Ten reasons to make your home here:
* Region  - Catalunya - Languedoc Roussillion Catalogne north and in Spain Catalunya south an area of mountains, Mediterranean sea, fine food and wine, excellent climate, Perpignan, Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona property Catalonia property for sale - a  fine selection of villas for sale.

* Education System - in Catalunya - Languedoc Roussillon  Catalogne France, consistently recognised as one of the best education systems in Europe, Catalunya south with its educational facilities in Barcelona, Girona and Tarragona serving the Catalan community - Catalonia property for sale with an after sales services assist with integration into the new community.

*Catalan Health System - Languedoc Roussillon Catalogne France defined by the World Health Organisation as having  the best health services in the World, Barcelona, Girona and tarragona in Catalunya south has an excellent functioning health service. Catalan property sales with Landbank International Realty- we can help with all such important issues.

*Communication in Catalunya -Languedoc Roussillon,, Catalogne France and Catalunya south, Spain. High speed train links throughout France, onward to Barcelona and Madrid Spain, UK, Belgium and beyond. Serviced by major international airports, Perpignan, Montpelier, Carcassonne, Girona, Barcelona, Reus. Excellent international road and auto route links, makes viewing Catalan  property easy.

*Climate in Catalunya Languedoc Roussillon and Catalunya south, delightful springs with early cherries, long hot  Mediterrranean summers, splendid autumns and snow on the Canigou, Pyrenees Orientales  during the short crisp winter. Ideal weather for all year round viewings of Catalan property with LandBank International Realty.

* Catalan Culture in Languedoc Roussillon in Perpignan and surrounding Catalan towns and Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona in the south, art galleries, museums, artisans, age old festivals on land and sea, ancient property to view and enjoy. Picasso, Joan Miro, Antoni Gaudi to name but a few famous Catalan sons

* Catalan Food & Wine - Catalogne Languedoc Roussillon consistently recognised as an area that produces fine wines and liquers. Penedes in Catalonia south providing some of the finest wines in Spain Local specialities include anchovies, seafoods, fish, catalan products, tapas, cheeses, hams,olive oils and olives, cherries Roussillon peaches, jams and confitures amongst many others.Join us at LandBank International Realty  - Catalan  property and enjoy these local products.

* Catalan Property  -Catalogne Languedoc Roussillon, France and Catalonia south -  a diverse choice of products marine developments with splendid water views, ancient Masias, country cottages, seafront apartments with excellent leasing potential. Commercial opportunities to view Catalan property with LandBank International Realty.

*Catalan Shopping in Catalogne, Languedoc Roussillon an area that has a varied and dynamic economy, artisan goods, local crafts and markets, within a short distance is the availability to shop in Mediterranean Barcelona, with its famous Shoppng Line and many artisan fairs, along with other important, Catalan centres - La Roca, Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona.

* Catalan Property sales, for property for sale throughout the region of Catalunya with LandBank International Realty  offer the ultimate assistance to ensure your dreams come true. Registered in France, Spain, UK and Ireland as Immobiliers, real estate providers. Accredited member of SNPI (France) CEI (Europe) FOPDAC & NAEA (UK and Ireland) Always available to assist you in your search for your perfect property in Languedoc Roussillon, Catalogne France or Catalunya south, Spain..

Property Focus.

One of the most cost effective areas to purchase property for sale with land, in need of some restoration is Catalonia south, we offer a superb range of Catalonian Farms, situated in attractive locations. Catalonia Girona and Catalonia Barcelona offer superb urbanised Masias, country farmhouses on the Mediterranean, for more economically priced property for sale on the Mediterranean view property for sale in Catalonia L'Ampolla and rural rustic property Catalonia Tivissa. For equestrian property for sale at an economical price - the Pyrenees is a great investment area. Small country property to restore view our Catalonia country cottage section, or a superb selection of Mediterranean property - Barcelona country property and Barcelona Mediterranean property.  Catalonia Property bargains Barcelona property bargains.

