Buying Property on the Costa del Sol
From your first conversation to the keys in your hand — a clear, current walkthrough of buying a home in Marbella, San Pedro and Benahavís. Handled in English, Russian, Spanish and French.
The Buying Process
Seven stages, each coordinated by SOBE Invest so the only thing you focus on is choosing the right home.
Get ready before you search
Set your all-in budget (allow 10–13% above the price for taxes and fees), arrange financing in principle, and obtain your NIE and a Spanish bank account.
From abroad? A Power of Attorney lets your lawyer handle the NIE and sign on your behalf.
Find the right property
Start with the where. We match a neighbourhood to how you want to live, then curate a shortlist — including off-market homes you won't find on the portals.
Make an offer & reserve
We submit your offer in writing through SOBE. Once agreed, a Reservation Agreement takes the home off the market against a deposit, later deducted from the price.
Due diligence & legal checks
An independent lawyer confirms ownership via the nota simple, checks for debts and charges, verifies licences and planning, and clears community and tax arrears.
Private purchase contract
Both sides sign the binding contract (arras), setting price, completion date and terms. You typically pay 10% of the price at this stage.
Completion at the notary
You sign the Title Deed (escritura) before a notary, pay the balance, receive the keys, and the home is registered in your name.
After the purchase
We transfer utilities, update the town hall for IBI, arrange insurance and set up community fees — so nothing is left loose.
Costs & Taxes in Andalucía
The figures that actually apply on the Costa del Sol today — the biggest variable is resale versus new build.
From a private owner
ITP is charged on the higher of the price or Cadastral reference value, paid within 30 working days.
First sale from a developer
VAT and ITP never both apply — new builds pay IVA + AJD instead of transfer tax.
Rule of thumb: budget 10–13% on top of the purchase price for the full transaction.
Mortgages for Non-Residents
What you can borrow
Non-resident buyers can typically borrow up to around 60–70% of the property value from a Spanish bank. An agreement in principle early strengthens your negotiating position.
The Golden Visa has ended
Spain's residency-by-investment "Golden Visa" was discontinued in April 2025 and is no longer available. The non-lucrative and digital nomad visas remain — we can connect you with specialist advisors.
Start your search today
Whether you have a clear brief or are just beginning to explore, we'd love to help you find the home that's right for you.
Contact us today to discover how our administrative and legal services can enhance your real estate journey.