sparkling, air your home before a viewing, and be sure to get rid of pet odours.
3. De-clutter. Clear mantelpieces, windowsills, dressers and tables of unnecessary clutter. This can make rooms look bigger and focuses attention on your house, not your possessions. If you have lots of personal photos, consider removing some: they can be distracting.
Also, a spare room can easily get full of junk — try to clear it out before a viewing.
4. Repaint walls and ceilings in light, neutral colours if they aren’t already. If you can’t redecorate throughout, at least repair any paintwork that’s flaking or in poor condition, especially anything that could appear to be damp-related.
5. Kitchen makeovers. The kitchen is the heart of any home and, along with the living room, is the area that buyers will focus on most.
If your kitchen is looking tired but doesn’t warrant a full refit, you can update old-fashioned kitchen units by replacing just the cabinet fronts.
A new work surface can make a huge improvement, especially if you change the sink too. It’s worth bearing in mind that Spanish buyers favour granite-type worktops over laminate ones, even in a holiday home.
6. Update light fittings. Give your property a brighter, cared-for feeling by updating light fittings, ideally with ones that use halogen or low energy bulbs. Many solar/generator-powered country properties are very dimly lit, something I find often puts off buyers: improvements are worth considering. And when you have a viewing, remember to turn all lights on and open blinds etc., before buyers arrive.
7. Home staging. Staging is the art of preparing a home for a sale, and many techniques cost next to nothing to implement. You’ll find plenty of information on the internet.
Get a few home magazines for inspiration (include Spanish ones), find a simple, unfussy look to emulate, and pamper, de-clutter, polish and tidy your house.
8. Buyers respond to light. No-one likes gloomy interiors so make the most of natural light sources and supplement with lamps, candles and mirrors and reflective surfaces.
9. Use scents that say “home”... fresh baked bread or cakes, cinnamon, vanilla and fresh coffee subtly create a welcoming atmosphere for buyers. The most important? Fresh air, so be sure to open all windows and air out the house before a viewing.
10. Sell smart. Finally, you, the seller. People buy people (and lifestyles), and few will be impressed if you answer the door in a dirty track suit with food debris down the front! I’m not suggesting you don your choicest Armani togs to show your finca, but it’s a thought worth bearing in mind.
Property of the month. Edge of village, near Ports natural park, 25 min. from Tortosa, 3 storey, 100m2 (approx) townhouse to reform, structurally sound, ideal for village home or holiday retreat. Good views and access. 49.900 euros, ref. PL042_vigaferro, email info@fincasdirect.com.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986. As always I’d welcome any comments or feedback, just email me at info@fincasdirect.com! The points contained in this article do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press, and owners of holiday rental properties should seek legal, professional or tax advice if in doubt.
SEVEN TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL HOLIDAY RENTALS
Experienced rental owners here tell me that holiday let bookings are still relatively healthy, despite the economic climate and adverse pound-euro rate. The various new Ryanair flights to Reus will doubtless help too. So if you’re thinking of offering your guest apartment, townhouse or finca as a holiday let, here are a few basic common-sense tips.
1) Plan rooms, create the right feel
Use mirrors, soft furnishings, cushions and pictures to create a light, spacious feel and add touches of colour. This makes for great photos — essential for attracting online clients. Avoid over cluttering though, and don’t make the room feel so personal that guests feel they’re intruding!
Tip: if your living room has a great view make sure your chairs and sofas are positioned to make the most of it.
2) Furniture: the right amount
Choose attractive furniture and don’t overcrowd a room. Dark rooms packed with furniture feel claustrophobic —especially in hot weather— and will definitely not look good in your advertising pics.
Tip: get a wall length mirror. Most people on holiday want to enjoy a few evenings out, and will appreciate being able to admire their new finery!
3) Practical and easy to clean
It goes without saying that a spotless apartment or house is vital for repeat bookings and recommendations, so make it easy by choosing furniture that’s quick and easy to clean. Glass furniture can look good but dust, marks and smears will all show, plus families with small children will worry about low glass coffee tables, etc. Dark/black furniture also tends to show every speck of dust.
Tip: use curtains rather than blinds. They can be cleaned easier, gather less dust and can’t break.
4) Double bed, twin beds, sofa-bed?
A common dilemma is what beds to buy, so start by thinking of your target audience. If your house or finca is near the Ebro, twin beds in every room can maximise your rentals to fishermen, while a double in the master room and twin beds in the others may be better if you’re targeting families. Provided your accommodation is large enough, you can put in a sofa bed and offer, say, a 2 bed apartment to 5/6 guests.
Tip: avoid bed bases with flimsy wooden slats, which tend to break easily. Not what your guests want on a romantic weekend!
5) Hot water, electricity, lights, fittings
Check your water heater can provide sufficient hot water when guests all shower or bath at the same time.
Turn various appliances on at the same time to make sure your fuse box can cope—you may need to up your electricity supply.
Choose simple light fittings with standard, easy-to-change light bulbs, and avoid elegant designer-look lamps that get alarmingly hot to the touch…
Tip: if you are not on-hand, keep spare bulbs available so guests can change their own. No-one wants to spend their holiday hunting for a bulb for the bathroom!
6) Kitchen items and other equipment
People choose holiday rentals over hotels or B&Bs because they like extra space and a home-from home-environment — especially if they have children. Not having to eat out every day is a key attraction too, so make sure your kitchen is suitably equipped.
Cook a few meals in your guest accommodation and list everything missing, like bottle openers, ice cube trays, oven dishes, plastic plates/cups for children or eating al fresco… If for example you have a 2 bed apartment that can sleep 6, be sure to provide the extra cutlery, plates and seating arrangements!
Tip: thoughtful touches like a hairdryer, mains adaptors or a universal phone charger can make all the difference to how guests remember you.
7) Better safe than sorry…
Spain may still lag behind northern Europe on safety issues and legislation, but it’s catching up fast. Make sure your accommodation is safe, particularly steps, stairs and swimming pools. Advertising should clearly state if your accommodation is not suitable for small children or handicapped guests. If you’re targeting families with young children, don’t leave anything breakable or valuable within reach.
Must: check the legal requirements for renting a property, make sure you have adequate insurance cover, and use a contract for every rental, even if it’s just for a weekend.
As always I’d welcome any comments or feedback, just email me at info@fincasdirect.com!
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
The points contained in this article do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press, and owners of holiday rental properties should seek legal, professional or tax advice if in doubt.
REFORMING A PROPERTY IN SPAIN: 7 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID APRIL 09
Whether they’re rebuilding an old stone barn or transforming a Catalan townhouse into a Spanish dream home, somehow property owners don’t always take into account that they may need to sell in the future.
As a real estate agent, I naturally get to see a wide range of reformed resale properties. Sadly, lack of attention to common sense basics at the planning stage can create obstacles to a sale a few years down the line.
This becomes acute when the supply of properties exceeds demand of course, so if you’ve bought an old house to renovate or are building new, be sure to think things through carefully before you hire an architect or start building—especially if you will be doing the work yourself.
1) How many bedrooms??
Spacious, exquisitely converted rural properties with just one or two huge bedrooms and price tags to match... Ideal for a couple, they won’t be an option for well-heeled families with children, looking for a holiday home.
Tip: try to include a small third or fourth bedroom, or an office/study that can easily be converted to one.
2) Keeping it on the level
A crucial point: buyers planning to retire in Spain are always alert to how stairs, steps and changes in level will affect them in the future. In particular, stairs in old village houses can be too steep to qualify for the cédula de habitabilidad certificate, needed in Catalonia for sale, rental, mortgage, and supply of mains services.
Tip: plan carefully to avoid or minimise changes in level, in and outside the house, and make sure all stairs are safe.
3) Use logical layouts
Older Spanish properties often feature strange labyrinths of tiny window-less rooms and endless corridors. While it sounds obvious, it’s worth taking extra care to achieve a logical layout of well-proportioned rooms.
Tip: if possible, avoid having a WC or bathroom connect directly on to a living room.
4) Natural light: get the right balance
While planning regulations mean enlarging or adding windows is not always possible in rural house reforms, natural light is a key appeal factor: no-one likes gloomy interiors. But don’t go over the top—Spanish windows are traditionally small to keep out the fierce summer heat.
Tip: do everything possible to create light interiors, and don’t forget to use double-glazed windows and shutters.
5) Max headroom
For resale properties, the cédula requirements set a minimum ceiling height of 2.20 metres for bedrooms and living rooms, and 2.10 metres in kitchens, bathrooms and passages.
