What is the process of buying a property in Spain?
Buying a property in Spain doesn't begin at the notary's office, or even during your first viewing. It starts when you learn to distinguish an attractive property from one that genuinely meets your needs. Are you looking for somewhere to escape to several times a year, or a permanent home for your retirement? Your answer will influence the location, budget and paperwork involved.
What is the process of buying a property in Spain? Here are the essential steps:
Establish your total budget. Beyond the purchase price, consider taxes, notary fees, Land Registry costs and, where applicable, mortgage expenses. Generally, resale properties are subject to Property Transfer Tax (ITP), while newly built properties sold for the first time are subject to VAT (IVA) and usually Stamp Duty (AJD). The amounts vary depending on the autonomous community and your individual circumstances.
Choose and view properties carefully. Check access routes, nearby amenities, actual distances to the beach or golf course, and ongoing maintenance costs. Virtual viewings can help you narrow down your options.
Check the property's legal status. Before paying any money, it is advisable to obtain a Land Registry extract (nota simple) to confirm ownership and identify potential charges or restrictions. Have the documentation reviewed by a qualified professional.
Prepare your documents and reservation. If you are a foreign buyer, you will need a Foreigners' Identification Number (NIE). Signing a deposit agreement (contrato de arras) is common, although not compulsory. Always review its conditions and deadlines before signing.
Complete the purchase. The transaction generally concludes with the signing of the public title deed before a notary, payment of the relevant taxes and, usually, registration of the property with the Land Registry.
The key is not to rush through these stages, but to understand what needs checking at every step. Addressing questions early can prevent hasty decisions.
Buying a property in Spain: resale or a new-build home ready to enjoy?
An attractive terrace can win you over in seconds, but understanding how a property works throughout the year requires asking better questions. How much will it cost to maintain? Are local amenities within walking distance? Which direction does it face? These details become particularly important if you plan to spend extended periods in Spain.
At Marea Estates, apartments and townhouses are a particular focus, with special attention given to resale properties and new-build homes that are completed or nearing completion. Each option offers different advantages.
A resale apartment allows you to assess the property's actual condition, its established surroundings and community fees. A townhouse may offer outdoor areas and separate spaces for welcoming family and friends. Meanwhile, a nearly completed new-build property makes it easier to understand expected handover dates and construction specifications, once the individual terms have been checked.
Our property search focuses primarily on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida, including locations such as Orihuela Costa, San Pedro del Pinatar and areas surrounding golf courses. If living near the sea or enjoying regular rounds of golf matters to you, comparing locations is just as important as comparing properties.
Buying a property in Spain with Marea Estates: clear answers, confident decisions
Purchasing a property from another country brings additional questions: how to organise viewings, which documents to prepare and who to contact when you need advice. Marea Estates understands these concerns and believes in friendly, transparent communication and straightforward answers.
With six years of experience in the property sector, our estate agency provides personalised advice to help you find properties that suit your budget, requirements and preferred locations. We also organise in-person and virtual viewings, share local market knowledge and provide assistance with legal and financial procedures, including the NIE, alongside after-sales services.
It's about identifying which homes are genuinely worth viewing and understanding why. If a location doesn't meet your priorities, it's better to discover that before making a decision.
Would you like to start searching for your next home in Spain with clear information and personal guidance? Explore the properties available through Marea Estates and tell us what you're looking for.
You can complete the contact form on our website, email us at info@mareaestates.es or call us on +34 711 002 860.
We'll be delighted to help you take the next step.
