Buying Property on the Costa del Sol

From the first visit to the signing at the notary's office – and beyond

Buying property in Spain is one of the most important decisions you will make. And if you have never done so abroad, the process may prove surprisingly different from what you are used to.

We've both been there—as buyers, not just advisors. We've bought off-plan, sold, and bought back on the resale market. We know exactly how it feels to sign a document at a notary's office in a language you don't fully understand, to wait for a NIE that takes longer than expected, or to wonder if the contract you just signed actually says what you thought it said.

This experience explains our way of working. And it's what inspired us to write this guide.

1. Define your real estate project

Before even starting the viewings, it is essential to clarify your needs and objectives. What is the purpose of your purchase?

A second home to enjoy the sun and the sea. A main residence for a fresh start. A rental investment with an attractive return.

We help you define your priorities so that we can present you with properties truly suited to your project. Thanks to our access to the entire market—new developments directly from developers, and resale properties through our network of partner agencies—you have a single point of contact for the entire Costa del Sol market.

2. New or resale: which to choose?

Buying off-plan: Purchasing a new property generally involves buying off-plan—a property that is still under construction or yet to be built. Payment is staggered according to the progress of the work. This type of property offers modern design, high energy efficiency standards, and builder's warranties. The period between reservation and signing the private contract is 4 to 12 weeks. Delivery can take place between 6 and 30 months later.

Buying a resale property involves purchasing an existing property from a private individual. This type of purchase is often faster, with the possibility of moving in shortly after signing the deed at the notary's office.

3. Expected timeframes

4. Legal support

Hiring an independent lawyer specializing in Spanish real estate law is essential — and we recommend that you never forgo this option, no matter how simple the transaction may seem.

We work with trusted firms that we know personally. Your lawyer will handle, among other things:

check the legal status of the property (land registry, any debts, building permit), prepare and check the contracts, apply for your NIE, assist you in opening a Spanish bank account, guide you through the KYC process, represent you by proxy if you cannot be present, manage payments, taxes and property registration, and set up water and electricity contracts after handing over the keys.

5. The KYC process: Know Your Customer

To comply with Spanish anti-money laundering regulations, you will need to provide certain documents before reserving a new property or signing a private contract. These documents include a copy of your passport, proof of address, your tax identification number, and proof of the source of funds.

This is not a formality to be taken lightly — and your lawyer will be there to ensure that everything is in order.

6. Additional costs to anticipate

In addition to the net price of the property, budget for the following costs: for a new property, 10% VAT plus approximately 3% in additional fees. For a resale property, 7% transfer tax (ITP) plus approximately 3% in additional fees.

The additional costs cover lawyer's fees, notary fees, registration fees and stamp duties.

Please note: in Spain, the real estate commission is entirely paid by the seller. As the buyer, you owe us nothing.

7. The signing at the notary's office

This is the moment when everything becomes official. The final payment is made, the deed of sale is signed, the property is registered in your name and you receive the keys — or your lawyer receives them on your behalf if you are not present.

If you are unable to travel, a power of attorney is sufficient. We have assisted numerous clients who signed remotely without any difficulty.

8. After the sale

Our support doesn't end with the signing. We connect you with insurance brokers, decoration and renovation professionals, property managers — and we gladly share our best addresses for discovering the region.

Ready to take the plunge?

Every purchase on the Costa del Sol is unique. The right area, the right type of property, the right time — it all depends on what you're really looking for.

If you'd like to discuss your project before committing, we're here. No pressure, no sales pitch. Just an honest conversation to see if—and how—we can help you.

Doris & Sophie — Dream Properties – Fine Properties