Don’t you just love it when a plan comes together? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to jet away to your place in the sun for brighter times? If only buying abroad was that easy….or is it? Well, thousands of us Brits do so every year according to the statistics – why not become one of them?
However, has the family agreed on the motive for buying? Is it a heart pounding, emotional fuelled, lifestyle purchase? Or is it a level-headed, pragmatic, money making decision? The majority of people probably want it all - the best of both worlds! However, that peaceful mountain retreat might not rent like the hedonistic beach front apartment…or should it be the city centre apartment which could rent well…but then…do you really want to stay in the business district?
Whatever motivates the purchase, there are certain principals that you should bear in mind, namely what liability are you taking on and can you afford it? With 80% of overseas purchases being mortgaged, make sure you choose the correct bank to fund your purchase. This can save you thousands in the long run. Do you need a bank that can facilitate re-finance? What about over-payments, what about off-setting income against mortgage costs? Is there a robust legal process and who should represent you? Cut costs here and you could lose the lot. Also, have you considered what type of property rents well in your chosen area: apartments or villas? These and many other factors need serious consideration upfront.
The bottom line is that all of the above involves money and lots of it, so talking to professionals is the key. This is a big commitment with big responsibilities. How does it fit into your overall financial plan? Speak with financial advisors who have overseas property experience (not all do), and are familiar with property investment strategies. Understanding the full financial commitment you are taking on, you can then feel confident that you are buying within your budget and not be in for any shocks along the way.
Your plan will only come together if you actually have one…and then stick to it! Even when buying the holiday home of your dreams the numbers must work… you must understand them, work them out in advance, and then confidently buy.
Until next time
Kim
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.Overseasbuyingguide.com
Thursday 25 November 2010
Wednesday 17 November 2010
Do you own a furnished holiday let or serviced apartment in the EEC?
If yes…I’ve just met with a guy that told me how you can claim up to 30% of the purchase price of the property back from the UK tax man. Or…perhaps you don’t own one yet, but you’re interested in purchasing one? Read on as this will benefit you…
Claiming money back from the UK tax authorities from a furnished holiday let is one of those things that is out there for the taking…but if you don’t know about it…the tax man isn’t going to tell you about it! In addition to owning a furnished holiday let…If you pay UK income tax from any source, whether it’s PAYE or on a self-assessment basis and you want to reclaim some or all of the tax you paid in 2008/9 and 2009/10 as well as reduce the tax you pay this year, there’s a property tax specialist that you should consider contacting.
Last week I met with John Davies – he’s the MD of a company that specialises in helping property owners to claw back money from the tax man through the use of ‘capital allowances’. Apparently, it’s your statutory right to claim Capital Allowances but if your accountant doesn’t do it for you – or if you don’t do it yourself…you’re effectively missing out on tax rebate.
Our conversation was interesting – after John told me about all the people he’s helped, I asked him why everyone doesn’t file a claim. His answer was that people just don’t know about it. So – I told him that I’d mention his service in this week’s newsletter.
There are various tick boxes that need to be ticked to make a claim and of course there’s a very specific procedure to follow…but that’s why John’s company exists. To get more information or to find out how much you might be able to claw back, fill out your details on the form located on the site listed below. IMPORTANT NOTE: To claim back tax paid in 2008/2009 you need to get your skates on - your window of opportunity clses by the end of January.
So...if you own (or are about to own) a furnished holiday let and you want to know how to claim money back from the UK tax man fill out the form on: www.hedge-tax.co.uk/opg.html
Kim Brown
The Overseas Guides Company
Have you been to the main website yet? http://www.Overseasbuyingguide.com
Claiming money back from the UK tax authorities from a furnished holiday let is one of those things that is out there for the taking…but if you don’t know about it…the tax man isn’t going to tell you about it! In addition to owning a furnished holiday let…If you pay UK income tax from any source, whether it’s PAYE or on a self-assessment basis and you want to reclaim some or all of the tax you paid in 2008/9 and 2009/10 as well as reduce the tax you pay this year, there’s a property tax specialist that you should consider contacting.
