Buying Property in Spain: Your Questions, Answered.

Yes. EU and non-EU citizens can buy, own and sell property in Spain. You do not need to be a Spanish resident to purchase. Buying a property, however, does not by itself give you a right of residence or allow you to stay in Spain beyond the immigration rules that apply to your nationality.

No. Non-residents regularly purchase homes in Spain. You will normally need a NIE (foreigner identification number), identification documents, evidence of the source of funds and the documentation required by the notary, bank and legal representatives.

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is the identification number used for foreign nationals in dealings with Spanish authorities. It is normally required for a property purchase, tax payments and many related formalities. Ibeka Homes can coordinate with the appropriate professionals if you need help obtaining it.

A Spanish bank account is very useful for paying local taxes, community fees and utilities, and some banks or service providers may require one. It is not always legally necessary for every stage of a cash purchase, but most international buyers find it practical to have one before completion.

Typically: passport or national ID, NIE, proof of address, proof of funds and source of funds, banking details and any mortgage documentation if financing is involved. Additional documents may be requested under anti-money-laundering rules or depending on your nationality and tax residence.

A typical purchase moves from property selection and offer, to reservation, legal due diligence, private contract or arras where applicable, financing and valuation if required, notary completion, payment of taxes and registration of the title. The exact sequence varies between new-build and resale properties.

A straightforward cash resale purchase can often complete within several weeks once the legal checks and documentation are ready. A mortgage, inheritance issue, planning irregularity, non-resident seller or new-build timetable can make the process longer. Ibeka Homes will help you understand the expected timeline for the particular property.

Yes. Many transactions can be handled remotely using video viewings, electronic document exchange and a notarised power of attorney allowing your appointed lawyer or representative to sign and complete specified formalities on your behalf.

We strongly recommend independent legal advice. Your lawyer should verify ownership, charges, planning matters, community debts, taxes, licences and the terms of every contract before you commit significant funds.

A reservation agreement is commonly used to take a property temporarily off the market while the next steps are organised. The amount and conditions vary. Before paying, make sure the document clearly states the property, price, reservation period and when the deposit is refundable or non-refundable.

There is no single statutory amount. Resale and new-build reservations are often several thousand euros, but the figure can be higher depending on the price and developer. What matters most is not the headline amount but the written refund and cancellation conditions.

An arras contract is a private agreement commonly used before notary completion. Depending on the legal form chosen, it can create different consequences if either party withdraws. The wording is important, so your lawyer should explain the exact type of arras and its consequences before you sign.

No. A reservation payment normally reserves the property under agreed conditions; it does not itself transfer legal ownership. Ownership is generally formalised through the public deed of sale and subsequent registration at the Land Registry.

Yes. Sellers may accept, reject or counter an offer. Negotiating power depends on the property, seller, demand, time on the market, condition and whether the buyer is ready to proceed. Ibeka Homes can present and negotiate an offer professionally on your behalf.

Look beyond the photographs. Consider exact location, orientation, sun exposure, noise, parking, access, community costs, condition, legal status, rental restrictions if relevant, distance to services and likely maintenance. Legal due diligence should still be completed before you make a binding commitment.

Your total purchase costs depend on whether the home is a resale or new build, the autonomous community, the price, financing and professional fees. As a planning rule, keep a separate budget for purchase tax, notary, Land Registry, legal advice and any mortgage-related or administrative costs. Ask us for a property-specific estimate rather than relying on one national percentage.

Costa Blanca is in the Valencian Community. For transactions subject to the general resale transfer-tax rate, the general ITP rate is 9% for chargeable events from 1 June 2026. Higher or reduced rates can apply in particular cases, so the buyer's lawyer or tax adviser should confirm the rate for the specific transaction.

Costa Cálida is in the Region of Murcia. The general ITP rate on transfers of real estate is currently 7.75%, with reduced rates available in certain qualifying cases. Your adviser should confirm the rate and taxable base before completion.

