Understanding the Spanish Property Buying Process Step-by-Step

By Vivi Real Estate | 2 de April de 2025 |

Buying property in Spain is a dream for many—but navigating the legal, financial, and bureaucratic steps can be confusing, especially for foreign buyers. Whether you're looking to buy real estate Costa del Sol for a holiday apartment, a long-term investment, or a retirement villa, understanding the Spanish property buying process step-by-step is key to making a confident and informed decision.

In this guide, we’ll break down the entire process—from initial research to final registration—so you know exactly what to expect and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Why Buy Property in Spain?

Spain offers a unique mix of warm weather, rich culture, and affordable real estate, making it one of the most attractive destinations for foreign buyers in Europe. Popular regions like the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Catalonia continue to see strong demand from investors, retirees, and second-home buyers alike.

Whether you're planning a lifestyle move or seeking property investment in Costa del Sol, understanding the buying journey is crucial.

Step 1: Research and Define Your Goals

Start by identifying your property goals:

• Are you buying for personal use, rental income, or both?
• What’s your budget?
• Do you prefer a new-build, resale, or off-plan property?
• Which region suits your lifestyle or investment strategy?

Popular areas like Málaga, Marbella, Alicante, and Valencia all offer different benefits, price ranges, and legal nuances.

Step 2: Secure Your NIE Number

Before making any official property transactions in Spain, foreigners must obtain an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). This number is used to track all tax and legal activity in Spain, including property purchases.

You can apply for an NIE:

• At a Spanish police station
• Through a Spanish consulate in your home country
• Via a legal representative in Spain
  

Step 3: Open a Spanish Bank Account

You’ll need a local account to:

• Transfer funds
• Pay notary and registration fees
• Set up utilities and taxes
  

The process is relatively easy with your passport, NIE, and proof of income or employment.

Step 4: Work with a Licensed Real Estate Agent

Having a knowledgeable local agent is essential, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Spanish market. A good agent helps you:

• Find suitable properties within your budget
• Schedule viewings and negotiations
• Avoid overpriced or problematic listings
• Coordinate with lawyers and notaries
  

Make sure to work with an agent experienced in assisting international clients.

Step 5: Hire an Independent Property Lawyer

Your real estate agent is not a substitute for a lawyer. A Spanish property lawyer will:

• Conduct due diligence on the property
• Check debts, charges, and land registry records
• Confirm building licenses and zoning compliance
• Draft or review contracts
• Represent your interests during the transaction
  

Hiring an English-speaking lawyer with local experience is strongly recommended.

Step 6: Make an Offer and Sign a Reservation Contract

Once you find the right property, you can make a formal offer. If accepted, the seller may request a reservation contract and a deposit of around €3,000–€6,000. This removes the property from the market while legal checks are conducted.

Your lawyer will then begin the due diligence process to confirm that everything is in order.

Step 7: Sign the Private Purchase Contract

After due diligence is complete, both parties sign a Contrato de Arras (Private Purchase Contract). This contract includes:

• Agreed price
• Payment schedule
• Completion date
• Penalty clauses
  

Step 8: Secure Financing (if needed)

At this stage, you typically pay 10% of the purchase price as a deposit. If you back out, you may forfeit your deposit unless the seller breaches the contract.

If you’re applying for a Spanish mortgage, this is the time to finalize the agreement. Non-residents can usually borrow up to 60–70% of the property’s value. The bank will also conduct a property appraisal before approving the loan.

Step 9: Complete the Sale at the Notary

The final step is signing the Escritura de Compraventa (Title Deed) in front of a public notary. Once both parties sign and payment is completed, ownership is officially transferred.

You’ll also need to:

• Pay all taxes and fees
• Register the property with the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad)
  

Step 10: Post-Sale Responsibilities

After you’ve successfully purchased your Spanish property, there are a few ongoing responsibilities to keep in mind:

• IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles): Annual property tax
  
• Basura Tax: Local garbage collection fees
• Community Fees: For shared buildings or complexes
• Non-Resident Income Tax: Even if you don’t rent the property, you must file a return each year
  

It’s wise to set up direct debits and hire a fiscal representative to handle ongoing taxes and declarations, especially if you’re not living in Spain full-time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Legal Due Diligence: Always hire an independent lawyer.
2. Not Understanding Taxes: You may be liable for multiple types of taxes—know them upfront.
3. Relying Too Much on Verbal Agreements: All deals should be formalized in writing.
4. Buying Without Seeing the Property: Always inspect the property personally or via a trusted contact.
5. Assuming All Agents Are Licensed: Confirm your agent is registered and reputable.
   

How Vivi Real Estate Can Help You Buy in Spain with Confidence

Navigating Spain’s real estate market doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially with the right team behind you. At Vivi Real Estate, we specialize in helping international buyers safely and successfully purchase property on the Costa del Sol and beyond.

Why choose Vivi Real Estate?

• In-depth knowledge of Spanish legal procedures
• Bilingual support for English-speaking clients
• Personalized property matching
• End-to-end guidance, from viewings to notary signing
• Trusted connections with local lawyers, banks, and notaries
  

Whether you're buying a second home, relocating, or seeking property investment in Costa del Sol, Vivi Real Estate will be with you at every step.

Ready to buy property in Spain with clarity and peace of mind?

Contact Vivi Real Estate today and let us help turn your Spanish property dream into reality.