How to Buy Property in Spain as a Foreigner: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a home in Spain is exciting, but for many foreigners the process feels unfamiliar at first. The system works differently than in most countries, and there are a few steps you need to understand before you begin.
This guide walks you through the entire journey in a simple, beginner friendly way so you know exactly what to expect from start to finish.

If you’d also like to learn how financing works in Spain, don’t forget to read our blog dedicated entirely to mortgages. And throughout the purchase journey, MarbellaBuys is available to assist you with any step you may need support with.

1. Understanding the Spanish Property System

The Spanish buying process follows a clear order, supported by several professionals who each have their own responsibilities. Once you understand how these pieces fit together, the process becomes much easier to navigate.

Most purchases follow this structure:

Prepare your required documents
Search and view properties
Sign a reservation agreement
Sign a private purchase contract
Complete at the notary and receive the keys

Throughout this guide, you’ll see short MarbellaBuys Insider Notes small insights learned from helping many international buyers over the years.

2. The Key Professionals Involved

Real Estate Agent

A good real estate agent is more than someone who shows you properties. They understand the local market, know which areas match your lifestyle, and can give context you won’t find online.
They also guide you through price negotiations, which work differently in Spain, and help you avoid common pitfalls like outdated property listings or homes with missing documentation.

Independent Lawyer (Abogado)

Your lawyer is arguably the most important person in the entire process.
They check whether the property is legally registered, free of debts, compliant with planning laws, and up to date with community payments. They review and draft contracts, explain legal implications clearly, and protect your interests at every stage.

Notary

The notary formalises the final signing and ensures both parties understand the contract. They confirm identities and register the deed.
It’s important to know that the notary does not perform legal checks that is your lawyer’s responsibility.

3. The Essential Documents You Need First

Preparing the key documents early speeds up the entire process. Here’s what you need.

NIE Number (Foreigner Identification Number)

This is a required identification number for foreigners buying property in Spain. You’ll need it for the purchase itself, utilities, taxes and banking.

The process to obtain a NIE can take some time, depending on appointment availability in your region. It’s not usually complicated, just a bit slower than newcomers expect.

MarbellaBuys Insider Note:
Many buyers choose to use a specialised company to handle the NIE application, simply because it saves time and avoids multiple appointments.

Spanish Bank Account

A Spanish bank account is not strictly required to buy a property. You can complete the purchase without one.
However, for everyday things like paying utilities, community fees, taxes and automatic payments, having a local account becomes very practical.

For a deeper explanation of when a Spanish bank account is required and when it isn’t we cover this in more detail in our financing blog.

4. Step by Step: How the Purchase Process Works

Once your documents are ready, the actual buying journey begins.

Step 1: Viewing Properties and Choosing Your Home

You explore different areas, view multiple homes, and compare locations, amenities and price ranges.
A good agent helps you understand differences between neighbourhoods, checks basic property details and ensures you’re getting accurate information.

Typical duration: from a day to several weeks

Step 2: Signing the Reservation Agreement

Once you’ve agreed on a price, the next step is securing the property.
You sign a reservation agreement and pay a reservation fee (usually €3,000–€10,000) which temporarily removes the property from the market.

Typical duration: 3 to 14 days
Your lawyer begins initial checks during this period

MarbellaBuys Insider Note:
Always let your lawyer review the essential documentation before signing a reservation. It ensures you move forward with confidence.

Step 3: Signing the Private Purchase Contract

This legally binding contract outlines the final price, conditions and responsibilities.
You usually pay a 10 percent deposit at this stage.

Typical duration: 2 to 4 weeks after reservation

Step 4: Completion at the Notary

The final moment of the process.
You sign the title deed, pay the remaining balance and officially become the legal owner.
The notary forwards the signed deed for registration in the Property Registry.

Typical duration: 4 to 8 weeks after the private contract

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

Every situation is different, but these are typical timeframes:

NIE number: 1 to 6 weeks
Property search: days to months
Reservation to private contract: 2 to 4 weeks
Private contract to notary: 4 to 8 weeks
Total timeframe after reservation: around 8 to 12 weeks

Practical Guidelines for a Smooth Purchase

Prepare all documents early
Work with a reliable independent lawyer
Confirm agreements in writing
Expect slower timelines during holidays or summer months

MarbellaBuys Insider Note:
If you're not in Spain full time, giving your lawyer power of attorney makes the entire process significantly smoother.

Buying in Spain Is Clear Once You Know the Steps

Once you understand the structure and key professionals involved, buying property in Spain becomes a clear and organised experience. A bit of preparation goes a long way.

And if you need guidance at any step of the process, MarbellaBuys is available to assist you from your first viewing all the way to the notary.