real estate knowledge in spain
How to buy a Property in Spain
Buying a property in Spain is an exciting step. At Red Rose Property Spain, we make the process safe, clear, and enjoyable.
How to Buy a Property in Spain – Step-by-Step Guide
By Red Rose Property Spain – Your Trusted Partner in Málaga, Granada, Almería, Murcia & Alicante
Buying a property in Spain is an exciting step — whether you’re dreaming of a holiday home on the Costa del Sol, a modern apartment on the Costa Blanca, a countryside home in Granada’s Costa Tropical, or a golf-resort villa on the Costa Cálida. At Red Rose Property Spain, we make the process safe, clear, and enjoyable.
With years of experience guiding international buyers, we offer independent property finding, legal support, mortgage assistance, renovation coordination, and full after-sales care. No matter where you choose to buy — Málaga, Granada, Almería, Murcia, or Alicante — our multilingual team ensures you always feel supported.
As Catherine says in the brochure:
“Buying a home abroad can seem complicated, but with the right guidance it becomes an exciting and enjoyable journey.”
Below is your complete step-by-step guide to buying a property in Spain.
1. Choose the Right Property
The process starts with understanding your lifestyle and goals.
Do you want a holiday home, permanent residence, or investment property?
We help you:
- Identify the best area for your needs
- Shortlist suitable homes
- Avoid time-wasting viewings
4. Sign the Private Purchase Contract (10% Payment)
Once legal checks are complete, both parties sign the Contrato de Arras, and you pay 10% of the purchase price, minus the reservation fee.
This contract confirms the terms and protects both buyer and seller. The time between reservation contract and private purchase contract is normally 3 weeks.
5. Obtain Your NIE Number
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is required for:
- Buying property
- Setting up utilities
- Paying taxes
- Opening a bank account
Your lawyer can apply for your NIE on your behalf, especially if you give Power of Attorney.
6. Notary & Completion (Escritura)
This is the final signing where you become the official owner. This is usually 6-8 weeks after signing the Private Purchase Contract.
You pay the remaining property balance, sign the deeds, and receive your keys.
If you’ve granted Power of Attorney, your lawyer can complete this step for you.
7. Registration & Utility Setup
After completion, your lawyer will:
- Register the property in your name
- Arrange water, electricity, and internet
- Set up direct debits for taxes and community fees
With POA, your lawyer handles everything — even if you are abroad.
Documents You’ll Need.
Passport (valid for all buyers).
NIE number.
Spanish bank account.
Proof of income (for a mortgage, when needed).
Marital status documentation.
Power of Attorney (optional but recommended).
Taxes & Purchase Costs (Approx. 11–13%).
Based on your region, taxes vary:
Resale Properties (ITP):
- Andalucía (Málaga, Granada, Almería): 7%
- Murcia: 8%
- Valencia Region (Costa Blanca): 10%
New Build Properties (IVA + AJD):
- IVA: 10%
- AJD: 1.5% in Valencia & Murcia
Additional costs include:
- Notary fees (€500–€1,200)
- Land Registry (€400–€600)
- Legal fees (approx. 1%)
- Valuation (€400–€600 if mortgage needed)
Our Professional Red Rose Property Spain Team
We collaborate with:
- Independent lawyers (NIE, POA, due diligence, taxes)
- Mortgage advisors (banks, financing, documentation)
- Architects & renovation experts
Together, they ensure your purchase is safe, compliant, and stress-free.
Why Buy with Red Rose Property Spain?
- Independent buyer-focused agency
- Local experts in Málaga, Granada, Almería, Murcia & Alicante
- Trusted multilingual lawyers (EN / ES / NL / DE / FR / RU / UKR)
- Mortgage and financial guidance
- Renovation & after-sales support
- Transparent, professional, and friendly service
- Hundreds of satisfied international buyers
“Buying a property in Spain should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With our years of experience, local knowledge, and trusted network, we guide you through every step with clarity, confidence, and genuine care. At Red Rose Property Spain, we make the entire buying process simple, safe, and fully supported — so you can focus on the joy of finding your new home.”
Catherine Palsrok
CEO & Founder of Red Rose Property Spain
Start Your Spanish Property Journey Today
Ready to buy your dream home in Spain?
Your perfect home in Málaga, Granada, Almería, Murcia, or Alicante is waiting — and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Us!
Red Rose Property Spain is a multilingual real estate agency, proudly speaking English, Spanish, Dutch, German, French, Russian, and Ukrainian — ensuring clear communication and personalized service for every client.
Registered Address: Avenida de Andalucía 118, 29751 Caleta de Vélez, Málaga, Spain
Phone: +34 602 627 580
Email: [email protected]
Registration Number: B56558235
Note: This is our registered business address. Please contact us before any visits, as this location is not open to the public.
FAQ's How to buy a property in Spain
Read the answers to all your questions in our Buyers Guide.