A clear route to the keys
Buying property in Spain
A calm, practical overview of buying on the Costa Blanca—from preparing your paperwork to signing at the notary. Every purchase is different, but the route is usually reassuringly familiar.
The process
From first decision to front door
Prepare your essentials
You will need an NIE (the Spanish foreigner identification number) and, in practice, a Spanish bank account for purchase costs, taxes and household payments.
Set the brief and budget
Decide where, what and how you want to buy. If you need finance, obtain an early mortgage assessment and include taxes and professional fees in your budget.
Choose independent advice
Appoint an independent Spanish lawyer to review ownership, debts, planning status, contracts and the property registry before you become fully committed.
Reserve the property
A reservation agreement and deposit can take the home off the market while legal checks continue. Confirm the refund conditions in writing before paying.
Agree the purchase contract
The private contract records the price, completion date, fixtures and conditions. A further deposit is commonly paid at this point, so legal review matters.
Complete at the notary
The deed is signed, the balance is paid and the keys are handed over. Your lawyer can then arrange tax filings and registration of the new ownership.
Planning the budget
Purchase costs depend on the property
Resale and new-build homes are taxed differently. Ask your lawyer for a written, property-specific estimate before reserving.
Resale home
The buyer pays regional transfer tax (ITP). The rate depends on the autonomous community and may vary with the buyer or property, so it should be confirmed for the specific transaction.
New-build home
A first delivery from a developer generally carries 10% VAT (IVA), plus regional stamp duty (AJD). Reduced or special rates can apply in limited cases.
Also allow for
- Notary and Land Registry fees
- Independent legal advice
- Mortgage valuation and any agreed lender fees
- Translations, powers of attorney or administrative support where needed
General information only, reviewed July 2026. Tax rates, eligibility and purchase costs can change. Confirm the figures with an independent lawyer or tax adviser before committing funds.
Good to know
Common questions
Can non-residents buy property in Spain?
Yes. Spain generally allows non-residents, including non-EU nationals, to buy property. You will need an NIE to complete the purchase.
How long does the process take?
A straightforward resale purchase often completes in around four to eight weeks, but finance, legal findings and the parties’ preferred dates can change the timetable.
Do I need to be in Spain to buy?
Not always. An independent lawyer may be able to complete many steps under a notarised power of attorney. Ask them what can be handled remotely in your case.
Should I use the seller’s lawyer?
Independent representation is strongly recommended. Your lawyer should act for you alone and carry out the legal checks before you sign or transfer substantial funds.
Is a reservation deposit refundable?
That depends on the agreement. Make sure the amount, deadline and refund conditions—especially if finance or legal checks fail—are clear in writing before paying.
Start with the right home
Ready to explore the Costa Blanca?
Browse current homes or tell us what you are looking for. We will help you narrow the search, without the hard sell.