Guide for Buying Property in Spain
At Resort Villas Andalucía, we understand that buying property abroad can seem like a daunting process.
To help guide you, we have outlined the key steps and typical costs involved in purchasing property in Spain.
Here is everything you need to know about securing your dream villa in sunny Andalucía.
Finding Your Dream Property
Why buy with us?
- ✔️Onsite specialists with over 16 years of experience in the resort
- ✔️Complete support from the first viewing through to completion and beyond
- ✔️Trusted network of independent lawyers, banks and notaries
Legal Assistance
We strongly recommend working with a trusted real estate solicitor (abogado) to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
We can recommend experienced English-speaking solicitors who specialize in Spanish property law.
Obtaining Your NIE Number
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is required for all financial transactions in Spain.
This identification number can usually be obtained within a few days to a few weeks.
Your solicitor can arrange this for you, or it can be obtained via Power of Attorney if you are not in Spain.
Signing the Pre-Contract (Arras Agreement)
To secure the property, a deposit of approximately 10% of the purchase price is usually paid.
✔️This allows time for legal checks and preparation of the final documentation.
✔️The purchase is typically completed within around three months.
✔️The deposit forms part of the Arras Agreement, a legally binding pre-contract that sets out the conditions of the sale.
✔️It is normally prepared by the lawyers in collaboration with Resort Villas Andalucía.
✔️The deposit is usually paid directly into the seller’s account.
Important:
- If a legal issue prevents the sale from proceeding, the deposit is refunded. If the seller withdraws from the agreement, they must legally return double the deposit to the buyer.
Finalizing the Purchase at the Notary
Once all documentation and legal checks are completed, the final contract (Escritura) is signed at the notary.
- ✔️The remaining balance is paid.
✔️The property is officially registered in your name.
If you cannot travel to Spain for completion, your solicitor can sign on your behalf via Power of Attorney.
Spanish Bank Account
Funds used to purchase a property in Spain do not need to come from a Spanish bank account.
However, full transparency regarding the source of funds and proof of payment from buyer to seller is required.
A Spanish bank account is recommended and normally required for ongoing costs such as:
- - Utility bills
- - Community fees
- - Local property taxes
Taxes and Purchase Costs
Agency fees: 2.5% + VAT- Property Transfer Tax (ITP): approximately 7% of the property price
- Notary and Registration fees: approximately €600 – €1,500
- Legal fees: typically around 1% + VAT of the property price
Ongoing Costs
Annual Property Tax (IBI) – varies depending on property value and size- Non-Resident Tax – payable if you are not a Spanish tax resident
- Community Fees – paid quarterly
- Garden & Pool Maintenance – privately arranged or managed through local professionals
- Utility Bills – electricity, water etc. (some villas already have solar panels)
After Completion
Together with the homeowners’ community, we assist you in transferring all utility accounts (electricity, water, etc.) into your name so everything is ready from day one.
If you wish to rent your villa and generate additional income, we can organise and manage the entire rental process:
- ✔️Tourist rental licensing
- ✔️Property setup
- ✔️Marketing and bookings
- ✔️Guest management
- ✔️Ongoing property management
This allows you to enjoy a fully hands-off solution while your property is professionally managed.
At Resort Villas Andalucía, we guide you through every step of purchasing your property in Spain.
From finding the perfect villa to ensuring a smooth legal process, our goal is to make the experience simple and stress-free.
Contact Us
📞 +34 639 47 49 31
📧 info@resortvillasandalucia.com
🌍 www.resortvillasandalucia.com