Frequently asked questions about buying property in Spain

Yes, without restrictions. EU and non-EU citizens alike can freely acquire property in Spain. You only need a foreigner’s identification number (NIE) and a Spanish bank account. Ownership is protected the same as for domestic buyers.

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreigner’s tax identification number. Without it you cannot buy a property, open an account or pay taxes. It can be obtained at a Spanish consulate abroad or in Spain — most often we arrange it for clients by power of attorney, so you don’t have to travel for it.

You don’t. Many clients grant a power of attorney (poder) to their lawyer, who represents them at the notary signing and in arranging the NIE and account. Viewings, however, are always worth doing in person — or at least by video call, which we are happy to arrange.

For a resale property, budget roughly 10–13% on top of the price: transfer tax (ITP) of 7% in Andalusia, notary, land-registry registration and the lawyer’s fee. For a new build you pay 10% VAT and the AJD stamp duty. We prepare an exact budget in advance — you’ll also find it in our cost calculator.

Yes. Spanish banks routinely finance EU non-residents, usually up to 60–70% of the property value (up to 80% for residents). You need to evidence income, statements and creditworthiness. We work with banks experienced with international clients and help with the application.

Annually you pay the local property tax (IBI), a waste charge and, as a non-resident, tax on imputed income (or rental tax if you let the property). These are low amounts — we go through the exact overview and our adviser helps you file the return.

Before the reservation, your independent lawyer requests the land-registry extract (nota simple), which reveals the owner, charges, mortgages and seizures. The habitation certificate, compliance with the building permit and paid community fees are all checked. We always do this due diligence before any payment.

An independent lawyer represents only your interests — not the seller’s or the agency’s. That is exactly what gives you certainty. We recommend and coordinate them, but the contractual relationship and trust are between you and them.

In brokering a purchase, our fee is traditionally paid by the selling side. As the buyer you pay only the statutory taxes and fees, which we go through in advance and in writing. No hidden figures at the end.

Yes, and we consider it a given. We help with transferring utilities and water, arranging insurance, the tax return, and if you want to rent or manage the property remotely, we connect you with trusted managers.

From reservation to signing the deed (escritura) before the notary it usually takes 6–10 weeks. With a cash payment the process tends to be faster; with a mortgage somewhat longer due to approval and the bank’s valuation of the property.