Buying a home in SpainThe complete guide for Belgian and Dutch buyers
Buying a home in Spain is an exciting step, and there’s plenty to think about along the way. Here, you’ll find the information you need to feel prepared when buying an apartment, villa or second home on the Costa Blanca or Costa Cálida. From your first viewing to signing the title deed, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
We’ve brought together the questions you’re likely to have when buying your own home in Spain. From choosing a property to understanding taxes, mortgages and the buying process, it’s a practical starting point for Belgian and Dutch buyers.
Spanish bank account
You no longer need a Spanish bank account to buy a home in Spain. Thanks to the European SEPA payment system, many payments can be made just as easily from your Belgian or Dutch bank account.
Still, a Spanish account can be useful for things like utility bills, community fees, local taxes or a Spanish mortgage.
Find out when it’s worth opening a Spanish account, when your existing account may be enough and which options could work best for you.
Read our guide to Spanish bank accounts.
Getting a mortgage in Spain
Thinking of financing your home with a Spanish mortgage? Find out how much you could borrow, what interest rates to expect and which documents you’ll need. We also explain how the approval process works for Belgian and Dutch buyers.
Read our guide to getting a mortgage in Spain.
Taxes when buying a home in Spain
When buying a property in Spain, you’ll come across several taxes. Some are paid when you buy, while others are part of the yearly costs of owning your home. These include VAT (IVA), property transfer tax (ITP), stamp duty (AJD) and annual property tax (IBI). Our guide explains each one in clear, straightforward terms.
Read about annual property taxes in Spain.
Explore the costs of buying a home in Spain.
Becoming a tax resident in Spain
Thinking of moving to Spain permanently? It’s worth understanding what becoming a Spanish tax resident means before you make the move. Find out how it could affect your taxes, including the treatment of your worldwide income and assets.
Read our guide to becoming a tax resident in Spain.
Buying a new build or a resale property in Spain
Modern design, energy efficiency and comprehensive warranties make new builds an appealing choice. Explore the benefits, understand how the payments are structured and find out what to check before you buy.
A resale property can offer a great location and may be ready to move into straight away. We explain how the buying process works, which checks matter and how to spot potential problems before committing.
Compare new builds and resale properties in Spain.
Renting out your home
Thinking of renting out your home when you’re not in Spain? Explore the options for holiday rentals and long-term lets, and find out about rental licences, tax obligations and professional property management.
Read our guide to renting out your home in Spain.
Which area is right for you?
Costa Blanca North
With its green landscapes, luxury villas and traditional Spanish character, the northern Costa Blanca has plenty to offer. Get to know places such as Jávea, Dénia, Moraira, Benissa, Altea and Calpe, and discover which location feels right for you.
Get to know the northern Costa Blanca.
Explore more of the Costa Blanca North.
Costa Blanca South
The southern Costa Blanca is known for its long sandy beaches, sunny climate and excellent value for money. Explore places such as Orihuela Costa, Villamartín, Campoamor, Cabo Roig, Pilar de la Horadada and Torrevieja.
Discover the southern Costa Blanca.
Costa Cálida
With its relaxed atmosphere, affordable property prices and pleasant climate, the Costa Cálida is attracting growing interest. Discover some of its loveliest locations around the Mar Menor and along the Mediterranean coast.
Get to know the Costa Cálida.
The additional costs of buying in Spain
The asking price is only part of your budget. You’ll also need to allow for taxes, notary fees, Land Registry fees, legal fees and any mortgage-related costs. Our overview helps you see the full picture and plan your budget before you buy.
See which additional purchase costs to expect.
Warranties on new-build homes
Buying a new-build home in Spain comes with a range of legal warranties. Find out what’s covered, from the structure to the finishes and installations, and what these protections mean for you as a buyer.
Read about warranties on new-build homes in Spain.
The notary’s role in Spain
The notary plays an important part in completing your property purchase. We explain what they do, which documents you’ll need and what to expect when it’s time to sign the title deed.