For a typical first sale of a residential new build, VAT (IVA) is generally 10%. In the Valencian Community, the general AJD rate is currently 1.4%, subject to the nature of the deed and any applicable relief. Legal, notary, registry and other costs are separate.

For a typical first sale of a residential new build, VAT (IVA) is generally 10%. In the Region of Murcia, the AJD rate for first copies of public deeds documenting property transfers subject to and not exempt from VAT is currently 1.5%. Other transaction costs are separate.

Not necessarily. Property advertising and developer price lists may quote prices before taxes and purchase costs. Always ask whether the displayed price includes or excludes VAT, and request a written cost breakdown before reserving.

ITP (Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales) is the transfer tax that usually applies when buying a resale property from a private seller. It is a regional tax, so the rate can differ between the Valencian Community and the Region of Murcia and may depend on the buyer or property.

AJD (Actos Jurídicos Documentados) is stamp duty that can apply to certain notarised documents, including many new-build purchase deeds. The rate is set by the autonomous community and can be different in the Valencian Community and Murcia.

Usually not. They are separate completion costs unless a contract expressly states otherwise. The amount depends on the transaction, deed and property value and is subject to regulated fee structures.

The tax base is governed by Spanish tax rules and may not always be simply the negotiated price. Reference values and other statutory valuation rules can be relevant. Your lawyer or tax adviser should check the applicable taxable base before you sign.

No. Legal advice is a professional service and is separate from transfer tax, VAT, AJD, notary and registration costs. Ask your lawyer for a written fee proposal explaining what is included.

Not always. A financed purchase may involve valuation, banking, insurance and other costs that do not arise in the same way on a cash purchase. Ask for two calculations if you are comparing a cash purchase with a mortgage purchase.

Not simply because they are non-resident. The main acquisition taxes generally depend on the type and location of the property and any qualifying relief. Non-residency can, however, affect financing, ongoing taxation and later rental or sale taxation.

Yes. Regional and national tax rules can change, and reduced rates may depend on personal conditions. The FAQ is a guide, not a tax calculation. The applicable rate should be checked again immediately before you enter a binding transaction.

A Nota Simple is an informative Land Registry extract. It is used to check registered ownership and registered charges such as mortgages, embargoes or certain rights affecting the property. A current registry check is a basic part of due diligence.

It is the public deed of sale signed before a Spanish notary. It records the parties, property and transaction terms and is the principal document used to register the buyer's title at the Land Registry.

No. The notary is a public official who performs an important legal-control function, but the notary does not act as the buyer's personal lawyer. Independent due diligence and contract advice should be handled by your own lawyer.

Your lawyer should compare the seller's identity and title documentation with current Land Registry information and the terms of the proposed sale. Any discrepancy should be resolved before completion.

A purchase should be structured so that registered charges that must be cancelled are dealt with correctly. Certain property-related debts can also be relevant to a buyer. This is why current registry, IBI and community documentation should be checked before completion.

For a property within a community of owners, the seller should provide documentation confirming the status of community fees. Your lawyer should check whether there are unpaid fees or approved extraordinary contributions that may affect the buyer.

IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) is the municipal property tax. A buyer's legal team normally reviews recent IBI documentation and cadastral information as part of the transaction.

It is the official cadastral identifier for a property. The Cadastre and Land Registry are separate systems. Your lawyer should check that the physical property, cadastral data, deed and registry description are sufficiently consistent.

Small or significant discrepancies can arise for several reasons, but they should not be ignored. Your lawyer and, where appropriate, an architect or surveyor should establish what is registered, what is cadastral, what was legally built and what you are actually buying.

Do not assume that because a structure exists it is fully regularised. Planning licences, declarations, cadastral data, registry descriptions and municipal records may need to be checked. If there is doubt, obtain independent legal and technical advice.

