Every year we help thousands of individuals save money on their foreign currency payments for property purchase, emigration, overseas mortgage repayments, etc.
If you make or receive payments in a foreign currency, we could save you a great deal of money and make your currency transfers simple.
We guarantee much better exchange rates than the ‘tourist rates’ you would normally get from your bank and can save you up to 6% on currency transfers typically saving you £5,000 on a £100,000 transfer.
A is for Account:
Open a free account with us - Your account can be opened the very same day and you will be assigned a dedicated account manager.
B is for Better Rates:
Your account manager will keep you informed on currency market movements and get the best exchange rate for you at the time. Once agreed, this rate is then guaranteed for you.
C is for Currency Transfer:
Once you have paid for your currency we will immediately transfer the money to the bank account specified by you, anywhere in the world.”
Benefits at a Glance
Highly competitive exchange rates
Quick and easy same-day transfers
Free tailored service with our currency experts
Dedicated Relationship manager
Safe & Secure transfers
Authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority
Segregated Barclays Bank Client Accounts
Arrange a call-back today from an FCA regulated currency specialist:
Sterling moved higher on Thursday as odds of a Conservative majority at next week's election rose above 70% for the first time.
As a result of the news, the GBP-EUR rate rallied to multi year highs to 1.1860 and the GBP-USD rose to multi month highs to 1.3159.
This appreciation in sterling represents an improvement of 10% against the EUR since August, and 7 against the USD since October. Analysts have commented that along with favourable polling for the Conservatives, sterling has been aided by a breach of key technical levels at 1.30 against the USD and 0.85 on the EUR-GBP.
The Conservatives were given a further boost during Thursday’s session as Annunziata Rees-Mogg, Lance Forman and Lucy Harris announced that they would resign from the Brexit Party in a bid to help PM Johnson get his Brexit deal over the line.
The next polling results are scheduled to be released over the weekend. If the polls show Labour as having closed the gap, it’s likely we could see a correction in sterling on Monday.
EUR
EUR gained against the USD on Thursday and moved above 1.11 despite mixed data releases. GDP figures came in line with expectations, although retail sales fell below expectations of -0.3% to -0.6%.
GBP surged higher against all major currencies on Wednesday as the odds of the UK avoiding a hung Parliament at next week's general election increased.
Having already moved over 1 cent this week, the pound raced to 7 month highs against the USD to 1.3116 and 2 year highs against the EUR to 1.1830. This is despite downbeat data released earlier in the day which showed UK services falling below expectations to read 49.3.
The appreciation in sterling was mainly due to a YouGov poll released on Tuesday, which showed the Labour Party lose further ground on the Conservative Party. Currently, the gap between the two parties stands at 9 points. Such a result in the election would see the Conservatives walk away with a comfortable majority and likely result in further GBP strength. This is due to an assumption by investors that a Conservative majority in Parliament will put to rest months of Brexit uncertainty and allow the PM to pass his withdrawal agreement.
GBP surged higher against all major currencies on Wednesday as the odds of the UK avoiding a hung Parliament at next week's general election increased.
Having already moved over 1 cent this week, the pound raced to 7 month highs against the USD to 1.3116 and 2 year highs against the EUR to 1.1830. This is despite downbeat data released earlier in the day which showed UK services falling below expectations to read 49.3.
The appreciation in sterling was mainly due to a YouGov poll released on Tuesday, which showed the Labour Party lose further ground on the Conservative Party. Currently, the gap between the two parties stands at 9 points. Such a result in the election would see the Conservatives walk away with a comfortable majority and likely result in further GBP strength. This is due to an assumption by investors that a Conservative majority in Parliament will put to rest months of Brexit uncertainty and allow the PM to pass his withdrawal agreement.
The pound strengthened yesterday after recent polls showed an increase in support for the Conservative Party. This goes some way to allaying fears that their lead was receding after polls from last week showed the Labour Party gaining ground. Uncertainty has risen recently as a hung Parliament looked to be a real possibility, but the nervousness around this has relented.
