A clear step-by-step guide to buying a property in Spain safely and confidently
Buying property in Spain can be a smooth and transparent process if you understand each step before committing. For foreign buyers, unfamiliar procedures, legal requirements and timelines often create uncertainty. This guide explains the full buying process in Spain, from the first viewing to the moment you receive the title deed. If you are still in the early orientation phase, you may also find it useful to read our article on moving to Spain without financial surprises.
The Spanish property buying process follows a clear legal structure. After selecting a property, the transaction typically moves through reservation, legal due diligence, contract signing and final completion at the notary. Each phase serves a specific legal and financial purpose and should never be skipped or rushed. Buyers who want a broader market perspective can also review our analysis of property market trends on the Costa Blanca South in 2026.
Once you decide to proceed with a property, basic terms are agreed upon, such as the purchase price and expected completion timeline. At this stage, no legal commitment exists yet, but it is crucial to stop marketing the property to other buyers before moving forward. Understanding common early-stage mistakes can help prevent issues later, as explained in common mistakes foreign buyers make on the Costa Blanca South.
A reservation contract temporarily removes the property from the market. The buyer usually pays a small reservation deposit, allowing time for legal checks to begin. This agreement is not the final purchase contract but creates a short exclusivity period while documentation is reviewed. For a deeper legal overview, see our legal and financial checklist for buying property on the Costa Blanca South.
Legal due diligence is one of the most critical steps. This includes verifying ownership, confirming the property is free of debts, checking planning permissions, ensuring correct land registry details and reviewing community obligations. Skipping or inadequately performing these checks can result in serious financial and legal consequences. These risks are also highlighted in our guide on errors frequently made by foreign buyers.
After successful legal checks, a private purchase contract is signed. This contract legally binds both buyer and seller and typically involves a larger deposit. The contract defines all terms of the sale, including completion date, payment structure and consequences if either party fails to comply. Buyers concerned about total financial exposure should also review the real cost of buying property on the Costa Blanca South.
From reservation to completion, the process usually takes between six and twelve weeks. The timeline depends on legal complexity, financing arrangements and availability of documentation. Rushing the process is strongly discouraged, especially for buyers planning long-term ownership or investment, as discussed in what to consider before investing in property on the Costa Blanca.
Legal ownership transfers at the notary when the title deed is signed and the remaining purchase price is paid. The notary ensures all parties comply with Spanish law, verifies identities and confirms payment. After signing, the deed is registered with the Land Registry, finalising ownership. This final step is essential for both private buyers and investors considering property investment on the Costa Blanca South.
In addition to the purchase price, buyers must budget for transfer tax or VAT, notary fees, land registry fees and legal costs. These additional costs generally range between ten and fifteen percent of the purchase price, depending on the property type and region. A detailed breakdown is available in our full cost overview.
The most effective way to avoid problems is to work with experienced local professionals and follow a structured buying process. Independent legal advice, realistic budgeting and patience during due diligence significantly reduce risk and prevent costly errors. This approach aligns closely with the guidance outlined in our legal and financial checklist.
Many issues faced by foreign buyers arise from misunderstandings about how the Spanish system works. Knowing what to expect at each stage gives buyers control, confidence and legal security. A well-informed buyer is far less likely to encounter delays, disputes or financial surprises.
At YesCosta.com, we guide buyers through every stage of the buying process with transparency and local expertise. Understanding the process is the foundation of a successful and secure property purchase in Spain.