Buying property in Spain is a significant investment. Yet buyers often focus primarily on the property itself, while the factors behind the scenes are just as important for a safe purchase.
In this blog, we explore the main insights from the interview and explain why careful preparation is essential when buying property in Spain.
At a glance
If you're considering buying property in Spain, these three aspects deserve your full attention:
- Carry out thorough legal due diligence before purchasing.
- Clarify your finance options before beginning the buying process.
- Consider the property's future resale value as part of your investment decision.
Good preparation makes all the difference
Buying property in Spain is a significant investment. That's why careful preparation is essential. Besides the property itself, buyers should pay close attention to its legal status, finance and future resale value.
In a recent interview with Trends, NB-ESTATES explained why these three aspects play such an important role in a secure property purchase. Drawing on our daily experience of assisting Belgian, Dutch and international buyers throughout the purchasing process, we know these are the questions that arise most often.
By carrying out the necessary checks before signing, buyers can minimise risks and make informed decisions with confidence.
1. Don't just inspect the property – review all legal documentation
A property may appear to be in excellent condition while legal or administrative issues remain hidden during a viewing. That is why all relevant documentation should be thoroughly checked before completing a purchase.
This includes verifying that the seller is the legal owner, confirming whether there are additional owners, ensuring the title deeds are in order and checking that the property complies with current planning regulations.
It is equally important to investigate outstanding mortgages, debts, planning permissions and any extensions or alterations that may not have been properly registered. Buyers should also confirm that all local taxes and community fees have been paid.
"Illegal constructions, mortgages that have not been properly cancelled and outstanding taxes remain classic risks."
For this reason, comprehensive legal due diligence forms an essential part of a secure property purchase and helps prevent unexpected issues after completion.
Legal due diligence typically includes:
- verification of ownership and title deeds;
- checks for existing mortgages or legal charges;
- verification of planning permissions and legal compliance;
- review of unregistered extensions or alterations;
- confirmation that local taxes and community fees have been paid.
2. Arrange your finance before you start looking
Finance is another area that deserves careful preparation. Understanding your finance options in advance allows you to define your budget clearly and act quickly when the right property becomes available.
Depending on your personal circumstances, financing through a Belgian, Dutch or Spanish bank may be the most suitable option. Rather than comparing interest rates alone, buyers should also consider lending conditions and maximum loan amounts.
Spanish banks generally finance between 60% and 70% of the purchase price or valuation, meaning buyers should budget for a substantial personal contribution as well as the additional purchase costs.
Including a finance clause in the purchase agreement is also highly advisable. Should finance unexpectedly be declined, this clause can help protect buyers from significant financial consequences.
Proper financial preparation provides greater certainty throughout the buying process and allows buyers to proceed with confidence.
3. Consider the property's future resale value
Buying a property is not just about today. It is equally important to consider its future resale value. Factors that may seem less important today could have a significant impact on the property's attractiveness and value in the years ahead.
One example is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). As European energy regulations continue to evolve, energy efficiency is becoming an increasingly important factor in the Spanish property market. Properties with a favourable EPC rating are likely to remain more attractive to future buyers.
A less favourable EPC does not automatically make a property a poor investment. However, it is worth assessing in advance which improvements could be made and how they may influence the property's future value and resale potential.
Would you like to learn more about the upcoming energy regulations in Spain? Read our blog on the energy targets for 2030 and their impact on the Spanish property market.
Buying property in Spain requires a comprehensive approach
Legal due diligence, finance and future resale value are closely connected. Together, they determine whether a property purchase is not only the right decision today but also a sound investment for the future.
That is why, at NB-ESTATES, we do more than simply help our clients find the right property. We guide buyers throughout the entire purchasing process, ensuring that both the visible and less visible aspects of the transaction receive the attention they deserve.
Our local presence in Spain, years of experience and close collaboration with specialised legal and financial professionals enable us to provide expert guidance before, during and after your purchase.
Why choose NB-ESTATES?
At NB-ESTATES, we support Belgian, Dutch and international buyers throughout the entire property purchasing process in Spain. Thanks to our local expertise, extensive experience and close collaboration with specialised legal and financial professionals, you can rely on professional guidance from your first enquiry through to completion before the notary—and for as long as you own property in Spain.
Do you have questions about buying property in Spain or would you like to discuss your plans without obligation?
Get in touch with our team. We'd be delighted to help.