1. The Reservation.

You will pay a deposit, of an amount to be agreed with all parties, usually between 5,000 and 10,000 Euros. This will reserve the property for approximately one month while your legal representatives can investigate the details of the property. This deposit is 100% refundable and is held by the lawyer, not the seller of the property.

2. The Contract.

The contract details all agreements concerning the sale of the property and will require signing, most likely using power of attorney for overseas buyers. At the time of signing the buyer will need to pay a deposit (most likely 30%) minus the reservation deposit already paid. The contract details will include the date for the signing, the final price, payment conditions and the details of the buyer and seller. Other details (such as furniture left in the property) will be agreed.

The Signing.

This is when the property finally becomes legally yours. The signing will be done before a Notary who will ensure everything is correct and that the relevant IMT taxes have been paid. Copies of the deed will be issued to both parties and the identity of the new property owner given to the Land Registry.