FAQ – Buying a Property in Spain

Without a doubt, if you have made the decision to buy a property in Spain, the first step is to set a budget, and, moreover, a budget that is affordable to you. We have properties to suit most budgets, so budgeting is not something that should discourage you, in fat, the opposite, it means we are able to find the perfect property together easier.

This is a difficult one, because the answer is YES, and NO, because there are additional costs, but in terms of them being "hidden", we aim to be transparent every step of the way, as best we can, but there might be an occasional surprise for all of us. When looking at a property price, you need to factor in legal expenses, fees, costs, and other factors which are not reflected in the price. We will explain all of these in detail, we just want you to be prepared.

Our offices are located in Torrevieja, on the Costa Blanca in Spain, and we have properties from all around the area, including Torrevieja, the Orihuela Costa, Guardamar, Rojales, and many more. If you can´t find your location in the search list, you can still get in touch, as we collaborate with agents from around Spain, so we can still help you.

Off-plan properties are not yet built. They are "planned", and everything is ready for them to be constructed and legalised, but they do not usually exist. This is often (but not always) because the builder will require a number of investors before the project can start. The benefit of this kind of arrangement is that properties are often cheaper. Key-ready properties are already built, legal, and ready to move into.

No, you leave everything to us at Easy Buy Properties. We will handle all of the negotiations and discussions with the seller, to make sure you get the best deal possible, that´s what we do best, so leave it to us.

Yes, absolutely. Property transactions have legal protection, which includes protective legislation against money laundering. We will explain all of the finer details to you, but you can rest assured that your money is safe.

Yes, you do. We can suggest a lawyer from the firms we work with normally, but you are free to choose one yourself. If you do, we strongly recommended that you choose an independent lawyer who specialises in Spanish land law (urbanismo). Independent means that they work on your behalf only and are not also looking after the interests of the agent or developer.

Yes, you do, because the Spanish notary public will prepare the contract of sale and issue the public deeds. As the purchaser, you have the right to choose which notary you use, or we can suggest one for you. The notary is a public servant who has a duty to provide you with free and impartial legal advice on all aspects of the contract before you sign. It is a good idea to seek advice from the notary early on. When a date is set for signing the contract, you have 3 days beforehand to visit the notary and ask any questions you may have about any aspect of the contract.

A ‘gestor’ is a legal advisor, who is regulated and qualified to answer legal questions on your behalf. The gestor can become your legal representative and carry out bureaucracy on your behalf. Only a Gestor Administrativo with the GA kite mark is professionally qualified and certified to process paperwork directly with the Spanish administration.

All documentation must be completed in Spanish, which might not be a surprise, but if you don´t understand the language, then a translator is crucial. Like all administrative functions, we can advise you of who we have a relationship with, and who we trust, but it is vital that you feel confident, so you are free to find your own translator, but they must be accredited and trustworthy. The Spanish Ministry for Foreign Affairs has a list of translators on their website.

Mortgages are available for buying a property in Spain, but you need to check that the lender is authorised to operate in Spain, which you can do through the Bank of Spain. You must also pay close attention to the details of the mortgage conditions, including interest rates and repayment periods, fees for setting up the mortgage as well as early repayment and cancellation fees. Make sure you fully understand the mortgage agreement you sign. If you have any doubts check with the branch during the 10 working-day period after the binding offer has been provided. Your property is at risk if you default on a Spanish mortgage, and the banks can chase assets in the UK.

Yes you can, but you need to be aware that the rental sector is strictly controlled in Spain, and there are different standards, and different legislation, depending on whether you plan to rent your property for long term tenants, or as a holiday rental.

Yes, equity release schemes which allow homeowners to release equity from the value of their property as income, a lump sum or a mixture of both, are available in Spain. A reverse mortgage (hipoteca inversa) is one form of equity release which allows homeowners to borrow money against the value of their home, which is used as collateral. Reverse mortgages are generally marketed at retired homeowners who are over 65 years old.