This article will assume that you know the general geographic location in Spain you would like to live in. So what else should you think about? It's so easy to fall in love with a property and sign the dotted line before you've thought it through sufficiently. I strongly advise you to make yourself a check-list. Buying property in Spain and potentially organising your removals to Spain will be less of a headache if you consider some of these points:

Pool, Beach or Inland

The further inland you go, the cheaper the property. Even if you can't afford your own pool, most villages have a public one and many apartment blocks share a communal pool.

Property Age

Older properties will be cheaper, but bear in mind how much money you will need to spend to make it into your dream home. Naturally, older property will need more care and attention when it comes to maintenance which could become costly. New properties are usually covered by a 10 year insurance, but may lack the character you are looking for.

The View

If you want a first-line sea view, you'll pay extra for it. If you want rolling mountain views, make sure your house is not too exposed or isolated. Although when we think of Spain we think of sun, its Winters can be surprisingly cold, wet and windy.

Facing The Sun

This may seem like a trivial factor but many people base their decision to move to Spain on the sunny weather and climate. If you want to lap up the sunshines throughout the year make sure that your open space faces south.

Shopping

In larger towns, this isn't a problem. However, if you move to a small village, be prepared to purchase from white vans bearing bread, fish, fruit and vegetables. These mobile shops often visit villages daily. Listen out for their hooting as they announce their arrival.

Healthcare

Find out how close the nearest hospital is, and whether there is a doctor's surgery close by. The smaller villages, unfortunately, will only have a visiting doctor who comes maybe once a week and at worst there may not be a doctor at all.

Broadband

Many villages are too remote to enjoy broadband. A telephone landline means that you will at the very least have dial-up internet. There are alternatives, like satellite, to acquire broadband, but they will be expensive.

Phone Signal

Signal varies from location to location and can often be lacking. It is likely that if you live in a very isolated, rural area you will come to depend more and more on your landline.

Spanish neighbours or ex-pats

Choose carefully. Authenticity will likely come at the price of losing fellow ex-pats but on the plus side you will get to experience a truly spanish lifestyle. If you opt for a small, rural village the chances of there being other English speaking residents will obviously diminish. For most people, a balance is best.

Try Before You Buy

Consider renting a house in your chosen location first. Then you can take the time to find your perfect house. Not only will you become familiar with the area, but you'll be in a great bargaining position to buy your perfect home.

Once you have decided on a place you will have to organise your furniture courier service and also motorbike delivery (if you're lucky to have one, it's fun riding a motorcycle around in Spain)