Tip: watch headroom on stairways and above all, avoid low doorways: they are a major turn-off for most buyers.
6) Plan ahead for central heating
Anyone who’s spent a winter in the campo will know that it can get pretty damn chilly at times! A single wood burner may work for you, but savvy buyers will be looking for central heating.
Tip: have pipes installed for central heating when you have your reform work done. That way, you —or a potential buyer— only need install radiators and a boiler at a later date.
7) Avoid the patchwork floor effect!
Use the same type of flooring throughout a home to achieve a seamless effect. Integrating small areas of old or decorative tiles into the mix can work very well, but needs to be done skilfully. Avoid different tiles in every room! It looks bitty, and buyers will factor the replacement cost into any offer.
Tip: use flooring in keeping with the type of property. Shiny ceramic tiles look fine in modern interiors, less so in a reformed masia. Good quality terracotta-type tiles always seem popular with buyers.
More information about the cédula
The Generalitat has a simple document with basic information about the requirements for the cédula de habitabilidad. At the moment it’s available in Catalan only; if you would like a copy please email me on info@fincasdirect.com.
Property of the month
15 minutes’ drive from Mora la Nova in an idyllic valley setting, this property has good access, 2 hectares of land with mature, recently-pruned olive trees, an 80m2 stone house to rebuild (registered on the deeds as a masia), a stone well and irrigation water, all for 32.000 euros. Photos available soon, email info@fincasdirect.com.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986. While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.
SPANISH PROPERTY RENTALS IN THE CURRENT CLIMATE MAR 09
While it’s no secret that the credit crunch has drastically affected Spanish property sales, rentals remain fairly constant and may offer a lifeline to those under pressure to meet rising mortgage payments… So who is looking to rent a property right now? Let’s look at a few cases, names changed as always!
Britain’s try-before-you-buy expats
Even though most UK based would-be buyers are waiting for the exchange rate to improve, there’s seemingly no limit to the number of Brits keen to start a new life in Spain. Many want to rent first —especially those with families— to make sure they get location and property-type just right when the time comes to buy.
Example: Andrew, Charlotte and their young son David are young media professionals with family in the area. Andrew’s work means he needs to be near an airport, so they are renting a renovated finca, deep in the countryside but a short drive from the village kindergarten and 15 minutes’ from Reus airport.
Barcelona refugees: going back to the country
Growing disaffection with the city’s stressful pace means that more and more of Barcelona’s young professionals are going back to their grandparents’ country roots. While most would prefer to buy a masia or village house now, some will be interested in renting a property with an option to buy.
Example: Toni and Sandra have two small children and are young schoolteachers in Barcelona’s industrial belt. Tired of the stress of overcrowded classes in conflictive secondary schools, they have rented a renovated village house in the Priorat, and have taken out an option to buy within five years.
Relocation, relocation, relocation
Despite the shaky economy, there are still people that have to relocate for work reasons, permanently or on a contract basis. They will usually need to be within easy travelling distance of Tarragona, Reus or Barcelona.
Example: Duncan is a pilot for a well-known, low-cost airline that is expanding its local base in Reus. He and his wife Judy have rented a lovely apartment near the port in Cambrils, which they love.
(By the way, the airline is apparently due to take on more staff. If you have any kind of property to rent within 30 minutes’ drive from Reus airport, I may be able to find a tenant for you.)
If you intend to rent out your house or apartment, recent laws mean you will probably need a cédula de habitabilidad, a certificate that proves that your property meets basic habitation and safety standards.
Make sure of course that your property has adequate insurance cover, and above all, that you are protected by a proper contract. An adequate deposit for damages is also a must.
As always, if you have a query, please feel free to drop me a line at jeff@fincasdirect.com. I’ll be happy to help if I can.
Spanish seafront properties: good news for buyers and sellers?
In 1988, Spain’s controversial ‘Ley de Costas’ coastal law aimed to protect and de-privatise Spain’s over-developed coastline.
100-metre wide (approx.) deslinde strips were to be established along the seashore, in which all new building was prohibited. However, not much happened till 2004, when the government made setting up of these coastal strips a priority.
Once they were set up, legally constructed, existing houses within them would belong to the state. Lease-type concessions to use them for up to 60 years could be granted to the owner and descendents, but were almost impossible to buy or sell.
But according to an ‘El País’ newspaper article, a recent modification to an unrelated law means that concessions on seafront properties may once more be bought and sold. See http://www.afectadosleydecostas.com/ for more info.
If you are looking for a beachfront property, we have a concession on a legally-built 3 bed villa for sale, in an extraordinary location right on the beach, for 280.000 euros.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986. While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.
PLANNING AND BUILDING ON RURAL LAND IN CATALONIA
If you are new to this area or maybe have been living elsewhere in Spain, you may not be aware that rural planning and building regulations vary from one autonomous community to another.
This means that what’s allowed here in Catalonia can differ considerably from what’s OK in nearby Castellón province or Teruel.
Catalonia’s planning laws are basically those laid down by its autonomous government, the Generalitat.
Extra regulations may be imposed by each province’s Urbanisme (planning) departments, and in particular, by Ajuntaments — local councils.
The ubiquitous almacén
New building on rural land in Catalonia is now effectively limited to storage buildings: the ubiquitous almacén. Square meterage and height allowed vary from village to village, and are often linked to the amount of cultivated land.
Intended as somewhere to store tools and crops, almacenes can usually include an open fire, a kitchen area and a WC/washroom — but remember that the council is not actually giving you permission to build a dwelling.
Some councils no longer allow almacenes at all unless you have a set, minimum amount of land, or can prove that you make a substantial part of your income from it.
Renovating an existing building
Renovating existing buildings is nearly always possible, provided you respect existing area, height and volume, and maintain the same use.
For example, the use of small ‘casitas’ that have clearly never been dwellings cannot be changed. So as far as the authorities are concerned, a small barn cannot become a full-time home.
Larger, multi-room buildings that were evidently inhabited year-round in the past can usually be renovated as dwellings, subject to approval. This planning process requires basic architect’s plans and can take a year or more.
lovely example of a casita
In our experience, it’s generally not worth applying to significantly extend this kind of property — permission is rarely granted. But we find you can often get permission to put a roof on an adjacent corral or livestock enclosure.
Take extra care with rural land in a Natura 2000 or PEIN protected wildlife areas. Within them it can be harder to get permission to renovate an existing building, and sometimes an almacén may not be allowed at all.
If you plan to renovate an existing building or build an almacén and need some guidance, feel free to email me at jeff@fincasdirect.com. We deal with local councils, architects and builders, and can commission and coordinate their services for you if you are not in the area.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.
CUTTING PINES AND CLEARING LAND
An English friend living here recently said she’d heard that pine trees are no longer classed as a protected species, and did I know if this was true? So I called the Medi Ambient offices in Amposta and Tarragona, regional head offices of the Generalitat’s Environmental Department.
Firstly, they point out that pine trees have never been protected species as such, but that there are regulations about cutting any forest trees and using the wood. These have not changed.
Formerly cultivated farm land with abandoned olive trees etc is apparently classed as forest land as soon as wild and forest species —including long grasses and bushes— start to appear, and permission is needed to clear it.
There are two basic permissions that may apply:
1) Rompuda de terreny forestal, for completely clearing forest land in order to plant new crops or bring abandoned ones back into production.
You’ll have to fill out a detailed form, justify the work on economic grounds, and provide a diagram of the area to be cleared. You will get a visit from a technician, and no work can start until you have permission.
2) Notificació per ús domèstic, for selectively cutting a specific amount of wood for your own use on the finca.
This is a simple, one-page form. If you don’t hear anything from Medi Ambient 15 days after submitting it, permission is automatically granted for one year. You may get a visit from a technician or the Agents Rurals.
For both you will need your NIE, passport and your escritura (title deed).
If you are not sure which permission you need, Medi Ambient suggest you visit them or the Agents Rurals. Take the polígono and parcela number, a rough plan of the finca, and some photos of the land you want to clean up.
Medi Ambient Terres de l’Ebre
Burgos, 17, baixos, 43870 Amposta
Tel: 977 707 320, email: a/e: sttebre.dmah@gencat.cat
Medi Ambient Tarragona
Vidal i Barraquer, 12-14, 43005 Tarragona
Tel: 977 241 514, email: sttarragona.dmah@gencat.cat
Agents Rurals
http://mediambient.gencat.net/cat/el_medi/incendis/agents_rurals/localitzacio_BC_AR.jsp?ComponentID=155893&SourcePageID=155905#1
Medi Ambient say they are happy to look at any property and tell you which areas can be cleared, or advise if you have individual trees that need to be cut down, for example for safety reasons.
