Purchase Process
When buying property in Spain as a foreigner, it is crucial to understand exactly what the Spanish notary (notario) does — and what they do not do. Many international buyers assume the notary protects them...
How foreign buyers finance a property in Spain: 60% to 70% LTV, 30% to 40% down payment, closing costs, documents and the steps from offer to keys.
Buying in Spain starts with one crucial choice: real estate agent (seller’s agent) vs property hunter (also called a buyer’s agent / property finder). A seller’s agent is hired, and typically paid, by the seller to market a specific property and optimize...
Buying property in Spain is generally cheaper than in the U.S. On a price-per-area basis, Spain averages ~€2,000–2,500/m²; U.S. metros commonly run ~$200–$350/ft² (the national median sale price is ~$410k, so units aren’t directly comparable). Closing...
The cadastral reference in Spain is a 20-character alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies every real estate property. It’s used to locate the exact position of a property on the national cadastral map. Required in all official documentation — from...
The IRNR (Non-Resident Income Tax) applies to anyone who owns property in Spain but is not a tax resident. It must be paid annually, even if the property is not rented out. For non-rented homes, tax is calculated on a deemed income based on the...
Tax differences between Spain’s regions can significantly impact your total purchase cost. For example, Madrid applies a reduced 6% ITP on resale properties and 0.75% AJD on new builds, making it one of the most affordable regions for buyers. In...
Many foreign buyers are surprised to learn that the purchase price is only part of the story when buying real estate in Spain. Depending on the region and type of property, additional taxes and fees can add 11% to 15% to your total cost. Resale homes...
Buying property in Spain in 2025 remains a smart move for foreign buyers. Despite global uncertainty, demand is high, supply is tight, and prices are rising—especially in sought-after areas like Costa del Sol, Madrid, Valencia, and Alicante. Foreigners...
Four ways to buy in Spain: solo, lawyer only, estate agent or property hunter. Who represents whom, who pays what, and how to choose.
Buying property in Spain is a dream for many. The sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture make it an attractive destination for both holiday homes and permanent residences. However, the process can be fraught with pitfalls that could...
Spain, with its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and pleasant climate, is a dream destination for many. Whether you're looking for a vacation home, a retirement haven, or a lucrative investment, Spain offers a plethora of opportunities. But can...
