Yes. Foreign nationals are legally allowed to buy property in Spain, whether they are residents or non-residents. There are no restrictions on ownership based on nationality.
However, residency status can affect financing, taxes, and long-term use of the property. This is why it’s important to understand your situation before committing.
No. You do not need to be a resident to buy property in Spain.
That said, non-residents often face different conditions when it comes to mortgages, taxes, and ongoing costs. Some proposed regulations and taxes also distinguish between residents and non-residents, which can affect planning.
At a minimum, buyers need:
A valid passport or ID
An NIE number (foreign identification number)
Funds for the purchase price, taxes, and fees
A Spanish bank account (commonly required)
Additional requirements depend on whether you are buying with cash or financing, and whether you are resident or non-resident.
Yes, in many cases non-residents can obtain a mortgage in Spain, but conditions are usually stricter.
Non-resident buyers are often required to provide a higher deposit, commonly 30–40 percent of the purchase price, plus taxes and fees. Interest rates, income verification, and documentation requirements can vary between banks.
This depends on your residency status and the lender.
Residents may be able to borrow a higher percentage of the purchase price.
Non-residents typically need a larger deposit.
Buyers should also budget for taxes and purchase costs, which can add 10–15 percent to the price.
Agencies and lenders can explain what applies to your situation.
This depends on personal circumstances.
Some buyers prefer to rent before buying, especially if they are unsure about location, lifestyle, or long-term plans. Others buy earlier for personal or family reasons.
It’s important to consider financing costs, property maintenance, taxes, and whether the property will be occupied or empty for long periods.
Common risks include:
Misunderstanding legal or planning status
Overestimating mortgage availability
Underestimating taxes and ongoing costs
Choosing an agent or property that does not fit your situation
These risks can be reduced by working with experienced, properly registered professionals and taking time to compare options.
A lawyer is not legally required, but many buyers, especially foreign buyers, choose to use one.
A property lawyer can review contracts, confirm legal status, and help ensure that the transaction follows Spanish law. Agencies often coordinate with lawyers and notaries as part of the process.
Property agents in Spain assist buyers and sellers with pricing, negotiations, viewings, and coordination with other professionals such as lawyers and notaries.
There is no single national licensing system, and requirements vary by region. This means experience, service quality, and fees can differ significantly between agencies.
Choosing the right agent depends on:
Your location and property type
Whether you are buying or selling
Your residency and financing situation
Communication style and transparency
Speaking with more than one agency helps you understand differences in approach, fees, and expectations. Thats why we're here, fill out the form and vetted agencies will be in touch, at least 1 and up to 4
Regulation varies by region.
Some regions require agents to be registered and meet specific requirements, while others rely on general business regulation. Because of this, it’s important to verify that an agency operates as a legitimate, registered business.
Fees vary by agency and region.
Some agents charge a percentage of the purchase or sale price, while others may use fixed fees or different structures. Fees and services should always be clearly explained before you proceed.
In many cases, yes.
Different agencies may specialise in different markets, buyer profiles, or property types. Comparing responses can help you avoid unrealistic expectations and better understand your options.
You submit one request indicating whether you want to buy or sell property in Spain.
Vetted and registered property agencies that match your situation may respond with information about how they can help, their services, and their fees. You decide who to speak with and whether to continue. There is no obligation.
Yes. Agencies must operate as official, registered businesses and meet professional standards before being allowed to respond to requests.
Complaints are taken seriously, and agencies that fail to meet expectations may be removed.