Villa with mountain views near Marbella

Buying a home on the Costa del Sol

From the first dream to the keys in your hand. How buying in Spain works, what it costs and how we help you along the way.

The buying process

Nine steps to your new home

Our advice: first choose the place where you feel at home. Property type, price and everything else come after that.

Choose your location

Compare the municipalities on beaches, golf, peace and quiet, schools and accessibility. View all locations.

Set your budget

Add the purchase costs to the price and check your financing. Calculate the costs.

NIE and bank account

Apply for your NIE at the consulate or in Spain and open a Spanish bank account. We will help you get started.

Viewing trip

We put together a tailored selection and plan your visit. How it works.

Reservation

You reserve the property with a deposit, so that it is taken off the market.

Legal checks

Your lawyer checks ownership, debts, permits and the planning status.

Purchase contract

You sign a private purchase contract and usually pay 10% of the price.

Notary

At the notary you pay the balance and become the owner. The property is then entered in the Land Registry.

Move-in ready

Utilities, insurance and, if needed, furnishing or renovation. Our services.

New build or resale?

With new-build property , you get modern technology, energy efficiency and guarantees from the developer. Off plan, you pay in instalments, with a bank guarantee on your deposits. With a existing property , you see straight away what you are buying, and the best locations close to the sea are often resale homes. In that case you pay transfer tax (ITP) instead of VAT. We are happy to show you both and tell you honestly where the added value lies.

The market in 2026

Demand for homes on the Costa del Sol remains strong. According to idealista, average asking prices in September 2026 were up year on year by 3.2% in Marbella, 6.5% in Benahavís and 17.1% in Estepona. Well-located homes sell quickly, so buyers who come well prepared have the edge.

Frequently asked questions about buying in Spain

Can I simply buy a home in Spain as a foreigner?

Yes. Anyone can buy property in Spain. You need an NIE (tax identification number) and usually a Spanish bank account. The Golden Visa programme, which linked a residence permit to a purchase of €500,000 or more, was abolished in April 2025.

What costs come on top of the price?

For a resale property around 8 to 9%, for a new build around 12 to 13% of the price excluding VAT. As a buyer, you do not pay any agency commission. Calculate it here.

Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?

Yes, Spanish banks also lend to non-residents, usually up to around 60 to 70% of the purchase price or valuation. Expect to fund the rest of the price and the costs yourself.

How long does a purchase take?

For a resale property, usually six to ten weeks from reservation to notary. For an off-plan new build, you pay in instalments until completion.

Do I need a lawyer?

Not compulsory, but strongly recommended. An independent lawyer checks ownership, debts, permits and contracts. Allow around 1% of the price plus VAT.

Seafront promenade in Marbella

Next step

Tell us what you are looking for

We'll get back to you personally within 24 hours. No obligation, discreet and in your language.

  • Tailored selection, including homes that aren't online
  • Viewings planned around your travel
  • Guidance from search to notary and handover of the keys

WhatsApp+34 691 531 911

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