USD
The dollar suffered yesterday after Donald Trump said a trade deal with China may have to wait until after the 2020 presidential election. This surprise statement reversed the recent news surrounding a trade deal, especially as market participants have been waiting for an outcome for some time. US consumer data has been strong recently due to the Christmas period, but investors are concerned that we will not see a dollar rally due to Trump’s focus on China and the increase of tariffs elsewhere.
Key Announcements
09:30 – GBP: Markit Services PMI (Nov); expected to remain at 48.6. 15:00 – USD: ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI (Nov); expected to fall to 54.5 from previous of 54.7.
International payments: dos and don’ts...
05 Dec 2019
The Halloween costumes have been packed away for another year and the Guy Fawkes bonfires have well and truly burnt out. It can mean only one thing: Christmas party season is finally upon us. That magical time of year when our focus switches from pouring over spreadsheets to pouring the free wine at the annual office shindig.
Much like drawing up a list of Christmas party dos and don’ts – do agree with everything your boss says, don’t drink all the wine – can keep your reputation intact, doing the same when sending money overseas can keep your business’s finances intact. Here are a few top tips to help you make the most of your international payments.
Don’t
Default to your bank: banks offer corporate customers an extensive range of services. However, when it comes to exchange rates and managing international payments, conventional banks may not necessarily be the most cost-effective solution for your business.
Do
Use a currency specialist like RationalFX: as well as receiving completive exchange rates, you will be assigned a personal account manager who can provide market guidance and insight that empowers you to make informed decisions about the timing of your payments.
Don’t
Forget to check for any hidden costs: don’t choose a payment provider without checking to see how much they charge to make a transfer. Otherwise, you might receive an unwelcome financial surprise when it’s too late.
Do
Choose a transparent payment provider like RationalFX: we only charge a small transaction fee of £4 (or equivalent for your designated currency) – this is waived when using our Regular Payment service.
Don’t
Try and predict currency market movements: you can’t be 100% sure how the political and economic events that influence currency markets will turn out. This makes it impossible to precisely predict which direction exchange rates will move, or by how much.
Hope the currency market moves in your favour: don’t adopt a reactive approach to currency risk management. This lack of foresight will leave the cost of your international payments completely unprotected against exchange rate fluctuations.
Do
Establish a currency strategy: by working in partnership with your RationalFX account manager you can adopt a proactive approach to your business’s exposure to currency risk. They can help you establish a tailored currency strategy using specialist tools, such as forward contracts and market orders, to help reduce the impact of unpredictable exchange rate fluctuations.
Secure a rate using a Forward Contract: this allows you to secure the current market rate now for an international payment that happens up to two years in the future. This gives you peace of mind that the cost of your international payments will remain unaffected by exchange rate fluctuations.
Track a rate using a Market Order (limit order or stop-loss order): this allows you to choose a trigger rate you want to make your international payment at. Once the market reaches your desired level, your payment will be executed at that rate, eliminating the need to constantly monitor the currency markets.
Don’t
Neglect your regular international payments: whether you’re paying invoices to overseas suppliers, paying payroll in a foreign currency or making another regular international payment, don’t do it manually. You might end up paying more than you need to or even forget to send the funds altogether.
Use a regular payment plan: if you’re making the same international payments each week, month or quarter, a Regular Payment Plan can provide your business with confidence, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It automates the payment process to occur in line with your required schedule, either using the current exchange rate or a rate you have secured using a forward contract.
Do create an account with RationalFX to start making your international payments more efficient, cost effective and convenient.
Don't forget that we’re giving one lucky business £/€1000 towards their company Christmas party! All you have to do is make a transaction of £25,000 or more between the 4th – 17th December 2019 for your chance to win.
For more information about our corporate Christmas campaign, click here, or create an account to start making international payments today.
Below is a list of the services included in our Home Insurance service.
Upon request for a quotation, our staff will be able to provide you with additional information you may have about this service regarding any exemptions, limits, voluntary excesses etc.
