Yes, it is possible to buy a property in Spain without being a resident, and at Nevado Realty we assist many international clients who carry out the transaction from their country of origin.

The process is entirely feasible and secure, provided you have the appropriate documentation and the necessary professional assistance.

Non-resident buyers

To buy without residing in Spain, you only need:

• A valid passport.
• NIE (Foreign Identification Number), which is mandatory for signing the transaction and managing taxes.
• A bank account in Spain, which is necessary for payments, direct debits and tax procedures.
• Proof of the origin of the funds, in accordance with anti-money laundering regulations.

If the buyer is unable to travel for each procedure, it is possible to grant authorisation or power of attorney to a trusted solicitor or representative, allowing most procedures to be handled remotely.

Comprehensive support

At Nevado Realty, we help our clients with every step of the process:

• Obtaining a NIE.
• Opening a bank account.
• Coordinating with solicitors, banks and notaries.
• Complete legal review of the transaction.
• Preparing documents and following up until the final signing.

Buying property without residing in Spain is not only possible, but also straightforward when you have the right advice. Marbella is an international destination, and these types of transactions have been part of our daily work since 1994.

When purchasing a property in Spain, the buyer must pay a series of mandatory taxes and fees. These vary depending on whether the property is new or second-hand.

1. Newly built homes

Si la propiedad se compra directamente al promotor, los impuestos son:

VAT (Value Added Tax)

• 10% off the purchase price for homes.
• 21% in the case of commercial premises, detached garages or other non-residential properties.

AJD (Stamp Duty)

• In Andalusia, the general rate is 1.2% of the purchase price.
• Applies upon signing the notarial deed.

2. Resale properties

When the property is being resold between private individuals, the following is payable:

ITP (Property Transfer Tax)

• In Andalusia, the rate is 7% of the purchase price.
• It is a fixed rate and completely replaces VAT and stamp duty.

Access our tax calculator and check the expenses associated with your new or second-hand home.

3. Other expenses associated with the purchase

In addition to taxes, the buyer should consider:

Notary

It depends on the price and length of the deed, but it usually ranges between €600 and €1,200.

Land Registry

Approximately €400 to €800, depending on the value of the property.

Solicitor’s fees

Highly recommended to ensure a secure transaction. In Marbella, they are usually 1% + VAT of the purchase price.

Bank charges (if there is a mortgage)

• Property valuation.
• Set-up fees, if applicable.
• Registration fees associated with the mortgage.

At Nevado Realty, we maintain good relationships with all banking institutions in order to coordinate different mortgage financing options for our clients.

Full support

At Nevado Realty, we explain every cost clearly from the outset and work alongside specialist solicitors to ensure that the buyer is fully aware of all the associated taxes and expenses before proceeding with the transaction. Our aim is to guarantee a secure, transparent process with no surprises.

Notary and registration fees when purchasing a property in Spain are not fixed, but they tend to remain within fairly defined ranges. These costs depend on the price of the property and the length of the deed, although the variation is relatively small.

Notary fees

Notary fees are regulated by law and usually range between:

• 600 and 1,200 euros for the deed of sale.

For higher-value properties, the amount may be at the upper end of the range, although always within pre-established limits.

If a mortgage is also signed, an additional deed is added, the costs of which are usually between €500 and €1,000.

Land Registry fees

The registration of the deed in the Registry has an approximate cost of:

• 400 to 800 euros, depending on the price of the property.

If there is a mortgage, registering this deed also incurs an additional cost, generally between €300 and €600.

Transparency from the outset

At Nevado Realty, we provide an estimated breakdown of all costs associated with the purchase from the outset, including notary fees, registration fees, taxes and legal fees. Our aim is to enable buyers to make decisions with complete confidence, without unexpected costs or confusing paperwork.

The main difference between buying a new home and a second-hand home in Spain lies in the taxes, the condition of the property and the associated guarantees.

TAXES AND COSTS

New construction

• VAT (10%) is payable.
• Stamp duty is also payable (1.2% in Andalusia).