They encourage enquiries and claim to rarely say no, unless you want to completely clear a forested area with protected species in a Xarxa Natura 2000 area or natural park…
What is the Xarxa Natura 2000?
The Xarxa Natura 2000 is a network of protected nature areas. It includes protected bird habitats and some of Catalonia’s most magnificent natural countryside.
These areas are effectively ‘policed’ by the Agents Rurals, who are responsible to the Medi Ambient department.
Within them, special controls apply to activities like clearing land and building almacenes (storage buildings). For example, to build an almacén in one you may need approval from both the local Ajuntament and Medi Ambient.
In some areas the Xarxa Natura 2000 overlaps with two Natural Parks: ‘El Port’ and the Delta de l’Ebre. They have their own specific governing bodies, and the Medi Ambient department may refer enquiries to them.
So if you have a rural property or are thinking of buying one, I’d say it’s important to know if it’s in a protected area.
1:50.000 scale, PDF format maps of Xarxa Natura 2000 areas in the Ebro region:
http://mediambient.gencat.net/cat/el_medi/espais_naturals/xarxa_natura_2000/mapes_terres_ebre.jsp?ComponentID=114126&SourcePageID=113833#1
Maps of Xarxa Natura 2000 areas in the rest of Tarragona province:
http://mediambient.gencat.net/cat/el_medi/espais_naturals/xarxa_natura_2000/mapes_tarragona.jsp?ComponentID=114125&SourcePageID=113833#1
These can take a while to open. Each map is for an individual protected area, so you may need to look at more than one to find your finca.
Finally, a handy website with common and protected plants in Catalonia, Valencia and the Balearic islands. Some English content, and includes Spanish, Catalan and scientific names, and photos: http://herbarivirtual.uib.es/eng-med/index.html
Hope this is useful, and I’d welcome any feedback or comments via email, to jeff@fincasdirect.com.
Wanted: riverside village house to rent
I have some clients looking for a riverside house to rent for at least one year from February 2009. They are an English couple that already know the area well and want to try before buying.
They are looking for a house with at least two bedrooms and preferably some garage/storage space for fishing gear. They have one dog: a well behaved Jack Russell.
If you have a property like this for rent, please give me a call on 977 08 40 40, or email me at jeff@fincasdirect.com.
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FREE online Spanish-Catalan visual building dictionary DEC 08
Am I the only person whose trips to the local builders’ supplies merchants end up like a game of charades? I mean, I usually know what I want… but can I see it anywhere? And I may know what it’s called in English… but I can I explain it in Spanish or Catalan? No way, José!
Somehow I usually get what I need… eventually. In my case, this involves wild gesticulating, desperate scribbled diagrams, and my wife later telling me that she knew what it was called all along... all to the amusement of the guy in the yard.
So when I recently came across a handy little resource hidden away in the depths of the Generalitat’s website, I thought I’d share it with you.
The ‘Diccionari visual de la construcció’ is an illustrated Catalan-Spanish dictionary of architectural and building terms. In printed form it sells for 24 euros, but it’s available for free download in PDF format at http://www10.gencat.net/ptop/AppJava/cat/documentacio/llengua/terminologia/diccvisual.jsp.
Each chapter is available as a separate download, and I think most people will find that chapter three — ‘Elements constructius de l'edifici’, or ‘build construction elements’— is the most useful.
With clear, numbered drawings on each page and labelled in both languages, it includes detailed sections on wall and roof construction, wooden structures, doors and windows, floors and foundations, and water, gas and electrical installations, to name a few.
Originally designed as a Catalan terminology reference for building design and construction professionals, it could be just the thing when you’re down at the builders’ yard or talking to your arquitecto or constructor.
If time allows I may work on an English translation. In the meantime, here’s an A-Z of some of the easy ones!
Attic, buhardilla (Sp), golfes (Ca)
Brick, ladrillo (Sp), maó (Ca)
Ceiling, techo (Sp), sostre (Ca)
Drainpipe, bajante (Sp), baixant (Ca)
Earth (elec), tierra (Sp), terra (Ca)
Foundations, cimentación (Sp), fonaments (Ca)
Guttering, canalón (Sp), tortugada (Ca)
Hinge, bisagra (Sp), frontissa (Ca)
Insulation, aislamiento (Sp), aïllament (Ca)
Jamb, jamba (Sp), brancal (Ca)
Load-bearing wall, pared de carga(Sp), paret de càrrega (Ca)
Marble, mármol (Sp), marbre (Ca)
Non-bearing interior wall, tabique (Sp), envà (Ca)
Opening, hueco (Sp), obertura (Ca)
Pantile, teja árabe (Sp), teula àrab (Ca)
Quantity, cantidad (Sp), quantitat (Ca)
Rendering, enlucido (Sp), arrebossat (Ca)
Skirting board, zócalo (Sp), sòcol (Ca)
Tiles (floor), baldosa (Sp), rajola (Ca)
U-bend, sifón (Sp), sifó (Ca)
Valve, válvula (Sp), vàlvula (Ca)
Windowsill, repisa (Sp), lleixa (Ca)
Wanted: small country getaway retreat
As mentioned a few months back, Peter and Monica are a cosmopolitan Dutch/Catalan couple that have lived and worked on the Costa Dorada for some years.
They are still looking for a cosy country refuge for weekend breaks. Peter has worked refitting yacht interiors, and is looking forward to having a new project to keep him busy.
The couple want a finca with around 10.000 m2 of land or more, with great views, and about an hour’s drive from Tarragona. Access should not be too rough and water would be ideal.
A stone-built ‘casita’ of 30 or 40m2 would be ideal, and they expect to have to do some structural work. They’ll pay up to 45.000 euros for the right property.
If you have a property like this for sale, please give me a call on 977 08 40 40, or email me at jeff@fincasdirect.com.
Finally, I’d like to wish all Olive Press readers a Bon Nadal/Feliz Navidad/Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Jeff
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BIOFUEL : MAKE YOUR OWN BIODIESEL
The technology to produce fuel from plants, is nothing new but investments in biofuels has surged in recent years due to environmental concerns, energy issues and the most important oil prices reaching $140 per barrel.
Many different feedstock are used in the manufacture of first generation of biofuels. Ethanol is produced from corn, sugar cane and wheat .
Biodiesel feedstock include palm, soybean, rapeseed oil and used cooking oil .
Alternative feedstock called next generation are produced by microbial fermentation of sugars from biomass, algae and cellulosic ethanol.
One of the best options to produce your own Biodiesel is from waste vegetable oil (WVO) like cooking oil as described and summarised below .
Caution and safety :
If you attempt to produce your own Biodiesel, wear protective gloves, eye protection and appropriate clothing. Chemicals used are extremely caustic and flammable.
Ingredients :
Mixture of: waste vegetable oil (WVO), methanol 99% and sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) .
General procedure:
-Filter WVO to remove any solid particles.
-Heat to remove any water content.
-Titrate to determine how much catalyst is needed.
-Prepare the catalyst ( Sodium methoxide) by mixing methanol with caustic soda .
-Heat WVO with catalyst .
-Allow to settle to remove glycerine from the biodiesel produced.
-Wash with water, dry with heat and check quality of your biodiesel .
Tip :
Start with small batches of 1 litre and increase the batch size as your technique improves.
When using your own Biodiesel in your car, it is advisable to have an extra clear filter connected in line with the existing one so you can see when the filter gets dirty. The biodiesel you produce is much purer than the one sold in the petrol stations and it will clean your diesel tank.
Another important thing to check before using the biodiesel in your car is to find out the type seals of your diesel pump as some of the old type of seals might dissolve .
When starting to use biodiesel in your car the unwanted side effects can be minimised by mixing the Biodiesel at 50% with normal diesel sold in the petrol stations.
By : Xavier Milián Call
Enginyer Tècnic Industrial . no : 10634
www.catalunyafincas.com
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YOUR NHS SERVICE ABROAD, THE EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD
Most people will know by now that the old E111 form has been done away with since January 2006, but what many do not know is that it has been replaced with the EHIC that needs to be applied for and what this means.