Please note, our insurance products and services ensure that our clients understand their rights and obligations despite being in another country.
In fact, our services have been designed with the international traveller in mind, and our call centres, documentation and our consultants are all able to assist you in English to give you peace of mind and certainty, in an uncertain world.
Home Insurance
Building and contents insurance.
Cover against loss or damage caused by fire, storms, earthquake, impact damage, and more.
Quick and easy claims service. 24/7 customer service hotline.
Dog bite liability.*
Arrange a call back today from an English-speaking operator:
Below is a list of the services included in our Car Insurance service.
Upon request for a quotation, our staff will be able to provide you with additional information you may have about this service regarding any exemptions, limits, voluntary excesses etc.
Please note, our insurance products and services ensure that our clients understand their rights and obligations despite being in another country.
In fact, our services have been designed with the international traveller in mind, and our call centres, documentation and our consultants are all able to assist you in English to give you peace of mind and certainty, in an uncertain world.
Car insurance
Third party property damage insurance
Comprehensive Insurance.*
24/7 Roadside Assistance.
Courtesy car whilst your car is being repaired after an accident or mechanical damage.*
Car recovery service App.
*Optional guarantee
Arrange a call back today from an English-speaking operator:
Below is a list of the services included in our Public Liability Insurance service.
Upon request for a quotation, our staff will be able to provide you with additional information you may have about this service regarding any exemptions, limits, voluntary excesses etc.
Please note, our insurance products and services ensure that our clients understand their rights and obligations despite being in another country.
In fact, our services have been designed with the international traveller in mind, and our call centres, documentation and our consultants are all able to assist you in English to give you peace of mind and certainty, in an uncertain world.
Public Liability for hotels and restaurants
Cover in case of claims like food poisoning, falls, accident of an employee.*
Cover for legal defence costs and compensation.
Choose from 160.000 to 600.000 € level of cover.
Arrange a call back today from an English-speaking operator:
Below is a list of the services included in our Health Insurance service.
Upon request for a quotation, our staff will be able to provide you with additional information you may have about this service regarding any exemptions, limits, voluntary excesses etc.
Please note, our insurance products and services ensure that our clients understand their rights and obligations despite being in another country.
In fact, our services have been designed with the international traveller in mind, and our call centres, documentation and our consultants are all able to assist you in English to give you peace of mind and certainty, in an uncertain world.
Health Insurance
Valid Health Plan for purposes of immigration
Primary Care: GP service, Diagnosis tests, Paediatrics, Nurse Care, Emergencies, Check-ups
Specialist Medical Care: All major fields, Radiology/CT Scans, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy,
Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, Podiatry, Speech & Language therapy
Hospital Care: Hospitalisation, Surgical intervention, ICU, Childbirth, Psychology, Single room
with bathroom, Accommodation incl. meals and medication, Bed for companion.
Dental Cover: Consultations, cleaning, diagnosis; Discounts on other services – supplement
applies
Worldwide Emergency Cover
Please Note that a waiting period applies before certain services become available
Arrange a call back today from an English-speaking operator:
Below is a list of the services included in our Landlord Insurance service.
Upon request for a quotation, our staff will be able to provide you with additional information you may have about this service regarding any exemptions, limits, voluntary excesses etc.
Please note, our insurance products and services ensure that our clients understand their rights and obligations despite being in another country.
In fact, our services have been designed with the international traveller in mind, and our call centres, documentation and our consultants are all able to assist you in English to give you peace of mind and certainty, in an uncertain world.
Landlord Insurance
Cover against loss or damage caused by an insured event for your investment property
and/or any contents you provide for the tenant’s use
Legal liability cover
Optional additional cover for rent default and theft by tenant
Arrange a call back today from an English-speaking operator:
Our financial advisors are fully qualified to UK standards (QFA & CeMAP) and with a minimum of 10 years experience in the financial services industry provide financial advice to expats across Europe in the following areas:
Offshore Pension advice (QROPS)
Retirement planning
Savings & Investment Advice
Succession Planning
Special Offer
Offshore Pension advice (QROPS)
Who is this service for?
