We’ll Guide You Every Step of the Way

Buying property in Spain may seem complicated at first - but with us, you can feel confident and at ease throughout the entire process.

We’ll help you choose the right location and property, explain each step of the purchasing process, assist with arranging legal and financial support, and remain by your side until the moment you receive the keys to your new property.

On this page, you’ll find an overview of the key steps involved in buying property in Spain, practical information, and explanations of terms you may encounter on the Spanish real estate market.

Our goal is to make sure you have a clear understanding of the entire process and know exactly what to expect at every stage.

Spain

1.Finding the Right Property and Location

Tell us what you're looking for — and why.

Whether you’re searching for a second home by the sea, a permanent residence, a holiday apartment, or an investment opportunity, we’ll help you find a location and property that match your lifestyle, investment goals, and budget. 

Foreign buyers can generally purchase property in Spain and are not restricted to specific government-approved development projects.

2.NIE and Preparing for the Purchase

To purchase property in Spain, foreign buyers will generally need an NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) — a foreigner identification number used for legal and tax purposes.

As part of the preparation process, the buyer’s identity, the source of funds, and other documentation required by the bank, lawyer, or notary may also need to be verified. 

Depending on your individual circumstances, we can help coordinate these steps with local professionals.

3.Reserving the Property and Contractual Documentation

Found the right property? We’ll help you secure it.

In practice, the process may begin with a reservation agreement, followed by a private purchase agreement or a deposit contract, often referred to as a contrato de arras. 

The amount of the reservation payment or deposit depends on the individual transaction and contractual terms. A payment of around 10% of the purchase price is common, although this is not a universally fixed amount required by law. 

Before signing an agreement or paying a significant amount, we recommend having the property legally reviewed.

4.Legal Due Diligence

Before completing the purchase, it is important to verify the legal status of the property. 

This typically includes checking:

  • the registered owner of the property,
  • any mortgages, liens, or other legal encumbrances,
  • information recorded in the Registro de la Propiedad (Land Registry),
  • relevant information against the cadastral records,
  • any outstanding debts or other obligations associated with the property,
  • and, for new-build properties, the relevant permits and developer documentation.

One of the key documents is the nota simple — an extract from the Land Registry containing information such as ownership and registered legal encumbrances.

5.Signing the Purchase Deed Before a Notary

The final transfer is normally completed by signing the Escritura Pública de Compraventa (public deed of sale) before a Spanish notary.

At this stage, the following will typically take place:

  • the final purchase documentation is signed,
  • the remaining balance of the purchase price is paid,
  • the keys are handed over,
  • the applicable taxes and fees are subsequently settled,
  • and the property is registered with the Registro de la Propiedad.

Registration with the Land Registry provides the buyer with important legal protection.

6.Taxes and Costs Associated with the Purchase

In addition to the purchase price itself, buyers should also budget for taxes and other costs associated with the transaction.

The amount will depend, among other things, on whether you are purchasing a new-build property or a resale property, as well as the autonomous region in which the property is located.

The overall cost may include purchase-related taxes, notary and registration fees, and legal fees.

It is therefore important to consider not only the property price, but also the estimated total cost of the transaction from the outset.

7.Taking Possession of Your New Home

Once the transaction has been completed and you have taken possession of the property, we can also help coordinate the practical aspects of becoming a property owner — such as transferring utilities and services, arranging insurance, property management, and other local services.

From the initial search to the moment you receive the keys, we’re here to help you navigate the entire process with confidence, clarity, and reliable local support.