The British card is only available free of charge to UK residents, which means that if you are a Spanish resident you must look at the Spanish NHS for the equivalent. If a British resident decides to work or live abroad, then the authorities should be informed accordingly and the card returned.
European citizens who are travelling within the European Economic Area (EEA), (i.e. the European Union, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein) and Switzerland, for private or professional reasons are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which simplifies the procedure when receiving medical assistance during their stay in a member state.
The EHIC entitles the holder to the same treatment at the same cost as a national of that country. For example, if medical care is provided free of charge in the member state where treatment is required, the claimant will be entitled to free medical care on presentation of the card or an equivalent document.
Presentation of the EHIC guarantees reimbursement of the medical costs on the spot, or soon after returning home. In the event of treatment being required present the card at the earliest opportunity. The card is only valid for state provided services, not private hospitals or treatments.
The only personal information on the EHIC is the card holder's surname and first name, personal identification number and date of birth. The European health insurance card does not contain medical data.
It is a plastic, non-electronic card and is valid for a maximum of one year. The card contains the same information in all countries where it is issued. It will become electronic by 2008 to further simplify the system. For individual use only: Each member of a family must have their own card, including children under sixteen.
The EHIC in Spain
The Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea (TSE) allows legal residents of Spain to benefit from emergency medical treatment and care when temporarily in a member country.
Anyone covered by the Spanish social security system or a system is entitled to a TSE
Residents of Spain can apply to the local CAISS, Social Security Service and Information Centre for the card. Take your Cat Salut TSI and residencia cards to obtain card.
Note: The TSE cannot be used in Spain to make medical claims. The EHIC (TSE) is for use when visiting a member state other than the country of residence where the card has been issued. That means a resident of Spain with a TSE may use it while travelling in other EEC countries.
Non-Residents Claiming in Spain
Doctors and Dentists: Present the EHIC card immediately and ensure that the medic is not a private physician, there is no refund system for private treatment unless there is a private insurance policy in effect. Dentistry is not usually covered by the health service and as such fees will not be refunded.
Prescriptions: State (EEA) pensioners (with proof of status) are eligible for free prescriptions, all other cases must pay up to 40 percent of the total cost.
Hospital Treatment: Make sure the hospital is not private; otherwise the patient is liable for the whole cost (unless there is a private insurance policy. Present the EHIC as soon as treatment begins.
British Residents of Spain
If a British national is a permanent resident of Spain (or on an E106) and paying into the Spanish system, applications for the card must be made in Spain; the card will not be issued in Britain.
The TSI card, your personal health care card
Your personal health care card (TSI) identifies and accredits you as a person covered by the Catalan Health Service. Your TSI is the key to accessing the centres and services of the public health care system.
The personal health care card (TSI) is the document that provides citizens with access to the centres, services and provisions of the public health care system. Your TSI is also an easy and reliable way of identifying you, using a personal identification code (PIC) which is printed on the first line.
Everyone has to have a TSI. It is a personal and non-transferrable card for each member of your family, whatever their age. If you have not yet received your health care card you should report to your primary health care centre (CAP), phone the Sanitat Respon helpline on 902 111 444 or contact the Customer Services Centre of your regional health care offices. They will provide you with information and indicate the steps you need to take to request the card.
CatSalut provides free health care cards to citizens.
You need to take your TSI with you, when you take a prescription to the chemist's. Your health care card provides access to all services provided under the public health system. These services include drugs subsidised by CatSalut. You must present the TSI of the person in whose name the prescription is made out when buying medicine.
www10.gencat.cat/catsalut/eng/asseg_tsi.htm for more information
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Advertorial
Twenty-twenty foresight would be a wonderful gift, but unfortunately it’s something that no one possesses.
After watching relocation/life-changing programmes on TV people are enthused by the images of sun, sea, sand and siesta. They have been sold the life style.
When they arrive here in Spain, they come looking for peace, tranquillity, a simpler less complicated lifestyle and they believe it heralds a new and fabulous beginning.
This is not always the case. Unfortunately,for a few it can sometimes spell the beginning of the end….when reality hits:
The language is a barrier
The bureaucracy is bewildering.
The paperwork seems endless and the answers to questions are inadequate and in some cases incomprehensible.
They decide to return to their home country.
Faced with this scenario people are left feeling all at sea or worse...like they’re drowning. 
When confronted with this situation it is easy to believe there is no one to hear the distress call; no one to throw out the life line and tow them back to the sanity of a safe harbour.
That’s where Speakers Of Spanish. comes to the rescue, this life boat comes fully loaded and equipped to rescue any soul lost at sea in the bureaucratic ocean that is Spain.
S.O.S. provides a translation service that cuts through the waves of documentation.
S.O.S. helps you acquire the following items: N.I.E.'s; change of car registration from English to Spanish; renewal or change of your driver’s licence.
S.O.S will act as a personal intermediary (verbally or written), on your behalf.
We assist in your communications with your local town hall: organise the necessary paper work to join the health service (CatSalut) so you are able to register with the doctors’ surgery, as well as enrolling your children into school.
We provide a teaching/coaching service that suits all abilities, with the stress and emphasis on the art of conversation. Tuition can be given in groups or individually. However, for those among you who dislike the classroom, work sheets are available .So there’s no excuse !
We provide an all inclusive home management service should you need to return to your home country on a temporary or permanent basis.
These services are just the tip of the iceberg. We cannot promise that everything will be plain sailing, as very often here it is not, however, we will promise to cater for all eventualities by looking at each individual circumstance from a new perspective. This reliable vessel gets the whole job done, no matter what it entails, you can be assured of an honest, confidential and reliable service when you make S.O.S. your port of call.
Let S.O.S. steer you to clearer waters
by contacting us on 679 219 715
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API & YOUR RIGHT TO A DWELLING...
The Right of a dwelling is a recent Catalan law (18/2007, 28th December, Llei del dret a l’habitatge) related to the right for everybody to have access to a house and/or property with a minimum standard of living:
▪It demands that the habitability condition of a dwelling is acceptable covering areas like dampness, facilities, amenities and that the living area is sufficent for the number of people in the household etc. .
▪It identifies and corrects any situation that does not comply with the social function of dwelling .
▪It pays special attention to the protection of the consumers and users of the dwellings in the property market.
▪It has 136 articles and additional dispositions that defines the different types of properties involved and regulates the process of buying, selling, notaries, land registry, etc . The articles 53, 54 to 55 are referring to the Agents legally recognised by law that can give real estate services, in another words that can mediate in the process of selling/buying of properties . These are mainly the land administrators( Administradors de Finques) and property estate agents ( API - Agents Propietat Immobiliaria) and lawyers. Note, many lawyers are also estate agents
▪It states that it will only be possible to give real estate services when you comply with the following:
A place open to the public such as a shop, office or an address of the professional agent.
To be in possession of the professional qualifications, normally you comply when you belong to a related professional college.
Maintain an economical guarantee to respond to any monetary amounts given during the exercise of the real estate services.( to guarantee the return of any deposit paid in the event of non-sale)
To have an individual or collective insurance with a college representing professional bodies.
To be listed in the official registry of agents.
So, what is an API ?
The “Agent de la Propietat Immobiliaria” is a registered legal professional with the necessary qualifications to sell real estate and arrange property transactions .
What are the functions of an API ?
The mediation in the buying, selling, renting, leasing, etc. of properties.
The mediation in the loan and mortgage concession .
Valuation and certification of values of properties .
How would an API help you ?
The API agent will put at your service his knowledge of the property market and the legality of properties, making sure that the transaction is exact and correct between the parties, and that all complies to the “letter of the law”.
On the other hand this law will never make the typical “Corredor” of a village disappear. Local people still enjoy asking the “old man” what he knows about what land, house, finca is up for grabs . Please remember to use an estate agent that complies with the law for your security and peace of mind.
By : Xavier Milián Call
API no: 746 www.catalunyafincas.com
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DO YOU HAVE A CASITA DE CAMPO TO REFORM?
A D V E R T O R I A L
Maybe you bought a little ‘casita’ (for anyone that doesn’t live here, that’s a small cheese-wedge shaped barn or shed!) with a view to doing it up it some day. Or perhaps you are looking for a little two-storey farm building to renovate as a weekend cottage.
You can nearly always renovate any existing building in the country, but you may have to respect its existing footprint, height and volume. For small country casitas that were clearly not multi-room dwellings in the past, the use of the building cannot be changed, so basically, a small barn cannot become a full-time home.