If you are an expatriate and you have a pension pot which is worth over £70,000 you may be able to release it from the restrictive UK system and it’s ever changing rules entirely. If your pension value is between £30,000 and £70,000 we now have exclusive access to cost effective products that could mean a transfer is beneficial.
Benefits include: Leave ALL unused pension funds to your beneficiaries free of UK IHT (Inheritance Tax); Much greater investment freedom; Tax free lump sum of up to 30%; Take income from your pension in a much more tax efficient way.
What does this service consist of?
Initial discussion to discuss existing pensions
Request of information from existing pension providers
Free Report and recommendation sent via email including a brochure for the QROPS provider
Follow up discussion to explain the detail and answer any initial questions
Apply for the QROPS and complete necessary paperwork and ID requirements
Ongoing support and wealth management
Arrange a call with Jason, a veteran Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA):
Imagine that you are retiring tomorrow? How much money would you like to or need to write yourself a cheque for
to ensure that you will have enough in the bank to last you, your spouse and possibly even your family for one year in retirement?
One of the most fundamental issues for you to think about when deciding on your financial planning options is to make sure that you are preparing for your retirement sufficiently and appropriately. Many expatriates do not get ahead in the retirement race by saving hard as they are scared of this approach encroaching on their standard of living today. However, with careful planning it is easy to get ahead without hindering your current lifestyle.
What does this service consist of?
Initial discussion to determine your retirement goals and current circumstances
Free Report and recommendation sent via email
This will include a step by step guide as to the best course of action
Follow up discussion to explain the detail and answer any initial questions
Ongoing support and wealth management
Arrange a call with Jason, a veteran Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA):
We know it is very easy to fall in to the ‘live for today’ mindset and not plan for the future when you’re living overseas. Thus, we have devised this simple, step by step report to show you how to take your financial future seriously, and avoid being one of those expatriates who returns home with nothing more than a mass of photos and memories - and perhaps even debt!
What does this service consist of?
Initial discussion to determine your investment goals and current circumstances
Free Report and recommendation sent via email including a brochure for the recommended provider
Follow up discussion to explain the detail and answer any initial questions
Apply for the investment and complete necessary paperwork and ID requirements
Ongoing support and wealth management
Arrange a call with Jason, a veteran Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA):
Your previous financial adviser may not be able to introduce you to the potentially tax saving and financially enhancing opportunities available as you find that their focus and expert knowledge is based in your home country alone.
Furthermore, a local adviser in your new nation is highly unlikely to understand your unique expatriate status, how that relates to any tax saving potential in the nation in which you are residing, and how you need to structure your affairs appropriately in case you should ever want to repatriate or relocate elsewhere. Planned correctly, a move to another country, including back to the UK, can have some very special future tax advantages.
What does this service consist of?
Initial discussion to determine your tax liability and current circumstances
Free Report and recommendation sent via email including advice on how to minimise succession taxes
Follow up discussion to explain the detail and answer any initial questions
Apply for to new provider and complete necessary paperwork and ID requirements
Ongoing support and wealth management
Arrange a call with Jason, a veteran Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA):
Would you like to find out how you can increase Your Expat Savings and Pension Income and Performance?
Your FREE savings and pension review from one of our qualified Advisers shows you how to get higher interest rates, reduce charges and access a range of expatriate only financial benefits that enable greater growth.
Get your free review today and benefit from:
A free personalised financial health check and summary
Tax efficient savings and pensions
The best interest rates for expatriates
Find out how best to finance your property, based on your personal circumstances
Ensuring you have the correct plans in place for you and your family
Arrange a call with Jason, a veteran Qualified Financial Advisor (QFA):
Spanish bank procedures and mortgage products are different to those in other countries.
Due to our long-standing relationships with the lenders, we offer expert guidance on the process of applying for a mortgage and exclusive conditions with rates not offered publicly from Euribor + 1.35%, fixed rates from 2.15%, mortgages without life insurance, and terms up to 25 years or age 75 if earlier.
