Buying Property in Spain 2025: The Ultimate Guide for European Buyers
Welcome to your step-by-step guide to purchasing a property in Spain as a European buyer in 2025. Whether you’re searching for a sun-drenched retirement home, an investment opportunity, or a holiday retreat, this guide will help you navigate the buying process with confidence and clarity.
Why Spain?
Spain remains one of the most attractive real estate markets in Europe due to its favorable climate, lifestyle, and accessibility. The Costa del Sol, in particular, draws thousands of Europeans every year looking to relocate or invest in high-yield property markets.
Step-by-Step Buying Process in Spain:
- Get a Spanish NIE Number
- Required for all property transactions.
- Apply through a Spanish consulate or in Spain directly.
- Open a Spanish Bank Account
- Needed for transfers, utility payments, and taxes.
- Hire a Local Lawyer (Abogado)
- Essential to handle legal checks and contract reviews.
- Cost: Typically 1%–2% of the purchase price.
- Property Search & Reservation Contract
- Work with local agents like Splendour Homes.
- Reservation fee: €3,000–€6,000 secures the property while legal checks begin.
- Conduct Legal Due Diligence
- Lawyer obtains “Nota Simple” (ownership/debt status), confirms planning permissions.
- Sign the Purchase Contract (Contrato de Arras)
- Pay 10% deposit.
- Binding contract with terms, penalties, and completion date.
- Completion at the Notary
- Remaining amount paid.
- Public deed signed and registered.
Key Costs to Expect
Taxes: Transfer Tax (ITP) 7% (resale) or VAT 10% (new build)
- Notary & Registry Fees: ~1%
- Lawyer Fees: ~1%–2%
- Bank/Mortgage Fees: ~1%
- Total Purchase Costs: +10%–15% above purchase price
Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage?
Yes! Non-residents typically get up to 60%–70% of the property value. Interest rates range from 3%–5% depending on term and lender.
Golden Visa & Residency
The Spanish government is ending the Golden Visa for property buyers as of April 2025. If residency is your goal, consider:
- Non-Lucrative Visa (retirees, remote workers)
- Digital Nomad Visa
- Family Reunification Route
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Buying without a lawyer or not checking debt (embargos, unpaid taxes)
- Skipping the survey (especially in older rural homes)
- Ignoring community fees or poor urbanisations
Final Tips:
- Work with established, local agents like Splendour Homes for insider knowledge and smoother communication.
- Focus on lifestyle AND resale potential.
- Visit outside peak seasons to get a real feel for the area.
Ready to begin your journey? Contact Splendour Homes today for expert advice, exclusive listings, and full support through your property-buying process in Spain.
