Buying property in Spain as a foreigner is an exciting opportunity, whether you are looking for a permanent home, a holiday property or an investment. However, the process can be different from buying property in your home country.
At Fuengirola Estates, we regularly assist international buyers looking for properties in Fuengirola and throughout the Costa del Sol. In this guide, we explain the main steps involved in buying a property in Spain.
Can foreigners buy property in Spain?
Yes. Foreigners can buy property in Spain, whether they are EU citizens or from outside the European Union.
You do not generally need to be a Spanish resident to purchase a property. However, buying a property does not automatically give you Spanish residency or the right to live in Spain.
The steps to buying property in Spain
1. Establish your budget
Before starting your search, decide how much you want to spend and remember to allow for taxes, legal fees and other purchase costs.
If you need a mortgage, it is advisable to speak to a Spanish lender before making an offer so you understand your borrowing capacity.
2. Find the right property and location
Once you know your budget, you can start looking for the right property.
Think about what is most important to you: proximity to the beach, sea views, transport, schools, restaurants, golf courses or investment potential.
In Fuengirola, popular areas include Los Boliches, Carvajal, Torreblanca, Los Pacos, Pueblo López, Parque Doña Sofía and Fuengirola Centre, each offering a different lifestyle and property market.
3. Obtain your NIE
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your Spanish identification number as a foreigner and is required for many financial and administrative procedures, including purchasing a property.
4. Choose a trusted lawyer
We strongly recommend having an experienced Spanish property lawyer involved before committing to a purchase.
At Fuengirola Estates, we work with a trusted network of highly experienced lawyers who regularly assist international buyers. They can carry out the necessary legal checks, review contracts and guide you safely through the entire purchase process.
Your lawyer can check matters such as ownership, Land Registry information, mortgages or other charges, community fees, IBI and the legal and urban-planning status of the property.
Having the right legal professional gives you security and peace of mind when buying property abroad.
5. Make a formal offer
Once you have found the right property, you can make a formal and firm offer.
We recommend our clients support their offer with a €6,000 reservation deposit, paid into the client account of the estate agency assisting with the purchase or, alternatively, into the client account of their own lawyer, according to the agreed terms.
This demonstrates to the seller that you are a serious and committed buyer and gives the estate agent greater negotiating strength when trying to achieve the best possible price on your behalf.
The deposit should always be properly documented, with clear conditions regarding its purpose, acceptance and refund.
6. Agree the terms and sign the contract
Once the seller accepts your offer, the purchase price, completion date and other conditions are agreed.
Your lawyer will review the documentation before you sign the private purchase agreement, commonly known as a contrato de arras.
7. Complete the purchase before a notary
The final stage is signing the public deed of sale (escritura pública) before a Spanish notary.
The remaining purchase price is paid, ownership is transferred and the buyer normally receives the keys.
Your lawyer can then assist with paying the relevant taxes and registering the property in your name.
What are the costs of buying property in Spain?
The purchase price is not the only cost you need to consider.
Depending on the property, you may have to pay:
- Property Transfer Tax (ITP) on resale properties
- VAT and Stamp Duty on certain new-build properties
- Notary fees
- Land Registry fees
- Legal fees
- Mortgage-related costs, where applicable
In Andalucía, the general ITP rate for resale properties is currently 7%, although specific conditions and reduced rates may apply. Your lawyer should confirm the exact costs applicable to your purchase before completion.
Can foreigners get a mortgage in Spain?
Yes. Foreign buyers and non-residents can apply for a Spanish mortgage.
The conditions depend on your income, residency status, nationality, deposit and the bank’s lending criteria.
If you need financing, we recommend arranging this as early as possible.
Can British citizens still buy property in Spain?
Yes. British citizens can still buy property in Spain following Brexit.
However, buying a property does not automatically give you the right to live in Spain indefinitely. Property ownership and residency are separate matters.
Is Fuengirola a good place to buy property?
Fuengirola is one of the most popular locations on the Costa del Sol for international buyers.
Its beaches, restaurants, shops, public transport, international community and proximity to Málaga Airport make it attractive for both permanent residents and second-home buyers.
From beachfront apartments in Los Boliches and Parque Doña Sofía to properties in Carvajal, Torreblanca, Los Pacos and Fuengirola Centre, there is a wide range of properties to suit different budgets and lifestyles.
Buying Property in Fuengirola with Fuengirola Estates
Buying property abroad should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one.
At Fuengirola Estates, we assist both Spanish and international buyers throughout the process, from finding the right property and negotiating the best possible price to coordinating with lawyers and completing the purchase.
Our local knowledge, professional network and experience with international clients allow us to guide you through every stage of your purchase.
Looking for property in Fuengirola?
If you are considering buying property in Fuengirola or on the Costa del Sol, contact Fuengirola Estates and tell us what you are looking for.
We will help you find the right property and guide you through the process from the first viewing to the day you receive the keys.