Most Popular Products
Construction Mortgages
For this type of mortgage, the best products are where the banks will offer a loan against the plot of land (up to 50% of the cost, or value of lower) and also for the construction works (up to 70% of the cost, or value of the project, if lower).
We have arranged many construction mortgages over the years and can offer expert guidance on the process. If you are interested in this type of mortgage, we would advise that you contact us as soon as possible.
Holiday Home Mortgages
Holiday home mortgages are generally for non-resident property buyers who do not live in Spain The maximum borrowing amount is up to 70% of the property purchase price (or valuation if lower).
We can currently offer mortgages with rates as low as annual Euribor + 1.35% or fixed rates from 2% for premium, non-resident clients (please enquire to see if you would qualify). Typically, for other clients, the rates will be a little higher than this (from Euribor + 1.9% and 2.15% fixed) but still lower than publicised rates or if you go directly to the banks.
Primary Residence Mortgages
Primary residence mortgages are for those where the property in Spain will be their main residence and they already pay their income tax here, or in exceptional cases are about to start paying taxes here. For this type of mortgage, it is possible to secure mortgages up to 80% of the property purchase price with rates from Euribor + 0.99% or fixed rates from 2.05%.
Investment Mortgages
Investment mortgages are for those property buyers planning to rent out their property after purchase, or where the buyer already has at least one existing mortgage in Spain.
We have provided alternative finance solutions for property buyers who may have a sophisticated investment portfolio. We can help put together back-to-back loan arrangements secured against listed investments. This can be where the lender takes over as custodian, or where a guarantee is provided by the existing custodian of the assets.
Commercial Mortgages
If you are buying a property that banks will class as a commercial premises (offices, shops, hotels, B&Bs etc.), we can offer mortgages to suit your purposes. The mortgages available are generally 50-60% of the purchase price (or valuation if lower) and conditions differ from those for residential properties.
Some banks will allow you to purchase through a newly formed Spanish limited company (Sociedad Limitada or “SL” company). If the company is set up as a shell company for the sole purpose of buying the property, meaning it will not actively trade after the purchase, it can be possible to secure mortgage terms that would apply for a residential mortgage.
To speak with a consultant who can guide you as to the most appropriate mortgage for you and the best rates currently available, please click on "Free Affordability Check" below.
Katherine is a 30 year veteran of the UK & Spanish mortgage industries:
Anyone who needs to arrange an NIE number in Spain fast!
You will need an NIE number in Spain for a host of reasons: for buying or inheriting property, setting-up a business, payment of taxes etc., you will often need to get this arranged quickly and with a minimum of fuss.
Unfortunately, the NIE service is run by the Spanish National Police or the diplomatic services and this is usually a slow process, taking weeks/months to arrange. This can mean expensive delays for those who urgently need to address business or personal matters.
What does this service consist of?
Initial phone or office consultation to answer your questions about the service
Dual language power of attorney provided to you for use in a local notary wherever you are located which can then be sent directly to our lawyers
Once the paperwork arrives, together with payment for the service, your NIE number(s) will be ready within 72 hours!
Cover against loss or damage caused by an insured event for your investment property
Alvaro is a regulated Spanish lawyer specialising in Immigration:
Documents that originate from outside of Spain will need to be translated into Spanish for many different legal and administrative processes before they can be used by local authorities here.
For formal processes, you will need a Sworn or Official Translator in Spain to translate and affix their stamp to the document. An Official Translator is approved by the Spanish Ministry of Justice as having the skill to carry-out this process for any legal proceedings as well as any other process that requires a Sworn Translator.
Examples of documents you are likely to need to get translated include, but are not limited to:
Birth Certificates
Death Certificates
Marriage Certificates
Criminal Background Checks
Financial Accounts
Academic Qualifications,
Deed Poll Name Change
Company documents (e.g. Articles of Association)
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Processes that May Require Translation of Documents
The list is in fact potentially endless and will depend on the particular process that you need to complete in Spain. Below you will find a list of processes and the documents you may need to have translated into Spanish.
