Moving In 07.08

Legal Protection When Buying Abroad
Moving In

Tom McGrath of legal firm Tom Mcgrath & Associates which specialises in overseas property transactions warns people to be extremely careful when buying property overseas. "This process is fraught with difficulties and is a minefield of hidden surprises," he says.

Over the last seven years, the company has built up considerable expertise in assisting its clients in buying properties and investing abroad. "We would prefer to have our clients come to us before signing any documentation or paying any sums over to an agent. We can then carry out a full investigation of title and ensure that our client's interests are protected at all times," he says. Unfortunately, he says, there are many clients who come to them after having signed contracts and having paid over sums of money and something has gone terribly wrong. "There are many unscrupulous people in this unregulated industry, so it is important always to take care and take time and do your homework. Having said that, there are reputable agents. The secret is to ensure that you deal only with professional reputable people." The message is clear: "Never sign anything until you seek professional advice."

For further details, contact Tom McGrath & Associates, 37, Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. Tel. 01 6610707, 01 6788774 Fax. +353 1 6114975 or log onto: www.tmsolicitors.ie