Buying or Selling Abroad? Make Every Pound Go Further
Whether you’re purchasing a dream holiday home, investing in international property markets, or selling a property abroad, the foreign exchange rate can significantly impact your financial outcome. Even a minor fluctuation in the rate could cost you thousands.
At St. George Foreign Exchange, we help you secure the best possible exchange rates, avoid unnecessary fees, and protect your finances from volatile currency swings — so you can focus on the exciting part of your international property journey.
Key Considerations When Buying or Selling Property Overseas
- 💱 Exchange Rates Matter — A Lot
For every £100,000, a 1% change in the exchange rate can cost you £1,000. Without the right strategy, your overseas purchase or sale could become significantly more expensive — or less profitable.
Example:
You agree to buy a €200,000 property when the exchange rate is €1.25/£1, meaning it costs you £160,000.
But if the rate drops to €1.10/£1 before completion, that same property will now cost you £181,800 — a £21,800 increase.
🔒 Avoid This Risk With:
- Forward Contracts – Lock in today’s rate for up to 12 months
- Spot Contracts – Transfer immediately at the best available rate
- Market Orders – Automatically target and secure a better rate
Let our FX experts help you choose the best solution for your timeline.
- 📜 Notary & Legal Fees: Be Prepared
Each country has its own legal process — and associated fees — when it comes to property.
Here’s a quick overview of notary fees by country:
Country | Typical Notary/Legal Fees |
France | ~0.8% of property price + taxes (new: 0.71%, resale: 5.81%) |
Portugal | €153 + 0.75–1% for deed registration |
Spain | €600–875 + €400–700 for Land Registry |
Italy | 2% (primary home) or 9% (second home) of purchase price |
We’ll ensure your foreign exchange strategy supports all your payment obligations smoothly — including legal fees, deposits, and final balances.
- 💸 Multiple Payments, No Hidden Fees
You’ll likely need to send money to:
- Solicitors and notaries
- Sellers or estate agents
- Local property authorities
Unlike traditional banks, we don’t charge payment or transfer fees — and we offer faster settlement and clearer transparency.
- ⏳ Timing is Everything
International property transactions can take weeks or months. During that time, currency rates can move dramatically. Our FX risk management tools allow you to:
- Fix your exchange rate now
- Protect against rate drops
- Plan your payments confidently
Avoid financial surprises on completion day — speak with our specialists early in your property journey.
Planning to Buy or Sell Property Overseas?
Don’t let exchange rate volatility cost you your dream home or investment return. Speak with a foreign exchange specialist at St. George Foreign Exchange today.
- Call us at +441273 661747
- Email us at info@sgfx.uk
Or simply fill out the form below, and one of our experts will be in touch within 2 business days.
Let’s take your global financial strategy to the next level.
Ready to make your first transfer? Create your free account now.