Buy / with us
Your Essential Guide to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol.
The Costa del Sol is more than just a place to buy a holiday home — it’s a lifestyle destination that combines sunshine, culture, strong infrastructure, and property value. Whether you’re looking for a permanent move, a second residence, or an investment, this guide offers you a clear path through every stage of the property buying process.
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Why Choose the Costa del Sol?
The Costa del Sol, stretching from Málaga to Sotogrande, is one of Europe’s most sought-after regions for international property buyers. Its appeal lies in more than just the climate — it offers a unique mix of leisure, security, and long-term value.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, excellent healthcare and education services, and international airports in both Málaga and Gibraltar, the region is as practical as it is beautiful. Its diverse towns and villages offer everything from vibrant beach life to peaceful mountain living, while the international community ensures that English-speaking services are widely available.
Here’s why so many international buyers invest here:
Safe, stable property market with high liquidity
Wide range of property types and price points
Coastal, golf, village, and rural locations to choose from
Rental potential for both long-term and holiday lets
Strong resale values and capital appreciation over time
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Understanding the Market and Defining Your Search
Before you begin viewing properties, it’s essential to define what you’re looking for. Are you purchasing a holiday apartment close to the beach, or are you in the market for a villa to use as your full-time residence? Do you plan to rent the property out, or is it purely for personal use?
You should also consider whether a new-build or a resale home fits your plans better. New developments typically come with energy efficiency, warranties, and modern finishes, while resale homes may offer more space or character, sometimes at a more competitive price. Location will play a major role in your experience — whether you prefer proximity to international schools, golf courses, quiet countryside, or a lively paseo marítimo.
Importantly, set a realistic budget early on. In addition to the purchase price, buyers should plan for an additional 10–13% to cover taxes, legal fees, and administrative costs. This will help you avoid unnecessary surprises during the process.
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Starting the Search – With the Right Support
Once you’ve defined your needs and financial plan, the next step is choosing a knowledgeable, reputable agency to guide your search. At Solvista Property, our role is not just to show you listings. We help you evaluate the real value of a property, its location, long-term potential, and legal standing.
We work with a wide network of sellers and developers across the entire Costa del Sol, giving you access to exclusive properties and private listings not available on public portals. Our local insight ensures that you’re not just buying a property — you’re finding the right lifestyle fit.
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Making an Offer and Securing the Property
When you’ve found the right home, your agent will help you make a formal offer. If accepted, the next step is signing a reservation contract. This typically requires a deposit between €6,000 and €10,000, which removes the property from the market while legal checks are carried out.
From here, a lawyer will begin due diligence to confirm that the property is legally sound, free of debts, and correctly registered. If you’re not based in Spain, your lawyer can represent you via power of attorney — handling all steps on your behalf and ensuring nothing is overlooked.
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Legal Requirements and Costs
Every non-resident buyer must obtain a Spanish NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is required for any official transaction in Spain. You’ll also need a Spanish bank account for mortgage payments and utilities.
The legal process includes drafting a private purchase contract, usually signed with a 10% deposit. The final signing takes place before a notary, where the deed is formalised and the remaining balance is paid.
Typical additional costs include:
7% transfer tax on resale properties
10% VAT and 1.2% stamp duty on new builds
1–2% for notary and registry fees
1% (plus VAT) in legal fees
These vary slightly depending on location and property type, but your lawyer will provide a clear cost estimate before you commit.
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Financing Your Purchase
Foreign buyers are eligible to apply for mortgages from Spanish banks, with financing usually available up to 70% of the purchase price. The approval process requires documentation such as tax returns, proof of income, and credit references.
Mortgage terms for non-residents generally span up to 25 or 30 years, with both fixed and variable interest rates available. If needed, we can introduce you to trusted mortgage brokers who work specifically with international clients.
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Final Signing and Key Handover
The final step is signing the public deed of sale — known as the Escritura Pública de Compraventa — at the notary’s office. This is where the remaining balance is paid, taxes are settled, and you officially become the legal owner of the property.
Once signed, the notary will send the deed for registration at the local Land Registry. At this point, you receive the keys and your new life on the Costa del Sol begins.
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After the Sale
Owning a property in Spain comes with a few responsibilities, but nothing complicated — especially with the right support.
After your purchase is completed, you’ll need to:
Register utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)
Take out suitable home insurance
Pay local property taxes and community fees
Apply for a tourist rental licence (if applicable)
Arrange maintenance or property management if you’re not living full-time
Solvista remains available to assist with all of these steps and can recommend trusted partners for services ranging from interior design to tax advisory.
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Avoiding Common Pitfalls
The Costa del Sol is a safe and transparent market, but as with any international purchase, there are mistakes to avoid. Always work with an independent lawyer who acts solely on your behalf. Never commit without confirming that the property is fully legal and correctly registered. And avoid underestimating the full cost of purchase — including future maintenance and community fees.
At Solvista, our team exists to ensure you make decisions based on facts, not guesswork.
Why / choose us
Expertise, discretion, results.
Buying a property on the Costa del Sol is a significant and exciting step. With the right planning and expert support, the process can be smooth, rewarding, and even enjoyable.
Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to make an offer, we’re here to help — with clarity, experience, and full commitment to your goals.
- Clear guidance throughout the buying process
- Deep market knowledge and local expertise
- Access to vetted properties and trusted legal partners
- Full commitment to your needs, from first viewing to final signature
Our / services
What we can do for you.
01.
Personalised Property Search
Tailored shortlists based on your lifestyle, investment goals, and preferences.
02.
Private Viewings & Virtual Tours
Flexible in-person or remote property tours, scheduled at your convenience.
03.
Legal & Financial Coordination
Introductions to trusted lawyers, mortgage advisors, and tax consultants.
04.
Offer & Negotiation Support
We handle negotiations strategically and transparently to secure the best deal.
05.
Due Diligence Oversight
We work closely with legal teams to ensure every property is fully compliant and risk-free.
06.
Multilingual Assistance
Our team speaks your language and understands the needs of international buyers.
07.
Post-Purchase Services
Utility setup, renovation support, furnishing, insurance, and property management referrals.
Got / questions?
We’ve Got Answers.
In general, you should budget an extra 10–13% on top of the purchase price. This includes transfer tax or VAT, notary and registry fees, legal services, and other administrative expenses.
Yes — Spain has no restrictions on foreign buyers. Whether you’re an EU or non-EU citizen, you can purchase property freely and securely.
Yes, you’ll need an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — a tax identification number required for any property transaction in Spain. Your lawyer can help you obtain it, even by power of attorney.
Both options have advantages. New builds offer modern features and warranties but are subject to VAT (10%). Resale homes often come with more space and character, and are taxed at 7%. The best choice depends on your needs, budget, and timeline.
On average, it takes between 6 to 12 weeks from making an offer to signing the final deed. However, the timeline can vary depending on due diligence, financing, and the seller’s situation.
Yes. Most Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, typically covering up to 70% of the property value. You’ll need to provide proof of income, tax returns, and credit documentation.
You’ll be responsible for annual property tax (IBI), garbage collection fees, and any community charges if the property is part of a residential complex. Non-residents may also need to file an annual tax return.
Absolutely. We offer ongoing support, from utility registration and home insurance to renovation contacts, property management, and holiday rental licensing guidance.
Ready to Own Property on the Costa del Sol?
Let us guide you from search to signature — with expert advice, local
insight, and properties handpicked to match your lifestyle.