Buying a house in Spain in 10 steps: a step-by-step process and how to avoid pitfalls. Do you want to buy a house in Spain?

The first thing that comes to mind after deciding to purchase a property in Spain is ‘How should I do this? What is the roadmap?’. Therefore, we would like to help you clear those doubts, save you time and money and make sure you don’t make any mistakes.

The purchase process of a property in Spain in 10 steps.

When making important financial decisions, such as buying a property in Spain, a clear buying process can be very helpful in preparing and working your way through the Spanish property market. But we will also see that a process or a checklist are anything but sufficient and do not guarantee a hassle-free purchase.

Preparation phase
Set realistic expectations, requirements the property should meet, location, budget, financing, etc. Decide whether to go it alone or with the help of an estate agent representing your interests in Spain. Besides the purchase price, also look at additional costs for your purchase and annually recurring costs.

Make a shortlist
Search, select and visit houses or apartments that appeal to you most. Make a shortlist of your favourites.

Identify potential problems
Estate agent is a free profession in Spain, research before you engage with someone what kind of party it is. How long they have been in existence, offices/head offices. Google the company name and look for references. Of course, you can also request these from the estate agent himself. Read more about choosing the right estate agent in Spain in this article

Determine the negotiation potential
Unfortunately, there is no standard rule for this. Estimate the real value of the property so you never overpay. Pay attention to the value for money Negotiate then, using rational arguments and the necessary empathy to achieve your goal. If you have doubts about the price or feel uncomfortable negotiating, it is best to leave it to a buying agent. It can save you a lot of money.

Booking
Reserve the property, with proper documents. Do not pay cash.

Check
Check everything thoroughly before signing a contract. The notary does not do this in Spain. Protect your interests legally, technically and financially. It happens very often in Spain that the seller or estate agent does not mention problems.

Arras contract
Sign a proper ‘Arras contract’ (a compromise), one that protects your interests. A contract offered by the seller often does not. Anything can happen before the final sale and also after. A good contract provides for such things.

Preparation for signing
Prepare to sign the purchase at the notary. Among other things, think about calculating any amounts to be deducted from the purchase price, applying for your financing, coordinating with all parties, going over the deed the day before the signing, etc.

Signing at the notary
Sign your purchase at the notary. You pay the remaining amount and receive the keys… your keys!

Obligations after the purchase
Think about: registration office, council tax, utilities.