PRESTA ESTATE
Buying Property in Spain. Step-by-Step Guide.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know: how the transaction works, the required documentation, typical expenses, and why working with an independent buyer representation in Spain makes the process safer and easier.
1
Define Budget, Finance, and Goals
Before you start searching, define your price range, preferred locations, and whether you need a mortgage. Foreigners can easily buy property in Spain, but banks usually finance 60–70% of the price for non-residents.
You also need to define how you plan to use the property whether you intend to live there immediately, move in later and rent it occasionally, or treat it purely as an investment. This clarity will help you focus on the right regions of Spain, as regulations, rental laws, and market dynamics vary significantly between different areas.
You also need to define how you plan to use the property whether you intend to live there immediately, move in later and rent it occasionally, or treat it purely as an investment. This clarity will help you focus on the right regions of Spain, as regulations, rental laws, and market dynamics vary significantly between different areas.
«A property buyers agent in Spain can perform a financial pre-study and verify which banks may approve your case.»
Evgeny Shkaraburov
Presta Estate CEO
2
Property Search (with or without a Property Finder)
Most properties are listed by seller’s agents whose job is to protect the seller’s interests.
If you prefer objective advice, use a property finder in Spain — a professional who works exclusively for the buyer.
A buyer’s agent will:
If you prefer objective advice, use a property finder in Spain — a professional who works exclusively for the buyer.
A buyer’s agent will:
- Search across all portals and off-market options
- Filter unsuitable listings
- Contact agents and arrange visits
- Identify negotiation opportunities
1818 Magazine by Stephanie Toole
3
Property Visits & Preliminary Checks
During visits, your buyer’s agent evaluates factors that are easy to miss:
This helps avoid costly mistakes early.
- Building quality
- Potential structural red flags
- Surroundings and noise levels
- Estimated renovation costs
- Rental potential (if relevant)
This helps avoid costly mistakes early.
4
Offer & Negotiation
Once you find the right property, your agent drafts a negotiation strategy based on market data and comparable sales.
Common elements negotiated:
Common elements negotiated:
- Final price
- Furniture and equipment
- Deadlines for signing
- Deposit terms
- Repairs or improvements
5
Due Diligence Before Signing the Contract
Before any money is transferred, a complete due diligence in Spain property transactions is essential.
A professional checks:
A professional checks:
- Ownership and debts
- Mortgages, embargos, or legal charges
- Unpaid community fees
- Property measurements vs. registry
- Building licences
- Rental limitations
- Energy certificate
- Skipping due diligence is one of the biggest risks when buying property abroad.
6
Sign the Reservation or Arras Contract
To secure the property, buyers usually sign an arras contract and pay a deposit (typically 10%).
This contract defines:
This contract defines:
- Price
- Payment terms
- Deadlines
- Penalties
- Conditions for withdrawal
7
Mortgage Approval (If Needed)
If you require financing, the bank will:
- Evaluate your documents
- Order a valuation
- Approve conditions and interest rate
Many foreigners prefer working with a mortgage broker to compare offers across different banks.
Evgeny Shkaraburov
Presta Estate CEO
1818 Magazine by Stephanie Toole
8
Signing the Deed at the Notary
On the completion day you:
- Sign the public deed (escritura)
- Pay taxes
- Transfer the remaining money
- Receive the keys
9
Land Registry Registration
After signing, the notary sends the deed to the Land Registry. Within a few weeks, you appear as the official owner.
Documents, Taxes, and Expenses When Buying Property in Spain
In order to buy property for foreigners in Spain, the following documents are required:
- Passport
- NIE number (Spanish tax number)
- Proof of funds
- Bank account in Spain (recommended)
Main Taxes & Costs
Property taxes in Spain depend on whether the property is new or resale:
- Resale property → ITP (6–10% depending on region)
- New build → VAT (10%) + AJD (1–1.5%)
- Notary fees (600–1,200€)
- Land Registry fees (400–800€)
- Legal services (1,000–2,000€)
- Buyer’s agent fees (if using one)
Your buyer’s agent prepares a personalized cost calculation before making any offer.
Evgeny Shkaraburov
Presta Estate CEO
Buyer’s Agent vs. Seller’s Agent. What’s the Difference?
Most people don’t realise that the seller’s agent is legally and contractually obligated to defend the seller’s interests.
A property buyers agent in Spain, however:
A property buyers agent in Spain, however:
- Works only for the buyer
- Has no commission from the seller
- Gives unbiased advice
- Performs independent due diligence
- Negotiates against the seller
- Protects your money and legal position
Due Diligence: The Most Important Part of Buying in Spain
A proper due-diligence review prevents:
- Buying a property with hidden debts
- Illegal constructions
- Missing licences
- Tourist rental restrictions
- Community or structural problems
Your agent coordinates lawyers, architects, and notaries to ensure the property is 100% safe and legally compliant.
Evgeny Shkaraburov
Presta Estate CEO
Presta Estate — Full Support From Search to Title Registration
At Presta Estate, we specialise in helping international clients buy property in Spain with confidence.
As an independent property buyers agent in Spain, we offer:
As an independent property buyers agent in Spain, we offer:
- Our ServicesProperty search & property finder services
- Full due diligence & legal coordination
- Mortgage brokerage for foreigners
- Negotiation and contract review
- Tax planning estimates
- Notary coordination
- Post-purchase registration and utilities setup
Can I make a mortgage preapproval before I reserved a property?
Yes, absolutely. At Presta Estate we can help you obtain a mortgage pre-approval in Spain even before you choose or reserve a property.This process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the bank and your personal financial situation.
Can I buy property in Spain without a buyers agent?
Yes, you can buy property in Spain without a buyer’s agent. However, remember that the seller’s agent represents and protects the interests of the seller, not the buyer. Without independent buyer representation, you expose yourself to significant risks related to pricing, legal checks, property condition, and negotiations.
Is due diligence really important when buying property in Spain?
Yes. Without proper due diligence, you may end up with limited property rights, hidden legal issues, or unexpected repair and maintenance costs after the purchase. Professional checks protect you from costly mistakes.
Do I need to open a bank account in Spain to buy a property?
It’s not mandatory, and you can buy a property in Spain without opening a local bank account. However, we recommend having one, as you will need it to pay utility bills, taxes, and ongoing property expenses.
How long does it usually take from starting the process to signing the deed at the notary?
If you are buying without a mortgage, the process normally takes 1 to 2 months.
If you are buying with a mortgage, the full process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the bank and your documentation.
If you are buying with a mortgage, the full process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the bank and your documentation.
NOVEMBER, 26 / 2025
Written by Evgeny Shkaraburov
Licensed mortgage broker (Banco de España registration) and property buyer's agent in Spain
Presta Estate
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