Inheritance
For inheritance proceedings it can often be necessary to arrange for translation of an official death certificate if death occurred outside of Spain, unless an International Death Certificate has been issued. Also, if only a non-Spanish Will is in existence, this may well need to be translated also.
Divorce Proceedings
If a couple were married in the UK or other non-Spanish speaking jurisdiction, and they have children born there, it will be necessary to have the marriage certificate as well as the birth certificates of any children born outside Spain translated. Furthermore, any other documentation relating to assets abroad may need to be translated.
Property Purchase
If a mortgage is required in Spain, it may well be necessary to justify your income, and should you be self-employed/business owner, then it may be necessary to have previous year's financial accounts translated to Spanish so that the bank may approve an application.
Immigration
Health insurance covering the duration of your stay in Spain is necessary. The terms and conditions of such insurance are may need to be translated. Also, any economic means (pensions or any other income) by which you might prove that you can afford to stay in the country, will need to be translated.
Enforcement of a foreign Court Order or Judgment
Depending on the nature of the Court Order or Judgment that you have obtained in a foreign country, in order to have it enforced in Spain you may be required to follow the legal proceedings of 'Exequatur' which will require you to produce a translation of the original Court decision, carried-out by a Sworn or Official translator.
Languages We Deal With
Our team of official translators are able to deal with many languages, though most popular would be English, German, French, Dutch and Russian.
Next-Day Service
Translations of documents will be returned the next working day, as long as the documents are sent before 2pm.
Arrange a call-back from a specialist translator today:
New rules from the European Union - Regulation (EU) Nº 650/2012 of the European Parliament and of the council of 4th July 2012 - stipulate that, in the absence of an express indication in the form of a valid Will, the rules that apply to a deceased’s estate are the rules of the country in which they were habitually resident.
For many this could mean being forced to apply strict rules of inheritance that exist foreign countries unless a Will is drafted in a suitable format.
Who is this Service for?
For anyone who wishes to control the manner in which their estate is distributed under their own laws rather than the laws of the State where their assets are located.
What does this service consist of?
Our experienced English-speaking lawyers will discuss with you all aspects of how you wish to dispose of your estate, ensuring:
The Will is drafted in both English and local language to ensure conformity with clients’ intentions
The Will is drawn-up in the office of a conveniently located public notary.
Assistance at the signing of the
Will
Receive an official copy of the Last Will and Testament
Arrange a call-back from a locally registered English-speaking probate lawyer:
We dealt with Angela, and had a superb service - she was efficient, clear, timely and exceptionally helpful. We would recommend this respectable Solicitor who has excellent English.
Trustworthiness is so important, and step by step help was very much appreciated. Thank you Angela of myAdvocate Fuengirola.
Very satisfied with the service. Would definitely recommend to friends.
Allen Almeida, Lisbon (Oct 23, 2019)
Joao was extremely helpful, he couldn't have done more!
Luis Gonzalez Lunden, Canada (Sep 21, 2019)
Rosa responded very promptly to our inquiry, grasped our needs immediately, and provided an excellent solution which was delivered seamlessly. Rosa thoroughly explained the intricacies of the local legal system, providing options and considerations.
Overall Rosa provided outstanding service through a professional and mindful approach to our needs. We really enjoyed our interaction and it is without hesitation that we recommend her to future prospective clients. Thank you Rosa!
Mr Swildens, Alicante and Belgium (Sep 20, 2019)
I'm very happy with the services received: I started with José in Alicante on various subjects whom than handed me over to Miguel for another case because he said Miguel was much more experienced in the field I needed assistance, I can appreciate professionals knowing their business.
In the beginning when I started emailing with your good selves I experienced difficulties receiving mails from advocate abroad, it was a server issue from advocate abroad, I repeatedly asked Miguel and José about it but they could not find anything wrong. At this moment I no longer experience these problems.
