Buying Property in Spain: Legal Guide for Expats

A step-by-step legal guide to buying property in Spain as a foreigner — conveyancing process, taxes, pitfalls and how to protect your investment.

Buying property in Spain is one of the biggest decisions expats make on the Costa Blanca. As conveyancing solicitors in Calpe, Moraira and Altea, we've helped thousands of foreign buyers navigate the process safely.

Step 1: Get Your NIE Number

Before you can buy property, you'll need a NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero). Our NIE number service in Calpe and Moraira makes this quick and easy.

Step 2: Due Diligence

This is where a good property lawyer earns their fee. We check:
- Land registry (Registro de la Propiedad) for ownership and charges
- Town hall for planning permissions and urban regulations
- Community of owners for debts and building issues
- Tax status to ensure no outstanding property taxes

Step 3: The Purchase Contract

The "contrato de arras" (deposit contract) typically requires a 10% deposit. If you pull out, you lose the deposit. If the seller pulls out, they must return double.

Step 4: Completion at the Notary

The final signing takes place before a Spanish notary. Your conveyancing solicitor will review the title deed (escritura) and ensure everything is in order.

Taxes and Costs

  • Transfer Tax (ITP): 10% in the Valencia region for resale properties
  • VAT (IVA): 10% for new-build properties
  • Notary and registry fees: Approximately 1-2% of purchase price
  • Legal fees: Typically 1% + VAT

Why Choose Bufete Padilla?