AFO Misconceptions Dispelled?

[Rodney_PP]

Misconception 1 - You cannot get an AFO on urban land.

Yes, you can, despite strong initial indications from the contrary from various quarters.   In fact, various AFOs have now been approved in Arboleas.   Speak to the Town Hall technician, Gerardo, or your Lawyer and ask the question.

Misconception 2 - You cannot extend an AFO property.

The AFO is a recognition of the regularisation of your construction and its plot from a planning point of view, and can only improve the status of your property, not detract from it, and you can extend your property if the land eventually becomes urban and the size of the plot allows this, as is the situation with the rest of the houses in the estate.   The situation is not the same with rustic land, but Arboleas most of the irregular houses are on urban land.   Check all this with your Lawyer.

Misconception 3 - You cannot insure an AFO property.

Wrong.   Lots of AFO properties have been insured.   Ask your insurance company for clarification.   In fact, is your house not already insured?

Misconception 4 - You pay twice if you go for an AFO.

No, you do not.   An AFO is instead of a building and first occupation licence, which are generally much more expensive.   First occupation licences could be quite a way in the future for many people.   Speak to your Lawyer about this.   An AFO is now.   Full legalisation is when?

Misconception 5 - You could have a problem in getting a mortgage for an AFO property. 

An AFO property is regularised, rather than legalised.   The legal status of the property can reflect on its value, but the great bulk of buyers seem to be cash buyers who sell up abroad and invest in Spain.   Speak to estate agents.   I think you would be pleasantly surprised and may find that, in fact, they will not sell your property without an AFO.

The foregoing is not legal advice, just perhaps a ray of hope for some people.   As I have said many times before, take proper advice from professionals who will give you true legal advice by dispelling misinformation given from other sources.