But that still leaves plenty of scope for some interesting renovation projects.
We can find out the local planning regulations and prepare a report, in Catalan, outlining what you’d like to do, and submit it to the local council or planning authority for you. The aim is to get a written reply so you can decide how to proceed.
The price of this preliminary report for Olive Press readers is 160 euros.
From there on we can provide a range of services on an hourly fee basis:
- Contact an ‘aparejador’ (technical architect) to draft any plans and documentation needed.
- Make your planning application to the council, contacting other authorities as required.
- Organise and oversee building work. We use a young team of Catalan craftsmen that work to a high standard and specialise in casita renovation and stonework.
For a free consultation give me a call on
977 08 40 40,
or email me at jeff@fincasdirect.com
Pic 1: One of our reform projects, now nearing completion - Pic 2: Detail shows high quality finish
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Five important points to check before selling your property
Selling a Spanish property in the present economic climate is no easy feat, but there are still a few people buying out there. The good news is that ‘time wasters’ have virtually disappeared: today’s buyers are here to buy, well informed and will usually be legally advised.
Getting the sale price right is the single most important factor for selling in the current market, but it’s equally important to prepare for the sale — make sure all legalities and documentation are in order. Here are some of the key points you should address in order to minimise problems and avoid frustrating delays later on:
1) Check your property is correctly registered at the Registro de la Propiedad
Have your escritura (title deed) checked to make sure it accurately describes your property. If you have a country finca, check the house appears on it and is described as fully as possible, and verify that the land area shown corresponds with the real area.
Some anomalies can be dealt with at the notary’s office on completion of sale, but you need to be aware of issues that could impede or delay a sale. Land Registry rectification involves costs in the form of taxes, notary fees and registry charges.
2) Make sure your property is correctly described at the Catastro
While the Registro de la Propiedad is Spain’s principal land registry, the Catastro registry is part of Hacienda, the Spanish Treasury. Catastro information —which includes the polígono and parcela numbers— is used to calculate local IBI rates. In Tarragona province, these are collected by the BASE agency.
See how the Catastro describes your property on their website at http://ovc.catastro.meh.es/, and check it is in your name by looking at your IBI receipt or by calling the BASE agency.
Again, some inaccuracies can be solved when you complete the sale. Unlike the Registro de la Propiedad, Catastro modifications are usually free of charge.
Check too that you are up-to-date with IBI rates payments. Country properties with a dwelling often pay separate rates on house and land.
3) Check that your well is legal
Buyers looking for fincas with own or shared wells will want proof that wells or boreholes are duly registered with the Agència Catalana de l’Aigua—the Catalan water authority.
It’s quite easy to check if a well is registered, and usually possible to register it if it isn’t. Registration is not expensive but takes a few months, so get it done well in advance.
If your water comes from a community irrigation scheme, you should have the contract between you and the irrigation association, receipts for initial connection charges and your most recent water bill. If you have your water analysed, keep the relevant documentation too.
4) The cédula de habitabilidad
As of April 2008, a habitation certificate —the cédula de habitabilidad— is now required when any vivienda (dwelling) in Catalonia is sold.
This certificate requires a simple, stamped report from a surveyor or technical architect (aparejador). Once you have the report, the cédula de habitabilidad takes about a month.
If a property needs work to meet the standards required for the cédula, an alternative document will also allow you to complete the sale. It simply states that, if that work were carried out, a habitation certificate could be issued.
5) Consider a bank valuation/structural survey
Getting the sale price right is essential for selling in the current market, but in the case of country properties that’s sometimes easier said than done.
Your estate agent should be able to give you a sale price of course, but an up-to-date bank valuation is a great way to help convince buyers that your asking price is realistic and that the property is in good shape.
On the subject of condition, buyers are usually advised to have a structural survey carried out, and you have a duty under Spanish law to inform would-be buyers of any defects that aren’t readily apparent and that materially affect the value of a property.
So if you are unsure of just how sound your property really is, it might make sense to commission a structural survey yourself.
Take time to get all your documentation together and have a copy made. This should include the escritura, IBI receipts, all planning permission documents, the end-of-work certificate, and documents related to the water and power supply.
If your property has a solar/wind/generator power system, be sure to keep any receipts, guarantees and maintenance records.
You should also save all receipts for building and electrical work, swimming pools, and improvements. A seller may ask for a copy, but keep the originals in case you need them for tax purposes.
Finally, if you are selling a property or looking to buy, please give me a call on 977 08 40 40 — I’d love to hear from you!
In the heart of the Priorat wine region…
3-bedroom, detached house on the edge of a picturesque village, 10 min. Falset, 40 min. beach, 35 min. Reus airport, rail link to Barcelona 5 min. Garden, garage/workshop, fly-free terrace, central heating, ADSL. Top condition, fantastic views. Highly recommended, contact Jeff on 977 084 040 or info@fincasdirect.com.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
Please remember! While the points contained in this article are true to best of our knowledge, they do not constitute legal advice on the part of Fincas Direct or The Olive Press. Please use this information responsibly and seek professional legal advice if in doubt.
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Seven tips to help you learn Spanish or Catalan
Face it: odds are you’re never going to learn to speak much Spanish or Catalan just by hanging around in bars and asking for cafés con leche or cervezas. For anyone except small children, learning a foreign language requires determined effort and hard work.
And as everyone knows, practice is one of the keys to getting a working grasp of any language. But if you live here already you have a huge advantage, especially if you have time on your hands, so here are a few proven ideas to help you kick-start your Spanish or Catalan:
1.- Shopping: ¿el último, por favor?
Forget the supermarket: if you want to learn, personal interaction is the name of the game. If you have time, buy your fresh fruit and veg, meat, fish, bread, etc in small shops where you have to ask for what you want. While you may pay a bit more, the produce is often fresher than in your local supermercat. Gradually you’ll improve your vocabulary, especially if you go every day.
Tip: to ask in Spanish, who is the last in the queue, say ‘el último, por favor?’ in a questioning tone.
2.- Exchange classes
While Catalan classes —some of them free— for adults are more widely available, it’s not that easy to find Spanish classes for foreigners outside of major towns. An alternative is to find someone local that wants to improve his or her English conversation skills in return for helping you get started with Catalan or Spanish. Local school teachers are ideal.
Tip: little and often is best. Classes of over an hour and a half are best avoided as they can be very tiring.
3.- Reading and writing exercises
Even if your aim is mainly to be able to speak and understand basic Spanish or Catalan, it’s vital to back up speaking and listening with some written work and reading comprehension. You’ll find a little time spent studying every day will reinforce your knowledge and help you achieve your goal.
Important: when buying a Spanish textbook online, make sure it’s for European Spanish, not Latin American Spanish.
4.- The Sky is the limit…
OK, Spanish TV can admittedly be pretty dire, although the Catalan channels are (in my opinion) better. But that said, they can definitely help you learn the language, so ignore the howls of protest from your teenage kids and stop watching English satellite TV today…
Tip: start by watching the daily news and weather.
5.- Read a little every day
Join your local public library (biblioteca pública) —see the menu options in http://www20.gencat.cat/portal/site/Biblioteques for a complete list— and start reading, even though you won’t understand every word. I’d recommend short stories and best-sellers and detective stories, the kind of thing with that you can’t put down. Books translated from English are good too, and some people find children’s books helpful.
Tip: get into the habit of reading the local paper every day.
6.- Go the cinema
Once you can follow a conversation to some degree, watching Spanish films at the cinema is a great way to hone your listening skills. Films here are almost always dubbed, with 95% in Spanish rather than in Catalan. Dialogue is usually clear, simple and well-pronounced, and being in a cinema seems to somehow focus your attention far better than watching a film at home.
Tip: most cinemas have one day a week —often a Wednesday— when it’s cheaper to get in, known as the ‘día del espectador’.
7.- Pronunciation and confidence
It’s worth making a special effort with regard to pronunciation.
While it may be possible to speak English without moving your lips very much at all, to communicate effectively in Spanish or Catalan you’ll need to recreate their vowel and consonant sounds as closely as you can. See http://www.lingolex.com/pronounce for a very simple guide to Spanish pronunciation.
Lastly, anyone learning a language naturally makes mistakes, and one of the biggest barriers is to overcome our natural fear of making fools of ourselves. Some years back I startled the ladies in the local butchers’ shop with a request for a little tenderness —ternura— when what I wanted was some beef —ternera!
