Buying a home in Spain is completely achievable—even as a foreigner—but there are a few important things you should know before you get started. Let us walk you through it in a clear and practical way.

🏡 1. Can foreigners buy property in Spain?

Yes—there are no restrictions for foreigners (EU or non-EU) to buy property in Spain.

💰 2. Total costs (very important)

You should budget ~10%–15% in addition to the property price.

Example:

• €300,000 property → expect €30k–€45k extra costs

🧾 3. Main taxes (depends on property type)

🏗️ New build (from developer)

• VAT (IVA): 10%
• Stamp duty (AJD): ~1–1.5%

👉 Total: ~11–12%

🔑 Resale property (most common)

• Transfer tax (ITP):
  • In Andalusia (Costa del Sol / Marbella): 7%

👉 This is usually cheaper than new builds

📑 4. Other buying costs

Typical additional fees:

• Notary: ~0.5–1%
• Land registry: ~0.5%
• Lawyer: ~1% (strongly recommended)
• Mortgage costs (if applicable)

👉 These add another ~2–3%

🧭 5. Step-by-step process

1. Get an NIE number

• Foreigner tax ID (essential)

2. Open a Spanish bank account

3. Find a property

• Using a reputable agency is not an added expense; it’s an investment in peace of mind. They are your local guide, translator, and project manager, helping you navigate the complexities and ensuring your dream of buying a property in Spain becomes a smooth and successful reality.

4. Make an offer + pay deposit

• Usually €3k–€10k reservation
• Then 10% deposit

5. Legal checks (VERY important)

Your lawyer should verify:

• No debts on property
• Proper registration
• Building legality

6. Sign at the notary

• Pay the remaining amount + taxes
• Receive title deed (“escritura”)

🧠 6. Ongoing costs after buying

Don’t forget:

• IBI (property tax): ~0.4–1.1% yearly
• Community fees (if apartment)
• Non-resident tax (if not living full-time)
• Rental tax if you let it out

⚠️ 7. Common mistakes to avoid

• Not using an independent lawyer
• Underestimating taxes/fees
• Not checking rental regulations (important in tourist areas)
• Ignoring currency exchange costs (if buying from abroad)

📍 8. Marbella / Costa del Sol specifics

Since you’re probably focusing your search on Marbella or the wider Costa del Sol:

• Resale tax: 7% (one of the lowest in Spain)
• Very strong rental market
• High demand from international buyers

👉 That’s why it’s one of the most popular areas to invest.

👍 Is it a good time to buy?

Depends on your goal:

• Holiday home → still very popular
• Investment/rental → good yields in coastal areas
• Long-term living → excellent lifestyle, stable market

✅ Simple takeaway:

• Budget +12% extra
• Hire a good lawyer
• Understand taxes (new vs resale)
• Marbella = attractive but competitive

If you want, let us know:

• your budget
• cash vs mortgage
• personal use or investment

…and we can give you a tailored strategy (and even specific areas/properties to target).