Last week I met with John Davies – he’s the MD of a company that specialises in helping property owners to claw back money from the tax man through the use of ‘capital allowances’. Apparently, it’s your statutory right to claim Capital Allowances but if your accountant doesn’t do it for you – or if you don’t do it yourself…you’re effectively missing out on tax rebate.
Our conversation was interesting – after John told me about all the people he’s helped, I asked him why everyone doesn’t file a claim. His answer was that people just don’t know about it. So – I told him that I’d mention his service in this week’s newsletter.
There are various tick boxes that need to be ticked to make a claim and of course there’s a very specific procedure to follow…but that’s why John’s company exists. To get more information or to find out how much you might be able to claw back, fill out your details on the form located on the site listed below. IMPORTANT NOTE: To claim back tax paid in 2008/2009 you need to get your skates on - your window of opportunity clses by the end of January.
So...if you own (or are about to own) a furnished holiday let and you want to know how to claim money back from the UK tax man fill out the form on: www.hedge-tax.co.uk/opg.html
Kim Brown
The Overseas Guides Company
Have you been to the main website yet? http://www.Overseasbuyingguide.com
Wednesday 10 November 2010
A Good Time To Buy Overseas?
The recent economic storm has caused a lot of uncertainty and fear. People wonder if their investments are safe, whether the price of their property will be devalued, and many ultimately query the future quality of their everyday lives.
Due to the fact that the economy is affecting everyone, chances are that if you have to sell a property at a discount, you’ll also be able to buy one at a discount (home or abroad). And if you don’t have to sell, it’s simply a matter of time before the economy will return and property values will bounce back.
But what does the economic situation mean for people wanting to buy an overseas property now? Buyers fall into three categories: Investors, Holiday Home Buyers and those Emigrating. Each category is fundamentally interested in increasing their quality of life in different ways. Investors want to make money, holiday home buyers want a 2nd home in the sun, with perhaps the option of having renters pay for the privilege and those emigrating want a new lifestyle – for example, one that provides better weather, less expenses and more enjoyment.
Although we’re in the midst of economic uncertainty it’s completely possible for all three categories to find success. Making plans to purchase overseas property in this current climate, however, is not for the faint hearted. Those adverse to risk or who get stressed easily should simply stay put and ride out the storm. Those who have a positive outlook on life and are looking for an adventure need not put their future on hold.
Investors can currently scoop up overseas properties for 40 – 50% below market value. There are a substantial amount of overseas property sellers (developers and private vendors) that must sell – and many will sell for the amount of the original loan, which could be a fraction of the property value. When picking up a seriously discounted property, an investor can sit on it until the storm passes and collect a hefty capital gain in the future.
Buyers interested in picking up an overseas pad for holidays have a huge variety of countries, properties and price ranges. The economic disturbance is affecting everyone and prices are dropping – If you’ve always dreamed of having a second home, yet thought the prices were to high, now’s your chance to get a real bargain. Provided that you’re interested in renting, it’s advised that you research areas with the highest tourism rates and the longest rental season.
As for those interested in emigrating…many plan to move abroad knowing exactly where they want to move and are passionate about their plans. Not only can buyers find a bargain property, but also they can negotiate a discount on removals, furniture, cars, and any service throughout the buying process. It is truly a buyers market - as long as you have the flexibility to go now, you’re in the driver’s seat. And rather than enduring the financial position in the UK, you can ride out the storm in sun!
It’s often been said that many people find success during crisis. Personally, I believe it’s all about attitude. If you have a positive outlook and feel inspired to take action there are opportunities everywhere. Turn off the news, stop buying the newspaper and focus on the end result you’d like to experience. Do your homework, take responsibility for your future and start a new adventure – who knows where it might take you!
