Search for property for sale in Spain
Save time and ensure that you don’t miss out on your dream home by using a property portal such as Kyero to search hundreds of thousands of properties for sale in Spain all in one place. Get a feel for the various regions of Spain using our location guides. Then take a look at property listings in that area. You’ll find prices, size and style particulars but more importantly you’ll be able to make initial enquiries with the listing agents.
Go on a research trip
Once you’ve whittled down your choices to a few sensible prospects, it’s time to hop on a plane. Take a notebook so you can write down your thoughts (if you’re seeing more than one or two properties, you’ll soon forget the details). Listen to your instincts but try to see beyond your immediate impressions too. Learning some conversational Spanish may help you ask relevant questions and it’s worth visiting the community buildings you’ll regularly use like schools, retirement centres or healthcare facilities.
Get your ducks in a row
Without an NIE number, Spanish bank account or independent solicitor (Abogado) you won’t be able to complete a property sale in Spain. An NIE is an all-purpose identification and tax number given to any non-native who wants to go through an official process in Spain. The application can take a while, so it’s best to start straight away. A solicitor who isn’t affiliated with a property firm or money lender is vital. Plus, if they are bilingual you’ll save on translation fees.
Make an offer
Take a moment to work out fees and taxes. You can work out extra costs using our affordability calculator. Finally, make sure the person selling the property has all the legal powers necessary and that there are no hidden problems associated with the property. When you’re happy everything is above board and within budget, you can make a formal offer. At this stage, you may need to decide who is responsible for paying tax as sometimes it’s not clear.
Sign on the dotted line
You’ll be asked to sign a Private Purchase Contract then pay a 10% deposit to the seller. This means you are bound to complete the sale within the agreed timescale and the seller is obligated to sell the property at the agreed price. If the seller faults on this agreement, you should get your deposit back.
And complete!
To complete on your new home, you’ll need to visit the public notary (Notario Público), who will certify your documents and make sure all the legal criteria have been fulfilled — including the transfer of the remaining sales price and taxes. You are then eligible to register your purchase with the land registry.
The dream is now a reality. Congratulations!
Once in your new home, you can make small changes that will make your life in the sun even easier. You should check your tax and voting status in both your old and new countries of residence. You can set up insurance and legal documents (like making a will) to include your new asset. You may want to register for health care at a local medical centre or apply for citizenship at the local town hall. For more detailed information you can read our comprehensive Spain buying guide.