The acquisition and ownership of real estate across borders raises legal and tax issues as well as other problems whose full extent is often unsuspected by those concerned.

Private acquisitions of real estate are not infrequently made without any accurate knowledge of the local market, legal, tax and economic background.

Even if quality of life and personal use are paramount motives for the purchase of non-commercial real estate, the acquisition of property is always a capital investment. Value maintenance and capital growth as well as aspects of fiscal and inheritance law will accordingly play an important role. So it is vital to clarify these key framework conditions before acquiring real estate in order to be protected from unexpected consequences. Although this applies to real estate in general, it is particularly true for property located abroad.

It is advisable to play safe by calling upon lawyers, tax experts, architects and trustworthy real-estate specialists who are familiar with local conditions. The costs incurred will almost always be more than offset by the smooth and correct handling of the procedures involved.