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Buying a Property in Marbella

A Clear, Friendly and Complete Guide for International Buyers

Purchasing a property in Spain is an exciting step—whether you’re looking for a holiday home, a long-term investment or planning a relocation. At Iberican Realty, we help you navigate the process with confidence, clarity and expert local support.

 

Below you will find a simplified overview of the buying journey, the costs involved and the administrative steps required. Our goal is to make every stage transparent and stress-free.

The Buying Process in Marbella

Making a Formal Offer & Good-Faith Deposit

Once you’ve found the right property, the first step is submitting a written offer along with a good-faith deposit.

  • The deposit amount varies depending on the property and situation.

  • It is held safely by the real estate agency.

  • Once the seller accepts and signs the offer, the property is officially reserved and removed from the market.

Your reserve agreement will outline the conditions, deadlines and next steps.
To ensure a smooth and secure transaction, we always recommend working with a specialized real-estate solicitor.

This is the private purchase agreement between buyer and seller confirming the agreed price, payment structure and completion date.

At this stage:

  • You will usually make a 10% down payment (this can vary).

  • Due diligence checks are carried out regarding legal, technical and urban-planning aspects of the property.

Typical protection clauses include:

  • If the seller withdraws → the buyer is entitled to double the deposit back.

  • If the buyer withdraws → the deposit is lost.

This is the final stage. On completion day:

  • You pay the remaining balance of the price.

  • Buyer and seller sign the Public Deed of Conveyance before a Notary Public.

  • The deed is then submitted to the Tax Office and the Property Registry.

The Notary verifies the legal transfer of ownership and ensures the process complies with Spanish law.

What Costs Are Involved When Buying a Property?

Costs at the Time of Purchase

1. New-Build Properties (from a developer)

You will pay:

  • VAT (IVA):

    • 10% on new residential properties

    • 21% on building plots

  • Stamp Duty (AJD): 0.5%–1.5% depending on the region

2. Resale Properties (from a private owner)

You will pay:

  • Transfer Tax (ITP): generally between 6% and 11%, depending on the region

3. Solicitor’s Fees

Not mandatory, but highly recommended. Fees vary depending on the complexity of the purchase and the amount of due diligence required.

 

4. Notary and Land Registry Fees

Costs depend on the property price and complexity of the deed.

1. Local Taxes (IBI)

Calculated on the property’s cadastral value. Rates vary by municipality.

2. Community Fees

Applicable to apartments and townhouses within a community. These cover shared services such as:

  • Concierge

  • Garden maintenance

  • Cleaning

  • Lift maintenance

3. Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR)

If you do not rent the property:

You must pay an annual imputed income tax based on 2% of the cadastral value.

  • 19% tax rate for EU residents

  • 24% for non-EU residents

If you rent the property:

You pay tax on the rental income.
EU residents can deduct certain expenses (management, maintenance, etc.).

 

4. Wealth Tax for Non-Residents

Taxes assets located in Spain above certain thresholds (allowances vary by region).
When a property is bought by two people, the taxable amount is divided between them.

Before completing the purchase, non-Spanish buyers need:

 

1. Spanish NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)

This tax identification number is essential for buying property.
It can be obtained personally or through Power of Attorney via your solicitor.

 

2. Spanish Bank Account

Required to process payments and set up utilities.
Banks will request documentation proving source of funds—it’s best to prepare this early.

  • Prepare early. Missing a property due to paperwork delays is more common than you think (NIE, bank account, transfer of funds).

  • Compare mortgage options ahead of time if you require financing. Mortgage brokers can save time and negotiate better conditions.

  • Understand cultural differences. Real-estate practices in Spain may differ from your home country. Your agent will guide you through each step.

  • Use a specialized solicitor. This ensures proper due diligence, legal protection and a seamless administration process.

  • Consider using Power of Attorney to streamline signatures and avoid travel delays.

  • Lean on professional experience. At Iberican Realty, we advise you when making an offer—whether it’s time to negotiate or move quickly to secure the property.

Our team at Iberican Realty is here to guide you—from the first viewing to completion at the Notary. We work with trusted solicitors, mortgage advisors and international partners to make your purchase safe and efficient.

 

Contact us today to start your property journey in Spain.

Still have a question?

If you cannot find an answer to your question in our FAQ, you can always contact us