Buying guide
Buying property in Spain — the complete UK buyer's guide
A step-by-step walkthrough for UK buyers, from reservation to keys in hand on the Costa Blanca.
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The process, step by step
Overview of the end-to-end journey from first viewing to receiving the keys, so buyers know what to expect and when.
Getting your NIE number
What an NIE is, why it’s required, and the fastest ways for a UK buyer to obtain one before or after arriving in Spain.
Reservation contract and arras (deposit)
How the reservation contract works, what the arras deposit commits both parties to, and what to check before signing.
Instructing a lawyer
Why an independent Spanish lawyer matters, what due diligence they carry out, and typical fees.
Mortgages for UK buyers
Financing options for non-resident buyers, typical loan-to-value ratios, and the documents Spanish lenders require.
Completion at the notary
What happens on completion day, the taxes and costs due, and registering the property in the buyer’s name.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an NIE number to buy property in Spain?
Yes. An NIE (Numero de Identificacion de Extranjero) is a tax identification number required for almost every step of buying property in Spain, including signing the deposit contract, opening a Spanish bank account, and completing at the notary. UK buyers can apply for an NIE at a Spanish consulate before travelling, or in Spain via the Oficina de Extranjeros or a local police station.
How long does it take to buy a property in Spain as a UK buyer?
Timelines vary case by case, but a typical purchase — from signing the reservation contract to completion at the notary — takes roughly six to twelve weeks. This assumes the buyer already has an NIE number, has instructed a lawyer to carry out due diligence, and has funds (or a mortgage) ready to transfer. Cash purchases tend to move faster; mortgage-backed purchases take longer to allow for the lender's valuation and approval.
