Yes, foreigners can buy property in Spain with no general restrictions, whether EU or non-EU nationals, although special permits may be required for homes in protected or military zones. The process involves obtaining a NIE number, opening a Spanish bank account, signing reservation and purchase contracts, completing the deed before a notary, and registering ownership in the Land Registry. Buyers must pay purchase taxes (Transfer Tax or VAT + Stamp Duty), notary/registry/legal fees, and ongoing annual taxes such as IBI (local property tax), non-resident income tax, and potentially wealth tax. Mortgages are available to foreigners, usually up to 60–70% loan-to-value. While Spain’s Golden Visa program has been abolished, ownership does not grant residency, and proposals are under discussion to impose a 100% tax on non-EU buyers, so monitoring legislative updates is crucial. At Green Villas Estate, we are here to guide our clients through every step of the buying process, ensuring a smooth, secure, and professional experience.

The first step to buying property in Spain is obtaining a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros), which is a unique identification number required for all legal, financial, and tax transactions in the country, including property purchases. Without an NIE, you cannot sign contracts, pay taxes, or register ownership. It can be obtained either in Spain at a police station or through a Spanish consulate abroad, usually by submitting a valid passport, the official EX-15 application form, and proof of your intention to buy property. Once the NIE is secured, you can proceed to open a Spanish bank account, reserve a property, and carry out legal due diligence. At Green Villas Estate, we assist our clients from this very first step, ensuring all documentation is in order and guiding them seamlessly through the entire buying process

In addition to the property price, buyers in Spain should expect 10–15% in extra costs depending on the region and whether the property is new or resale. These include purchase taxes (Transfer Tax of 6–10% for resale properties, or 10% VAT plus 1–1.5% Stamp Duty for new builds), as well as notary fees, land registry fees, and legal or gestor fees, which together usually amount to around 1–2% of the purchase price. Buyers should also budget for ongoing annual expenses such as the local property tax (IBI), non-resident income tax, and potentially wealth tax if their total assets exceed the threshold. Additional running costs include utilities, community fees (for apartments or gated complexes), and home insurance. At Green Villas Estate, we make sure our clients understand all financial obligations upfront, providing clear estimates and guidance so there are no surprises in the buying process.

While it is not legally mandatory to have a Spanish bank account to buy property, it is highly recommended and in many cases practically necessary. A local account makes it easier to pay the deposit, final balance at the notary, and all related taxes and fees, since many authorities and service providers require payments from a Spanish bank. It is also very useful for managing ongoing expenses such as utilities, community fees, property taxes (IBI), and insurance through automatic direct debits. Most Spanish banks will ask for your NIE number, passport, and proof of income or employment to open the account. At Green Villas Estate, we guide our clients through the account opening process and ensure all financial arrangements are in place for a smooth property purchase and future management.

Yes, financing is available for international buyers in Spain, as many Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, though with stricter conditions than for locals. Typically, banks will finance 60–70% of the property value (sometimes up to 80% for EU citizens), and mortgage terms generally range from 15 to 25 years. Lenders will require documentation such as your passport, NIE number, proof of income, bank statements, credit history, and tax returns. Interest rates and approval conditions may vary depending on your nationality, residency status, and financial profile. Buyers should also factor in mortgage arrangement fees and associated costs. At Green Villas Estate, we work closely with trusted banks and mortgage brokers to help our clients secure the best financing options, making the buying process smooth and transparent.

The best investment potential in Spain typically comes from properties in high-demand areas such as coastal regions (Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, Balearic Islands), major cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia), and popular tourist destinations where rental yields and long-term appreciation are strong. City-center apartments often provide steady year-round rental income, while holiday homes near the beach or golf resorts can deliver higher seasonal rental returns. In emerging areas with planned infrastructure or growing tourism, off-plan and new-build developments may offer attractive capital growth. Investors should also consider properties with strong amenities (pools, terraces, parking, proximity to transport) as they generally rent and resell more easily. At Green Villas Estate, we analyze market trends and guide our clients towards properties that match their goals—whether short-term rental income, long-term appreciation, or a balanced combination of both.

Yes, you can rent out your property in Spain when you’re not using it, but the rules depend on the region and municipality. Long-term rentals (over 12 months) are generally straightforward and require minimal paperwork. However, for short-term tourist rentals (days or weeks), many regions such as Andalusia, Valencia, Catalonia, and the Balearic Islands require you to obtain a tourist rental license and comply with local regulations on safety, occupancy, and taxation. Fines for renting without the proper license can be substantial. Rental income is subject to non-resident income tax—currently 19% for EU/EEA citizens and 24% for non-EU citizens—and must be declared to the Spanish tax authorities. At Green Villas Estate, we assist clients in understanding local regulations, applying for licenses where required, and setting up reliable management solutions so they can rent out their property confidently and profitably.

The property purchase process in Spain typically takes 8–12 weeks, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction, the type of property, and whether it is new-build or resale. The process generally includes reserving the property with a deposit, conducting legal due diligence, signing the private purchase contract (Contrato de Arras), arranging financing if needed, completing the public deed (Escritura de Compraventa) at the notary, and registering the property in the Land Registry. New-build properties may take longer due to developer timelines and completion certificates. At Green Villas Estate, we guide our clients throughout every step, coordinating with lawyers, notaries, and banks to ensure the process is efficient, transparent, and stress-free.

Yes, having legal representation is highly recommended when buying property in Spain. A qualified Spanish lawyer (abogado) ensures that the property has a clear title, no debts or liens, and all permits are in order, protecting you from potential legal or financial issues. Lawyers also review contracts, advise on taxes and fees, and coordinate with notaries and registries. While not legally mandatory, purchasing without legal guidance can be risky, especially for non-residents unfamiliar with local laws and bureaucracy. At Green Villas Estate, we provide access to trusted legal experts and guide our clients throughout the entire process, ensuring their investment is secure and fully compliant with Spanish law.

Yes, Green Villas Estate offers comprehensive property management services after the purchase. We not only analyze the market and identify properties that perfectly match our clients’ requirements, but we also advise and guide them through a smooth purchase process, ensuring every step—from legal checks to signing the deed—is seamless. Post-purchase, we assist with all administrative procedures, including registering utilities, setting up bills, and handling local obligations. Additionally, we provide full property management services, covering both short-term and long-term rentals, maintenance, and tenant management. At Green Villas Estate, we are committed to being with our clients at every step, delivering a professional, secure, and stress-free ownership experience.