Catalan Estate Agency & Co - Barcelona Estate Agency.

There are thousands of Catalan Estate Agents. Some recommended, others not. There is ONE Catalan Estate Agency, Registered, Trademarked, Recommended and Accredited that offers property for sale in Catalonia north - Languedoc Roussillon, France and Catalunya south Girona, Barcelona, Tarragona, Lerida (Lleida).
France –Spain-UK-Ireland-Europe-USA.
The Catalan Estate Agency property specialists throughout, Girona, Barcelona, Tarragona, Lerida. Recommended and accredited with promotions throughout the UK and Ireland with NAEA, FOPDAC, REALTOR France SNPI and accredited with promotions throughout the UK and Ireland with NAEA, FOPDAC, Franc SNPI and CEI, USA and Russia with Catalan Property Realtor and offering with dotcom branding and locations.

Stunning property in stunning locations to suit all budgets throughout the sunny Mediterranean region of Catalunya. With over 300 days of sunshine annually - why wait to relocate?

Area Focus

Languedoc Roussillon.
Languedoc Roussillon, in the south of France; Well known for its superb climate and breathtaking scenery, long sandy beaches, inland lakes and mountains - with Le Canigou dominating the Languedoc Pyrenees range, the symbolic peak of the Catalan nation - plus proximity to some really great ski resorts - Mountains and Mediterranean in one compact region.
Not to be forgotten of course, the produce of this sunny corner of France - the wines of Languedoc Roussillon are well known for their quality and value for money - so too is the property selection in this area. With stunning village and coastal property, stone mas (country farms) and vineyards all on off er, plus a climate with a very definite ‘feel good’ factor of approx 300 days of sunshine. There is easy access with several international airports in the region, plus the advantage of the TGV high speed train linking Languedoc to Spain, UK, Belgium and beyond.

Barcelona
Barcelona - What does this region NOT have? One of the most dynamic cities and regions in Europe in terms of economics and production. Add to that fantastic beaches, a stunning Mediterranean sea that shimmers a bright turquoise in the summer months, the Balearic islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza only a short flight or ferry crossing away. The area is well served with International airports and a great road and train system, international sea port - communication with Spain and beyond is very accessible.
Property prices have now proven to be very competitive with some great buys waiting to be snapped up, whether it is an apartment overlooking the Mediterranean, or in the city itself or a country masia, vineyard or commercial property that you are seeking the choice and variety has never been so acquirable. Couple that with fine dining- the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle with a climate that definitely is an improvement on more northern climes, local fresh products to be enjoyed from the fish caught daily to the vegetable and fruits available in local markets - outdoor living at its best. On a more cerebral note, Barcelona is steeped in history, with stunning architecture and museums celebrating famous sons - Picasso, Gaudi, Miro and more, not forgetting the sport - FC Barcelona, Formula 1 racing, tennis, golf, yacht racing at the top level, but plenty of local nautical and non nautical sports in which to participate and enjoy and for a more sedentary pastime - shopping in the city centre, with thousands of establishments to visit - Barcelona Shopping Line boasts over 30,000 businesses in one 5 km stretch - so no shortage of choice there!

Girona
Girona -the northernmost region in Catalunya bordering Languedoc Roussillon France- Catalogne Nord - lush and green interior rolling down to the rocky bays of The Costa Brava, fine sailing waters and secluded bays -this area has enjoyed a buoyant tourism industry for many years. Venturing inland into the interior reveals hills, mountains, pretty hill top villages and breathtaking scenery.
Property in the Girona area ranges from front line villas and apartments to pretty village and town property, old stone masias (farms) and country fincas - again, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. Climatically here the seasons are well defined with an early spring and the blossoms on the cherry trees arriving late February, a long hot summer ideal to enjoy the balmy waters of The Mediterranean. Autumn pleasantly cooling after summer and into the short sharp winter - which can be accompanied by chilling winds off the mountains. Historically a region that has seen a great deal of change over the centuries, architecture, both modern contemporary villas and ancient churches and stone masias. Girona shares many famous sons with neighbouring Languedoc - many painters and artists enjoying the ‘special light’ that bathes the area - Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso amongst many others.
Gastronomy is a serious business in Girona, home to Ferran Adria, acclaimed as the World’s greatest chef and his restaurant El Bulli, was granted the accolade as being named the World’s best restaurant by the prestigious Restaurant magazine for several years running.