Kim Brown
The Overseas Guides Company
Go to the main website at: http://www.overseasbuyingguide.com/
Due to the fact that the economy is affecting everyone, chances are that if you have to sell a property at a discount, you’ll also be able to buy one at a discount (home or abroad). And if you don’t have to sell, it’s simply a matter of time before the economy will return and property values will bounce back.
But what does the economic situation mean for people wanting to buy an overseas property now? Buyers fall into three categories: Investors, Holiday Home Buyers and those Emigrating. Each category is fundamentally interested in increasing their quality of life in different ways. Investors want to make money, holiday home buyers want a 2nd home in the sun, with perhaps the option of having renters pay for the privilege and those emigrating want a new lifestyle – for example, one that provides better weather, less expenses and more enjoyment.
Although we’re in the midst of economic uncertainty it’s completely possible for all three categories to find success. Making plans to purchase overseas property in this current climate, however, is not for the faint hearted. Those adverse to risk or who get stressed easily should simply stay put and ride out the storm. Those who have a positive outlook on life and are looking for an adventure need not put their future on hold.
Investors can currently scoop up overseas properties for 40 – 50% below market value. There are a substantial amount of overseas property sellers (developers and private vendors) that must sell – and many will sell for the amount of the original loan, which could be a fraction of the property value. When picking up a seriously discounted property, an investor can sit on it until the storm passes and collect a hefty capital gain in the future.
Buyers interested in picking up an overseas pad for holidays have a huge variety of countries, properties and price ranges. The economic disturbance is affecting everyone and prices are dropping – If you’ve always dreamed of having a second home, yet thought the prices were to high, now’s your chance to get a real bargain. Provided that you’re interested in renting, it’s advised that you research areas with the highest tourism rates and the longest rental season.
As for those interested in emigrating…many plan to move abroad knowing exactly where they want to move and are passionate about their plans. Not only can buyers find a bargain property, but also they can negotiate a discount on removals, furniture, cars, and any service throughout the buying process. It is truly a buyers market - as long as you have the flexibility to go now, you’re in the driver’s seat. And rather than enduring the financial position in the UK, you can ride out the storm in sun!
It’s often been said that many people find success during crisis. Personally, I believe it’s all about attitude. If you have a positive outlook and feel inspired to take action there are opportunities everywhere. Turn off the news, stop buying the newspaper and focus on the end result you’d like to experience. Do your homework, take responsibility for your future and start a new adventure – who knows where it might take you!
Kim Brown
The Overseas Guides Company
Go to the main website at: http://www.overseasbuyingguide.com/
Thursday 4 November 2010
Your house may be protected but are you?
Insurance is one of those things that we sometimes put off. But what you have to remember is that it’s not only about insuring our physical possessions (such as a house) but there are other types of insurance that may just save the day for your family if and when times get financially tough.
Let me explain.
Unemployment in October to December 2009 was 2.46 million, up 448,000 from this time last year. Not exactly encouraging reading - it's no wonder people are concerned about their financial security. Since the start of the recession, there's been renewed interest from some people in protection insurance policies. These come in different forms and it may just pay you to have a look at what is available.
The first thing to realise is that everybody‘s needs vary and only you can decide on what you need - or you with the help of an expert. We at the OGC often talk about the advisability of using a really good IFA (Independent Financial Advisor) to assist you here – if you need to be put in touch with someone we have a number of recommendations. These are people we have either used or sourced and carefully checked ourselves or those who have come highly recommended by other OGC readers.
The two main insurance options that may help you and/or your family financially in a time of crisis are Income Protection Insurance (IPI) and Life Insurance coverage.
What is IPI?
It is a form of cover that's designed to replace a proportion of your income should you become incapacitated and are unable to work. This might happen as the result of an accident, illness or injury or even should you lose your job. If you need to make a claim, your insurance provider will pay you a sum of money each month for however long you're out of work - or until you reach retirement age.
