How it works

At Grand Homes, we guide both buyers and sellers through the entire process – from the first viewing to the final signing at the notary and beyond. Our goal is to make you feel safe, informed, and supported every step of the way.

Buying a property in Spain differs from the process in countries like Sweden. With our knowledge and experience, we provide the guidance you need to feel comfortable and secure throughout your purchase.


No Exclusive Listings

In Spain, it is unusual for sellers to sign an exclusivity agreement with just one broker. This means that the same property can often be listed by several different agencies.


NIE Number

To buy a home in Spain, you must have a Spanish tax identification number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero – NIE). This number is required in order to open a bank account and sign the title deed.

The simplest way to obtain an NIE is through legal representation. Since the process can take several weeks, we recommend starting early. Contact us and we will help you begin the application.


Prices

Property prices in Spain are normally fixed, and bidding is unusual.


Additional Expenses

When purchasing a property, you should expect to add around 13–14% to the price to cover fees and taxes. These can be divided into four categories:



1. Notary & Registration

  • Notary fees: regulated by law and depend on the complexity of the documentation (from approx. €800).
  • Land Registry: once signed before the notary, the deed is entered into the Registro de la Propiedad. Fees start around €400, depending on the property value.





 

2. Taxes

  • New build: 10% IVA (VAT) + approx. 1.5% AJD (stamp duty).
  • Resale: approx. 10% ITP (transfer tax).
  • Plusvalía: a municipal tax on the increase in land value. Legally the seller is responsible, but it can sometimes be negotiated.






 

3. Legal Fees

Hiring an independent lawyer is essential. They safeguard your interests, review contracts, and handle the entire legal process.
Current cost: approx. €1,850 (includes NIE application, opening bank accounts, and transferring utility contracts).


4. Banking & Currency Exchange

  • Standard international bank transfers often include both fees and unfavorable exchange rates. Depending on the bank, this can range between 0.5–4%.
  • A currency exchange company is often a better choice, as they use local accounts in both countries and can save you significant costs.
  • If you require a mortgage, Spanish banks usually lend up to 70% of the purchase price, with terms of up to 20 years (depending on age). Expect an administration fee of around 2%. Current interest rates are typically 2–4%.












 

Community Fees

Most properties that are part of a residential complex (comunidad) have ongoing community fees. These cover maintenance of pools, gardens, lifts, and communal areas. The cost varies depending on the property and services provided.



The Buying Process

  • Reservation deposit: when an offer is accepted, the buyer usually pays €3,000–€6,000 to secure the property.
  • Private purchase contract (Contrato de Arras): normally signed within a few weeks, at which point the buyer pays around 10% of the purchase price.
  • Completion: the remaining balance is paid on the day of signing at the notary, when keys are handed over.












 

Title Deed & Notary

The title deed (Escritura de Compraventa) is registered in the Land Registry, which takes approx. 2–3 months. Once completed, you receive the original deed with the registration certificate.

The notary is a public official who verifies the identity of the parties and ensures the legality of the transaction. Please note: the notary does not inspect the condition of the property. As the buyer, you are responsible for arranging inspections before signing.



About Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca is a 220 km stretch of Mediterranean coastline in the Alicante province, famous for its sandy beaches, rich culture, and 300 days of sunshine per year.

Highlights include:


  • Beaches & Climate: Guardamar, Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa, with a WHO-recognized healthy microclimate.
  • Lifestyle & Activities: golf courses, padel courts, hiking and biking trails, sailing, and water sports.
  • Family fun: water parks, safari parks, and riding schools.
  • Shopping & dining: Zenia Boulevard, Habaneras, El Corte Inglés, and countless local markets and restaurants.
  • Cities & culture: Alicante – the vibrant capital of the Costa Blanca, often described as a “mini-Barcelona.”










 

Whether you are looking for a permanent home, a holiday getaway, or an investment, the Costa Blanca has something for everyone.

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