Can foreigners buy property in Marbella?

Yes. There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Spain. You will need an NIE (foreigner identification number), which we help you obtain, and a Spanish bank account for the transaction.

How much are the total costs of buying in Marbella?

Budget roughly 10–13% on top of the purchase price. This covers transfer tax (7% on resale) or VAT (10% on new-build), notary and land registry fees, and independent legal fees of around 1% plus VAT.

Do I need a Spanish lawyer?

We strongly recommend appointing an independent lawyer. They carry out full legal due diligence, protect your interests at every stage and are completely separate from the seller and agent.

How long does the buying process take?

From accepted offer to completion typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on due diligence, mortgage requirements and the parties' availability. New-build purchases can follow a longer, staged payment schedule.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. We work with full transparency. All costs — taxes, legal fees, notary and registry charges — are explained clearly upfront so there are no surprises at completion.

Preparing to buy a luxury property in Marbella

Buyer's Guide

Buying Property in Marbella — Step-by-Step Guide

A clear, transparent path from your first viewing to signing at the notary — with independent legal advice and no hidden fees.

Buying a home on the Costa del Sol should be exciting, not stressful. Whether you're purchasing a permanent residence, a holiday home or an investment, the process in Spain is well established and secure — but it helps to know exactly what to expect at each stage.

This guide walks you through the complete journey of buying property in Marbella, from defining your search to completion at the notary. We work alongside your independent lawyer at every step, so your interests are always protected.

The process

How buying works, step by step

1. Define your search & view properties

We begin by understanding your budget, lifestyle and priorities — location, view, new-build or resale. We then arrange a curated shortlist of viewings, including off-market opportunities you won't find on the portals.

2. Make an offer & reserve the property

Once you've found the right home, we negotiate the best possible price and terms on your behalf. A reservation contract and deposit (typically €6,000–€30,000) takes the property off the market while due diligence begins.

3. Appoint an independent lawyer

Your independent lawyer carries out full legal due diligence — checking ownership, debts, licences, planning and community fees — so you're fully protected before committing any further funds.

4. Sign the private purchase contract

With due diligence complete, both parties sign the private purchase contract (Contrato de Arras) and you pay a deposit of usually 10% of the price. The completion date is fixed at this stage.

5. Completion at the notary

On completion day the title deed (Escritura) is signed before a Spanish notary, the balance is paid and the keys are handed over. Your lawyer registers the property and settles taxes on your behalf.

6. After completion

We help transfer utilities, set up your NIE and bank arrangements, and connect you with trusted partners for renovation, interior design, property management and rentals.

Signing the title deed before a notary in Marbella

Costs & taxes

Transparent costs, no surprises

As a rule of thumb, allow around 10–13% on top of the purchase price to cover taxes and fees. We explain every cost clearly upfront.

Transfer tax (ITP) or VAT7% resale / 10% new-build

Legal fees≈ 1% + VAT

Notary & land registry≈ 1–1.5%

Total buying costs≈ 10–13%

Frequently asked questions

Ready to start your search?

Speak to our team for independent, no-pressure guidance — or browse our current listings.