Should you take this out? Well, it may be best to find out if your employer covers you for this if you are employed, and what sort of sick pay you'd be entitled to in the event you had to take time off from your job. The level of salary you'd receive while ill, and the length of time you'd be paid for, may affect your decision.
If you are self-employed it may well be a very good idea. Just make sure that you read all exclusions, time frames etc. of the policy very carefully before signing – as I mentioned before my feeling would be to get professional help from someone here. The key thing to note about IPI is that it will pay out while you are still alive, perhaps providing you with an income for many years. If you are planning on buying a house and have children to educate it would mean that you would be assured of an income no matter what.
What about Life Insurance?
This is a form of protection insurance that pays out a lump sum on your death and mainly taken out by the breadwinner, one who has a family that is dependent upon them to pay the bills. This includes child care and education plus things like all, or your portion of, a mortgage on your home.
You may feel that both policies are vital and, in an ideal world, it would be great to have both. However, if you – like most people – have to decide on one or the other then it’s up to you to decide which offers the most protection for you and your loved ones.
You may find that your company really looks after you if you are sick but that there are no death benefits for your family. Or the reverse: that you get very little time off if you fall ill but that your family would receive death in service benefits from your employer if you died.
If we at the OGC Resource Centre can help in any way please just give us a phone call on 0207 898 0549 and let’s chat about it.
Kim
The Overseas Guides Company
Visit the main website at: http://www.OverseasBuyingGuide.com
Let me explain.
Unemployment in October to December 2009 was 2.46 million, up 448,000 from this time last year. Not exactly encouraging reading - it's no wonder people are concerned about their financial security. Since the start of the recession, there's been renewed interest from some people in protection insurance policies. These come in different forms and it may just pay you to have a look at what is available.
The first thing to realise is that everybody‘s needs vary and only you can decide on what you need - or you with the help of an expert. We at the OGC often talk about the advisability of using a really good IFA (Independent Financial Advisor) to assist you here – if you need to be put in touch with someone we have a number of recommendations. These are people we have either used or sourced and carefully checked ourselves or those who have come highly recommended by other OGC readers.
The two main insurance options that may help you and/or your family financially in a time of crisis are Income Protection Insurance (IPI) and Life Insurance coverage.
What is IPI?
It is a form of cover that's designed to replace a proportion of your income should you become incapacitated and are unable to work. This might happen as the result of an accident, illness or injury or even should you lose your job. If you need to make a claim, your insurance provider will pay you a sum of money each month for however long you're out of work - or until you reach retirement age.
Should you take this out? Well, it may be best to find out if your employer covers you for this if you are employed, and what sort of sick pay you'd be entitled to in the event you had to take time off from your job. The level of salary you'd receive while ill, and the length of time you'd be paid for, may affect your decision.
If you are self-employed it may well be a very good idea. Just make sure that you read all exclusions, time frames etc. of the policy very carefully before signing – as I mentioned before my feeling would be to get professional help from someone here. The key thing to note about IPI is that it will pay out while you are still alive, perhaps providing you with an income for many years. If you are planning on buying a house and have children to educate it would mean that you would be assured of an income no matter what.
What about Life Insurance?
This is a form of protection insurance that pays out a lump sum on your death and mainly taken out by the breadwinner, one who has a family that is dependent upon them to pay the bills. This includes child care and education plus things like all, or your portion of, a mortgage on your home.
You may feel that both policies are vital and, in an ideal world, it would be great to have both. However, if you – like most people – have to decide on one or the other then it’s up to you to decide which offers the most protection for you and your loved ones.
You may find that your company really looks after you if you are sick but that there are no death benefits for your family. Or the reverse: that you get very little time off if you fall ill but that your family would receive death in service benefits from your employer if you died.
If we at the OGC Resource Centre can help in any way please just give us a phone call on 0207 898 0549 and let’s chat about it.
Kim
The Overseas Guides Company
Visit the main website at: http://www.OverseasBuyingGuide.com
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