Currency transfer... from UK to Spain and back again

Mr and Mrs W first came to Tropicana Properties office to view homes in the villages of the Tropical valley – Jete, Otivar and Lentegi - but having also considered what was available on the coast they settled for a brand new apartment in Almuñecar, just 5 minutes walk to the beaches and yet close to the centre of town. This is their story...

Why did you decide to buy an overseas property in Spain?
We had been taking holidays for years in Spain, and our friends had purchased in Otivar 2 years ago We love the easy way of life here, the beaches and the quality of life... even when it's wet in winter we still find that we meet many interesting folk here of all nationalities, who like ourselves, are enjoying semi-retirement.

What advice would you give people thinking of buying overseas property?
Like any home purchase, you have the option of buying a resale property or an off-plan (that is basically a property that has not been built yet). There are advantages to both. Buying an off-plan property is often slightly cheaper than buying an older established property. This is because the developers tend to keep pricing lower at the beginning stages of development so as to obtain cash flow. In addition, the newer homes have to comply with stricter regulations and building codes, something that an older property might be lacking.

When transferring your money what options did you consider?
Having agreed to purchase a property, our Spanish estate agency gave us the details of a professional currency transfer company that they believed would be worth making contact with. On return to the UK our first stop was to speak with our bank. I then compared their rates with those of other high street banks. I also spoke to a financial adviser and to some friends who had property overseas. Four had used this same currency transfer company and recommended I contact them.

Why did you choose a currency transfer company?
With you the whole process seemed that much easier. One of your Private Client Team talked me through all the options and answered every question and concern we had. We particularly liked the way we could fix an exchange rate using a forward contract, thus knowing ahead of time exactly how much my payments would be. The rates we were quoted were also far more competitive than those given us by the banks!

Since using you for our initial currency needs for the purchase and costs, we've begun transferring my UK pension payments using the Regular Payments Service direct to my Spanish Euro account. The lack of bank charges was a huge attraction!

Would you recommend using a specialist currency transfer company?
Oh yes certainly. In fact we have told our friends here in Spain to contact you. For health reasons they have had to return to the UK and have just sold their Spanish home. It appears that you also offered the same services from Spain to the UK and I understand that they are very pleased with the rates you offered them.

By using a foreign exchange company the rates will be more favourable so you can get more for your pound.

If you haven't had to deal with foreign currency transactions before it can seem a little daunting, but Currencies Direct, the market leader in foreign exchange, can help give you an exciting and cost-effective start to your life abroad.

The information you need to potentially save thousands is only a phone call away

In plain English; and offering competitive rates for all major currencies they will identify the best opportunities for you and your money. With no charge for registering, no obligation and no commission fee, Currencies Direct offers a stress-free method of transferring funds promptly and accurately.

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