How buying a property in Spain works
We’ve split the whole process, from the first call to the handover of keys, into seven clear steps. At each one you know what is happening, what your role is and what costs to expect in that phase.
No-obligation consultation & brief
We get to know your wishes — the location, property type, budget and whether you are buying to live, for holidays or as an investment. We explain how the Costa del Sol market works and what is realistic within your means.
Your role: Tell us what you’re looking for.
Property selection & viewings
We prepare a tailored selection of offers — including those not advertised publicly. We arrange viewings on site or by video call and advise on what the photos don’t show: orientation, noise, neighbourhood, building condition.
Your role: Pick favourites and come to the viewings.
Reserving the property
When you find the right one, we sign a reservation contract and you place a reservation fee (usually €3,000–€6,000). The property is taken off the market and the purchase terms are agreed.
Your role: Approve the terms and pay the reservation.
Legal due diligence
Your independent lawyer checks the land-registry extract, charges, debts, the habitation certificate and community fees. In parallel we arrange your NIE number and a Spanish bank account. Nothing is paid until the property is legally clean.
Your role: Authorise the lawyer and provide documents.
Purchase contract & deposit
The private purchase contract (contrato de arras) is signed and usually 10% of the price is paid. The contract fixes the price, deadline and terms — from this point both parties are bound.
Your role: Sign and pay the 10% deposit.
Signing before the notary (escritura)
Before the notary the final deed (escritura pública) is signed, the balance is paid and you receive the keys. If you use a mortgage, the loan agreement is signed at the same time. The notary registers ownership in the land registry.
Your role: Attend (or authorise) and collect the keys.
Handover & after-sale care
After signing we transfer utilities, water and insurance, register you for tax obligations and help with your first tax return. If you want to rent or manage the property remotely, we connect you with trusted partners.
Your role: Enjoy your new home.
So you never feel lost
In a foreign country the greatest value is the certainty that someone is holding the process for you. That is exactly our job.
One contact the whole time
Throughout the process you deal with one person who knows your situation and answers the phone.
Independent legal protection
The lawyer represents only you and no payment leaves until the property is legally clean.
In your language from the start
Contracts, authorities and the bank — we translate and explain everything in your language.
Let’s start with the first step
A no-obligation consultation commits you to nothing and clarifies a lot. Write to us and we’ll prepare a first tailored selection.