Everyone seems to have one ? a holiday or retirement pad in Spain, France, Cyprus, Turkey or wherever the latest homebuyers' hotspot is. Prices, climate and lifestyle are all tempting reasons to take the plunge and purchase a property abroad. Before you do though, make sure you've done some research and considered the following:

Location

Don't just buy the first property you see. Decide on a country first and then think about location. Do you want to be close to the airport? Will an apartment right in the middle of a busy tourist resort give you what you're looking for? Is the rental value of your property high enough in a secluded resort? Think about how you want to use the property and how happy you are driving around the area, and then narrow your search down to the locations that best suit your needs.

Budget and Type of Property

The property market in the most popular second-home countries is buoyant. Developers are constantly constructing new sites and existing properties are commanding higher prices. Can your budget stretch to a beautifully fitted villa, or will you be looking at an off-plan apartment? Make sure you know what sort of property your money will buy you ? and compare prices in different locations so you can be sure that you are getting the most for your money.

Visit

Don't ever commit to buying a property without looking at it first ? you wouldn't do it at home, so don't do it abroad. Make time to visit your chosen location for a week or so, and book appointments to view a variety of accommodation. If you are looking at development property, make sure that you know what the finished development will look like ? it's no good being seduced by a view only to discover that another house has been built that obscures it. There's no substitution for seeing properties in their real-life setting, and it's worth paying for more than one visit rather than losing money on the wrong property.

Check legalities and taxes

Don't buy a property without using the services of a qualified lawyer. Your consulate will carry details of approved legal and accounting professionals who can help you with your purchase. By dealing with lawyers, notaries and accountants who are familiar with the legislation of the country you are purchasing in, you are more likely to experience a smooth buying process.