Your questions are answered by Andrew Reeves from Homes Abroad Group.

How do I find a solicitor to help me buy a property abroad?

Recommendation is a good means of locating a reputable lawyer, at home or abroad - if friends have purchased overseas, speak to them and ask if theirs was a good experience.

Lawyers in Europe will often only deal with properties in their region, but they would normally be able to recommend another firm who they know to be dependable.

Each European country is likely to have an association of lawyers similar to our Law Society. These can be located via a Google search.

Alternatively, many larger firms of UK lawyers are affiliated to lawyers in other countries which may enable them to recommend a reputable local lawyer to you.

Is buying in Spain still a worthwhile investment?

Growth in the value of new and off-plan properties in Spain peaked in 2004, so there are currently better opportunities for capital growth elsewhere.

However, some of the less fashionable regions of Spain, particularly inland, still provide good value for money.

Spain is still the most popular destination for buying a second home abroad or for retirement and its appeal is likely to continue.

To maximise growth potential, it is necessary for an investor to spend time in a locality researching prices to ascertain which development offers the best value.

Factors to consider include location including aspect (the Brits like south and west-facing balconies, the Spanish north and east), accommodation, especially the number of bathrooms, access to local amenities and distance from an airport with flights from the UK.

As always, it is important to consult local property and legal professionals before committing to a purchase of a property abroad.