Parking Explained

Everything Property Buyers Should Know Before Buying Property Abroad

Property Guide by Slide'N Doors

Introduction

Most of us own a car, yet parking is one of the most overlooked aspects of buying a property.

A beautiful home can quickly become frustrating if you later discover the parking space isn't included in the property's title, access is shared with neighbours, or your everyday vehicle simply can't reach the property.

Parking isn't just about somewhere to leave your car. It's about ownership, legal access, convenience, security and protecting one of your biggest investments.

This guide explains the questions every buyer should ask before purchasing property abroad.

Does the Property Actually Include the Parking?

Never assume a parking space automatically belongs to the property.

Ask:

• Is the parking included in the property's legal title?
• Is it exclusive or shared?
• Is it allocated or first come, first served?
• Does the parking have its own legal title?
• Could it be sold separately?

In some apartment developments, parking spaces are owned separately from the property itself.

Is There a Legal Right of Access?

Having somewhere to park is one thing.

Having the legal right to get there is another.

Ask:

• Is there a legal right of way?
• Who owns the driveway?
• Is access shared with neighbours?
• Could anyone block access?
• Are there any easements or servitudes affecting the driveway?

Without legal access, even a private parking space may become difficult to use.

Can Your Vehicle Reach the Property?

Not every road is suitable for every vehicle.

Think about the type of car you own today—and the one you may own in the future.

Consider:

• Is the driveway steep?
• Are there tight bends?
• Is the entrance wide enough?
• Will a large SUV fit?
• Can delivery vans reach the property?
• Would emergency services have easy access?

Just because the current owner drives a 4x4 doesn't mean your family car will cope.

Road Conditions

This is especially important in rural locations.

Some access roads may be:

• Gravel.
• Dirt.
• Rocky.
• Narrow.
• Very steep.
• Prone to flooding.

In countries like Costa Rica, the road leading to the property can be just as important as the property itself.

A home may only be a few minutes from town but still require a suitable vehicle during the rainy season.

Who Maintains the Road?

Don't just ask if the road exists.

Ask who is responsible for looking after it.

Questions to ask include:

• Is it maintained by the local authority?
• Is it privately maintained?
• Do neighbours contribute towards repairs?
• Are maintenance costs shared?
• Is the road maintained throughout the year?

Poor road maintenance can affect access, resale value and ongoing costs.

Covered Parking

In warmer climates, parking in the shade can make a huge difference.

Consider whether the property has:

• A garage.
• A carport.
• Covered parking.
• Secure parking.
• Space for an electric vehicle charger.

Keeping a vehicle out of direct sunlight can help protect paintwork, dashboards, interiors and tyres while making the car much cooler to drive.

Practical Parking Features

It's often the small details that make everyday life easier.

When viewing a property, look for practical features such as:

• An outdoor tap close to the parking area for washing your car, motorbike or bicycles.
• Good drainage so water doesn't pool after rain or when washing a vehicle.
• Exterior lighting for arriving home after dark.
• Enough space to comfortably open all the vehicle doors.
• A level parking surface.
• Power nearby if you ever want to install an electric vehicle charger or use power tools.

These may seem like minor details, but they're things you'll appreciate every week rather than just on moving day.

Visitor Parking

Think beyond your own vehicle.

Ask yourself:

• Where will family and friends park?
• Is there enough room during gatherings?
• Is roadside parking permitted?
• Can tradespeople park nearby?
• Can removal vans easily access the property?

This is especially important if you plan to rent the property as a holiday home or regularly entertain guests.

Parking Restrictions

Some buyers only discover parking restrictions after moving in.

Check whether there are:

• Residents' permits.
• Visitor permits.
• Time restrictions.
• Weight restrictions.
• Caravan or motorhome restrictions.
• Commercial vehicle restrictions.

Understanding the rules now can avoid frustration later.

Future-Proof Your Parking

Think about your future needs as well as your current ones.

Ask yourself:

• Is there room for a second vehicle?
• Could I install an EV charger?
• Is there space to build a garage or carport?
• Will larger vehicles still fit?
• Will the parking still suit my lifestyle in five or ten years?

Buying with the future in mind can save expensive alterations later.

Wayne's Tip 💡

Parking isn't just about today—it's also about resale.

When you're showing your property to potential buyers, think about their experience from the moment they arrive.

If possible, move your own vehicle elsewhere before viewings. This allows buyers to park easily, gives them a clear view of the driveway and parking area, and helps them imagine living there.

Small touches like this create a much better first impression and can make viewings feel more relaxed and welcoming.

Questions Every Buyer Should Ask

Before buying, ask:

• Does the property legally include the parking?
• Is there a legal right of access?
• Who owns and maintains the access road?
• Is the parking covered?
• Is it suitable for my vehicle?
• Can visitors park nearby?
• Are there any parking restrictions?
• Does the property remain accessible throughout the year?
• Is there an outdoor tap nearby?
• Does the parking drain properly after heavy rain?

Buyer Viewing Checklist

☐ Confirm the parking is included in the property's title.

☐ Drive to the property yourself if possible.

☐ Inspect the condition of the access road.

☐ Check for steep hills or difficult access.

☐ Ensure your vehicle will comfortably fit.

☐ Ask who maintains the road.

☐ Confirm any shared access rights.

☐ Check visitor parking.

☐ Look for an outside tap near the parking area.

☐ Check drainage around the parking space.

☐ Check exterior lighting.

☐ Make sure there's enough room to fully open vehicle doors.

☐ Consider whether an EV charger could be installed.

☐ If selling, consider parking your own car elsewhere during viewings so buyers can park easily.

Wayne's Final Thoughts

Parking is about far more than simply leaving your car somewhere overnight.

Ownership, legal access, road conditions, maintenance, drainage and everyday practicality all affect how enjoyable a property will be to live in.

Taking a little extra time to investigate these details now could save years of inconvenience—and even improve the property's future resale value.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information based on research and practical experience. Property ownership, parking rights, road maintenance responsibilities and access laws vary between countries and regions. Always seek advice from a qualified local lawyer or property professional before purchasing.

Help Us Build Better Property Guides

We're continually expanding our Property Guides to answer the questions buyers ask most.

If there's a topic you'd like us to cover, or if you've discovered something during your own property journey that could help other buyers, we'd love to hear from you.

Email: wayne@slidendoors.com

© Slide'N Doors – Helping You Open the Right Door.