Terminology and requirements vary by region and age of the property. Documents relating to first occupation, habitation or later occupation can be important for legality, utilities, financing or certain uses. Your lawyer should verify what is required for the specific property.

A survey is not mandatory in every purchase, but it can be very valuable, especially for older villas, rural property, properties with alterations, signs of damp or structural concerns. Legal checks and a technical survey address different risks.

Your independent lawyer should make the appropriate legal and municipal enquiries, and a qualified architect or technician may be needed where physical works or planning status require technical assessment.

Yes, but the buyer needs to understand the tenancy, its duration, rights and any rights of first refusal or other legal consequences. Never assume vacant possession unless the contract and legal position make it clear.

It depends on the reservation wording and the nature of the issue. A well-drafted reservation should address due diligence and refund conditions. This is one reason to have legal advice before paying a substantial non-refundable amount.

A new build is normally purchased from a developer and often involves VAT, AJD, staged payments, construction specifications and developer guarantees. A resale is usually bought from an existing owner and normally attracts ITP. The legal checks and contract structure are therefore different.

It can be, provided the developer, land, planning position, building licence, payment protections and contract are properly checked. Your lawyer should verify the project before you commit staged funds.

Spanish law provides protections for qualifying advance payments on off-plan residential purchases. Your lawyer should check exactly how each payment is protected, the account into which it is paid and the guarantee or insurance documentation that applies.

It is a protection mechanism that may secure qualifying advance payments if the developer fails to deliver under the legally protected circumstances. The exact wording and coverage matter, so your lawyer should review the guarantee.

Marketing material is not a substitute for the signed contract, plans and technical specification. Developers may reserve limited rights to make changes. Before signing, ensure the plans, finishes, included items, orientation and specification you are relying on are documented.

The contract should specify the expected completion framework and any permitted extensions or force-majeure provisions. Ask your lawyer what happens if the developer is late and when you would have a right to terminate or claim.

A snagging inspection can identify finishing defects, damaged items, missing fixtures and other issues before or around completion. For higher-value or complex properties, consider an independent professional snagging inspection.

It is a written list of defects or incomplete items identified in a newly built property. Photograph each issue, record it clearly and follow the developer's formal procedure for rectification.

Spanish building law provides different liability periods for certain categories of building defects. Contractual warranties can also apply. Your lawyer should explain the protections relevant to the development and keep copies of all handover documentation.

Sometimes, but never assume they are. Show homes often include furniture, lighting, decoration and upgrades that are not part of the standard purchase. Ask for a written inventory and specification of exactly what is included in your unit.

Many developers offer choices if you reserve early enough. Upgrade deadlines and prices vary, and late changes may not be possible. Get every paid extra and specification change confirmed in writing.

Usually once the community is constituted and costs begin to be allocated, often around handover or occupation. Ask the developer for an estimated community budget before purchase, particularly in complexes with pools, lifts, gyms, security or landscaped areas.

In addition to ownership and charges, check IBI, community fees, approved special assessments, planning status of alterations, occupancy documentation, utilities, energy certificate, existing leases, furniture inventory and the condition of the building.

Yes. If the home is sold furnished, attach or sign a clear inventory showing the main items included. Photographs can reduce later misunderstandings about furniture, appliances, outdoor items and decorative pieces.

Electricity, water, gas and other services are normally changed into the buyer's name after completion. Keep meter readings and the documentation needed for the transfer. Ibeka Homes can help coordinate practical after-sales steps.

Yes, but separate cosmetic renovation from structural or planning issues. Obtain quotations and, where works affect structure, façade, terraces, pools or use, check whether community or municipal permissions are required.

Review recent community meeting minutes, budgets, approved extraordinary fees and building inspection information where applicable. Ask specifically about façade, lifts, roofs, pools, accessibility works and structural repairs.

Yes. Spanish banks lend to many non-resident buyers, but the loan-to-value ratio is often lower than for residents and underwriting can be stricter. Terms depend on income, age, debts, currency, tax residence, property and lender.

