Buying Property in Spain

A Step-by-Step Guide for International Buyers

Buying property in Spain is an exciting opportunity, whether you are searching for a holiday home, a permanent residence, or a property investment on the Costa del Sol.

However, purchasing property in another country can feel complex if you are unfamiliar with the process. At Second House in Spain, we guide international buyers through every step of the purchase, ensuring the process is clear, secure, and straightforward.

Below you will find a simple overview of how the Spanish property buying process works.

Step 1 – Define Your Objectives

Before starting your property search, it is important to clearly define what you are looking for.

Consider questions such as:

• Are you buying a holiday home or permanent residence?

• Are you looking for an investment property?

• What is your preferred location on the Costa del Sol?

• What property type suits your lifestyle? (villa, apartment, townhouse)

Establishing your priorities early helps narrow the search and ensures we can present the most suitable properties.

Step 2 – Explore Locations on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol offers a wide range of locations, each with its own character and lifestyle.

Popular areas include:

• Marbella

• Benalmádena

• Mijas

• Fuengirola

• Estepona

When choosing a location, buyers often consider:

• proximity to the beach

• golf courses

• restaurants and amenities

• international schools

• transport connections to Málaga Airport

Our team provides local knowledge and advice to help you find the right area for your needs.

Step 3 – Property Viewings

Once suitable properties have been identified, the next step is arranging viewings.

During viewings it is important to evaluate:

• the condition of the property

• the surrounding area

• orientation and views

• building quality and amenities

Our team accompanies clients during viewings to provide professional guidance and answer any questions.

Step 4 – Making an Offer

When you find the right property, an offer can be made to the seller.

Your real estate agent will assist with negotiations based on:

• market value

• current market conditions

• property demand

• seller expectations

Once the offer is accepted, the property is normally reserved with a reservation deposit, removing it from the market.

Step 5 – Legal Due Diligence

A qualified Spanish property lawyer will carry out important legal checks before the purchase proceeds.

These checks typically include:

• verifying property ownership

• checking the Land Registry

• confirming there are no debts or charges on the property

• ensuring planning permissions and licences are correct

Legal due diligence is a crucial step to ensure a safe property purchase in Spain.

Step 6 – Private Purchase Contract

After legal checks have been completed, the buyer and seller sign a private purchase contract (Contrato de Compraventa).

At this stage the buyer normally pays a deposit of around 10% of the purchase price.

The contract confirms:

• the final purchase price

• completion date

• conditions of the sale

Step 7 – Completion at the Notary

The final stage of the purchase takes place at the Notary Office.

During completion:

• the title deed (Escritura) is signed

• the remaining balance is paid

• ownership of the property is officially transferred

Once the notary process is complete, the buyer receives the keys and becomes the legal owner of the property.

Step 8 – Registration and Taxes

After completion, the property must be registered with the Spanish Land Registry.

Buyers should also budget for additional purchase costs, which typically include:

• property transfer tax

• notary fees

• land registry fees

• legal fees

These costs normally total 10–13% of the purchase price.

Ongoing Support After Purchase

Our service does not end once the purchase is completed.

We continue to assist our clients with services such as:

• utility setup

• property management

• renovation and maintenance

• local recommendations and services

Our goal is to make owning property in Spain as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Start Your Property Search on the Costa del Sol

If you are considering buying property in Spain, our experienced team will be happy to guide you through every stage of the process.

Explore our latest listings or contact us to discuss your requirements.