BUYING GUIDE
Buying Guide — Buy a House on the Costa Blanca
Spain has its own rules. We explain them clearly — step by step, no fuss.
Why a guide?
Buying a property abroad is a big step. Spain has its own laws, taxes and procedures. We compiled this guide based on our 15+ years of experience so that you can start on the Costa Blanca well prepared.
From the first conversation to the key handover at the notary — we are there. Every step.
THE BUYING PROCESS
8 steps — from first click to key
No-obligation introduction
We discuss your wishes, budget, desired region and timing. This conversation is always free and without obligation — by phone, video or at our office.
Location choice & regional orientation
The Costa Blanca offers enormous variety: from busy seaside resorts to quiet mountain villages. We help you choose the region that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Personal property selection
Based on your wishes we compile a selection from our full network. You receive photos, floor plans, videos and drone footage before you fly to Spain.
On-site viewings
We personally guide you during the viewings in Spain. On average a viewing trip covers 3 to 5 properties. We arrange everything: schedule, transport and optionally accommodation.
Making an offer & negotiation
Found the property? We make an offer on your behalf and negotiate the price and conditions. Our local market knowledge ensures the best deal.
Legal due diligence
Our lawyer checks the title deed, debts, permits and land registry. Only when everything is in order do we proceed. This is a crucial step we never skip.
NIE number & financing
In parallel with the legal check we arrange your NIE number (tax ID) and assist with mortgage applications at Spanish banks.
Notarial transfer
The final deed of sale is signed at the notary. We are present and guide you through the process. After signing you receive the keys to your new home.
THE PURCHASE PROCESS STEP BY STEP
The purchase process step by step
Buying a property in Spain works differently from the Netherlands or Belgium. These are the most important steps.
Reservation contract
Found your property and agreed on the price? The first step is signing a reservation contract. This takes the property off the market and fixes the agreed purchase price. For existing properties, the reservation is usually around €5,000, which is later offset against the final purchase. For new builds, the price is fixed from the reservation and is often around €10,000. All payments are recorded in the purchase agreement and are legally protected by a bank or insurance guarantee for new builds.
Independent lawyer & power of attorney
Next, you engage an independent lawyer who checks the title deed, any debts, permits, the land registry and all contracts. At the same time, a notarial power of attorney is drawn up. This allows the lawyer or fiscal representative to handle the purchase process on your behalf, including applying for the NIE number, signing documents and making payments.
Contrato de Arras
After the legal checks, the Contrato de Arras (preliminary purchase contract) is signed. This records all agreements such as the purchase price, transfer date and any resolutory conditions. For existing properties, approximately 10% of the purchase price is paid at this point, with the earlier reservation fee offset.
Notarial transfer
On the agreed date, the transfer takes place at the Spanish notary. In most cases this happens via the power of attorney, so you do not need to travel to Spain again. Just before the transfer I inspect the property together with the seller or developer. After signing, the lawyer receives the keys and all administrative matters are handled. When you arrive in Spain, your property is ready and the key is waiting for you. And of course a bottle of cava is never missing to toast your new chapter together.
“The purchase does not end at the notary. Only when you open the door of your new home does the process feel truly complete for us.”
ADDITIONAL COSTS
What are the purchase costs in Spain?
In addition to the purchase price you pay various taxes and costs in Spain. Budget for 10 to 13 percent extra.
For new build you pay VAT (IVA) of 10% instead of transfer tax, plus 1.5% stamp duty (AJD).
Want to calculate your personal costs?
Enter your purchase price and get an instant full cost breakdown.
NIE NUMBER
The NIE number: your Spanish tax ID
A NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is mandatory for every foreigner who buys property in Spain, opens a bank account or pays taxes.
We arrange the NIE number for you — at the Spanish embassy in the Netherlands/Belgium or on-site at the local police in Spain. On average the application takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Documents required for NIE
BOX 3 AND A PROPERTY IN SPAIN
Box 3 and a property in Spain
A property in Spain forms part of your assets and must therefore be declared in the Dutch income tax return (box 3). However, this does not mean that you pay tax again in the Netherlands on the value of your Spanish property. The Netherlands and Spain have concluded a tax treaty to prevent double taxation. As a result, Spanish real estate is exempt from box 3 taxation in the Netherlands.
The property does count towards the calculation of your total assets. On that basis, the tax authorities calculate how much box 3 tax you would theoretically owe. An exemption is then applied for the portion of your assets consisting of the Spanish property.
A simple example
Suppose your total box 3 assets amount to €500,000, of which €250,000 consists of a property in Spain. The Spanish property counts towards the calculation of your total assets, but you then receive an exemption under the tax treaty. As a result, you pay no box 3 tax in the Netherlands on the Spanish property itself — only on the portion of your assets that is taxable in the Netherlands.
Good to know: the tax rules around box 3 are constantly evolving. For your personal situation, it is advisable to consult a tax advisor or fiscal specialist.
LEGAL TIPS
6 important tips for buyers
Always engage an independent lawyer
Your own lawyer represents your interests and checks whether the property is free of debts, outstanding permits and ownership disputes.
Open a Spanish bank account
For payments, direct debits (municipal tax, utilities) and mortgage payments you need a local bank account.
Understand the contrato de arras
This is the preliminary purchase contract. You typically pay a 10% deposit. If the seller withdraws, you receive double back. If you withdraw, you lose the deposit.
Check the building permits
Not all buildings in Spain are legally built. Have your lawyer check the building permit and habitation licence (cédula de habitabilidad).
Plan your succession
As a property owner in Spain your home falls under Spanish inheritance law. Consult a lawyer about a Spanish will to protect your heirs.
Budget for running costs
In addition to purchase costs there are annual costs: property tax (IBI), community fees (owners association), insurance and utilities.
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