Luckily the Catalans are pretty patient with foreigners and will usually help if you make an effort to speak Spanish, and more especially, Catalan. So stick with it and try to immerse yourself in the language as much as you can: you’ll be glad you did.
Dream riverside location
If you’re in the market for a reasonably-priced property with this totally spectacular view,
contact me on 977 084 040.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
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HOW TO GET GRANTS FOR REFORMING OLDER PROPERTIES
Every year the Generalitat —Catalonia’s autonomous government— makes a limited number of grants available for reforming older properties. The application deadline for 2008 expired on May 30th, but if you have a property to reform or are thinking of buying one you may qualify for 2009.
Which properties are eligible?
Legal, registered dwellings built before 1980 (exceptions below, marked with an *), when renovated for:
- own use as a primary, year-round residence (not a second home)
- resale as registered, protected housing
- renting out as registered, protected rental
Town houses, apartments, villas and some (but not all) legal country properties should be eligible.
What kind of work qualifies?
- Work to ensure compliance with minimum habitation standards. Up to 40% of quoted price, maximum grant of 8.400 euros
- Work to ensure compliance with water, gas, electricity and sanitary standards. Up to 25% of quoted price, maximum grant of 700 euros
- *Work carried out to facilitate mobility for handicapped persons. Up to 40% of quoted price, maximum grant of 7.200 euros
- *Improving acoustic/thermal insulation. 35% of quoted price, maximum grant of 1.400 euros.
Owners can apply for more than one subsidy.
Who can apply?
Spanish citizens and residents of Spain. The latter must have an NIE number and a residency letter or card.
For some types of grant you may need to provide proof that your income for the previous year is below 3.5 times the minimum IPREM salary. The number of family members and the property area also have a bearing on this.
Owners may have to prove they have lived or worked in the village or town for at least 5 years.
Conditions
A property renovated for own use cannot be sold within 5 years of receiving a grant (or the grant has to be returned with interest)
Buildings renovated for protected sale must qualify as a PREU official protection dwelling. A sale contract must be provided.
Dwellings renovated for protected rental must qualify under the PREU official protected rental scheme. Minimum rental period is ten years, contract must be provided.
Any work carried out must be legal of course, and owners have to submit documentation, including an architect’s project, municipal building licence, and three quotes from registered builders.
Possible extra 10% if the dwelling is:
- Uninhabited and is to be reformed for protected sale or rental
- Located in one of the Generalitats’s designated mountain areas or de-populated zones
- Considered to be of national cultural interest by the Generalitat (listed building)
- In a council-designated special interest area, for example an old quarter.
An extra 10% may also be given if the applicant is under 35
When are grants paid?
According to the Generalitat’s website, grants are paid after an end-of-works certificate and relevant invoices have been presented.
Summing up
As you can see, these subsidies are mainly relevant to long-term residents and developers of sale/rental protected housing. Like so many things in Spain, they will involve a lot of complex bureaucratic procedures and paperwork.
But they could make all the difference to the viability of a renovation project, so if you are planning to reform, now is the time to see if you qualify and to start gathering information ready for next year.
Funds available in any year are limited, so it’s vital to get your application in as soon as possible in 2009.
For more information, call the Generalitat’s 012 information helpline and ask to speak to the ‘habitatge’ department. English-speaking agents are available.
Information online (for 2008, in Catalan): http://mediambient.gencat.net/cat/ciutadans/habitatge/Rehabilitacio_habitatges.jsp
While this information is true to the best of our knowledge, Fincas Direct/Jeff Greensmith cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies and translation errors or their consequences.
A room with a view… Views are so often a key feature when you’re looking for a property. Here are some of the best we have right now.
-> View 1
Lovely three bed house with a garden, on the outskirts of a beautiful village in the heart of the Priorat wine region. Fully legal, all services, 35 minutes to beach, railway station 5 minutes.
-> View 2
Pool, garden and superb views over the sea and delta, about a mile from El Perelló and 10 minutes’ from the beach. Legal, good access, mains electricity.
-> View 3
Super character house in Catalonia’s best known riverside village… Absolutely outstanding location and views. Possibility of use as bar and terrace.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
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DRIVING IN SPAIN THE ROUNDABOUT NOV 08
No doubt we’ve all been confused with the antics we witness on a daily basis when we attempt to circumnavigate a roundabout.
The confusion arises, once again, from the two different methods used by driving schools in the UK and Spain. In the UK we are taught to use the inside lane until we arrive at the exit we want and then indicate our intention to exit.
Spanish driving schools teach their pupils to use the outside lane with their left indicator on. They will then go straight over two or three exits until they arrive at their chosen exit.
If you are still using the UK method you will find yourself on the inside lane, trying frantically to exit, alongside someone on the outside lane who is heading for the next exit directly across your path.
My advice, when in Rome……….!
Safe driving Chris Dann www.carimportinspain.com
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DRIVING IN SPAIN OVERTAKING BY CHRIS DANN OCT 08
Overtaking slower moving traffic on a national road can be a little unnerving for the uninitiated especially if you are driving a RHD car. The first thing to remember is that the speed limit on a national road is 100 km/h (62mph). This gives a closing speed into oncoming traffic of 200 km/h or 124 mph !! It is, therefore, essential to leave a good safety gap between you and the vehicle in front. Think in terms of eight to ten car lengths. As a rough guide, pick a point at the side of the road and, when the vehicle in front of you passes it, say “only a fool breaks the two second rule” if you’re still speaking when you pass the same point, you’re too close.
The point of leaving a good safety gap (especially in a RHD vehicle) is that it gives you an uninterrupted view of the road in front. You can see to the left or right of the vehicle in front as well as under it. It also means that you can see the driver’s face in his overtaking mirror and, more importantly, when you decide to overtake you can start to accelerate well before your gap in the oncoming traffic arrives. This means that by the time you arrive at the vehicle in front you will already be travelling at least 40 km/h faster and your time on the opposite side of the road will, therefore, be greatly reduced. All that’s required at this point is a final check in the mirror to make sure that the road is clear behind you and off you go.
One final point. Before you start your overtake check for side roads on your left hand side as far as you can see in the direction you’re travelling. If there is anything waiting to pull out you should abort your attempt. If they pull out and turn to their right while you’re on the opposite side of the road !?! Of course, it goes without saying that if you are about to turn right out of a T junction on to a national road you should first confirm that there is a big enough gap in the traffic on your left to allow you to pull out without causing another driver to alter speed or direction and then look to your right just before you pull out in case anyone is in the middle of an overtake.
Safe driving Chris Dann www.carimportinspain.com
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DRIVING IN SPAIN & LICENCES BY CHRIS DANN SEPT 08
I have had a few enquiries recently regarding the use of a UK driving licence with a Spanish registered vehicle. The following has been taken directly from the Mossos d’Esquadra guidelines.
Firstly, in order to drive a vehicle on a public highway in Spain you must be in possession of a valid driving licence. You must carry your licence with you at all times. Furthermore, your vehicle must be fully road legal in the country of registration. This means that, in the case of a UK registered vehicle, it must have a current MOT and it must display a valid road tax disc. You must also carry with you valid insurance from the country of registration.
Licences issued by EU Member States
If you have established your residence in Spain, you can apply for your licence to be exchanged for a Spanish equivalent. Alternatively you may continue to use the driving licence issued in your country but it has to be registered with the Register of Drivers at the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) for your province.
Licences issued in non-EU countries
Any individual living in Spain and in possession of an NIE number or residence/work papers can continue to drive on Spanish highways for up to six months using the licence issued in their own country. After this period their licence must be exchanged for a Spanish driving licence.
As well as EU member state countries, Spain currently has bilateral agreements for the mutual acknowledgement and exchange of driving licences with Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Japan, South Korea, Morocco, Paraguay, Peru, Switzerland, Uruguay and Venezuela.
This means that if you are a US citizen and only have a US driving licence, then you will have to take a Spanish driving test in order to obtain a Spanish driving licence.
The ITV. Regularity of inspections.
•A new car or motorcycle is subject to an initial inspection after four years. After that, they are subject to inspection every two years and when they have been in use for ten years they must be checked every year.
•Vans and crossover vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes must be checked every two years. After six years they must be checked yearly and after 10 years, every six months.
•As of February 2009, mopeds must undergo an initial inspection after three years and be checked every two years thereafter.
•A Spanish ITV is not valid on a UK registered car.
Finally, I have had numerous emails regarding the six month law for re-registering a UK registered vehicle.
