Buying Property in Spain
The process, the costs, and residency — clearly explained
Buying in Spain is straightforward once you understand the steps. This guide covers the process from offer to completion, what it really costs, how it works as a non-resident, and what residency looks like after the Golden Visa — written by an independent, licensed advisor.
The buying process, step by step
Offer & reservation
Once your offer is accepted, a reservation contract is signed with a deposit of around 1% to take the property off the market.
Arras (preliminary contract)
The arras is signed with a deposit of 10%, legally binding both parties and setting the completion date.
Due diligence
Legal checks, surveys and mortgage arrangement if needed — coordinated with lawyers, banks and surveyors.
Completion
Signing at the notary and key handover: as quick as two weeks without a mortgage, or up to two months with financing.
Guides in this series
The Cost of Buying Property in Spain
Taxes and fees in Catalonia, 2026 — ITP, IVA, AJD, notary, registry and legal, with a worked example.
Buying as a Non-Resident
The NIE, a Spanish bank account, taxes, mortgages for foreign buyers, and buying remotely by power of attorney.
The Arras Contract Explained
Spain’s preliminary contract — the 10% deposit, the three types of arras, the penalties, and what to check first.
Residency After the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa ended in April 2025. What changed for buyers, and the routes that remain.
Catalonia Property Market Report
Guide €/m² prices and 2026 trends across Barcelona, Sitges, Girona and the Costa Brava, with what is driving demand.
Selling Property in Spain
For sellers: capital gains tax, plusvalía, the 3% non-resident retention, agent fees and the selling process, step by step.
Sitges vs Castelldefels
The two prime Garraf-coast towns compared — character, property, prices, families, beaches and connectivity.
Sitges vs Barcelona
Coastal-town life or the city? Property, prices, lifestyle, families and the commute, compared.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy property in Spain?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Spain. You will need an NIE (foreigner’s identification number) and usually a Spanish bank account to complete.
How long does it take to buy a property in Spain?
From accepted offer to completion can be as little as two weeks where there is no mortgage, or up to around two months when financing is involved.
What is the arras contract?
The arras is Spain’s preliminary purchase contract. It is signed with a deposit of 10%, legally commits both buyer and seller, and sets the completion date. If the buyer withdraws they typically forfeit the deposit; if the seller withdraws they usually repay double.
How much does it cost to buy in Spain?
Budget roughly 10–12% of the price in Catalonia for taxes and fees on top of the purchase price. See our dedicated cost guide for the full breakdown and a worked example.
Does buying property give me residency in Spain?
No longer. The Golden Visa that linked a €500,000+ purchase to residency ended on 3 April 2025. You can still buy freely, but residency now requires a separate route such as the Non-Lucrative or Digital Nomad visa.
Buying in Spain? Have us on your side.
As your independent, licensed buyer’s agent we coordinate lawyers, notaries and banks, and negotiate on your behalf, from first viewing to completion.