Common Mistakes When Buying A Home Overseas

The biggest one involves using the agent's recommended lawyer. The developer is paid when the deal closes, which is not the same as protecting the buyer. An independent lawyer costs a modest share of the price and remains the best protection.



Putting your name to untranslated contracts comes a close second. A sworn translation is inexpensive set against the sum being committed. Verbal assurances mean nothing if the written contract says otherwise — only the signed text matters.



Buying off-plan without checking the developer has ruined many budgets. Ahead of a deposit, review what the company has already delivered, the construction licences, and whether payments are held in escrow. Late deliveries are common even with reputable builders; stalled projects are the exception but much more damaging.



Forgetting about resale is less obvious but just as costly. Every purchase will eventually be sold, and mai khao property prices the resale market determines the price. A home that only appeals to foreign buyers takes longer to sell in a weak market.



Finally, plenty of purchasers underestimate the running costs. Local tax returns may be required even when the home sits empty, paphos houses and overlooked notices attract penalties nobody warns you about. Arranging professional help from the first year heads off most of it.