EU law states that you are allowed to drive your UK registered vehicle in Spain for up to 182 days in any 365. After that it must be taken off the road for a continuous six month period or be re-registered with Spanish national plates. It must, however, remain fully road legal in the country of registration.
DRIVING IN SPAIN
Driving in Spain by Chris Dann carimportinspain
Over the last four or five years the volume of people crossing EU borders to take up residence in other EU countries has increased dramatically. There are a few popular misconceptions regarding the legality of driving a UK registered vehicle in Spain. Here are the facts obtained directly from;
Dirección General de Trafico
Josefa Valcároel, 28
28027 Madrid, MADRID
Tel 91 3018100
Firstly ,article 38/1992 of EU law states that any person who has a residence permit or is a fiscal resident in Spain must register a car staying permanently in Spain with Spanish national plates within six months of its arrival.
You may only keep your UK registered car in Spain for up to six months at which point it has to return to the UK for a full six month period or be re-registered with Spanish national plates. (you could also take it off the road completely for a continuous six month period but that would mean that, in the case of a car over three years old, the MOT would have expired and that would render the insurance void)
Anyone who has been living in Spain for more than six months is automatically assumed to have fiscal resident status and rule 38/1992 automatically applies.
What this means is that if you have brought your UK registered car to Spain with you as part of your personal possessions due to your change of residence, then you must re-register it with Spanish national plates within six months. Failure to do so would almost certainly render your insurance null and void. You cannot take your car back to the UK, Tax, MOT and insure it and then bring it back two weeks later. It has to stay out the country (or off Spanish roads) for a full continuous six month period in any one year. Remember, UK docks now use NPR (Number Plate Recognition) cameras and if you try and drive back into the UK with no valid Tax or MOT you run the risk of having your car impounded at Dover.
There have been recent cases of British registered cars being impounded in Benalmadena and Torrevieja for being outside of the six month limit. There have also been a couple of cases in Barcelona and in April 2008 a Dutch car and a British car were impounded in Sitges for the same reason.
A Spanish ITV is not valid on a UK registered car in place of an MOT. Therefore, if your MOT has run out, your insurance would probably be void on the grounds that your car was not ‘roadworthy’
You would only get away with the “I’m here on holiday “ story in the event of a minor incident or a routine roadside stop. Something more serious and your insurance company (not the Police) would be looking through a microscope at you. You would probably be asked to produce petrol receipts, credit card receipts, Ferry crossing tickets or anything that would prove that you were actually in Spain ‘on holiday’.
Most insurance companies have a clause in the very small print which automatically reduces your level of cover to basic liability as soon as you leave the shores of the country the vehicle is insured in for more than a set period of time. It’s well worth giving your underwriter a quick call to find out exactly what level of cover you have while out of the UK for more than a thirty day period.
In the unfortunate event of you being involved in an accident where someone was injured (or worse) and you only had basic liability cover then you would be looking at, lets just say, major problems.
The basic rule is really quite simple. If you have taken up residence in Spain then put Spanish plates on your car, change your Driving Licence for a Spanish one and buy fully comprehensive Spanish insurance. It really is that simple.
I got a quote the other day from one of the English speaking insurance agents “down south’. They wanted 643 euros for fully comprehensive cover for a car on British plates. I then spoke to Direct Seguros and the same car with the same level of cover on Spanish national plates was 263 euros ! I think they call that a ‘no brainer’
The time to make sure you are completely legal is before you have a problem.
Not after.
Now on to some basic driving laws.
When driving in Spain you must always carry with you the original copy of;
Driving licence
Permiso de Circulación
Fichas Technicas
Proof that Impuestos de Circulación (road tax) has been paid
Valid insurance documents
Current ITV (If the car needs one)
Tarjeta de Residencia or your NIE number and a photocopy of your passport
You should also carry;
High visibility jacket (inside the car, not in the boot)
Two warning triangles
Spare set of bulbs (and, technically, the means to change them)
Spare wheel and the means to change it
Spare glasses if you need them for driving
Failure to provide any one of the above will result in an ‘on the spot’ fine However, when you get up to six they will probably impound the car and you will be walking home !!
It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving (150 euro fine and three points).
A stop sign in Spain means stop. You cannot roll over if there is nothing coming. You must bring the car to a complete stop. (150 euro fine and three points).
You cannot make a left turn on a national road across an unbroken white line. (150 euro fine, three points and a 40 ton lorry in your boot !)
Overtaking on the right on a dual carriageway, Autopista/ Autovia, is illegal. (150 euro fine and three points).
When overtaking on a dual carriageway or Autopista/ Autovia ,the use of the left indicator is compulsory. When pulling back in the use of the right indicator is also compulsory.
Failure to do so will result in a 100 euro fine and two points.
The wearing of seat belts, both front and rear, is compulsory at all times.
Motorcyclists must wear a crash helmet at all times and drive with the head light on dipped beam during daylight hours.
Children under twelve are not allowed in the front seat of a car unless suitably restrained by an approved device.
Dogs must be restrained at all times with an approved device when travelling in a car.
Spanish driving schools tend to teach their pupils to come to a stop on a slip road and wait for a gap in the traffic. Try and remember that next time you’re accelerating along a slip road into a gap in the traffic on a national road with your eyes fixed on your overtaking mirror.
Many Spanish driving schools teach their pupils to ‘touch park’. This means that they will reverse into a space and keep going until they make contact with the car behind. That is their signal to select first gear. It’s quite acceptable and perfectly normal.
Finally,
The Drink Drive laws in Spain are rigorously enforced and the level is lower than in the UK (0.5 as opposed to 0.8). If you are ever caught Drinking and Driving the penalties are harsh. Anything from a heavy fine and your car being impounded up to imprisonment ! My advice. Don’t even think about it!
If you need advice on re-registering your car please visit carimportinspain.com
THE POINT SYSTEM IN SPAIN
For general information I thought it would be a good idea to let people know of the most recent driving laws in Spain.
The point system arrived in 2006 but, unlike our system of accumulating points, the Spanish, or those of us who have changed our licences for Spanish ones, are given 12 points which are deducted as they commit various offences. When you get down to zero you will be walking!
There are three main categories of drivers.
Normal 12 points
New drivers 8 points
Veterans 8 points (A veteran is someone who has lost all their points and successfully re-taken their test and has been awarded a new licence.
6 points will be deducted for:
• Driving under the influence of alcohol (more than 0,50 mg/l)
• Driving under the influence of drugs
• Refusing to undergo a breath test
• Driving in the wrong direction
• Driving in unauthorised races or competitions
• Dangerous driving
• Speeding over 50% or 50km over the limit
4 points will be deducted for:
• Accelerating to prevent other vehicles from overtaking
• Driving under the influence of alcohol (0,25 - 0,50 mg/l)
• Driving a vehicle with too many passengers
• Driving without due care and attention
• Driving at more than 40km/h over the limit
• Failing to respect a right of way
• Failing to respect a STOP sign
• Failing to respect overtaking laws (Lt and Rt indicators)
• Changing direction in dangerous situations such as tunnels, junctions, motorways
• Reversing on motorways
• Overtaking on bends or in reduced visibility
• Failure to obey traffic police
• Failure to obey traffic lights
• Throwing objects onto the road that can cause fire or accident
• Putting cyclists in danger
• Driving without a driving licence
• Driving on a motorway or public highway in a vehicle that is not permitted.
3 points will be deducted for:
• Driving between 31 and 40km/h over the limit
• Driving too close to the vehicle in front
• Using a mobile phone while driving
• Driving without wearing a seatbelt
2 points will be deducted for:
• Driving between 21 and 30km/h over the limit
• Stopping or parking in places which impede normal driving of other road users,
pedestrian crossings or in lines reserved for urban public transport.
• Using a radar detector
• Riding a motorcycle with an underage pillion passenger (under 12 years)
• Driving without lights when necessary
• Driving with lights which dazzle other drivers
Remember, as well as the points, there will also be a fine to pay and, in the event of a drinking and driving offence, the car is nearly always impounded and will only be released on payment of a further heavy fine.
Finally remember that if your UK registered vehicle has been in Spain for more than six months it must be re-registered with Spanish national plates or risk being impounded.
