Living a little above Marbella doesn't necessarily mean compromising on convenience. Las Lomas de los… more
Buying a home in Spain is a big step. It can be exciting, but it also raises plenty of questions. With over 40 years of experience in property, both in the UK and here in Spain, we guide buyers with honest advice, local knowledge, and a straightforward, no-pressure approach.
Our multilingual team is based in Marbella and works with international buyers across the Costa del Sol. From new developments to established resales and villas, we help you navigate a wide choice of properties, both along the coast and inland.
From the moment you get in touch, your consultant will take the time to understand what you are looking for and help narrow the search to homes that genuinely fit your needs. We don’t push. We guide, recommend, and support, so you can make decisions with confidence.
Some buyers prefer to contact several estate agents, while others find it easier to have one person coordinating the search across the market. Our Property Finding Service explains how a more buyer-focused arrangement can work.
Whether you are in Spain or searching from abroad, we keep you informed throughout the process. We don’t organise rigid inspection trips. Most of our clients prefer to travel independently and take things at their own rhythm. We are available when needed, without pressure.
You do not need to be resident in Spain to buy a property here. However, every foreign buyer will need an NIE, the identification number used for financial and legal transactions in Spain. It is sensible to start arranging this early, and your lawyer can advise and assist with the application.
A Spanish bank account is not necessarily required simply to complete the purchase, but it is normally useful for paying taxes, community fees, utilities and other ongoing costs. Mortgage lenders may also require one.
Your lawyer will confirm exactly what is needed for your circumstances. Buyers should normally be ready to provide a valid passport or identity document, their NIE, proof of address and evidence showing the source of the purchase funds. Additional documents may be required depending on how the property is being purchased and whether mortgage finance is involved.
Buying property in Spain is a clear and structured process when handled properly. Once you have agreed on a property, a reservation deposit normally takes it off the market and fixes the agreed price pending the private purchase contract. The reservation agreement places obligations on both buyer and seller, so both parties should understand exactly what they are agreeing to before signing.
This is normally followed by the signing of a private purchase contract setting out the terms of the transaction and the arrangements for completion.
We always recommend using a qualified, local, independent lawyer. We can suggest multilingual professionals who focus on protecting your interests and ensuring everything is in order before completion.
At completion, the remaining purchase price is paid in the manner agreed with the lawyers and recorded in the title deed. This is commonly arranged by bank transfer or banker’s draft, but buyers should follow the payment instructions given by their lawyer and make sure the funds are available in good time.
The title deed is signed before a Spanish notary. The notary verifies the identity and legal capacity of the parties, checks the formal requirements of the transaction and authorises the public deed. The notary does not replace the buyer’s independent lawyer, whose role includes carrying out the necessary legal checks and protecting the buyer’s interests.
After completion, the purchase taxes must be dealt with and the title deed submitted to the Land Registry. The buyer’s lawyer will normally coordinate this. Registration often takes several weeks, although the time can vary according to the transaction and whether any additional documents or corrections are required.
If you require a mortgage, we can introduce you to independent financial advisers in Spain or in your home country. Spanish banks offer competitive lending options for non-residents, subject to affordability. Visit our Mortgage Advice page to begin. A financial adviser will normally be in touch within two working days.
Our role does not end when you receive the keys. We can assist with furnishing, introductions to trusted tradespeople, and practical matters through our local support network.
We can assist you in English, Dutch, French, Spanish, Swedish, and other languages, helping ensure you feel comfortable and understood throughout the buying process.
If you would like to talk things through, call us on (0034) 952 90 52 00, WhatsApp us, email info@michael-moon.com. You can also follow us on Instagram @michaelmoonmarbella.
Buying a property naturally raises questions. We've brought together answers to many of the questions buyers regularly ask us.