Resales

• ITP tax is payable (7% in Andalusia).
• No VAT or stamp duty applies.

In many cases, new builds involve a slightly higher tax cost than resale properties.

2. Condition and specifications

New housing

• Newly built with modern materials.
• Superior energy efficiency.
• New fixtures and appliances.
• They comply with the latest accessibility and safety regulations.

Resale property

• It may require modifications or updates.
• In many cases, it allows for better, already established locations.
• Possibility of negotiating price depending on condition and age.

3. Guarantees

New construction

The buyer has legal guarantees from the developer:

• 1 year for finishes.
• 3 years for installations.
• 10 years for structure (ten-year insurance).

Segunda mano

• There is no guarantee from the previous owner, although a prior legal and technical review is always recommended.

4. Deadlines and availability

• In new construction, it may be necessary to wait until the project is completed.
• In the case of resale properties, the deadline for signing the deed is usually between one and two months, although this is always something to be agreed between the seller and the buyer.

At Nevado Realty, we advise buyers on which option best suits their needs, lifestyle and investment strategy, always providing a clear analysis of the costs, advantages and guarantees of each type of property.

Buying off-plan means purchasing a property that has not yet been built or is in the early stages of construction.
In this type of purchase, the buyer relies on the project plans, the building specifications, the rendered images and all the documentation provided by the developer.

1. How the process works

• The buyer reserves the property and signs an off-plan purchase agreement.
• Payments are made in instalments, in line with the progress of the work.
• Once construction is complete and the first occupancy licence has been obtained, the deed is formalised at the notary’s office and the property is handed over.

2. Advantages of buying off-plan

• More competitive price than a finished house.
• Opportunity to choose the best locations within the building (orientation, views, height).
• Possibility of customising finishes according to the developer.
• More efficient, modern homes that comply with current regulations.

3. Guarantees for the buyer

Spanish law protects buyers of new-build properties:

• All payments during construction must be guaranteed or insured.
• The property has a ten-year guarantee for the structure and other guarantees for installations and finishes.
• The developer must submit complete technical documentation and comply with strict urban planning requirements.

4. Important considerations

• Check delivery times carefully.
• Check the developer’s reputation.
• Verify licences, technical project and building specifications.
• Seek professional advice to review the documentation.

Reserving a property is the first formal step to ensure that the property is taken off the market while the next steps in the purchase process are prepared. It is a simple procedure, but very important to protect the buyer’s interests.

1. Signing of the reservation document

The process begins with the signing of a reservation contract between the buyer and the seller (private individual or developer).
This document includes:

• Buyer and seller details.
• Agreed price.
• Deadlines for formalising the private contract or deed.
• Specific conditions of the transaction.

Its purpose is to ensure that the property is not offered to other clients during the agreed period.

2. Deposit or down payment

For the reservation to be effective, the buyer must pay a deposit, the amount of which usually ranges between:

• 6,000 and 10,000 euros for standard properties.
• Higher amounts for high-value homes or new builds.

This payment is deducted from the final price of the property.

3. Reservation validity period

Normally, the reservation is valid for 14 days, which is sufficient time to:

• Check the legal documentation for the property.
• Review charges, statutes, and certificates.
• Prepare the private contract of sale.

4. Legal certainty

During this time, the property is taken off the market, preventing other buyers from submitting offers.
In addition, if necessary, special conditions can be included (for example, a reservation subject to mortgage).

5. Support from the Nevado Realty team

At Nevado Realty, we take care of:

• Ensure that the transaction is formalised in a secure and transparent manner.
• Draft or review the reservation document.
• Check the documentation for the property.
• Coordinate with solicitors, developers or owners, or with banks in the case of a mortgage.

The time it takes to complete the entire process of purchasing a property in Spain can vary depending on the situation of each property and the buyer, but in most cases it ranges from 4 to 12 weeks.
This period includes everything from signing the reservation agreement to the final signing at the notary’s office.

