Step-by-Step Guide: From Property Viewing to Signing the Deed in Spain

Buying property in Spain is an exciting journey, whether you’re looking for a holiday home on the Costa Blanca, an investment opportunity, or your dream retirement villa. But the process can feel overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with the legal requirements and steps involved.

To help you navigate with confidence, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything – from the first viewing to signing the final deed (escritura) at the notary.

1. Research and Property Viewings

The journey begins with research. Identify the area that suits your lifestyle – whether it’s the bustling coastal towns of Torrevieja and Alicante or the quiet inland villages.

• Work with a trusted real estate agency familiar with foreign buyers.
• Make a list of must-have features (pool, sea view, number of bedrooms).
• Arrange viewings in advance to compare properties side by side.

Tip: Visit properties at different times of the day to evaluate light, noise, and neighborhood atmosphere.

2. Reservation Agreement and Deposit

Once you find the right property, you’ll be asked to sign a reservation contract (contrato de reserva). This document removes the property from the market for a set period.

• A small deposit (usually €3,000–€6,000) secures the property.
• The contract includes basic terms and the agreed purchase price.

Tip: Always ensure deposits are made to a registered company account, not directly to the seller.

3. Legal Checks and Due Diligence

Before proceeding, a lawyer will carry out due diligence to confirm:

• The property has no debts, mortgages, or unpaid taxes.
• The seller has legal ownership.
• Building licenses and permits are in order.

This step is essential for avoiding costly surprises.

4. Private Purchase Contract (Contrato de Compraventa)

Next, you sign a private purchase contract with the seller. This formalizes the sale until the public deed is signed.

Typically, a deposit of 10% of the property price is paid.

The contract includes a completion date and clear terms.

Tip: If the buyer withdraws without legal reason, the deposit is usually lost. If the seller withdraws, they must return double the deposit.

5. Signing the Deed (Escritura) at the Notary

The final step is the public deed of sale, signed before a Spanish notary.

• Buyer, seller, lawyer, and sometimes a translator are present.
• The balance of the purchase price, taxes, and fees are paid.
• The notary registers the new ownership in the Spanish Land Registry.

From this moment, you are the legal owner of your new Spanish home!

6. Taxes and Additional Costs

In addition to the property price, buyers should budget around 10–13% extra for:

• Property Transfer Tax (resale) or VAT (new build)
• Notary fees
• Land Registry fees
• Legal fees

Tip: Your real estate agent or lawyer can provide a full cost breakdown before purchase.

7. After the Purchase

Once the deed is signed, you’ll need to:

• Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet) in your name.
• Register with the local town hall.
• Keep your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) active for tax purposes.

Conclusion

Buying property in Spain doesn’t have to be complicated if you follow the right steps and work with experienced professionals. From the initial viewing to signing the deed, each stage is designed to protect both the buyer and the seller.

With the right guidance, you’ll soon be holding the keys to your new home under the Spanish sun.