Frequently asked questions

It depends on the country and the loan. In the US a conventional loan can start at 3% to 5% down, though 20% avoids mortgage insurance. In England, lenders typically want 5% to 10% for first-time buyers. In Portugal and Spain, non-residents are usually asked for 20% to 30% of the price in cash. Add the closing costs and taxes on top, which range from about 2% in the US to 10% or more in parts of Spain.

In the US, closing usually takes 30 to 45 days after an accepted offer. In England and Wales the average is 12 to 16 weeks, and in Portugal and Spain 6 to 12 weeks from the signing of a promissory contract. Chains and surveys can add time.

Yes. An inspection or survey identifies defects that are not visible on a viewing, such as roof problems, damp, outdated wiring or foundation movement. It gives you leverage to renegotiate the price or ask for repairs, and the cost is small compared with the price of the property.

You can, and in many markets it is normal. Your agent can tell you how far offers are landing from asking prices in the area and how long comparable homes have been on the market. A well-supported offer with a flexible completion date often succeeds better than a very low one.

A chain is a series of linked sales and purchases in which each buyer depends on the seller above them completing. If one sale falls through, the entire chain can collapse. Buying a vacant property or from a chain-free seller makes the process faster and more predictable.

A Halvenor valuer visits the property, reviews recent sales of comparable homes, assesses its condition and the local market and gives you a written valuation with a recommended asking price. Valuations are free and carry no obligation.

Commission depends on the country and the service. In the UK our fees are typically between 1% and 1.5% plus VAT, in the US commission is negotiated and usually paid by the seller from the proceeds, and in continental Europe it is often between 3% and 5%. Your agent will give you an agreement that lists every fee before you sign.

Expect to provide proof of identity and ownership, energy performance certificate where required, service charge or HOA records for apartments, and planning or building permits for any extension. Your lawyer or conveyancer will request the rest.

It varies. In New York State the cap is one month’s rent. In England deposits are capped at five weeks’ rent for annual rents under £50,000 and must be protected in a government-approved scheme. In Germany up to three months is allowed, and in France one to two months.

Most landlords request proof of identity, proof of income such as recent pay stubs or an employment letter, previous landlord references and a credit check. In some cities you may be asked for a guarantor if your income is below the threshold.

Your lease sets out the notice period and any penalty. Many leases allow early termination with one to three months’ notice and a fee. Local law may also give rights to leave early in certain cases, such as military deployment in the US or poor condition of the property.

It depends on the city. In New York City the party that hires the broker pays under the FARE Act, which usually means the landlord. In England the Tenant Fees Act prohibits most fees charged to tenants. In Paris, fees are capped by decree and split between landlord and tenant.

In most large cities, yes. Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Lisbon, New York and others require registration or a licence, and some limit the number of nights. Rules change often, so check with the local authority before listing and display your registration number on adverts.

Our service covers listing creation, dynamic pricing, guest communication, check-in, cleaning, linen, maintenance and monthly reporting. We charge a percentage of booking revenue, and we explain all costs in advance.

Yes. Income is taxable in the country where the property is located, and may also be reportable in your country of residence. VAT and local tourist taxes can apply as well. Speak to a tax adviser familiar with both jurisdictions.

Many mortgage agreements and standard home insurance policies exclude short-term guests. Ask your lender and insurer for written permission, and buy a policy designed for short-term lets that includes guest liability.

A pre-approval is a lender’s written estimate of how much it will lend you, based on a review of your income, debts and credit history. It shows sellers you are serious and helps you set a realistic budget. It is not a guarantee of final approval.

A fixed rate gives certainty over a set period, usually two to ten years, and suits buyers with tight budgets. A variable or tracker rate can start lower and rise or fall with the market. Compare total costs over the period you expect to keep the loan, including fees for early repayment.

Yes in most countries, but terms differ. In Portugal and Spain, banks may lend up to 60% to 70% of the price to non-residents. UK lenders will lend to expatriates with higher deposits and specialist products. Expect to provide more documentation, including tax returns from your country of residence.

Lenders consider your credit score, the size of your down payment, the loan-to-value ratio, your employment stability and the type of property. A larger deposit and a stronger credit profile typically bring lower rates.

In all ten countries where we operate, non-residents can buy residential property. Some places add taxes or approval requirements: Canada has a temporary ban on purchases by non-Canadians of most residential property, and the UK adds a 2% surcharge for non-resident buyers. Check current rules before making an offer.

Yes. We offer live video tours, detailed condition reports and local lawyers who can act on your behalf with a power of attorney. We still recommend a visit before final commitment, if possible.

Use a regulated bank or foreign exchange provider and keep records of the source of funds, which lawyers must verify under anti-money-laundering rules. Confirm bank details by phone before every transfer, because payment fraud in property transactions is widespread.

Not automatically. Portugal and Spain have closed or restricted property-based residence schemes, and most countries separate ownership from immigration status. Speak to an immigration lawyer about the route that fits your situation.

Besides the price, expect taxes (stamp duty, transfer tax or equivalent), legal fees, survey or inspection costs, lender fees, registration charges and, in some countries, notary fees. Every listing on our site displays the main costs for its country.

In most markets, buyers do not pay Halvenor a fee when the seller’s agreement covers our commission. Where a buyer-agency agreement applies, as in some US states, we will agree the fee with you in writing before we start.

These are regular charges paid by owners of apartments and some houses to cover shared maintenance, insurance and management. They are listed on each property page, and you should review the budget and reserve fund before buying.

In England, Portugal, Spain, France, Germany and Ireland a solicitor, lawyer or notary is essential. In many US states an attorney handles closing, while in others a title or escrow company does. We recommend independent legal advice in every case.

Title insurance protects the buyer and lender against defects in the legal title, such as forged documents or undisclosed liens, discovered after closing. It is common in the US and Canada and a one-time premium paid at closing.

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