We are explicitly not a real estate brokerage agency. If you would like to search for real estate independently, we can give advice on determining the boundary conditions, what might fit and where to go for this. Sometimes just an exploratory conversation can be very enlightening.
As a local, we can start a search and ask within a local network or submit a search request to the reputable brokers and intermediaries operating in the area of your interest. We can also supervise the formalities at the notary and the municipality surrounding the purchase.
“If you would like to search for real estate independently, we can give advice on determining the boundary conditions, what might fit and where to go for this.”
Building and (re)construction tenders
Should real estate be acquired, and (re)construction work be desired there, we can put those wishes out to contractors and request and compare quotes for this. The (re)construction itself also requires a permit, which will have to be applied for. The exact procedure and documentation required will depend on the scope of the project, and whether it concerns reconstruction, expansion, rebuilding or new construction.
“Update of the work by the contractor by means of photos and/or video can offer the opportunity to make timely adjustments to the wishes and to keep a finger on the pulse in terms of progress during certain periods.”
Often, the structural aspects of the project must be supervised during the work by a specifically appointed engineer (depending on the type of work, this is mandatory). Additional fees are charged for that interim supervision, usually once a month. It is wise to have someone present there yourself, in order to address questions and bottlenecks on the spot, so that construction cannot be unnecessarily delayed.
Furthermore, a 1 or 2-weekly, if necessary monthly, update of the work by the contractor by means of photos and/or video can offer the opportunity to make timely adjustments to the wishes and to keep a finger on the pulse in terms of progress during certain periods when you are not present, to see whether the construction is proceeding as agreed.
Our experience is that if you are not there, the planning can sometimes shift because there are still questions about how to tackle something. And therefore just put aside. Doubts can also arise about specified wishes or the contractor may have a slightly different interpretation of the level of finishing than if you are more intensively involved.
Garden design, (re)construction and maintenance
If you are not always there yourself, then it is important as far as the garden is concerned to think carefully about what type of garden is desired, and how low maintenance as well. You must remember that nature on the islands is lush and turbulent. If you would like to have edible crops and trees there as well, especially if you want to do so organic, that requires structural attention.
A reliable self-sufficient irrigation system can help in the dry season.