1. From the reservation to the private contract

It usually takes two weeks.
During this period, the legal documentation is reviewed, encumbrances, statutes and certificates are checked, and the private purchase agreement is prepared.

2. Signing of the private contract and preparation for the notary

Once the private contract has been signed, the usual timeframe for reaching the notary is 2 to 10 weeks, depending on:

• The availability of both parties.
• The preparation of funds by the buyer.
• Coordination with solicitors and banks.
• Obtaining any documents that the seller may require (certificates, updated simple notes, etc.).

3. If the buyer requires financing

When there is a mortgage, the process may take slightly longer:

• Property valuation.
• Final approval from the bank.
• Coordination of deeds of sale and mortgage deeds.

4. New build or off-plan purchases

If the property is under construction, the signing at the notary’s office takes place once the work has been completed and the property has obtained its first occupancy licence.
This can extend the process by several months, depending on the project.

Support throughout the entire process

At Nevado Realty, we coordinate each phase with solicitors, banks, and notaries so that the buyer always has clarity on the deadlines and can complete their transaction safely, efficiently, and without unnecessary delays.

Yes, you must have a bank account in Spain to complete the purchase of a property.
Even if the buyer is not a resident, having an account with a Spanish bank is essential for correctly managing the payments and procedures associated with the transaction.

1. Why is a bank account necessary in Spain?

The account facilitates and enables:

• Pay taxes related to the purchase (ITP, VAT, AJD).
• Make transfers for signing at the notary’s office.
• Set up direct debits for utilities such as water, electricity, community fees, and rubbish collection.
• Manage subsequent receipts related to the property.

Without a Spanish account, these payments would be slower and more complex, and some of them could not be made at all.

2. What if the buyer cannot travel to Spain to open it?

It is possible to open an account:

• In person during a visit to Marbella.
• By means of a power of attorney, allowing a representative or solicitor to open the account on behalf of the purchaser.
• Some banks also offer partially remote processes for international buyers.

3. Support from Nevado Realty

At Nevado Realty, we assist our clients in:

• Select the appropriate bank.
• Coordinate the necessary documentation.
• Accompany or guide in the opening process.
• Facilitate communication with the bank before and after the purchase.

Yes, a foreign buyer can apply for a mortgage in Spain without being a resident.
Spanish banks grant financing to both European Union citizens and buyers from outside the EU, although conditions may vary depending on the customer’s profile and country of origin.

1. Percentage of funding

Banks usually offer:

• Up to 70% of the valuation for non-resident buyers.
• In some cases, if the buyer is a tax resident in the EU, this can be as high as 80%, depending on the bank’s policy..

The final amount is always calculated based on the lower of the purchase price and the appraisal value.

2. Required documentation

Banks request documentation proving solvency and financial stability. Among the most common documents are:

• Valid passport.
• NIE (Foreign Identification Number).
• Tax returns from the country of residence.
• Recent bank statements.
• Income certificates or payslips.
• Information about other mortgages or debts.

All documentation may require certified translation and, in some cases, apostille certification.

3. Property valuation

The bank will commission an official valuation to determine the actual value of the property, which is an essential requirement before approving the financing.

4. Standard delivery times

The process usually takes between 3 and 6 weeks, depending on:

• The speed with which the documentation is delivered.
• The bank’s risk analysis.
• The availability of the valuer.

5. Support with Nevado Realty

At Nevado Realty, we work with trusted banking institutions and assist buyers in:

• Prepare the necessary documentation.
• Compare mortgage offers.
• Coordinate the process until signing.

Our goal is for foreign buyers to obtain clear, secure financing tailored to their needs.

Yes, at Nevado Realty we accompany our clients throughout the entire process of obtaining their NIE and, when necessary, we also assist them with procedures related to tax residency.

We know that these procedures can be complex for international buyers, which is why we work with the best law firms, who can also speak the client’s language (German, English, Swedish, Arabic, etc.) to streamline each step.