There is no guaranteed percentage. Many non-resident cases are assessed around a lower loan-to-value than resident primary-home purchases, and the bank normally considers the lower of purchase price and valuation. A mortgage broker or bank should assess your personal case before you reserve.

At least obtain an early affordability or pre-assessment if finance is essential. It helps you search within a realistic budget and reduces the risk of reserving a property that your lender will not finance.

Common requests include passport/NIE, proof of employment or business income, tax returns, bank statements, details of debts and assets, credit information and proof of deposit/source of funds. Requirements vary by country and lender.

A tasación is the formal property valuation used by a lender. The amount can affect how much the bank is willing to lend. The bank does not necessarily lend against the asking price.

You may need to contribute more cash, renegotiate the price or reconsider the purchase. If finance is essential, discuss an appropriate finance clause with your lawyer before entering a non-refundable commitment.

Spanish lenders offer fixed, variable and mixed-rate products. Variable rates commonly reference Euribor plus a margin. Compare total cost, conditions, linked products and TAE/APR rather than focusing only on the initial headline rate.

Sometimes buyers raise finance against assets in their home country instead of mortgaging the Spanish property. The best structure depends on your finances, currency risk, tax situation and lender. Obtain regulated financial and tax advice.

Yes. We can introduce you to established mortgage professionals and banking contacts familiar with international buyers, while you remain free to choose your own lender or adviser.

No. Property ownership and immigration status are separate. Spain's real-estate investor or 'Golden Visa' route was abolished for new applications with effect from 3 April 2025.

Yes. British citizens can buy property in Spain. Ownership does not remove the immigration rules that apply to time spent in the Schengen Area, so buyers planning longer stays should obtain advice on the residence route that fits their circumstances.

No. For non-EU nationals who rely on visa-free Schengen travel, owning a Spanish property does not itself extend permitted stays. A suitable visa or residence authorisation is required for longer residence.

Possible routes may include non-lucrative residence, digital-nomad residence, employment, self-employment, highly qualified work, family, study and entrepreneur routes. Eligibility changes over time and depends on personal circumstances, so use an immigration professional for current advice.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens benefit from freedom-of-movement rules but still have registration requirements when residing in Spain beyond the applicable period. Property ownership does not replace those formalities.

Not automatically. Spanish tax residence depends on statutory residence and personal/economic circumstances, not simply property ownership. If you will spend substantial time in Spain, obtain cross-border tax advice early.

Potentially yes. Non-resident owners can have Spanish tax obligations even when a property is not rented, and rental income creates additional obligations. The rules depend on residence country, property use and ownership structure. Use a tax adviser for an individual calculation.

For most private buyers, personal ownership is common, but there is no universal answer. Company ownership can create additional tax, accounting and compliance consequences. Take legal and tax advice before choosing an ownership structure.

A Spanish will is not mandatory simply because you own Spanish property, but many international owners choose to make one for their Spanish assets to simplify succession administration. Cross-border inheritance rules can be complex, so obtain specialist advice.

Costa Blanca generally refers to the Mediterranean coast of Alicante province in the Valencian Community. It includes very different markets, from Dénia, Jávea, Moraira, Calpe and Altea in the north to Alicante, Santa Pola, Guardamar, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa and Pilar de la Horadada in the south.

Costa Blanca North is known for mountain-and-sea scenery, coves, established villa areas and towns such as Jávea, Moraira, Calpe and Altea. Costa Blanca South tends to offer flatter terrain, large international communities, golf resorts, extensive beaches and a broad choice of apartments, townhouses and new developments.

Popular choices include Alicante, Playa de San Juan, El Campello, Villajoyosa, Benidorm, Altea, Calpe, Moraira, Jávea, Dénia, Santa Pola, Guardamar, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa and Pilar de la Horadada. The right location depends on whether you prioritise permanent living, beach access, golf, rental potential, airport access or privacy.

