Although there are literally thousands of Spanish estate agents and web-based property sites for overseas buyers to choose from, the number of cases of unfair and dishonest practice by agents has increased significantly over recent years with many Brits finding the process of buying or selling a Spanish property a traumatic affair with little protection.

However, with the Federation of British Estate Agents in Spain (FBEAS) – an association committed to raising professional standards in all areas of the real estate industry in Spain – growing, help is at hand. The FBEAS now has 80 members, all of which must observe a strict code of conduct to ensure the highest levels of professionalism, ethics and honesty when selling Spanish property.

Membership of the FBEAS is given only to those British agents selling Spanish property that meet with the high expectations and criteria of the Federation with part of the membership process requiring prospective candidates to provide two professional referees as to their suitability. Each member is also required to complete an online examination to ensure they fully understand the Code of Practice and will ensure its full implementation.

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Article first published 17 December 2007