1. Obtaining a NIE (Foreign Identification Number)

The NIE is essential for purchasing property in Spain, opening a bank account, signing documents at a notary’s office, and carrying out any tax-related procedures.
We can help clients obtain it by:

• Appointment at the police station in Spain.
• Processing through the Spanish consulate in your country of origin.
• Power of attorney, allowing a solicitor to manage the NIE without the buyer having to travel.

Processing usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks, depending on the method chosen.

2. Advice on tax residence

Although purchasing a property does not automatically imply becoming a tax resident in Spain, our partner solicitors can advise on:

• Requirements for obtaining tax residency.
• Tax implications of residing or not residing in Spain.
• Special programmes such as the Golden Visa (currently inactive), applicable to certain investments.

3. Comprehensive support

The Nevado Realty team coordinates and supervises:

• Required documentation.
• Sworn translations where applicable.
• Appointments, powers of attorney, and communication with solicitors.
• Monitoring of the entire process until completion.

Our goal is for international buyers to be able to complete their purchases with complete peace of mind, without complications and with expert support every step of the way.

If the sale is not completed, the consequences depend on the reason and the stage of the process.
In Spain, commitments made in a reservation or private contract have legal effect, so it is important to know what happens in each case.

1. If the operation is stopped after the reservation

When there is a signed reservation and the buyer decides not to proceed without a valid reason, the buyer normally forfeits the deposit.

If the seller withdraws without justification, they must return twice the amount of the deposit to the buyer, as is usually stipulated in contracts.

2. If there is already a private contract of sale

A private contract is a binding agreement. If one of the parties fails to comply:

• The buyer who withdraws loses the deposit paid.
• The seller who fails to comply must return double the deposit received.

Furthermore, either party may request specific performance or compensation for damages, depending on the agreement and applicable legislation.

3. If the fault stems from justified causes

There are situations in which the operation may be stopped without penalty, for example:

• Legal issues with the property that were not initially detected.
• Lack of mandatory documentation from the seller.
• The bank’s refusal to grant a mortgage when the reservation was conditional upon financing.
• Failure to comply with the terms agreed in the contract.

In such cases, the affected party usually recovers the entire amount paid.

4. Support and legal certainty

At Nevado Realty, we review all documentation from the outset and work with specialised solicitors to:

• Draft clear and balanced contracts.
• Anticipate possible scenarios.
• Protecting the customer against any unforeseen circumstances.

The aim is to ensure that the transaction is completed safely and securely and, if this is not possible, that the customer’s rights are protected at all times.

Money paid as a deposit or down payment must always be kept in safe custody and in accordance with the guarantees established by law.
Custody depends on the type of transaction and what has been agreed between the buyer, seller and estate agency.

1. Reservations managed by individuals

When the transaction is between a buyer and a private owner:

• The deposit is usually paid into the seller’s account or into the account of the solicitor representing one of the parties.
• The usual and safest practice is for the deposit to remain in the custody of the solicitor, who acts as a neutral guarantor until the private contract is signed.

2. Reservations for new-build promotions

In property developments:

• Payments are made directly to the developer’s account.
• It is mandatory that all money paid be guaranteed or insured, which protects the buyer in the event of incidents with the construction..

3. Reservations managed through solicitors

Many buyers prefer to have their trusted solicitor hold the deposit.
In this case, the solicitor:

• Retains funds in a specific customer account.
• Only release the money when the agreed conditions are met and both parties are in agreement.

4. Security and transparency

In all cases, the most important thing is that:

• The account where the deposit is made must be clearly identified.
• There is a reservation document with detailed conditions.
• The destination of the money should be regulated in writing: when it is released, under what circumstances, and what happens if the transaction is not completed.

Support with Nevado Realty

At Nevado Realty, we work exclusively with secure and transparent procedures.
We advise buyers on the best way to safeguard their deposit and coordinate the transaction with specialist solicitors to ensure that funds are protected from the outset.