Safe driving. By Chris Dann, Car Import Spain. VISIT: carimportinspain.com
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TAKEN FROM NEWS IN SPAIN JUNE 2008
Non-Resident Sellers May Be Entitled to Tax Rebate
Non-residents of Spain who sold a property in this country between 2004 and the end of 2006 may be entitled to a 20% tax rebate from the Spanish Government. According to a Spanish law firm, foreigners who sold their Spanish properties before 2007 paid a Non Residents Income Tax rate of 35% on their capital gains, compared to a rate of 15% paid by Spanish residents. The law firm pointed out that this contravenes EU rules on discrimination and was therefore improperly charged by the Spanish Government. A change in the law at the start of 2007 saw the standard Capital Gains Tax for non residents brought in line with residents at 15%. As a result, sellers who had previously sold property in Spain may be entitled to a 20% rebate.
Spanish Wealth Tax Abolished
The Spanish wealth tax, known in Spain as patrimonio (Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio), has been abolished by Spains socialist government, fulfilling an electoral promise made 4 years ago before the Socialists took power. The wealth tax has been abolished as of 01/01/2008, so the change does not affect tax declarations for the tax year 2007. For most non-resident property owners the tax bill for the wealth tax was never very big but for most owners will nevertheless be welcome at a time when municipal taxes, mortgage rates, and other overheads for property owners are on the rise.
Spain to change banking practices
By h.b. - May 24, 2008 - 9:29 AM
The Bank of Spain - Photo EFE
The Bank of Spain is to join the Basel II agreement this year.
The banking system in Spain will this year adopt an international practice, known as the Basel II agreement, which will allow it to free up more assets, but will also see it penalised when it carried out high risk operations. It means that the banks will have to take greater care when granting a mortgage, and those of more than 95% of the value are expected to vanish from the market.
Each bank will now be obliged to offer greater transparency in a yearly report which explains the profile of their business and their exposition to risk.
Initially only a group of eight of Spain’s largest banks will be approved by the Bank of Spain to take part in the scheme – Santander, BBVA, Banco Popular, Banco Sabadell, Bankinter, La Caixa, Caja Madrid and the Caixa Catalunya.
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FIVE TIPS TO HELP SELL YOUR PROPERTY
It’s no secret that the Spanish property market has become a buyers market, with prices falling and likely to drop further still.
British buyers are hit hard by the adverse exchange rate — as anyone receiving a UK pension in the euro zone will know. Not surprisingly, some would-be purchasers will wait until the rate improves.
Potential Spanish buyers, while encouraged by falling prices, are finding that Spain’s banks are now drastically limiting mortgages, particularly for second homes.
Some owners will wait for the situation to improve before putting their houses on the market —perhaps renting them out in the meantime— but many need to sell now.
Don’t forget that the same exchange rate now favours sellers moving back to the UK.
So to sum up, if you need to sell, the situation is difficult, but not impossible.
Houses are still being bought and sold… but the rules of the game now favour the buyer.
It’s important to prepare for a sale though, so even if you’re only thinking of selling at this stage, the sooner you get started the better.
1| Choose the right agent
Make sure your agent speaks Spanish and English and can sell to both markets.
Check that he or she can issue valid IVA (VAT) invoices, which can help reduce any capital gains tax.
An agent should also be able to outline the main legal or planning issues that might complicate the sale.
Ask about how your property will be marketed.
2| Get documentation in order
Buyers are now better informed than ever. While most non-Spanish buyers instruct a lawyer, Spanish buyers will have their bank check documentation — it is vital that your property’s documentation is in order.
Owners of rural properties should know how the house on their land is classified: ‘vivienda’ (dwelling), ‘almacén’ (storage building), etc, as this will determine the asking price, and should also know the exact boundaries of their land.
Check that your ‘escritura’ (title deed) accurately describes your property and that any anomalies can be resolved. Get this done as early as possible — few things are as frustrating as losing or delaying a sale because documentation is not in order.
Your agent should have a good basic understanding of these issues and how any problems can be solved.
3| Pricing: keep it real!
Prices have dropped substantially, so ask your agent for a ‘no-punches-pulled’ opinion of how much your property is really likely to sell for.
If you are prepared to pay for it, an up-to-date bank valuation is useful for setting a realistic selling price and for countering low offers.
4| Prepare your property for sale
Not something that has caught on with Spanish sellers yet, the idea of preparing or ‘staging’ a home has inspired numerous TV programs, books and websites.
Important ideas include ‘decluttering’ and using a light, neutral decor to heighten the feeling of space and appeal to as many buyers as possible. Your estate agent can tell you which changes will help a sale.
For potential buyers of rural properties, access is a key issue, so if you are selling a finca consider improving difficult stretches of track.
5| Know your tax liability
Before 2007, residents and non-residents of Spain paid capital gains tax at different rates. Both now pay the same rate, but in some circumstances it may be worth becoming a resident of Spain — a fairly simple procedure for EU citizens.
While your estate agent cannot offer legal or tax advice, he or she should be able to tell you if this applies to you or not.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
What property buyers
are looking for right now
Despite the credit crunch, fewer sales and falling prices all pointing to the downturn in the Spanish property market, there are still people buying out there. The declining economy, adverse exchange rate and harder mortgage criteria have hit many would-be buyers hard, but others want or need to purchase now.
Let’s take a look at some ‘typical’ buyers (names changed of course!) and the kind of thing they are searching for:
1) Barcelona’s urban refugees
Joan and Gemma live in a small rented apartment in a trendy barrio of Barcelona, and have a three year old child.
While they love the city, Barcelona is increasingly noisy and polluted, and they long for a weekend country refuge that will eventually become their home. Their ideal is an old stone farmhouse of 90m2-180m2, with at least 2 hectares of land and water, in an attractive inland location.
Mains electricity is not an issue: Joan and Gemma are committed to solar power and intend to be as self sufficient as possible. Major structural work is not an problem either, and they can spend up to 100.000 euros on the right property.
2) Sold up in UK, need to relocate fast
Mike and Sue have retired early and have already sold their house in the UK. Their children live here, and Mike and Sue were about to buy a finca with a house… which turned out to have been built illegally. Their funds are in Spain and they need to find something soon.
They are looking for at least 5.000 m2 of land with water and reasonable access, and a 2 or 3 bed house registered as a dwelling with no legality issues. They don’t mind changing kitchens and bathrooms, but won’t want to tackle major structural work.
Their budget is 250.000 euros, they don’t need a mortgage and they can complete quickly.
3) Small country getaway retreats
Peter and Monica are a cosmopolitan Dutch/Catalan couple that have lived and worked on the Costa Dorada for some years.
They are attracted by the idea of a cosy country refuge for weekend breaks. Peter has worked refitting yacht interiors, and is looking forward to having a new project to keep him busy.
The couple want a finca with 10.000 m2 of land or more, with great mountain or sea views, about an hour’s drive from Tarragona. 4x4 only access is not a problem, nor is overgrown land. Water is desirable.
A stone-built ‘casita’ of 40 or 50m2 would be ideal, and they expect to have to do some structural work. They’ll pay up to 60.000 euros for the right property, if it has water.
Left: a terrace is a requirement for most townhouse buyers
4) Something for the weekend…
Jordi and Marta live in an apartment in one of Barcelona’s many sprawling suburbs, and want a traditional 3 bed village house for weekends, which they plan to eventually retire to.
The house should be not more than 40 minutes from the sea and 2 hours from Barcelona, with natural light and some kind of outside space, like a terrace. While they expect to have to change kitchen and bathroom and do some reform work, they don’t want a ruin.
Their budget is up to about 130.000 euros.
This is a small snapshot of the kind of buyers around right now. We are seeing relatively more enquiries from Holland, Belgium and Scandinavia, and interestingly, a surge in enquiries from Russian clients.
Finally, if you have a property to sell anywhere in or around Tarragona province, we’d love to hear from you.
Jeff Greensmith runs www.fincasdirect.com and is a registered estate agent and experienced Spanish/Catalan translator and interpreter. He has lived in Catalonia since 1986.
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS EMERGENCIES
Lost credit cards in Spain
HOLIDAYS Public holidays in Catalonia:1 January: New Year’s Day; 6 January / Epiphany (Feast of the Three Kings); March-april: Good Friday;March-april: Easter Monday; 1 May: Labour Day; 24 June: Saint John (midsummer); 15 August: Asumption of Mary; 11 September: Catalan National Day; 12 Octobre: Feast of the Hispanic Peoples; 1 November: All Saints’ Day, 6 December: Constitution Day; 8 December: Immaculate Conception of Mary; 25 December: Christmas; 26 December: Saint Stephen (Boxing Day). |
EMBASSIES & CONSULATES Barcelona British Consulate-
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