28 Apr 2013 11:15:

The train service in Spain is excellent - I believe it's heavily subsidised by the government.  They call their first class "preferente" and unlike British rail it's really worth the extra. 

But if you're aged over 60 you can get a "Tarjeta Dorada" which gives you a substantial discount on the standard fares.  You just go to your local station with your passport and pay 5 euros or so, for the annual discount card.

We're planning to use the high speed jobby later in the year - should be an experience and amazingly well priced.

Thread: Trains

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21 Apr 2013 16:00:

Hi Simon & Camposol

We'll have to agree to differ - but I would make the point that I'm independent whereas you guys are clearly not!

I'm not a betting man, but if it were feasible I would love to have a large bet with both of you that 12 months from now the cost will be below €100.  Your present pricing structure is not sustainable - market forces will drive it down.  So make your money while you can!

As an aside, I wouldn't have commented on this thread but for the fact that I believe that EPCs are a complete waste of money and yet another tax on home owners.  The truth is that the EU parliament came up with the daft idea as they wanted to be seen as doing something positive on Green issues. 

But like a lot of legislation out of the EU it serves little or no useful purpose.   How often have you heard the words..."I only want to buy/rent a property that has an A rated EPC?" . 

Thread: Energy Performance Certificates come to Spain

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21 Apr 2013 14:49:

Hi Simon,

Thanks for your reply, but with respect you have not begun to explain the difference in charge between Spain and the UK.

The figure you would like to charge in the UK is irrelevant - the charge is around £50. 

You say that you are "using Architects not junior staff" but that is your choice - the legislation merely requires a "competent person".  Anyone with a basic construction background and a few days training could do the job.

A lot of other costs in Spain are less than those you mention, so sorry I do not believe your charge is right or sustainable.

 

Thread: Energy Performance Certificates come to Spain

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21 Apr 2013 09:44:

Simon,

I am involved in property in the UK where the average cost of an EPC is £50.  You can pay a lot more and less if you're asking for certificates for multi locations, but £50 is pretty standard. 

Please can you explain why should it cost many times more than that amount in Spain?

Thread: Energy Performance Certificates come to Spain

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17 Apr 2013 18:42:

Dear Johnzx,

I sincerely apologise.  I am told that my last post could easily be taken as me being hostile, which was really not the intention.  I was actually being a bit flippant. 
These postings can easily be taken the wrong way, perhaps I should use more smilies   . 

Apologies and best wishes

 

Thread: Reporting of Assets Outside Spain and UK Rental Income.

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