Yes, it is possible to purchase a property in Spain remotely, and this is becoming increasingly common among international buyers.
The process can be managed securely through powers of attorney and with the assistance of specialised professionals.

1. Purchase by power of attorney

The buyer may grant power of attorney to a solicitor or trusted representative or estate agent to act on their behalf. This power of attorney allows:

• Apply for and obtain your NIE.
• Opening a bank account in Spain.
• Sign contracts and preliminary documents.
• Sign the sale agreement before a notary.

The power of attorney can be signed in Spain, in the country of origin, or even before a local notary with a Hague Apostille.

2. Virtual tours and digital documentation

To facilitate decision-making, the following are used:

• Live virtual tours.
• Detailed videos of the property.
• Plans, technical reports and legal documentation sent digitally.
• Professional legal review reports (due diligence).

The entire process prior to signing can be completed without the need to travel.

3. Electronic or remote signature

In some cases, depending on the notary and the type of transaction, the signature may be made:

• By means of a notarial videoconference (when permitted by regulations).
• Through a representative with power of attorney, without the buyer having to be present.

4. Safety and control throughout the entire process

To ensure secure remote operation:

• A solicitor reviews all documentation.
• Encumbrances, certificates and registration status are verified.
• Payments and transfers are coordinated from the buyer’s account.
• Progress on each procedure is reported promptly.

Support with Nevado Realty

At Nevado Realty, we routinely manage remote purchases and coordinate each stage with solicitors, notaries and banks.
Our goal is for the buyer to be able to complete the transaction from any country with complete peace of mind, transparency and without complications.

Before signing the public deed at the notary’s office, it is customary to formalise a private contract that establishes the essential conditions of the sale.
This document is binding on both the buyer and seller and sets out the legal framework for the transaction.

1. Deposit agreement

This is the most common type in Spain. There are three types, although the most common is the penitential deposit, regulated by the Civil Code:

• The buyer pays a deposit (usually 10% of the price).
• If the buyer withdraws without just cause, they forfeit the deposit.
• If it is the seller who breaches the contract, they must return double the amount received.

The deposit regulates the price, terms, conditions and obligations of both parties.

2. Private contract of sale

Instead of a deposit, some transactions are formalised directly through a private purchase agreement, donde:

• The total price is fixed.
• The buyer pays a deposit (usually 10% of the price).
• The deadlines for arriving at the notary’s office are established.
• Charges, payment methods and conditions are determined.

It is usually used when the parties want a more detailed and finalised document before the deed.

3. Reservation agreement

In earlier stages, especially for new builds or properties in high demand, a reservation document may be signed which:

• Withdraw the property from the market.
• Set up a small initial deposit.
• Prepare the way for the deposit or private contract.

It does not replace the deposit or purchase agreement, but it guarantees priority to the buyer, as upon delivery of this deposit, the property is withdrawn from the market until the usual 10% deposit is signed.

4. Legal certainty

In all cases, it is essential that the contract is:

• Written in a clear and balanced manner.
• Reviewed by specialist solicitors.
• Complemented with legal documentation of the property.

Support with Nevado Realty

At Nevado Realty, we coordinate and supervise the entire contractual process, working alongside trusted solicitors to ensure that each step is carried out with maximum security and transparency for both the buyer and seller.

Before signing a sale agreement, it is essential to review all the legal, technical and financial documentation relating to the property to ensure that the transaction is carried out with complete security.
A thorough review avoids surprises and ensures that both the buyer and seller comply with all requirements.

1. Legal status of the property

It is essential to check:

• Simple Registry Note: confirms who the owner is and whether there are any encumbrances, mortgages, seizures or easements.
• Cadastral reference and correspondence with registry data.
• Energy efficiency certificate, mandatory for sale. It does not need to be presented until the deeds are signed and is valid for 10 years.

2. Economic burdens and community

It must be verified that the seller is aware of:

• Community fees. Certificate from the administrator verifying that the property is up to date with its fees.
• Property and rubbish taxes from previous ears.
• Utilities: water, electricity, gas, and internet

All of this must be paid before signing the deed.

