Cheers Bandit, that seems like a good place to start.
Some of the info I have been recieving is what you describe, go down for a day or two, look at the property, suss out the area, get some boarding done and get all the info regarding the details and services available. Really don't wanna get into a pressure sales situation however as it turns me off something chronic (will walk out a shop if someone comes to offer me help!!!). Good thing about German tax system is, that if I maker a few trips to look for property etc, even in Austria, I can write the tax off on the eventual purchase.
Think I will take a weekend somewhere to find out more about the system.
Just watching the Snowboarding X on the TV, now thats a great sport )