Tarragona
Tarragona - the southernmost region of Catalunya was the Roman stronghold on the Iberian Peninsula, with many of the wares produced in the area being transported back to Rome for the enjoyment of the Emperors - wines, oils, terracotta. Many Roman artefacts have been and are still being found - in Tarragona itself there is the enormous amphitheatre and Roman streets- spectacularly preserved for posterity.
In terms of property, there is a varied choice with prices that are not as high as in neighbouring Barcelona and Girona, particularly if seeking property not on the coast itself. The topography of Tarragona boasts long sandy beaches, busy ports and yacht marinas with a thriving fishing industry. In southern Tarragona, rice is produced in the flooded paddy fields and off shore there is the production of Mediterranean sea salt. Inland from the coastal area is the Ebro river - famous for the size of the catfish that are caught in its water - this river has become a magnet for fishermen to try their luck at chasing the huge catch, inland sees the production of olives, almonds, wines, cherries. Tourism is important to the region and one of the more famous attractions is Port Aventura that attracts many tourists from all over the globe, annually.

Lerida
Lerida - bordering in the north with France and stretching south from those high Pyrenean mountains to the rolling plains in the south, this is a landlocked region in Catalunya, but what it lacks in coastal attractions it more than makes up for in spectacular scenery - lakes, mountain passes, national parks with spectacular wildlife and alternative attractions. Sport plays an important part in Lerida tourism - the northern border in the Pyrenees attracts many skiers to the peaks every year. Out of the winter ski season there is trekking, mountaineering, and all terrain parks for cycling, walking, horse riding and more. Again gastronomy plays an important part in the lifestyle here, with fresh local ingredients readily available and fine locally pressed olives oils and wines to enjoy. Some of the finest caviar in Europe is made in the Val d’Aran, one of the most northern areas where the combination of fresh mountain springs and wild sturgeon provide the basic ingredients for this delicacy. Well being and health tourism are well provided for with spas and spa centres providing a particularly professional level of service.
The property market in Lerida is buoyant and there are many bargains to be found, apartments, chalets and village and town property.

Buying focus

Catalan Estate Agency & Co - Barcelona Estate Agency.

Having over 30 years of experience in property transactions - over 10 years in Spain - we will assist you throughout the purchase process from the application of specific tax documents to the
signing of the contract to purchase, assist with any financial applications and assist at the Notary signing.

When you have selected the property that you wish to purchase the process is generally as follows:
1. Obtain your NIE - Número de Identidad de Extranjero – Spanish tax number – you will retain this same number for all financial and offi cial transactions and Spain. You will need to make provisions to have this by the time you have your appointment to sign the sale deed – Escritura - at the office of the Notary. NIE is an abbreviation for Número de identidad de extranjero, this is a document that is issued by the Spanish authorities and is a fiscal identification
number for non-Spanish (‘foreigners’) people. The NIE is a requirement for anyone purchasing or selling a property in Spain whether resident or non-resident and for anyone who is to lease a property, find employment or start work in Spain. It is used by the various government departments to keep a track on taxation due, you will also be asked for this number by utility service providers.

How to apply for a NIE – EU Nationals.
(i) Apply in person in Spain
(ii) Apply in person via a Spanish Consulate in your home country – or wherever you reside.
(iii)Authorise a third party to apply for the NIE on your behalf – via a power of attorney -poder.

