Buyer's guide
Buying Property in Spain
as an International Buyer
Everything you need to know — the process, the costs, the legal basics — explained clearly, without the jargon.
Free 53-Page Guide — Yours Instantly
Written for international buyers. Covers the full process from first viewing to keys in hand.
Buying process step by step Total costs & taxes Financing as a non-resident Legal basics New build vs resale Common mistakes to avoid
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How it works
Buying in Spain in 5 Steps
The process is more straightforward than most people expect. Here's the full picture.
1
Define your budget & goals
Decide on your budget, intended use (holiday home, rental, or permanent move), and timeline. Factor in that purchase costs add approximately 11–14% on top of the price — taxes, notary, legal fees.
We help you understand exactly what's realistic
2
View properties & select
We arrange viewings — in person during a visit to Costa Blanca, or remotely via video. Most buyers narrow down their shortlist after seeing 3–5 properties.
Remote purchases are fully possible
3
Reserve — secure your property
A small reservation deposit (typically €3,000–€6,000) removes the property from the market and starts the legal process. For off-plan purchases, all stage payments during construction are protected by bank guarantees.
Stage payments are protected by law
4
Legal checks & contracts
A lawyer verifies ownership, checks for debts or encumbrances, and reviews all contracts. We coordinate the process throughout — including obtaining your NIE (Spanish tax ID, required for all buyers).
We coordinate everything end to end
5
Sign at the notary — keys in hand
The final deed is signed before a Spanish notary, the remaining balance is paid, and ownership is formally registered. Utilities and community fees are transferred to your name. You're done.
Typically 2–4 months from reservation to keys
Common questions
What Buyers Ask Us Most
Quick answers to the questions that come up in almost every conversation.
Budget 11–14% on top of the agreed price to cover all transaction costs. For a new build in the Valencian Community (where we operate), the main items are:
VAT (IVA) on new builds10%
Stamp duty (AJD)~1.5%
Notary & land registry~0.5–1%
Legal representation~1%
These costs are paid once at completion — they are not recurring.
No. Remote purchases are fully possible and common among international buyers. Viewings can be done by video, contracts can be signed remotely with a power of attorney, and your lawyer can act on your behalf at the notary. You do not need to be physically present at any stage, though many buyers choose to visit at least once before reserving.
Yes — Spanish law requires developers to protect all stage payments made during construction with bank guarantees. If the developer fails to complete, your payments are fully refunded. Both Sol Natura and La Isla III come with this protection. We always verify guarantee documentation before recommending a development.
Yes. Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-resident buyers, typically financing up to 60–70% of the purchase price (slightly lower than for residents). The bank will assess your income, financial position and the property's valuation. Many of our buyers purchase with their own funds — which simplifies the process and speeds up the timeline considerably. We can put you in touch with a mortgage broker who specialises in non-resident financing.
A NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your Spanish tax identification number — required for all property purchases, bank accounts, and utility contracts in Spain. It can be obtained at a Spanish consulate in your home country, or in Spain at a police station. We guide you through this process as part of our service. It typically takes 1–4 weeks.
Yes — but a tourist rental licence is required in the Valencian Community for short-term (holiday) letting. Long-term rental (12+ months) is simpler and does not require a tourist licence. We can advise on the licensing process and connect you with property management partners who handle rental operations end to end.
We strongly recommend using an independent lawyer — one who acts exclusively for you, not for the developer or seller. Legal fees are typically around 1% of the purchase price. A good lawyer will verify ownership, check for debts or legal issues, review all contracts, and represent you at the notary. We work with trusted local solicitors and can make an introduction.
Ongoing ownership costs in Spain are generally low. The main recurring items are:
Annual property tax (IBI)~€200–500/yr
Community fees (pool, garden, etc.)~€50–150/mo
Non-resident income tax (if not renting)~€300–600/yr
Utilities (electricity, water)~€80–150/mo
These figures are indicative for Costa Blanca — your exact costs depend on the property and your usage pattern.
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We'll Walk You Through It.
No pressure, no obligation. Just a straightforward conversation about what's right for you.