FAQ
A practical guide to buying property in Spain and Catalonia — from the perspective of an agency that handles these transactions every day. Answers to the questions our clients ask most often, from the first contact to the land registry entry.
Frequent questions
What is the NIE number and is opening a Spanish bank account mandatory when buying property in Spain?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros) is Spain's tax identification number for foreigners — required to register property ownership…
What's important when negotiating property prices in Spain?
Spaniards negotiate almost every transaction — and not always downward. The critical factor is knowing the real market value, since…
Can foreign buyers obtain a mortgage in Spain, and on what terms?
Yes. Non-resident foreigners can obtain a mortgage from a Spanish bank — typically up to 60–70% of either the purchase…
How do reservation and deposit contracts (contrato de reserva and contrato de arras) work in Spain?
After agreeing the price with the seller, you sign the contrato de reserva — taking the property off the market…
When does the property formally become mine after purchase in Spain?
Ownership transfers to the buyer at the moment the public deed (escritura pública de compraventa) is signed and the keys…
What documents are needed to buy property in Spain, and how to check its legal status?
On the buyer side: NIE, ID document, proof of funds. On the seller side: current nota simple from the Registro…
What taxes apply when buying property in Catalonia in 2026?
On the resale market you pay ITP — from June 2025 on a progressive scale: 10% up to €600,000, 11%…
What are the total costs of buying property in Spain beyond the purchase price?
Beyond the purchase price you'll pay: transfer tax (ITP in Catalonia 10-13% progressive scale, or IVA 10% plus AJD 1.5%…
Looking for the full purchase journey instead? See the step-by-step buying process →