3. Physical condition of the property

It is advisable to review:

• Structure, facilities, dampness and general condition.
• Operation of air conditioning, electrical appliances and electrical systems.
• Plans and actual surfaces.
• In new construction, it is essential to review the building specifications and technical project..

4. Terms and conditions of the contract

Before signing, you must confirm:

• Final price and payment method.
• Deadlines for arriving at the notary’s office.
• What is included in the property (furniture, garage, storage room).
• Consequences of non-compliance by either party.
• Whether the transaction is subject to a mortgage or other requirements.

5. Seller’s situation

It is important to verify:

• Identity of the seller, which we can verify in a simple note or deed.
• Acting on their own behalf or by means of a valid power of attorney.

6. Professional support

At Nevado Realty, we work alongside solicitors who specialise in property sales. They review all legal documentation and coordinate with the owner’s solicitor:

• All legal documentation.
• The urban planning and registration situation.
• The validity of the private contract.
• Final coordination with the notary and bank.

The aim is for the buyer to sign with complete peace of mind, with all the information clear and no hidden risks.

Yes, it is possible to purchase property in Spain through a company, whether domestic or foreign.
This is a common option among investors and buyers who wish to optimise their tax situation, protect their assets or manage several properties under the same legal entity.

1. Purchase through a Spanish company

A limited company or public limited company can purchase a property in the same way as any individual.
In these cases, the following must be provided:

• Articles of incorporation and bylaws.
• Company tax identification number.
• Identification of the administrator or representative.
• Valid powers of attorney, if the signatory is not the administrator.

Purchasing through a Spanish company can offer tax advantages in cases of professional rental or structured asset management.

2. Purchase through a foreign company

It is also possible to purchase a property through a company incorporated outside Spain.
However, additional documentation is required:

• Translated and apostilled deed of incorporation.
• Certificate of good standing for the company.
• Identification of beneficial ownership (mandatory under anti-money laundering regulations).
• Spanish tax identification number (NIF) for the company.

This process requires careful review with your solicitor or tax adviser and close coordination with the purchaser’s solicitor.

3. Taxation and obligations

Purchasing through a company involves:

• Specific tax obligations.
• Possible taxation on profits or capital gains.
• Recurring costs such as accounting, tax filing, and entity maintenance.

Therefore, it is advisable to carefully assess whether purchasing through a company is the most advantageous option in each case.

4.Professional support

At Nevado Realty, we work alongside tax advisors and specialised solicitors who can:

• Assess whether it is better to buy as an individual or through a company.
• Review the appropriate corporate structure.
• Manage the necessary commercial and tax documentation.
• Coordinate the entire process until the signing at the notary’s office.

Our objective is to ensure that the transaction is carried out safely, transparently and with the most efficient structure for each buyer.

At Nevado Realty, we offer a comprehensive after-sales service so that buyers feel supported even after signing the deed.
Our goal is to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free integration into the new property, especially for international clients or those who do not usually reside in Marbella.

1. Supply and service management

After purchase, we assist the customer in:

• Sign up for or change the name on utility accounts (water, electricity, gas, internet).
• Coordinate the implementation of alarms, home automation, and other home services.
• Manage registrations with the homeowners’ association.

2. Renovations, maintenance and decoration

Thanks to our extensive network of local professionals, we can put clients in touch with:

• Renovation companies.
• Architects and interior designers.
• Gardeners, maintenance and cleaning companies, and pool services.
• Furniture and decoration suppliers.

We select only trusted partners to guarantee quality and punctuality.

3. Ongoing advice for investment or rental

For customers purchasing for investment purposes:

• We advise on profitability and rental prices.
• We manage the rental of your property, both long and short term, and we also manage maintenance and any necessary repairs.
• We carry out periodic market valuations if requested by the client.

4. Personalised service even after delivery

Our team remains available to answer any questions you may have after your purchase, whether they concern the property, the community or the surrounding area.