Torrevieja has year-round services, healthcare, shopping, schools, beaches and a large international population. It suits buyers who want an active coastal city rather than a purely seasonal resort. As with any city, neighbourhood choice is important.

Orihuela Costa is a collection of coastal urbanisations and communities south of Torrevieja, including areas around La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Campoamor, Villamartín and Playa Flamenca. It is especially popular for golf, beaches, international services and lock-up-and-leave properties.

Often, prime parts of the northern Costa Blanca command higher prices, particularly sea-view villas and established luxury areas. However, there are premium and value markets in both north and south, so comparison should be property-by-property rather than by coastline alone.

Popular golf locations include the Orihuela Costa and nearby inland resort areas, as well as courses around Alicante and the northern province. If golf is a priority, consider travel time to several courses rather than buying solely beside one.

Many buyers who prefer flatter terrain look at parts of Alicante city, Santa Pola, Guardamar, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa and Pilar de la Horadada. Northern coastal towns can be hillier, which may provide spectacular views but can mean steep roads and more reliance on a car.

Very. South and southwest orientations can provide valuable winter sun, while east-facing homes can be ideal for morning sun and cooler afternoons. West-facing terraces can be hot in summer. The best orientation depends on whether the property is for year-round living, holidays or rental.

Flood and drainage risk should be considered in low-lying Mediterranean areas. Ask your lawyer and technical adviser to review official risk information where relevant, and obtain suitable insurance. Do not judge flood exposure from distance to the sea alone.

Costa Cálida is the Mediterranean coastline of the Region of Murcia. Key areas include San Pedro del Pinatar, Lo Pagán, Santiago de la Ribera, San Javier, Los Alcázares, the Mar Menor, La Manga, Cartagena's coastal areas, Mazarrón and Águilas.

Costa Cálida generally feels less urbanised in many stretches and includes the distinctive Mar Menor lagoon as well as Mediterranean coast. Property prices, taxes and planning rules are governed by the Region of Murcia rather than the Valencian Community, so legal and tax details differ.

The Mar Menor is a large saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by La Manga. It gives the surrounding towns a very different waterfront environment from an open-sea coast. Buyers should consider the exact side, water views, seasonal activity, environmental context and access that matter to them.

Los Alcázares attracts both residents and holiday-home owners and offers beaches, restaurants, shops and access to the Mar Menor. As with all coastal locations, inspect the immediate neighbourhood at different times of day and ask about year-round services and flood history.

La Manga is a narrow strip with water on both sides and a large stock of apartments and holiday properties. Buyers should pay particular attention to exact kilometre position, access, parking, seasonality, community services and whether they prefer Mar Menor or Mediterranean orientation.

Cartagena, Águilas, Mazarrón and a number of smaller coastal or nearby inland communities can appeal to buyers seeking a stronger year-round Spanish atmosphere. The best choice depends on services, transport, beach preference and how much international infrastructure you want.

Región de Murcia International Airport near Corvera is the principal regional airport. Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport can also be practical for parts of the northern Costa Cálida, depending on the route and airline.

No. Costa Cálida is in the Region of Murcia, while Costa Blanca is in the Valencian Community. The regional ITP and AJD rates are different, which is why purchase-cost calculations should be based on the exact property location.

Typical costs can include IBI, rubbish or municipal charges, community fees where applicable, home insurance, utilities, non-resident tax obligations, maintenance, pool and garden care, alarm or keyholding and property management. Villas and amenity-rich communities generally cost more to maintain than simple apartments.

IBI is set by the municipality and based on cadastral values and local rates, so it varies considerably. Ask for the latest IBI bill for the exact property rather than relying on a general online estimate.

Community fees fund shared expenses in a building or urbanisation, such as pools, gardens, lifts, cleaning, insurance, security and repairs. The amount depends on the community budget and the property's participation quota.

