Buying Property in Torrevieja

The complete guide for foreign buyers — from search to completion, including costs, legal checks and common pitfalls.

Before you buy — checklist

✓ Get your NIE number (mandatory for property purchase)
✓ Open a Spanish bank account
✓ Appoint an independent solicitor (abogado) — do not use the agent's recommended solicitor
✓ Arrange a mortgage in principle if needed (Spanish mortgages: typically 60–70% LTV for non-residents)
✓ Check your residency status — affects mortgage access and tax rates

Search and viewings — use estate agents (API registered preferred), online portals (Idealista, Fotocasa)
Make an offer — verbal, then formalised in a reservation agreement
Reservation contract (contrato de arras) — pay 10% deposit; if vendor pulls out they return double; if you pull out you lose the deposit
Solicitor due diligence — check for debts on the property, confirm planning status, verify legal registration, check community fees arrears
Mortgage completion (if applicable) — Spanish bank approval takes 4–8 weeks
Notary completion (escritura pública) — both parties sign before a notary; funds transferred; keys handed over
Land registry registration — your solicitor handles this; takes 2–6 weeks
Utilities transfer — change electricity, water and internet into your name

Cost	Amount
Purchase price	Agreed price
Transfer tax (ITP) — resale	10% of purchase price
New build VAT (IVA)	10% + 1.5% AJD
Notary fees	~0.5–1%
Land registry	~0.3–0.5%
Solicitor	~1% (€800–2,500 typical)
Mortgage arrangement fee (if applicable)	1–2% of loan
Total buying costs	11–14% above purchase price

What to check legally before completing