Buying property abroad can be profitable, enjoyable, or beneficial for a long term move. Whether you're following work abroad or you plan to retire somewhere warmer but not too far from your roots, then Europe is the ideal destination. If you're moving abroad for work then it is also a popular destination with some of the biggest companies in the world operating in many European cities. Regardless of why you're moving, you will need to consider the Euro exchange and ensure that you don't end up paying over the odds as a result of a poor exchange.

When you agree to purchase a property, you will do so in the local currency, usually the Euro. However, while doing your calculations you will almost certainly convert this into British Pounds to ascertain whether it's a good price and whether you have the budget.

The problem with converting figures in this way is that unless you lock in those exchange rates there and then you are not guaranteed to get the same prices. If you leave it to the last minute or rely on improved prices then you could end up paying thousands of pounds more for your new home.