Tips on How to Buy a Villa in Spain

Perhaps you’ve been thinking about it for a long time, and now you’ve finally decided the time is right to buy your dream house in Spain. But exactly how to buy a villa in Spain? Where do you begin? To help you get started, we have put together a list of tips for buying a villa in Spain. The main point is to gather sufficient information and plan things as much as possible.

Narrowing Down Your Options

Buying a villa in Spain is a dream for many, but turning that dream into reality starts with clear thinking. Before looking at properties, you have to write down what you want in your new home.
If you have children, you may want to choose an area where there are good schools and parks. You need to consider which regions best suit your lifestyle. Do you prefer a quiet setting, or do you want to live close to lively towns and amenities?
Accessibility is another key factor. Decide how important it is for you to be near an airport or major transport links. Some buyers want to reach the airport within half an hour, while others are comfortable travelling further for the right property.
Asking yourself these questions will help you narrow down the type of villa you are looking for and will help you in making the search more focused and efficient.

Working Out the Numbers

Once you have a clear idea of the type of property you want, the next step is to understand the financial side of buying a villa in Spain. This involves more than just agreeing on a purchase price. In addition to the agreed price, buyers have to factor in approximately 10–13% extra in their budget to cover things like:

• Property transfer tax or VAT (depending on whether the property is resale or new build)
• Notary and land registry fees
• Legal fees
• Administrative costs

Apart from these taxes and fees, you have take into account the ongoing expenses such as:

• Annual property taxes
• Community fees (if applicable)
• Maintenance and running costs

If your income is not in euros, exchange rate fluctuations can affect your final costs. Planning for this in advance can help avoid surprises at the time of purchase.

Getting Professional Advice

Two of the most important people involved in buying a villa in Spain are your estate agent and your lawyer. In both cases, it is essential to work with professionals who have a good reputation and who prioritise your interests.
A reliable estate agent should listen to your needs and guide you towards suitable properties. When it comes to legal matters, your lawyer’s role is to protect you throughout the buying process.
Many reputable estate agents can recommend experienced lawyers. In addition, online research can provide valuable insights. Your lawyer will be your most important person during the purchase, so trust and clear communication are essential during the whole buying process.

Legal Checks, Visas, and Tax Considerations

Buying property in Spain involves paperwork, but with the right guidance, the process is manageable.
If you are a non-EU buyer, you may need to consider visa or residency options, even if the property is only for part-time use. Many buyers seek advice early to understand how property ownership fits into their long-term plans.
Tax is another key factor. If you move to Spain permanently, you may become a tax resident and be liable for Spanish taxes on your worldwide income and assets. Even non-residents have tax obligations related to property ownership.
Your lawyer will also handle essential legal checks, including:

• Title deed verification
• Property registry reports
• Planning permissions
• Outstanding debts or charges

These checks are vital and should never be skipped.

Choosing the Right House

Once you have selected an estate agent, you can start by browsing their website to get a general impression of available properties. Alternatively, you can arrange a direct appointment and allow them to help you refine your search. Both approaches have their advantages and can be used together.
When you have narrowed your choice down to a short list, you can begin arranging viewings. During viewings, stay focused on your priorities, but also allow room for things that aren’t suitable for your needs.
Before making a final decision, it is strongly recommended to have the property surveyed. This provides peace of mind and helps identify any potential issues. Bringing a camera to viewings can also be useful, as reviewing photos later may help you evaluate properties more objectively.
Choosing the right house requires patience, realism, and time. Some compromises may be necessary, but careful consideration will help you reach an informed decision.

Following Up After the Purchase

Buying a villa in Spain does not end at the signing of the agreement. There are still practical matters to address, such as ownership structure, transaction costs, taxes, fees, and possible mortgage arrangements.
You may also need advice on furnishing your property or using it for short-term rentals. A reliable estate agent who offers extended after-sales services can be extremely valuable at this stage, or you may choose to work with an independent advisor.

Final Thoughts

Buying a villa in Spain is a significant step, but with proper planning and the right professional support, the process can be smooth. Taking the time to prepare and understand the costs will help you avoid common pitfalls in buying a villa in Spain.

If you want to look for villas on the south coast of Spain, feel free to browse through our up-to-date property database. We have many excellent villas for sale in the greater region of Marbella. Just contact us if you need more help!