The documentation you need for your application:
1. Your original passport, plus a good photocopy of the main page – this is the page that contains all the details about you. please note that UK passport holders are required now to produce (at some police stations) a copy ALSO of the first 2 pages of the passport, as this determines whether the holder of the passport is a resident of The Channel Islands (non EU).
2. If you are a Non EU national you will need additionally to produce evidence that you have entered Spain legally -such as the document completed for the Spanish customs -declaración de entrada.
3. 2 copies of the appropriate form for the NIE application – Solicitud de NIE.
4. Although NOT generally required take 2 passport size colour photos
5. Although NOT generally required take your contract to purchase or lease contract or employment contract with you – in case you are asked to justify why you are applying for the NIE.
You will need to RETURN in person – or give the receipted documents to someone who will act on your behalf – to the police station at a later date – be guided by the officials who deal with your request. The time to prepare such documentation varies enormously throughout Spain – in Oveida Asturias for example you can apply for and receive the NIE within the hour but in Tortosa Catalunya you will have to wait for approximately 2 weeks.
Remember to return with your receipted copy of the NIE application and (if you had to pay a fee) the receipted payment form.

Step by step guide to purchasing with The Catalan Estate Agency & Co Barcelona Estate Agency.

After the application for the NIE (see above)
When you are satisfied with the detail sign the contract to purchase...
Usually the seller and purchaser will sign a contract to sell/purchase the property.

This contract is usually dealt with by the selling agent and will;
1. Detail the seller details and purchasers’ details
2. Detail the price
3. Details the property address and type of property.
4. Detail whether finance or mortgage is involved
5. Set a date when the completion or escrow is to be dealt with by a Notary public.
At the signing of the contract a deposit it usually paid – generally 10%. Usually, in Spain the contract is an ‘arras’ type contract which means that if the purchaser withdraws from the contract, they lose their deposit; if the seller withdraws, they have to refund double the deposit paid.
If you need a mortgage to purchase in Spain.
Always ensure that your contract states that you are dependent upon a mortgage to complete the purchase otherwise you may lose your deposit, if because of tardiness by the lending company you are unable to fulfil the contractual obligations.

The documents typically required by a lender to substantiate a request for finance are:
• Your DNI/NIE
• Your work contract
• Your last 3 salary receipts
• Your latest income tax return
• Your contract with the vendor
• Proof that the property tax (IBI) on the house is paid up.
• Details of any other mortgages or loans that you may have
• Copies of property deeds, both in Spain and overseas
• Details of your employment history
• Details of your assets both in Spain and overseas
• Spanish non-residents: A certificate of non-residency (form available from the bank)
• Spanish residents -if self-employed (autonomous): Local tax paid on economic activities (IAE)
• Spanish residents -if self-employed (autonomous): IVA (VAT) tax you paid for the last tax quarter and the last year
• If married any prenuptial agreements.

If you are granted a mortgage you will be required to pay for the services of an appraiser –‘tasador’- usually between 300-500 euro. The appraiser will certify, as a licensed architect that the property is fit for purpose, so even if you don’t need a mortgage, but have doubts about structure of the property,
you might wish to secure the services of a tasador.
Completion of the property sale - certifying the transfer of property.
In Spain, a property transfer must be dealt with by a notary. The appointment to attend the Notary office will have been agreed between the parties. The
Notary prepares a new escritura for each property transfer/ sale and will have made certain checks into the validity of the sale.

At the notary appointment.
All the parties involved in the sale/ transfer will be required to produce up to date proof of identity, purchaser and vendor produce NIE and/or
DNI (ID for Spanish citizens), the purchaser will be required to produce a cheque drawn on a Spanish bank for the agreed purchase price.
The Notary will read the escritura (in Spanish) to the two parties –purchaser and vendor - if both parties agree to the contents of the ‘escritura’ deed, it is signed by them and then the notary signs using his firma protocolizada.

Taxes
There are taxes of approx. 10% of the purchase price due by the purchaser for the sale and the registration of the escritura at the land registry. The vendor has to pay ‘plus valia’ tax – capital gains – on any gain made.

This information is a guide only and does not constitute nor form part of any contract - always seek independent legal advice.