A new website, which certifies that an overseas property is legally able to be sold, has been launched for UK buyers.
IsMyHouseLegal.info aims to provide a reference for purchase to check that a property has legal paperwork in order for the purchase to commence.
The checks are taken out by The International Law Partnership and ensure that the overseas land or property has good legal title, belongs to the person who is selling it and has a building licence.
In the past, many buyers have found that their overseas property has been missing building licences and planning permission. The website intends to address this by providing expert information on the legal state of Turkish property with the ultimate aim of covering all 30 countries in which The International Law Partnership operates.
"Our goal is to give overseas property buyers the information and security they need to avoid any pitfalls or the risk of a failed investment," says Sally Clough, founder of IsMyHouseLegal.info. "The information provided on the website is an excellent source for consumers; however it is not a substitute for the important legal guidance of an independent lawyer when purchasing a property."
Once completed, IsMyHouseLegal.info will feature legal information on overseas property markets, including the UK's favourite destinations such as Spain, France and Portugal as well as Eastern European countries such as Slovakia, Bulgaria and Russia.
