Understanding the Property Purchase Process in Spain

Below is a clear step-by-step overview of how buying a home in Spain works - with special notes on how we support you at every stage.

1. Define your goals and understand the market

Before visiting any property, it’s essential to clarify:

• Your budget (including taxes & fees)

• Investment strategy (personal use vs. rental)

• Expectations around lifestyle, neighbourhoods, or ROI

• Desired property type (new build, resale, rural finca, coastal apartment…)

  
  

How we support you:

✔ Personalised investment strategy

✔ Profitability estimates for rental investments

✔ Local market insights in Almería province

✔ Access to off-market and partner-listed properties through our real-estate network

2. Obtain your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)

The NIE is mandatory for purchasing any property in Spain. Without it, the notary cannot complete the transaction.

How we support you:

✔ Full NIE application

✔ Preparation of forms & tax payments

✔ Appointments and legal support

✔ Available in our Property Buyer Package and relocation services

3. Open a Spanish bank account

You will need a local bank account to pay taxes, utilities, and mortgage instalments if financing is required.

How we support you:

✔ Bank account setup

✔ Local banking guidance (resident vs. non-resident accounts)

4. Property Search & Viewings

Spain does not have a unified MLS system; properties can be listed with multiple agencies or only available through private networks.This makes local connections essential.

How we support you:

✔ Direct collaboration with trusted partner real-estate agencies

✔ Personalised property search

✔ Up to 5 home viewings included in the Property Buyer Package

✔ Professional screening of properties before visits

5. Reservation Contract (Contrato de Reserva)

Once you’ve chosen a property and you want to make an official OFFER (Oferta), a small deposit (typically €3,000–€6,000) is paid to reserve it while documents are verified.

How we support you:

✔ Legal review of reservation contract by our in-house lawyer

✔ Verification of seller, property status, and liabilities

✔ Protection of your deposit

6. Legal Due Diligence & Checks

Before signing anything binding, the legal team must verify:

• Land registry details

• Ownership and debts

• Licenses & legality

• Community fees

• Energy certificate

• Urban planning compliance

  
  

How we support you:

✔ Complete administrative, legal, tax, and registry checks

✔ Identification of risks or irregularities

✔ Negotiation support

7. Signing the Private Purchase Contract (Contrato de Arras)

This contract typically requires a 10% deposit. It defines obligations and penalties for both parties.

How we support you:

✔ Full legal review and negotiation

✔ Secure signature (in-person or via power of attorney)

8. Mortgage arrangement (if applicable)

International buyers can apply for mortgages in Spain. Non-residents typically receive up to 60–70% LTV.

How we support you:

✔ Introduction to trusted banks and brokers

✔ Document preparation

✔ Support during the risk review and approval process

✔ Translation & guidance through mortgage terms

9. Signing the Title Deed at the Notary

The notary confirms identity, legality, and the final terms.After signing the escritura, you officially own the property.

How we support you:

✔ Notary appointment coordination

✔ In-person support on signing day

✔ Power of attorney option if you cannot travel

10. Taxes, Registration & Post-Purchase Setup

After signing, several administrative steps follow:

• Payment of taxes (ITP or VAT + AJD)

• Property registration

• Transfer of utilities

• Insurance setup

• Local tax registration

  
  

How we support you:

✔ Full tax management & registration support

✔ Utility setup (water, electricity, gas, internet)

✔ Home insurance guidance

✔ Alarm system or community registration assistance

Why Work with Andamara &

Move to Almería?

✔ In-house legal and tax experts — no outsourcing

✔ Broad local real-estate network — agencies, developers & private sellers

✔ Deep knowledge of the Almería region

✔ Multilingual team who understands your culture and expectations

✔ Full 360° support — from NIE to utilities and residency

📌 Checklist for International Property Buyers in Spain

Use this as a step-by-step guide during your purchasing journey.

Before your search

✔ Define your budget (consider 11–14% extra for taxes & fees)

✔ Get clarity on lifestyle preferences or investment goals

✔ Request an initial consultation with Move to Almería

Documents you will need

✔ Valid passport

✔ NIE number

✔ Proof of funds / income

✔ Spanish bank account

✔ If financing: international tax returns, bank statements, payslips

During the property search

✔ Compare neighbourhoods

✔ Request market analysis

✔ Check property’s legal status

✔ Ask for community fees and IBI tax amounts

✔ Consider rental potential (if relevant)

Before signing

✔ Legal due diligence complete

✔ Reservation or arras contract reviewed by a lawyer

✔ Mortgage offer confirmed

✔ Final price & timeline agreed

At the notary

✔ Passport

✔ NIE

✔ Bank cheques / bank transfer confirmation

✔ Power of attorney (if applicable)

✔ Copies of contracts

After purchase

✔ Pay taxes (ITP/VAT, AJD)

✔ Register the property

✔ Change utilities (water, electricity, internet)

✔ Take out home insurance

✔ Register with the Town Hall (if becoming a resident)

Start Your Property Journey in Almería — Safely, Legally and With Confidence

Buying property in Spain doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, it becomes an exciting and empowering experience.

If you're considering purchasing or investing in Almería province, our team is here to support you at every step — legally, financially, and logistically.

👉 Book your consultation: info@andamara.com

👉 Explore our relocation services: www.movetoalmeria.com

👉 Follow us: @andamara and @movetoalmeria (Instagram & LinkedIn)