Isabel Albert, Valencia (Sep 17, 2019)
Inmaculada has always responded to all my queries and explained and provided excellent solutions. She is very approachable, diligent and professional.
I am very pleased with the service provided by Francisco. He has been most helpful and responded very quickly to all my emails.
Franco Trio, United Kingdom (Apr 10, 2019)
Rosa always responded promptly to any email I sent.
She kept me informed and provided alternatives and 3rd party services (translation).
Thank you Rosa for your assistance, perseverance and honesty in helping my mum and I. We will definitely recommend you.
Claire, Valencia (Mar 28, 2019)
Ramon was very helpful and professional. He listened to our requests carefully and we will be using him again if we need anymore legal services.
Funeral Plans
Why consider a Funeral Plan?
By planning in advance, you will help to remove the emotional burden and some of the financial worry from your next of kin at a time in their lives when they are least able to cope.
Planning for your funeral now means you can fix the complete cost of your Cremation funeral in advance (FD Professional fees, Cremation fees and Ministers fees are guaranteed), no matter how far in the future death occurs. If burial is your funeral choice, your plan will guarantee the cost of the funeral director and pay a contribution towards the cost of cemetery and burial fees.
Repatriation of your body to any country from the UK if you require your Funeral to be conducted elsewhere in the world. Repatriation can be a part of your funeral planning agreed in advance.
A Personal Service
In addition we can help you personalise your funeral to give you the send-off you’d like. To create a bespoke funeral choose either our Platinum or Gold plans and then call our team who will be happy to help with advice on any additions you’d like.
Our team will do their best to accommodate any additions that you require and will be able to advise on additional costs. Also whether your requests can be added now as part of the payment plan or whether it’s a request to add to your file, which has to be paid for when the time comes.
Our team is used to a variety of requests but we are typically asked to provide additions such as:
Doves
Horse and Carriage (replaces the hearse)
Extra limos or extra hearse to carry flowers
Tractor hearses
Bespoke coffin
Alternative service location
Bagpipers
Fireworks
Arrange a call-back from a locally registered English-speaking probate lawyer:
You have noticed something specific on the property that makes you concerned
The property is old
The property is out of town, in the countryside
The property is in a protected zone (old town, coastal area)
You are unsure of local building standards and want to be sure before investing
You are setting-up a business and need to obtain a surveyor’s suitability report to be able to engage in the proposed business activity on the premises
Our surveyors offer two different types of property survey suitable for English-speakers acquiring property abroad:
Building Survey
Commercial Premises Survey
Building Survey
This survey is very extensive, and typically includes an in-depth inspection of the property with a detailed report in English, providing information and analysis of the current condition of:
Check for any signs of erosion, subsidence or material/structural fatigue
Include Recommended/Required steps to take to bring the property up to standard
This report will provide an in-depth and detailed analysis of all aspects of the property before proceeding to purchase.
Please note, if purchasing an aged or rural property, or indeed one that is located in a protected/heritage area, a building survey is recommended to ensure that you are made well aware of any defects in the building that will require more investment down the line. It will almost certainly more than pay for itself!
Arrange a call-back from a local registered English-speaking architect:
Before proceeding with the acquisition of premises for business or commercial purposes, it is vital to ensure that they are suitable for the activity that you propose, and a legal requirement to obtain a ‘Commercial Activity License’.
Local zoning laws and health and safety regulations regulate what types of commercial activity may take place in particular zones of towns and cities and also any adjustments or renovations that need to take place before the premises are suitable for the activity proposed.
Once you begin to undertake the commercial activity you may be inspected at any time and be required to produce a valid licence certificate.
The process for obtaining the commercial activity licence begins with a Technical Project Report carried-out by a suitably qualified architect or technical architect or engineer. The method of drafting the report will vary according to the commercial activity proposed and the premises in which they take place, but broadly speaking, it involves:
Discussion with the architect about the business project envisaged by the business owner
Architect visits the premises
Architect compiles the report as follows:
Description of the activity that will take place
Description of the premises including m
Arrange a call-back from a local registered English-speaking architect:
