Buying & Selling Property On The Costa Del Sol

Guidance you can trust, every step of the way

The Spanish property market works differently to the one you know at home. We guide international buyers and sellers through every stage with clarity, local insight and genuine support.

Whether you are exploring a lifestyle move, an investment opportunity, or preparing to sell, our role is the same: to make the process informed, transparent and far easier to navigate. We represent your interests on the ground, so decisions are made with confidence rather than guesswork.

FOR BUYERS

The Buying Process

Five clear stages, from first reservation to keys in hand — with us alongside you throughout.

01

Appoint a lawyer

Engage a Spanish lawyer from the start. They protect your interests and guide you through the process. We can introduce trusted professionals who speak your language.

02

Reservation

A deposit (typically from €6,000, or around 1% on higher-value homes) takes the property off the market and fixes the terms. Upon paying the reservation deposit, a reservation contract will be signed.

03

Private Purchase Contract

Around 14 days later, both parties sign and 10% of the agreed figure is paid, securing the commitment on both sides.

04

Signing Deeds

The official purchase completes at the notary. The deed is signed, the balance settled and ownership formally transferred to you.

05

Land Registry

After the deed of ownership has been signed, the notary will send a copy to the regional land registry. Your lawyer will also pay the transfer taxes in your name and register the title deed.

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Local Representation

We´re here when you can´t be

Distance, language and unfamiliar paperwork shouldn’t stand between you and the right property. We act as your personal representative on the ground, coordinating viewings, liaising with lawyers and keeping everything moving while you’re abroad.

THE DETAIL

As a general guide, allow for roughly 9%–14% of the agreed figure to cover taxes and acquisition costs in Andalucia. Where a Spanish mortgage is involved, some additional costs may apply.

  • Resale property — Transfer Tax (ITP) 7%
  • New build — VAT (IVA) 10%
  • New build — Stamp Duty (AJD) 1.2%

*Charged on the agreed figure or the official taxable value, whichever is higher.

Legal fees:  ~1% + VAT (min. ~€1,500 + 21% VAT)
Notary & land registry (combined) ~0.5%–1%
Notary fees are regulated by law and depend on the value and complexity of the transaction. Registry costs are typically lower.

Spanish banks offer attractive options to non-residents, typically financing up to 70% of the purchase value or valuation, whichever is lower. Terms generally run 20–25 years, usually repaid before age 75.

Lenders prefer total monthly debt payments to stay within 30%–35% of net monthly income. Where financing is used, expect additional valuation, arrangement and administration costs of roughly €800–€2,000.

If you buy a new home, the developer is obliged to issue a bank guarantee for every payment.
Please note that new developments will be delivered without water and electricity connections. Your lawyer can arrange these contracts.

READY WHEN YOU ARE

Looking To Buy Property On The Costa Del Sol?

Looking To Buy Property On The Costa Del Sol?

Receive tailored guidance, curated opportunities and local expertise designed specifically for international buyers and investors.

FOR SELLERS

The Selling Process

A considered, well-positioned sale that reaches the right buyers, locally and internationally.

01

Consultation & Valuation

We assess your property, objectives and ideal strategy against current market conditions, giving you an informed, realistic valuation.

02

Positioning & Presentation

We help prepare your property for market through professional photography, presentation guidance and strategic marketing positioning.

03

International Exposure

Your property is promoted across relevant channels to qualified local and international audiences actively searching on the Costa del Sol.

04

Buyer Management & Negotiation

We handle enquiries, coordinate viewings, qualify buyers and support negotiations professionally, keeping you informed throughout.

05

Legal Coordination & Completion

We work alongside trusted legal professionals to help ensure a smooth, transparent and secure transaction from agreement through to completion.

PRESENTED WITH CARE

The right buyers, not just any buyers

A successful sale is about reaching qualified, motivated buyers and showing your property at its best. We combine professional presentation with targeted international exposure, so your home is seen by the people most likely to value it.

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THE DETAIL

Capital Gains Tax applies to the profit on a sale. The difference between the acquisition value (including certain costs) and the transfer value (less selling expenses). For Spanish tax residents, gains are taxed at progressive rates:

  • First €6,000 19%
  • €6,001 – €50,000 21%
  • €50,001 – €200,000 23%
  • €200,001 – €300,000 27%
  • Over €300,000 28%

For most non-resident owners, capital gains are taxed at a flat rate of 19% on the net gain. When a non-resident sells, the buyer is legally required to withhold 3% of the agreed figure and pay it directly to the Spanish Tax Authority (AEAT) as an advance towards the seller’s liability.

The Plusvalía Municipal (Municipal Capital Gains Tax) is a local tax levied on the increase in the value of the urban land during the period of ownership. This tax is normally payable by the seller. The amount varies depending on the municipality, the cadastral land value, and the length of ownership.

All figures are provided as a general guide and were believed correct at the time of writing. Tax rates and regulations change. Please confirm current figures with a qualified legal or tax professional before making any decision.

If you buy a new home, the developer is obliged to issue a bank guarantee for every payment.
Please note that new developments will be delivered without water and electricity connections. Your lawyer can arrange these contracts.

THINKING OF SELLING?

Let´s talk about your property

We can support you with appraisal, listing, positioning and marketing to
qualified international buyers. Start with a free, no-obligation valuation.