Dreams of sitting on a sun drenched patio, long walks by the beach, teeing off at sunrise, or a desire to get away from the ever increasing demands of working life?

Whatever the motivation, 31 percent of UK adults have seriously considered buying a property abroad (Research conducted for NatWest International Personal Banking by YouGov August 2006). With programmes such as 'A Place in the Sun' and property exhibitions springing up all through the summer months our appetite is continually wetted. It is easy to see why Spain remains the most popular destinations for the British buying abroad, with 38 percent of British overseas property owners having a place there*.

Endless sunshine, the manana lifestyle and a never ending supply of tapas, bars and beaches. Its metropolitan cities such as Barcelona, Madrid and Seville provide a cultural backdrop whilst the more active can choose from the countless golf courses and stunning walks in the mountains of Andalucia in the South. Two hours flight time and the increasing number of cheap flights available from over 28 UK airports have really helped to make long weekends easy and affordable. It also further attracts buyers to this market so owning your own property makes it even easier to take a break at the drop of a hat. People buy properties abroad for many different reasons, for some it is an emotional decision based on a life long dream, for others they believe it will make family holidays affordable.

Many people buy properties abroad without difficulty but the overseas market is not regulated in the same way as in the UK. If a deal seems too good to be true then maybe it is. Seek recommendations from friends and family before making your decision. In 2006 it was estimated that nearly £20bn was spent by UK buyers overseas. This sounds like an awful lot of money but the average British-owned overseas property costs on average £98,166**.

Low Euro mortgage rates, coupled with the ease of obtaining a Spanish mortgage through international divisions of large banks, means buying in Spain has never been more attractive or easier.

**AIPP report: International Property market 2006 Before you sign on the dotted line:

1 What is your budget? Make sure you establish all the costs, government taxes, legal fees, mortgage fees etc. In Spain this can be about 13 percent of the purchase price.

2 Establish your motives for buying abroad. Do you want an investment property or a holiday home? The answer to this question will lead you to different requirements.

3 Try the area out. How easy is it to get to? Would you be happy to return three or four times a year? Are the shops accessible?

4 Always seek independent legal advice.

5 If you are borrowing money, deal with a financial institution you recognise.

6 Research local development plans, how will these alter your views?

7 How accessible is the property? Will you need a car or is there a network of local transport?

8 What is the local medical care like?

9 If you are looking to move permanently, what are the schools like? Talk to people who already live there.

10 Do not rush into anything. If you feel pressurised ask the agent to give you time to think.