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Hello we are looking to rent a house we found for long term let on the Eyesonspain site. The Owners Representative is asking for all of the 3 month rental upfront and payable to a personal bank account. The have Emailed an rental contract which complies with Spanish legal requirements and asked for a Utility Bill in the owners name be copied and sent - which we have received. So if we do what is being asked we should transfer thousands of Euros without any real security. Can anyone suggest a way of being sure the agent and the owner are who they say they are and the rental is genuine and safe? We would be grateful for any advice. Rosie
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Rosie, it almost sounds as if you are commiting yourself to a long term rent without even having clapped eyes on the property, the owners or the agents. I think it would be wise, to go and meet the people and view the property.
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Rosiemac
Good advice from GuyT I would also suggest you come over and engage an independant solictor to review the contracts and handle all payments etc.
_______________________
“The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance; it is the illusion of knowledge”
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I would instead, stay initially in a hotel or something we did when we moved to Spain, a 'bungalow' on a campsite for a couple of weeks, and sort the rental out when you're there. At least then you will be taken to the house, see that the 'representative' has a key to it and so on. There is no way I would handle over thousands of pounds in these circumstances.
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My account of moving to Spain. http://www.eyeonspain.com/blogs/olives.aspx"><img
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Thank you all for your sound advice I'm are going to arrange a visit and have a solicitor check the contract. I've been over already viewing other houses. Our daughter uses a wheelchair and this house and area is perfect for her. So in my enthusiasm not to lose the rental I've allowed my judgement to be slightly clouded. However I'm now back on track!
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Thank you all for your sound advice I'm are going to arrange a visit and have a solicitor check the contract. I've been over already viewing other houses. Our daughter uses a wheelchair and this house and area is perfect for her. So in my enthusiasm not to lose the rental I've allowed my judgement to be slightly clouded. However I'm now back on track!
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Don't do it Rosie. The most an agent should ask for is:
One months deposit, refundable (but rarely happens) one months rent in advance and commission equal to one months rent.
Never - ever, part with money to an agent unless you have had the contract checked and viewed the property. Remember Spanish property descriptions are much more 'flexible' than the UK allows so view first and insist on anything that is not to your satisfaction is dealt with - if not walk away. You need to come over so you can view properties till you find your new home and don't be pushed into anything.
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Rosie,
we spent 2013 in Spain paying cash on a monthly rental dirctly to the owner.
Lots available so I would seek out something that suits you without big upfront costs.
Rossetti
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Hello RosieMat
I suggest you go to meet with the person and check the place and see if it feels right and is a good place. Do not transfer the money. I have rented lots of places in Europe and I have never wired or transfered money. I went to see the place and the owner or agency and dealt with them right then and there.
You never know what can happen when you transfer money and it is a lot of money. Also you can make a list of the questions and concerns you have and have someone who speak the language with you and also take the time to read the papers and do not get pressed to sign anything right away. Take your time.
Hope that is helpful info
Mady
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Hi Thank you for your message. I'm flying out tomorrow to meet the agent and view the property. Thank you for the information. Regards Rosie
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Waiting for the agent in Roses Girona and guess what. She has turned up and her phone is switched off! 45 mins late but I'll give her another hour.
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Oh my! Please keep us updated
Maria
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Maria L. de Castro, JD, MA
Lawyer
Director www.costaluzlawyers.es
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It was a scam! I spent yesterday afternoon with the police. The owner know nothing about it and the agent does not live at the address given. Eye on Spain you must take this property off your website and warn people of this. This house is advertised in other websites as a holiday let. Hugely disappointing but could have been much worse!
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Lots of it going on Rosie - at least they didn't part you from your money. Always remember that you are in control and you call the shots. There are loads of properties available to rent and buy on your terms, so keep your purse closed and your eyes and ears open. It's always a good idea to talk to ex-pats in the local bar - most will be willing and able to guide you as they will know exactly what is going on. Good luck for the future.
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