Last updated: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Every purchase is different. Contact us to review your case.
Buying a home on the Costa Blanca is simple when you know the steps.
This guide walks foreign buyers through the whole process, from your NIE number to the Land Registry. It also covers off-plan purchases, mortgages, taxes and what to do after completion.
In this guide: Before you start · 1. Due diligence · 2. Reservation · 3. Deposit (arras) · 4. Off-plan · 5. Mortgage · 6. Notary · 7. Registry · Taxes and costs · FAQ
Three things make everything else easier.
Before you pay anything, your lawyer checks the property is safe to buy.
They get a nota simple from the Land Registry. This confirms the owner and any mortgages, charges or embargoes.
They also check the property is legal, with the right licences and no illegal extensions.
Finally, they review the community of owners for unpaid fees, and confirm local tax (IBI) and utilities are up to date.
A small reservation deposit takes the property off the market for a short time.
Make sure the contract says this deposit is refundable if the legal checks find a serious problem.
Next comes a private contract with a deposit of about 10% of the price. This is usually arras penitenciales.
If the buyer pulls out, they lose the deposit. If the seller pulls out, they repay double.
The contract should set the price, the completion date and what is included.
Buying a home that is not yet built needs extra care.
Payments are staged during construction. Every amount you pay must be protected by a bank guarantee or insurance.
Spanish law requires developers to secure these payments. They must return them with interest if the home is not delivered.
Always check the developer’s licences, the guarantee and the completion date before you sign.
Spanish banks usually lend non-residents up to 60% or 70% of the price or valuation, whichever is lower.
Get an agreement in principle early. The bank needs its own valuation, and this adds time.
Remember to budget for valuation and arrangement costs.
Completion happens before a Spanish notary. They prepare and witness the public deed of sale (escritura).
You pay the balance, usually by banker’s cheque. The seller hands over the keys, and the home becomes yours.
The notary confirms the deed. They do not do the due diligence or protect your interests. That is your lawyer’s job.
After signing, you pay the purchase taxes and register the deed in your name. This gives you full legal protection.
Your lawyer helps put utilities in your name and set up direct debits for IBI, community fees and bills.
It is wise to make a Spanish will for your Spanish assets. As a non-resident owner, keep up with your annual non-resident tax (IRNR).
On top of the price, allow about 10% to 13% for taxes and fees.
Tax rates are set regionally and can change. Confirm the current figures for your purchase. For a full breakdown, see taxes and fees when buying property in Costa Blanca.
No. Your lawyer can complete the purchase for you under a power of attorney.
A resale purchase usually completes in about 4 to 8 weeks after signing. Off-plan depends on the build.
Yes. Non-residents buy in Spain routinely. You will need an NIE and, ideally, a Spanish bank account.
Yes, it is recommended. It makes things much simpler for your heirs.
Our English-speaking lawyers in Alicante guide foreign buyers through every step. Due diligence, contracts, notary and Land Registry.
Contact us for a consultation.
