To begin with the basics: the aim of an inspection trip is for potential purchasers to view a range of suitable properties or off-plan sites first hand, providing you with the opportunity to get to know the areas, ask the developer or agent questions, and discover if the property is as good as it sounds on paper – helping you make an informed purchase. 

Why do one?
While there are downsides to an organised inspection trip – you're unlikely to be shown less than desirable towns and it is easy to fall for convincing sales patter – there are also many advantages of a good inspection trip:  You'll be shown around the local facilities by someone who knows the area and can take you to the best beaches and other hotspots;  The hassle of organising a trip is taken away from you and some of the costs (accommodation, flights) may be met by the developer or agency; and  You can meet the developer or agent and will get a chance to discuss any concerns and ask any questions you may have.

What to expect
Inspection trips usually last between three and five days. You will be shown the different areas where the properties are located and visit properties that are both in your price range and ones that you have expressed an interest in viewing. Over the course of the trip the agent or developer should explain all the details, including total costs, annual costs, legal formalities and letting potential. Most trips should include a good mix of business and sight-seeing – after all, they want you to enjoy your trip.

Before you go
It may be boring but research, and lots of it, really is the key to a worthwhile inspection trip. Ideally, inspection trips should be made when you are sure that you have picked the right country, or even better the  right town or city, leaving you free to focus on the properties and compare whether the style, location and facilities of the individual properties you are viewing will suit your needs and budget. Trawl the Internet before you go, read all the guide books, swat up on local prices and the country's buying process. 

Questions to ask
To ensure you make the most of your visit and get answers to all your questions, make a list of everything you want to know. Here are some questions to get you started: Ask about the infrastructure: are there plans for any new airports, hotels or shopping centres which will enhance the area and ultimately add value? What is the total price including legal fees? Are there any additional costs once you've purchased the property, such as rental management or maintenance fees? Will the property come with a fitted kitchen and furnishings? If not, do they offer a furniture package?
 
While you are there
While you need to bear in mind that there will be some sales pressure on you during the inspection tour, it's important to ensure that you are not pushed into anything. As well as a pen and paper, a camera will come in very handy. Take pictures of the site and properties, as well as the local area and towns: this will help you make a more informed decision on you return and jog your memory on the details after you've returned home. Speaking to expats and locals is extremely valuable and they will normally be happy to share there experiences, so you must network. Visit places that will be important to you. If you want to spend a lot of time on the beach visit the beaches, if you intend to spend a lot of time playing golf then visit the golf courses. Of course, this will ultimately depend on what you intend to use the property for.

Top tips
1. Before you go, find out what exactly is included in the cost of the trip and what you will be doing when you are there. Ask for the itinerary.

2. Check out local estate agents to see how prices compare and find out what else is available in the area.

3. Try and get some free time away from the agent to weigh up the pros and cons, clear your head, read local newspapers, speak to locals and visit any places of interest not included in the itinerary.

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Article published in October 2006