How to avoid scams

How to avoid scams when buying a property in Spain

Buying a property in Spain is a dream for many — whether it’s a holiday home on the Costa Blanca, a luxury villa in Mallorca, or an investment property in Andalusia. However, like in any international real estate market, there are risks, and scams can occur if you’re not careful. At Red Rose Property Spanien, we believe that an informed buyer is a safe buyer. Here’s a complete guide on how to avoid scams when buying a property in Spain.

1. Work With Reputable Real Estate Agents

How to avoid scams. One of the first steps to avoid property scams in Spain is to choose a trustworthy real estate agent. Look for agencies that are:

• Registered with the Colegio de Agentes de la Propiedad Inmobiliaria (API).
• Have a solid track record and verified reviews online.
• Transparent about fees and property details.

Tip: Avoid agents who pressure you to make quick decisions or ask for large deposits upfront.

2. Verify Property Ownership

Before signing any agreement, always verify the property’s legal ownership. You can:

• Request a Nota Simple from the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad). This document shows who owns the property and if there are any debts or mortgages.
• Confirm that the property has a valid license of habitation (Licencia de Primera Ocupación) for newly built properties.

Never pay the full amount before verifying the title deed.

3. Check for Outstanding Debts

In Spain, the property might come with unpaid community fees, taxes, or mortgages. To avoid future legal issues:

• Ask for a community debt certificate to ensure the previous owner has no outstanding debts.
• Check that IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) — the annual property tax — is paid up to date.

This step can prevent you from inheriting financial liabilities.

4. Avoid “Too Good to Be True” Offers

Scammers often lure buyers with extremely low prices oder offers that seem too good to be true. To protect yourself:

• Compare the property price with similar properties in the area.
• Be cautious of sellers who refuse formal contracts or request cash payments.
• Avoid buying without seeing the property in person or via a trusted local representative.

5. Use a Spanish Lawyer (Abogado)

How to avoid scams. Hiring a Spanish property lawyer is essential for international buyers. A lawyer will:

• Review the contract of sale (Contrato de Compraventa) for legal compliance.
• Conduct due diligence on the property, including debts, ownership, and planning permissions.
• Ensure that your deposit is held in a secure escrow account.

At Red Rose Property Spain, we can connect you with trusted lawyers specialized in Spanish property law.

6. Avoid Paying Large Deposits Upfront

Never transfer large sums of money before:

• Verifying the property’s legal status.
• Signing a preliminary contract (Contrato de Arras) that protects your interests.

Legitimate transactions usually involve deposits of 5–10% of the purchase price, held securely until contracts are finalized.

7. Beware of Online Scams

In today’s digital world, many scams happen online. To protect yourself:

• Verify the authenticity of property listings.
• Avoid sellers who communicate only via WhatsApp or email.
• Confirm the agency or seller identity via official websites or government registries.

8. Research the Area

Sometimes scams are not just about fake sellers but misleading property descriptions. Before buying:

• Visit the area personally or have a trusted local agent do so.
• Check local amenities, transport links, and development plans.
• Verify whether the property is legally permitted for construction or renovation.

9. Know Your Rights as a Buyer

Spanish law provides protections for buyers. Some key points:

• You have the right to full property disclosure.
• You can withdraw from the purchase within certain periods if contracts are not properly executed.
• Always ask for receipts and official paperwork for every payment made.

10. Work With Trusted Agencies Like Red Rose Property Spain

Partnering with an experienced and reputable real estate agency is the safest way to avoid scams. At Red Rose Property Spanien, we:

• Offer verified property listings.
  • Provide legal and administrative support throughout the purchase.
• Ensure complete transparency and security for international buyers.

Conclusion

Buying property in Spain is an exciting journey, but it’s important to stay vigilant. By working with registered agents, hiring a lawyer, verifying ownership, avoiding cash payments, and checking for debts, you can minimize the risk of scams.

Unter Red Rose Property Spanien, we guide buyers through every step, making your property purchase safe, transparent, and worry-free.

Do you know as from 1 december 2025 we also do have a Dutch office in the Netherlands.