Buying a house in Spain
Once the decision has been made to buy a home in Spain, you are at the beginning of an exciting period in which quite a lot has to be done. For many Dutch-speaking buyers it is not always clear exactly how this process works.
In this article you can read 10 tips that can help you safely buy your dream home in Spain. You will experience that as a buyer you have to act actively and think carefully about what your ideal home should meet.
You will also notice that hiring a Dutch-speaking lawyer or Gestor in Spain is not an unnecessary luxury. You will quickly earn this back with the costs and time you save.
The location of your home in Spain is crucial. Factors like proximity to roads, public transport, employment, climate, and distance to the sea can greatly impact property value. Whether you prefer the vibrant life of the city or the peace of the mountains, make sure you feel comfortable in the area.
To buy a property in Spain, you need an NIE
(Foreigner Identification Number). You can apply for this number at the consulate or a local police station in Spain. Be sure to book your appointment in advance, as the process can take several weeks.
Know how much you want and can afford to spend. It’s a good idea to arrange a mortgage in Spain before you start house hunting. Be aware that additional costs, such as transfer taxes and notary fees, are higher in Spain than in the Netherlands or Belgium.
An independent lawyer specializing in Spanish property law is crucial to protecting your interests. Ensure the lawyer is not affiliated with the seller or agent. They will verify property documents, draft contracts, and warn you of any risks.
Make sure all property details are accurate. Often, there are discrepancies between the registro de la propiedad (property register) and the catastro (cadastre). A lawyer will help you review these documents and uncover any inaccuracies.
Always verify that the seller is the legal owner. Sometimes multiple owners must agree to the sale. If the property is part of an owners' association (comunidad de propietarios), it is important to check the financial status of the community.
Many homes in Spain are built or extended without proper permits. Ensure that legal permits are in place for extensions such as swimming pools or terraces. If necessary, your lawyer can assist in legalizing unauthorized structures, such as through the AFO process in Andalusia.
It’s essential that the property is free of liens or mortgages. An independent lawyer will check this for you to avoid unpleasant surprises after the purchase.
If the property is rented, you will have to honor the lease as the new owner. Also, ensure there are no unwanted occupants, as removing illegal occupants can be time-consuming and expensive.
Make sure the property has the necessary certificates, such as the licencia de primera ocupación (for new homes) or cédula de habitabilidad (for existing homes). An energy certificate is also mandatory, which provides insight into the property’s energy efficiency.
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