Hi Smarties,
There's not a lot I feel I can add to all the replies you've already received, but I just wanted to wish you good luck in your future search
It seems that you've thought everything through very carefully and wisely, and I'm sure you're doing the right thing.
One's instincts and "gut feelings" are often the best guide - and when several other things mount up and add to the general sense of "this isn't quite right", then it's far better to cut your losses before ending up in a situation you just know isn't right for you.

The very best of luck in selling your house.
Hopefully it won't be too lengthy a process, and then you'll have the money in the bank and will be in a good position to move onto the next stage of finding a resale that feels right.
I'm sure you'll take your time, continue researching and that you will find the area that suits what you want from your new life.

You'll no doubt be stunned by the "quality" of some of the Spanish building standards!!
My Dad's a carpenter who's also built his own house, and he couldn't believe some of the way things were "thrown together" here!!
We've had numerous people in our village suggesting a part built house to us - and when we say "yes, but it's got a great big crack running through the bottom of it, and the bricks aren't tied in - so there will be big problems in the future!!" they just say "oh?"
It is scary to think what could be underneath the rendering (or whatever)!!
Anyway, please keep us posted as to how things are going for you. It's always a pleasure to read your posts, and I wish you and Mrs Smarties well.

Very best wishes,
Sam.

Whats wrong with a crack down a building.

Spanish building standards,tell me about them.falling out again.

Wow thanks for the messages of support everyone they mean alot and have made me feel better about the decision thats for sure. Once we had got our heads around it we both feel pleased we have pulled out. The villa was not as big as we first thought for one thing and then looking beyond the scenery and the sunshine we noticed the build quality of not only the villa we were buying but others we were invited into were not all that either.

It is/was a difficult decision but one we feel is right and that is the most important thing. That 20% deposit once paid left no room for manouver on my part. The balance 80% was due in May 2007 and if not paid I would be in breach of contract. The builder however had a clause where he could be six months late and that would be okay

Whilst being on an urbanisation of detached villas only was potentially very nice, lots of people to call on in the event of emergency or just to ask general questions of, we realised that with a quick car trip to the local pub/finca we could touch base with them anytime we wanted and tap into their experiences equally as well.

We actually want something quiet and away from the masses and the urbanisation would not have given us that. The Spanish people seemed so nice and we really do want to integrate as much as. I think I like the idea of renting something initially now given the area we choose will be home for the next however many years as well.

The reasons for pulling out are greater than the reasons to commit to the villa so it was a no brainer eventually. It was not all money wasted that said as we now know the area we want to go to for sure. The area around Hondon is superb and thats hopefully where we will settle all being well.

I have always gone with my gut instict and if I am honest right from the off it felt wrong if that makes sense. There is no doubt I was sucked in by the fact I was basking in sunshine in February and even after swearing I was not going to put a deposit on anything, we would use it as a fact finding mission only etc etc we went and placed a deposit I tell you I got home and felt like Paul Daniels had rifled my pockets

Yup, Spain sells itself I reckon, no need for agents is there really!

Thanks Sam