can anyone help with my homework ?

[shorty]

having been given the opportunity to spend a few weeks up on Rocha Brava a few summers ago, my wife and I now can't get enough of the area. So much so that we've finally saved a few quid to put towards a shared apartment, and have put our names on the waiting list at RB.

I've read a few short articles about buying oveseas, plus Biffa's (and others) comments on the offshore ownership/IMI issue (tho I have to confess I've not read all of the postings!). I have to admit though, I can't say I understand it all but I get the gist that offshore ownership is not a good idea right now for anyone new to the market... (or mebbe I'm wrong!). Aside from that, and just waving a handfuls of cash about, I'm not sure what the other options are available though.

As this will be our first purchase, are there any "old hands" out there who can spare some time to guide us along and offer any hints/tips/warnings to a couple of newcomers ?

Any recommendations for helpful/reliable/patient legal representation would certainly be appreciated.... particularly if their English is better than my (very lame) Portugese

[gareth cade]

I wouldn’t necessarily write-off the idea of buying through an offshore company - but probably not through a company incorporated in a “blacklisted” jurisdiction. You may find my post in this section under “Purchasing property in the name of our children” (last updated on 19 February) of interest. Good luck with the purchase – it is worth the hassle – whichever route you decide to take!

[Graham]

The Sunday Times published a very good book recentlywhich covered most things you will need to know about buying. It cost about £10 and is called 'The Sunday Times Guide to buying a property in Portugal. If only I had read this before I struggled through my purchase!!

Graham

[td]

Hi Shorty

You have made the best decision of your life - buying a property in Carvoeiro. However, there is one or two things you need to be aware of - but do not let them put you off - just be aware.

Are you a patient and tolerant man?
Are you prepared to wait 3-4 months to complete the purchase?
Can you accept continuous missed deadlines?

Most of us who buy in Portugal do so because we like the people, their country and their culture - a sense of urgency was something they never considered and long may it remain so.

When it's all done -You will be glad you did it

[JimD]

Graham
dont suppose you have a ISBN number for that book?
Thanks

[Graham]

Jim - I have, but it is in the UK (I am in Carvoeiro for the next 10 days)

However - I got it from the Sunday Times direct - I would think a bit of work on their web site would find their book publishing contact details (they publish quite a few titles every year)

Other than that, if you can wait 10 days I will mail the number on my return

Graham

[JimD]

Graham,
just found it after a bit of searching on the times site. I will try my local bookstore tomorrow and if not order it from the web site

[shorty]

thanks all for the positive comments.

regarding Graham's book reference (I have ordered a copy this evening) in case it's useful to anyone else the ISBN is 1860111084, Authors are Harvey Holtom and John Howell, and it's available via amazon.co.uk as well as Sunday Times Direct.

td - married 11 years, and 3 anklebiters under 5... yep, I think I qualify as patient/tolerant!!!

[Gerry Cullen]

Shorty we bought a place in armacao about 2yrs ago and to be honest compared to buying in ireland it was a dream,we bought over the internet ,went to se it 2mths later on a thurs and did the deal on the following monday,i think what made it so simple was the fact that we all ended up in one office at the same time ,owners buyers estate agents lawyers the lot and the deal was completed there and then so take heart ,with good will on all sides you,ll fly thru it,
best wishes,
gerry