How much does it cost to buy a property in Spain? A guide for buyers
Buying a property in Spain is one of the most common investment decisions among foreign buyers, especially from Poland, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.
However, the price shown in the listing is never the final purchase amount.
The total cost depends on many factors:
- the type of property (new build or resale),
- the region (Costa Blanca, Valencia, Murcia, etc.),
- local taxes,
- notary and legal fees.
In this guide we show the costs step by step.
1. New build vs resale in Spain
This is the most important difference every buyer needs to understand.
New build (first sale)
Most common in: Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida, Murcia.
Costs:
- VAT (IVA): 10%
- AJD tax (stamp duty): 1% – 1.5%
- notary: 0.5% – 1%
- lawyer: approx. 1%
Important (an advantage of some regions). In many regions of Spain, including the Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida and Murcia, the buyer normally does not pay an estate agent's commission on new builds.
Resale properties
Costs:
- ITP tax (transfer tax): 6% – 10% (depending on the region)
- notary: 0.5% – 1%
- lawyer: approx. 1%
- registration fees
Important (Valencia region). In the Valencia region and surrounding areas, the buyer often pays the estate agent's fees, which increases the total cost of the purchase.
2. Key regional differences
Costa Blanca / Costa Cálida / Murcia:
- lower entry costs,
- no commission on new developments,
- greater price transparency.
Valencia:
- additional agency costs,
- a larger share of the resale market,
- a higher total cost of purchase.
3. Additional costs buyers often overlook
- connecting utilities (electricity, water, internet),
- property insurance,
- community fees,
- annual IBI tax,
- local municipal taxes.
4. Example: a EUR 200,000 property
New build
- price: €200,000
- VAT (10%): €20,000
- AJD (1%): €2,000
- notary + lawyer: €3,000 – 4,000
Total: €225,000 – 226,000
Resale
- price: €200,000
- ITP (10% as an example): €20,000
- notary + lawyer: €3,000 – 4,000
- agency (if applicable): depends on the region
Total: €223,000 – 230,000
5. Most common buyer mistakes
- looking only at the property price,
- not allowing for taxes,
- not analysing the region,
- not having a local adviser,
- buying "on emotion".
6. Why does the total cost vary so much?
Because Spain has no single tax system for property. Each autonomous community has:
- different taxes,
- different fees,
- different commission rules.
More on taxes: taxes in Spain. If you need financing, see mortgages in Spain for non-residents.
7. How to avoid overpaying
- analyse the total cost of the purchase,
- do not look only at the asking price,
- check the region,
- use a local agent,
- work out all taxes before deciding.
8. How we help our clients
At Sun Team Property we guide clients through the purchase process:
- analysis of the full costs,
- help choosing the location,
- support in price negotiation,
- legal support,
- accompaniment at every stage of the purchase.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Pole buy a property in Spain?
Yes, an EU citizen can buy property in Spain without restrictions.
How much are the additional purchase costs?
Usually 10% to 13% of the property value.
Do I need a lawyer in Spain?
It is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended.
Can I get a mortgage in Spain?
Yes, banks finance up to 60–70% of the value for foreign buyers.
Are there hidden costs?
Many people do not allow for taxes and additional charges, so it is worth working them all out before deciding.
Want to know the purchase cost tailored to your budget and location? Contact us and we will prepare a cost analysis and offers matched to your needs.