Purchasing a car as a property owner but non resident

Hi Paul,

I have just purchased a property in Almeria area, and have also just bought a car, try Paul at.. cars in spain.es  he is in Torre Pacchio, just up from the mar menor golf resort. Once purchased he will register it for you and can provide reputable insurance companies also. Seemed an alright chap, he has cars from 1500 to 30,000 euros, and will source a car for you if you want a specific type. He will also keep the car once paid for, till your ready to collect it, and will collect you from Murcia airport when you do. He is also on eBay with cars in sterling price, on website they are in euros.

Second hand cars are Brewster's in Spain compared to back home, they are always rust free mind, but usually have more dents on them if the garage doesn't prep them properly, I've seen a few pitches with small cars, clios polos etc around 5,000 euros that would be under a grand back home for the miles and condition.  I found a nice Honda CRV 4x4 that's in great condition for 4000 euros, I used to be an engineer for an insurance company so I know my way round motors and what to expect. Hope that helps a little.

Neil.

Secondhand cars are expensive in Spain when you're comparing with the equivalent in UK. 

When you insure your vehicle it automatically comes with breakdown cover included in the price as it is a legal requirement.  You can't tow on the motorway here in Spain.  We insure with linea directa (direct line) you can do this on the phone with English speaking staff and free callback service.  Always remember to haggle. 

If you are buying privately check who will do the transfer and also if the car has any outstanding tax.  I think you can also check with the DGT (Spanish traffic police) whether there are outstanding fines(multas).  Most people undertake this through a gestor or a place like Cat's services. 

Oh your car tax is paid to the townhall (ayuntamiento) of where you live paid on 1st Jan for the year. 

Hello.  I think car tax is paid from 1st January until 30th June.  I've never received notification as early as January, so usually pay May or June.   Get any car purchased privately thoroughly checked by a mechanic and as previously stated get someone to check whether there are any outstanding fines, and tax etc. Once you have purchased any outstanding are deemed as yours!