The Buying Process

Buying your property in Spain should be an enjoyable experience so let us help you make sure that it is.

So what do you need to know?

Once you have found your property and agreed a price with the owner you will need to place a holding deposit this is normally between 1,000€ and 2000€, this then takes the property off the market.

With transfer tax, notary and registration fees, you should allow an additional 10% of the purchase price to cover all the costs of buying (including your lawyers fees).

You need to find a lawyer. An increasing number of Spanish lawyers who practice in this area either speak English or use a translator, and are accustomed to dealing with British residents in Spain

How to find a good Spanish lawyer? We recommend that you ask advice from people you know in the area. Ask around until you find some satisfied clients. If not we are happy to recommend one.

You will also need to open a Spanish bank account while you are over here so that your funds can be transferred and items like Gas, electricity and telephone contracts can be set up.

Next you and the seller will sign a 'Compra Venta' which is similar to an exchange of contracts in the UK. At this stage you will have to pay between 10% and 20% of the purchase price. This then makes the contract legally binding.

You will also need to apply for your "fiscal identity number" or NIE as it is known. You will need an NIE number to complete the purchase of your property and also if you want to buy a car in Spain and for any contracts such as the gas and telephone etc

The final document is the escritura de compraventa and it must be signed by you and the seller in the presence of a Spanish Notario in order to make it legally binding. You can give your lawyer power of attorney - allowing him to sign for you if you cannot be present.

The Notario, or Notary, is an official of the State who makes sure that contracts are legal. He keeps the original document in his files in case any question arises later. The Notario is a public official, not a private lawyer. His duty is to certify that the contract has been signed, the money paid and that the purchaser and seller have been advised of their tax obligations.