Yes. Budgets can rise and communities can approve extraordinary contributions for major works. Review recent meeting minutes and ask whether any special assessments have already been approved or are being discussed.

A derrama is an extraordinary community contribution, usually raised for major repairs or improvements beyond the normal annual budget. Before buying, ask whether any derramas have been approved, are outstanding or are likely.

Home insurance is strongly recommended and may be required by a mortgage lender. The appropriate policy depends on whether the property is a primary home, holiday home, rented property, apartment or villa with pool and garden.

Many overseas owners use keyholding, inspection, cleaning, maintenance, alarm and property-management services. Ibeka Homes can help connect owners with trusted local providers.

After completion, contracts can normally be transferred using the deed or completion documentation, identification, bank details and supply information. The exact procedure depends on the supplier and municipality.

Often yes, but technical, municipal and community rules may apply. In apartment communities, common elements and collective installations require particular attention. Obtain technical advice and permissions before contracting works.

Cosmetic internal works may be straightforward, but structural changes, façade works, terrace enclosures, pools, extensions and changes affecting common elements can require licences or community approval. Check before starting.

It is the community of owners that manages common elements in a building or development under Spain's horizontal-property regime. Owners contribute to budgets and vote on community matters according to the applicable rules and participation quotas.

Yes. Spanish law and community rules can significantly affect tourist accommodation. Since 3 April 2025, a new tourist-rental activity in a property subject to horizontal-property rules can require prior express community approval under the statutory voting rules, in addition to regional and local requirements.

Community rules can regulate conduct in common areas, but restrictions inside a privately owned home are subject to Spanish property and tenancy law. If pets are important to you, review the statutes and internal rules before purchase.

Potentially. Terraces, façades and other common elements are often subject to community and planning controls. Never assume that a neighbour's enclosure proves yours will be lawful.

Ask for recent annual-general-meeting and extraordinary-meeting minutes, budgets, accounts and details of approved works. Your lawyer should review material issues before completion.

Not necessarily. Opening periods, lifeguard requirements, maintenance and access rules vary by community. Ask for the current rules if year-round pool use matters to you.

Potentially, but the rules depend on the type of rental. Long-term residential renting, seasonal renting and tourist accommodation are legally different. Before buying for investment, verify the regional, municipal, community and national requirements for your intended use.

No. Tourist-rental use can be restricted by regional tourism rules, planning rules, local authorities, community-of-owners decisions and national short-term-rental registration requirements. Never buy on the assumption that a tourist licence will automatically be available.

Short-term rentals became subject to additional national registration and platform rules, and changes to the Horizontal Property Law from 3 April 2025 strengthened the need for prior community approval for new tourist-rental activity in many community properties. Regional and municipal rules still apply as well.

Spain introduced a national registration framework for short-term rental units used on online platforms. It sits alongside, rather than replacing, tourism, planning, community and tax requirements. Owners should confirm all applicable registrations before advertising.

No. Costa Blanca follows Valencian Community tourism rules, while Costa Cálida follows Region of Murcia rules. Municipal planning and community rules can add further differences.

Gross yield is annual rent divided by purchase price. A more useful net calculation subtracts community fees, IBI, insurance, management, maintenance, vacancy, utilities paid by the owner, tax and a realistic repairs allowance. Always model the legal rental use you can actually operate.

No. 'Rental potential' is marketing language unless supported by legal permission, realistic occupancy, achievable rates and a full cost model. Verify the permitted rental use first, then model conservative income and expenses.

Do not assume so. The treatment of existing registrations or licences can depend on the region, property, timing, current rules and community position. Your lawyer should confirm whether the activity can continue after transfer of ownership.

Usually, subject to Spanish tenancy law and the characteristics of the property. Long-term residential leases have different rules from tourist accommodation, including tenant protections and contract requirements.

Yes, rental income from Spanish property can create Spanish tax obligations. Rates, deductions and filing rules depend on your tax residence and the type of income. Use a tax adviser familiar with non-resident property owners.

