Buying property abroad is not necessarily the same as buying in the UK, there is other essential information you need to be aware of both before and during your property purchase.

• It is of paramount importance to seek independent advice from an overseas solicitor.

• You need to ensure that you will have full title to the property on completion and that you have the appropriate documents available for the lender.

• You should check with the estate agent and/or your lawyer that you are aware of the costs charged by legal and Government authorities for buying a German property. The lender will also have their own legal costs for assigning the loan, the cost of which they will normally advise you when they issue the mortgage offer.

• It is essential to take appropriate independent legal advice before making an offer on the property, as once it has been recorded and signed before a notary it is legally binding.

• A ‘Power of Attorney’ may be required by the lender (and “Notarized”).

• Be aware that the solicitor and/or notary may be incorporating costs within his charges for assigning the mortgage, and you should establish this cost before proceeding with the loan application

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