In April 2003 I put a deposit down on a three bedroom, 2 bathroom house in Puerto de Mazarron on the Costa Calida: everything went well and the builder was excellent, keeping to the contract dates.

I am due to take possession soon but I am told that due to the large amount of building in the area the Mayor's office has been taken by surprise and there is a 3/6 month's delay on the deeds. I am told that this is not uncommon. I have spoken to my Spanish Solicitor to try and get some legal document to state the house is mine but I was told that the builder will not play ball, all I get is a receipt and a set of keys. I am led to believe that this is not uncommon and that about 75% of clients go for it.