For owners living abroad, a professional manager can handle guest communication, cleaning, check-ins, maintenance and local issues. If the property is used for tourist accommodation, ensure the manager operates within the legal requirements.

Yes. We can advise on positioning, presentation, pricing, marketing, viewings and buyer qualification, and coordinate the transaction with the legal professionals involved.

Common documents include identification/NIE, title deed, Land Registry information, IBI, energy certificate, community documentation where applicable, utility information and planning or occupancy documents. Additional documents may be needed depending on the property.

A seller may face capital-gains taxation and municipal plusvalía, depending on the transaction and personal circumstances. Mortgage cancellation and other costs may also apply. Obtain a seller net-proceeds calculation before agreeing a price.

When the seller is non-resident for Spanish tax purposes, the buyer is generally required to withhold 3% of the agreed consideration and pay it to the Spanish Tax Agency using Modelo 211 as a payment on account of the seller's tax liability.

No. It is a withholding from the price payable to the non-resident seller and is paid to the Tax Agency on the seller's account. The seller later settles the relevant non-resident tax position.

It is a municipal tax connected with the increase in value of urban land on transfer. The calculation and possible exemptions depend on the statutory rules and local data. Your lawyer or tax adviser should calculate it for the sale.

Yes. A properly drafted notarised power of attorney can allow an appointed representative to handle specified sale formalities if you cannot attend in person.

Not automatically. Small repairs, paint, lighting, decluttering and presentation can produce better value than a major renovation. Ibeka Homes can advise which improvements are likely to help the particular property and target buyer.

Price should reflect comparable competition, exact location, condition, orientation, views, community, legal status, current demand and urgency. An unrealistic launch price can reduce enquiries and leave the property looking stale.

Use independent legal representation, verify bank details through a second trusted channel, use traceable payments, insist on written contracts, review original or verified legal documents and use a properly drafted power of attorney. Never let speed replace due diligence.

Treat any last-minute change of bank details as high risk. Confirm account details by speaking to a known person on a verified telephone number, not only by replying to an email. Your lawyer should also verify the payee and payment purpose.

They are useful, but a video cannot reveal everything about noise, smells, gradients, neighbourhood activity, damp, build quality or views from every angle. For a fully remote purchase, consider an independent physical inspection or survey.

A power of attorney authorises another person to perform specified acts on your behalf. For property transactions it can cover NIE, banking or purchase formalities depending on how it is drafted. Only grant the powers that are appropriate to your transaction.

Often yes, through a suitable notarial process in your country. Apostille, legalisation or sworn translation requirements may apply depending on where it is signed. Your Spanish lawyer should give the exact signing instructions.

Yes. Many coastal towns have permanent populations, hospitals and clinics, supermarkets, schools, sports facilities and year-round restaurants. However, some individual urbanisations are much more seasonal, so assess the immediate neighbourhood rather than the region in general.

Yes, particularly around Cartagena, San Javier, San Pedro del Pinatar, Los Alcázares, Mazarrón and Águilas. The level of year-round activity varies by resort and neighbourhood, so visit outside peak summer if permanent living is your goal.

Yes. Alicante province has a range of international and bilingual private-school options, especially around Alicante, Elche, the northern Costa Blanca and areas serving international communities. Admissions, curriculum and transport differ, so school choice should be considered before choosing a home.

There are international and bilingual options in and around the Region of Murcia, including areas accessible from the Mar Menor and Cartagena. If schooling is central to your move, select the school first and test the daily commute before buying.

Access depends on your residence and social-security position, nationality and applicable agreements. EU health cards are designed for temporary stays, not as a substitute for arranging healthcare when becoming resident. Some residence routes require private health insurance.

You can manage many day-to-day situations in international coastal areas using English and other languages, but learning Spanish makes administration, healthcare, community life and local relationships much easier.

