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What steps do I have to follow to buy a property in Spain if I am a foreigner?
1 Jul 2025

What steps do I have to follow to buy a property in Spain if I am a foreigner?

Buying a property in Spain as a foreigner is an accessible process, but it requires following certain legal and administrative steps. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence, a second home, or an investment, understanding the procedure is key to avoiding surprises. At Casas y Mar, our experience with international clients allows us to guide you clearly and safely through every stage.

1. Required documentation and obtaining the NIE

The first essential step is obtaining the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE). This number is mandatory for any legal or financial transaction in Spain, including the property purchase process. You can apply for it at police stations in Spain or at Spanish consulates abroad. Additionally, you will need:

  • Valid passport or identity document.
  • Bank account in Spain.
  • Certificate of non-residency (in some cases).
  • Declaration of the origin of funds (required by anti-money laundering regulations).

Once you have your NIE and an active bank account, you’re ready to begin the property search and reservation process. At Casas y Mar, we help you manage all these steps efficiently.


2. Choosing the property, signing the contract, and paying the deposit

With all your documents in order, you can start looking for your new home. Once you find the ideal property, the next steps are:

  • Signing the reservation with a small deposit to take the property off the market.
  • Legal review of the property (charges, registry status, licenses, etc.).
  • Signing the private purchase agreement, where the purchase conditions are agreed upon and a down payment is made (usually 10% of the total price).
  • Choosing a notary and preparing the public deed of sale.

This process is transparent and safe when carried out with a real estate agency in Torrevieja like Casas y Mar.

3. Public deed, taxes, and registration when buying a property in Spain

The final phase to buy a property in Spain as a foreigner is formalizing the transaction before a notary. Once all the documentation has been reviewed, the process involves:

  • Signing the public deed of sale.
  • Paying the remaining balance of the property.
  • Registering the property with the Land Registry.

At this stage, you must also consider the associated costs and taxes, such as:

  • Transfer Tax (ITP) for resale properties.
  • VAT and Stamp Duty (AJD) on new build properties.
  • Notary and registry fees.
  • Administrative and legal fees, if applicable.

Buying a property in Spain is easy with the support of our experts

Buying a property in Spain as a foreigner is absolutely possible if you follow the right steps. However, working with an agency like Casas y Mar ensures that the entire process is carried out with full legal security and no surprises. Our team takes care of every detail, from the initial paperwork to registration, keeping you informed every step of the way. Thanks to our extensive experience with international buyers, we make the process clear, agile, and hassle-free. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence, a second home, or an investment on the Costa Blanca, at Casas y Mar we offer a comprehensive and personalized service.

Are you ready to take the step? And if you already own a home and want to sell it, sell your property in Torrevieja with us. Don’t wait. Contact us today and let us help you find the perfect property. At Casas y Mar, we make your dream of buying a home in Spain come true with trust, support, and professionalism.

  • Email us at contactos@casasymar.es
  • Call us at +34 965 714 261 or mobile/WhatsApp +34 629 581 574
  • Visit us at Avda. Habaneras, 121 – Torrevieja - 03182 (Alicante).

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