Buying property in Spain is an exciting step, but it is natural to have questions about the process, costs and legal requirements.

Below you will find answers to the most common questions asked by international buyers interested in property on Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida.

If you have further questions, the team at Spaindinavia Real Estate will be happy to guide you through the entire process.

Can foreigners buy property in Spain?

Yes. There are no restrictions for foreign buyers purchasing property in Spain.

International buyers from the EU and from other countries can freely purchase apartments, villas or investment properties through out Spain.

The most important requirement is obtaininga NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), which is a tax identificationnumber used in all legal and financial transactions in Spain.

What is the typical cost of buying propertyin Spain?

When purchasing property in Spain you should budget approximately 10–15% on top of the property price for taxes and fees.

These costs normally include:

- Property transfer tax or VAT

- Notary fees

- Land registry fees

- Legal fees

- Administrative costs

The exact amount depends on whether the property is new build or resale.

What is the difference between new buildand resale property?

New build properties are homes that are newly constructed or purchased directly from a developer.

Advantages often include:

- Modern design and architecture

- Energy-efficient construction

- New appliances and materials

- Developer warranties

Resale properties are homes that have had previous owners and may often be located in more established neighbourhoods.

Do I need a lawyer when buying property in Spain?

While it is not legally mandatory, it is highly recommended to hire an independent property lawyer.

A lawyer will:

- verify that the property is legally registered

- check for debts or liabilities

- review contracts

- assist with the transfer of ownership

Spaindinavia Real Estate works with reputable independent lawyers who specialise in Spanish property transactions.

Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a foreign buyer?

Yes, many Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-resident buyers.

Typically, banks will finance:

- 60–70% of the property value for non-residents

- Mortgage conditions vary depending on income, residency status and financial profile.

- We can introduce you to trusted banks that regularly work with international property buyers.

How long does the buying process take?

Once a property has been reserved, the purchase process usually takes 4–6 weeks.

The typical steps include:

- Reservation agreement

- Legal checks by your lawyer

- Signing the purchase contract

- Completion at the Notary

After completion the property is officially registered in your name.

What is a reservation agreement?

A reservation agreement is the first step when securing a property in Spain.

It removes the property from the market while legal checks are completed.

The reservation fee is usually between €3,000 and €10,000, depending on the property.

What annual costs are involved in owning property in Spain?

Owning property in Spain involves several ongoing costs, such as:

- Property tax (IBI)

- Community fees (for apartments or gated communities)

- Utilities such as electricity and water

- Home insurance

These costs are generally lower than in many Northern European countries.

Is Costa Blanca a good place to buyproperty?

Costa Blanca is one of the most popular regions in Spain for international property buyers.

The area offers:

- Over 300 days of sunshine per year

- Beautiful beaches and golf courses

- Modern infrastructure and international communities

- A wide selection of new developments and resale properties

This combination makes Costa Blanca attractive for both holiday homes and property investment.

Why should I consider Costa Cálida?

Costa Cálida, located in the Murcia region, is an increasingly popular alternative to Costa Blanca.

Benefits include:

- Excellent climate

- Lower property prices in many areas

- Beautiful coastline around the Mar Menor

- Growing number of new developments

Many buyers choose Costa Cálida because it offers great value while still providing the Mediterranean lifestyle.

What is an inspection trip?

An inspection trip is a guided visit where we show you a selection of properties that match your needs.

During your visit we help you:

- explore different areas

- view carefully selected properties

- meet lawyers and banks if needed

- understand the buying process in Spain

This is one of the best ways to find the right property quickly and efficiently.

How can Spaindinavia Real Estate help me?

At Spaindinavia Real Estate, we assist international buyers throughout the entire property buying process.

Our services include:

- personalised property searches

- organised inspection trips

- introductions to lawyers and banks

- assistance with the purchase process

Our goal is to make buying property in Spain simple, safe and transparent.