Buying a Property in Andalusia, Spain

If you’ve been dreaming of your own home in the sun, this short guide explains the key steps and costs involved when buying property in southern Spain.

1. Choose Your Area and Budget

Andalusia offers many lifestyles — from beachfront apartments to peaceful mountain villages. Before you start viewing, think about:

Where you’d like to live and the type of property that suits you best.
Access to airports, schools, shops, and healthcare.
Your total budget, allowing extra for taxes and legal costs.

Tip: Always use an independent lawyer to handle contracts, legal checks, and payments.

2. Typical Buying Costs (Andalusia 2025)

Resale Properties

Transfer Tax (ITP): 7%
Notary & Land Registry Fees: 1–1.5%
Legal Fees: around 1%
Total Estimated Costs: around 8–10% of the purchase price

New-Build Properties

VAT (IVA): 10%
Stamp Duty (AJD): around 1.2%
Other Fees: around 1–2%
Total Estimated Costs: around 12–13.5% of the purchase price

Example: For a €300,000 property, budget an additional €25,000–€40,000 depending on whether it’s a resale or new-build home.

3. Get Your Spanish NIE Number

Every foreign buyer needs a NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) — this is your Spanish tax identification number. You can apply in Spain, through a Spanish Consulate, or ask your lawyer to arrange it for you using Power of Attorney.

4. The Buying Process in 3 Simple Steps

Step 1: Reservation

Once you’ve agreed on a price, a short reservation agreement is signed, and a small deposit (usually €3,000–€6,000) is paid to secure the property for a few weeks while legal checks are completed.

Step 2: Private Purchase Contract

After the checks are complete, both parties sign the Private Purchase Contract and you pay 10% of the purchase price (minus the reservation). This confirms the sale and sets a completion date, typically within 4–8 weeks.

Step 3: Completion at the Notary

The final payment is made at the notary’s office. You (or your lawyer) sign the title deed, pay taxes, and receive the keys. Your lawyer then registers the property in your name at the Land Registry.

5. Buyer Checklist

Choose your preferred area and property type.
Hire an independent, English-speaking lawyer.
Apply for your NIE number early.
Pay the reservation deposit.
Sign the Private Purchase Contract and pay 10%.
Prepare funds for completion, taxes, and fees.
Complete at the notary and collect your keys.

6. Common Questions

Can I buy without travelling to Spain?
Yes. Your lawyer can sign at the notary on your behalf using Power of Attorney.

How long does an NIE take?
Usually 2–4 weeks if arranged by your lawyer.

Who chooses the notary?
Your lawyer usually recommends one, agreed by both buyer and seller.

When do I get the keys?
At the notary, once the deed is signed and the final payment has cleared.

7. Quick Glossary

NIE: Foreigner identification number required to buy property in Spain.
ITP: Transfer Tax on resale properties (7%).
IVA: VAT on new-build homes (10%).
AJD: Stamp Duty on new-builds (~1.2%).
PPC / Arras: Private Purchase Contract (10% deposit).
Escritura: Final title deed signed at the notary.

Contact Us

If you’d like a full cost breakdown or help finding your ideal property, please get in touch. Our team will guide you through every step of buying your new home in Andalusia.