Empadronamiento is registration on the municipal population register at your local town hall. It records where you live and is used in many local and administrative processes. It is not itself a residence visa or immigration status.

Yes, but registration, tax, technical inspection, insurance and driving-licence issues can arise depending on whether you are visiting or becoming resident and where the vehicle was previously registered. Obtain current motoring advice before relocating a vehicle.

Yes, subject to EU/Spanish animal-health and identification requirements. The documents depend on the country of origin. Check the current veterinary and transport rules well before travel.

Coastal humidity, ventilation, construction details, leaks and periods of vacancy can all contribute to damp or mould. A musty smell, bubbling paint or staining should be investigated rather than simply painted over.

It can. Salt air can accelerate corrosion of metalwork, air-conditioning units, railings and exterior fittings. Sea-view homes are attractive, but include façade, glazing and metal maintenance in your ownership budget.

Check pool condition, filtration, leaks, pump equipment, legal/planning status, maintenance access and running costs. For older properties, confirm that the pool is correctly reflected in the relevant documentation.

Confirm its legal status, approved use, ventilation, waterproofing, ceiling height, access and whether the space is registered as represented. Do not value unverified additional space as if it were unquestionably legal living accommodation.

Yes. Intense rainfall events can affect certain low-lying areas. Check official risk mapping where relevant, drainage, garage access, previous incidents and insurance availability. A property can be inland and still have drainage or flood exposure.

For properties close to the shoreline, public maritime-terrestrial domain and coastal restrictions can be relevant. Your lawyer should investigate any issue affecting title, use, works or access when the property's position makes this necessary.

No. Older homes can have larger plots, established locations and character, but condition and documentation matter. Budget for technical inspection and future maintenance rather than comparing only price per square metre with a new build.

Spanish property forms part of your estate and cross-border succession rules may apply. The heirs will normally need to deal with inheritance documentation, taxes and Land Registry formalities in Spain.

Yes, but the amount can vary greatly according to the relationship between deceased and heir, residence factors, autonomous-community reliefs and the value of the estate. The Valencian Community and Region of Murcia have their own regional rules.

Generally yes, subject to the succession law that applies to your estate and any mandatory-heirship or choice-of-law issues. A specialist cross-border succession lawyer can structure the will appropriately.

Yes. If two or more people buy together, the ownership shares recorded in the deed can have future tax, succession and sale consequences. Discuss the intended shares with your lawyer before the deed is prepared.

We combine property search with practical guidance before, during and after the purchase. Our role is to help you understand the market, compare areas, negotiate clearly and connect you with trusted independent professionals for the legal, financial and technical work.

No. Our service is designed around the full buyer journey: area selection, viewings, property comparison, negotiation, introductions to legal and mortgage professionals, and practical after-sales support.

Yes. Tell us your budget, property type, intended use, preferred airport, beach or golf priorities, school needs and whether you plan to live permanently or use the home seasonally. We can then narrow the search to areas that genuinely fit your lifestyle.

Yes. We can organise a focused viewing schedule around your priorities so that you compare the right properties and neighbourhoods instead of spending your trip driving between unsuitable listings.

Yes. We can help connect you with trusted providers for utilities, keyholding, insurance, furnishing, maintenance, renovations and other practical needs, depending on the property and location.

Absolutely. Start with lifestyle rather than listings. We can compare areas by year-round living, beaches, golf, schools, airports, terrain, property style, budget and investment objectives, then build a shortlist.

Yes. Send us the reference or link and tell us what matters most to you. We can help compare location, property type, price positioning, running costs and practical strengths or compromises against other available options.

Your approximate budget, whether the budget includes purchase costs, preferred property type, minimum bedrooms, desired areas if known, essential features, intended use, finance requirements and when you hope to buy. The clearer the brief, the more useful the shortlist.

Of course. Good property decisions often start months before a viewing trip. We can help you understand areas, budgets and the buying process so you are ready when the right property appears.