Do you dream of owning your own home in Spain? Then you must be wondering aloud... how to buy house Spain?

A buying a house in Spain is an exciting process, but it also brings challenges. Whether you are a holiday home, investment property or permanent home searches, it is important to be well prepared.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain step by step how to buy a house in Spain, what to look out for and how to avoid common mistakes.

Why buy a house in Spain?

Spain is one of the most popular countries for foreign home buyers, and for good reason:

Advantages of buying a house in Spain:

1. Mild climate: More than 300 sunny days a year.
2. Affordable housing: Lower prices than in many other European countries.
3. Attractive lifestyle: Delicious food, beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Good investment: High demand for rental housing and rising property prices.

Whether you have a flat on the Costa Blanca, a villa on Mallorca or a finca in Andalusia searches, the process of buying in Spain is slightly different from that in the Netherlands or Belgium.

Roadmap: How to buy house Spain?

1. Determine your budget and funding

Before searching, it is important to keep your budget determine. Allow for additional costs such as:

• Transfer tax (6-10%)
• Notary fees and legal costs (1-3%)
• Mortgage advice and banking fees (1-2%)

If you need a mortgage, you can arrange it through a Spanish bank or an international mortgage lender. Generally, you can finance up to 70% of the house value as a non-resident.

2. Choose the right location

The choice of location depends on your goals:

• Holiday home: Popular regions such as the Costa Blanca are attractive to holidaymakers.
• Permanent home: Cities such as Alicante, Denia, and Javea offer a high quality of life.
• Investment: Look for areas with high rental yields, such as tourist coastal towns or cities with expats.

3. Find a reliable estate agent

A good local estate agent knows the market and helps you avoid pitfalls. Choose a broker who:

✔ Is bilingual (Dutch/Spanish)

✔ Has experience with foreign buyers

✔ Is transparent about costs and procedures

Avoid brokers who do not have clear prices or put pressure to decide quickly.
Of course, with Dacasas by your side, this one can already be ticked off ;).

4. View properties and research the market

Plan viewings and take time to take a good look at the surroundings and the condition of the property. Check:

• Architectural state: Are there any hidden defects?
• Property papers: Is the property correctly registered in the land registry?
• Licences: Especially important with fincas and country houses.

5. Negotiate and make an offer

Have you found a suitable property? Then you can make an offer. Negotiation is common in Spain, so get your estate agent to make a realistic offer based on:

• The asking price versus recent sales prices in the region.
• Any defects that may reduce the price.
• Additional conditions, such as furniture or renovations.

6. Reserve the property with a deposit

Upon agreement, you sign a reservation contract (Contrato de Reserva) and you pay an advance, usually €3.000 – €6.000. This ensures that the property is taken off the market.

Note: You will lose this amount if you withdraw from the sale!

7. Get a lawyer to do the legal review

A Spanish lawyer (abogado) checks:

✔ Title deed and debts on the property

✔ Urban planning status and permits

✔ Mortgage charges and any distraints

If everything is in order, sign a provisional sales contract (Contrato de Arras) and you usually pay 10% down payment.

8. Finalising at the notary

The final step is the signing of the escritura pública (official deed of sale) at the notary. This usually happens within 4-8 weeks after signing the preliminary contract.

At the notary, you will pay the remaining purchase price and receive the keys.

9. Registration of property and utilities

After the transfer, the property must be registered in the land registry (Registro de la Propiedad) and be transferred to your name. Don't forget to:

• Contracts for water, electricity and internet to be transferred.
• IBI (local property tax) to be settled.
• Any rental licence to apply for if you want to rent out.

Common mistakes when buying a house in Spain

• Buying without legal control: Always have a lawyer check the papers.
• Not having a realistic budget: Please note additional costs.
• Unexpected renovation costs: Get a building survey.
• Buying a property without a licence: Some houses have illegal extensions.

Buying a house in Spain: costs and taxes

When buying a property in Spain, you need to consider various taxes and costs:

• Transfer tax (ITP): 6-10% (depending on region)
• Notary and registration fees: 1-3%
• Legal costs: 1-2%
• Brokerage fees: Often paid for by the seller
• Mortgage setup fees: 1-2% (if applicable)

Frequently asked questions about buying a house in Spain

Can I buy a house in Spain without being a resident?

Yes, you can buy a house in Spain as a foreigner without any problems. You do need a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) required for official registration.

Can I get a mortgage as a foreigner?

Yes, Spanish banks offer mortgages to foreigners, mostly up to 70% of house value.

Can I buy a house in Spain without an estate agent?

Yes, but a broker helps you avoid pitfalls and negotiate the right price.

Is buying a house in Spain a good investment?

Yes, especially in popular areas such as Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands. Property prices are rising and rentals are lucrative.

Conclusion - buying your dream home in Spain? Start here!

Buying a house in Spain is a great move, provided you are well prepared. Follow us roadmap, work with trusted professionals and make an informed choice.

Curious about the best properties? Contact Dacasas.es For personal advice and a tailor-made offer!