Buying a property in Spain is an excellent opportunity both to live in and to invest. In this guide, we explain step by step how to buy a property in Spain, what the requirements are, the taxes and the legal process.

At Brisavera, we accompany local and international buyers to ensure a safe and hassle-free purchase.

How to buy a property in Spain? Essential steps

The buying process in Spain is transparent and secure, but it requires knowing certain legal and tax procedures. These are the main steps:

1. Define the purpose of purchase and your budget

Before starting the search, define:

• Whether you are looking for a primary residence, a holiday home or a real estate investment

• The ideal area: coast, city, inland

• Your total budget including taxes and fees between 10% and 14%

2. Choose the best area to buy a home in Spain

The most popular areas for foreign buyers and investors are:

Costa Blanca

Competitive prices, perfect climate and high profitability in holiday rentals.

Costa del Sol

Premium properties, beaches, golf and excellent quality of life.

Madrid and Barcelona

Stable market, high demand and good opportunities for appreciation.

Valencia, Alicante, Málaga

Balance between price, quality of life and investment potential.

3. Requirements for foreigners: NIE and bank account

To buy a house in Spain as a foreigner, you will need:

• NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)

• Spanish bank account (in most cases)

At Brisavera we assist you with both procedures to make the purchase easier.

4. Reserving the property: first formal step

Once the property is found:

• A Reservation Contract is signed

• A deposit of €3,000–10,000 is paid

• The property is withdrawn from the market

This allows you to move forward securely with the legal process.

5. Due Diligence: legal verification of the property

A lawyer will review:

• Actual ownership

• Debts or encumbrances

• Urban planning legality

• Mandatory certificates and documentation

At Brisavera we work only with lawyers specialized in real estate law.

6. Arras Contract: purchase commitment

The Arras Contract is common in Spain.

It includes:

• A deposit up to 10% of the price

• Penalty conditions if buyer or seller cancel

It provides legal certainty for both parties.

7. Notarial deed and property registry

Final step to buy a house in Spain:

• Signing the Deed of Sale before a notary

• Payment of the remaining amount

• Registration in the Property Registry

After this step, the buyer obtains legal ownership.

8. Taxes when buying a home in Spain

Type of property Taxes

New build VAT 10% + AJD 1–1.5%

Second hand ITP 6–10% depending on the autonomous community

Other costs Notary, registry, lawyer, agency

To buy a property in Spain, budget an extra 10–14% of the final price.

9. Why buy with Brisavera?

Because we offer a 360º service:

• Tailor-made property search

• Legal and tax advice

• Negotiation with the seller

• Procedures until key handover

• Post-purchase management

With Brisavera, buying a property in Spain is easy, safe and transparent.

Looking to buy a house in Spain?

Contact us and we will prepare a personalized selection of properties according to your budget and interests.