Find out more about the notary’s role in Spain.
The lawyer’s role in Spain
Although appointing a lawyer isn’t a legal requirement, most overseas buyers choose to have legal support. A specialist property lawyer checks the documents, carries out the legal enquiries and helps protect your interests throughout the purchase.
Learn how a property lawyer can help you in Spain.
Investing on the Belgian coast or the Spanish coast?
It’s a question our clients often ask, and with good reason. A property investment deserves careful thought. What works for one person won’t necessarily suit someone else.
In this article, we take a closer look at both options. What returns might you expect? And what are the advantages and drawbacks of each?
We may have a soft spot for Spain, but we still look at both sides. Ultimately, the right choice is yours.
We’re here to help you think it through.
Compare investing on the Belgian coast with the Spanish coast.
Moving to Spain? Start with our five-step guide.
You’ve decided you’d like to move to Spain. But where do you begin, and what do you need to think about?
Our practical five-step guide helps you get your bearings before you start making plans.
Clear advice, useful steps and a better idea of what lies ahead.
Read our five-step guide to moving to Spain.
Why choose Holiday Estate?
Holiday Estate helps Belgian and Dutch buyers throughout the process of buying a home in Spain. From finding the right property to signing the title deed and support after the sale, we’re here with personal advice, local knowledge and guidance in your own language.
Meet Holiday Estate, your estate agent on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida.
Your questions about buying a home in Spain
1. Can I buy a home in Spain as a Belgian or Dutch citizen?
Yes. Belgian and Dutch citizens can buy property in Spain. You’ll need an NIE number to complete the purchase.
2. Do I need an NIE number?
Yes. Your NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is required for most administrative and tax procedures in Spain, including buying a property.
3. Do I need a Spanish bank account?
Not necessarily. Thanks to the SEPA payment system, many payments can be made through your Belgian or Dutch bank account. A Spanish account can still be useful in certain situations, such as arranging a Spanish mortgage or setting up direct debits.
4. What costs should I expect on top of the purchase price?
You’ll need to budget for taxes, notary fees, Land Registry fees, any legal fees and, where applicable, mortgage-related costs.
5. How much should I budget for purchase costs in Spain?
As a general guide, allow 10% to 15% of the purchase price for additional costs. The amount depends on the region and whether you’re buying a new build or a resale property.
6. What’s the difference between buying a new build and a resale property?
With a new build, you buy directly from the developer and pay VAT (IVA). A resale purchase is subject to property transfer tax (ITP). Each option has its own advantages.
7. Can I get a mortgage in Spain?
Yes. Many Spanish banks offer mortgages to overseas buyers. How much you can borrow and the terms available will depend on the bank and your financial circumstances.
8. Do I have to appoint a lawyer when buying?
No, but it’s strongly recommended. A specialist property lawyer checks the legal documents and helps protect your interests throughout the purchase.
9. What does the notary do in Spain?
The notary checks the identities of the parties, prepares the title deed and oversees the legal formalities of transferring ownership under Spanish law.
10. How long does the buying process take?
A purchase typically takes between four and twelve weeks. For a new build, the timing of completion also depends on when the property is finished and ready for handover.
11. Can I rent out my property?
Yes, subject to regional and local rules. Holiday rentals and long-term lets have different requirements, and a licence may be needed for tourist accommodation.
12. Do I need a rental licence?
That depends on the region and municipality where your property is located. Holiday rentals are often subject to specific conditions and licensing requirements.
13. Do I pay tax on rental income?
Yes. Rental income from Spanish property must be declared under Spanish tax rules. How it’s taxed depends on your personal circumstances.
14. Can I move to Spain permanently?
Yes. More and more Belgian and Dutch citizens are choosing to make Spain their permanent home. It’s worth getting advice on the tax implications and administrative requirements well before you move.
15. When do I become a Spanish tax resident?
Generally, this may apply if you spend more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year, or if your main economic or personal ties are there.
16. Which area would suit me best?
It depends on what you’re looking for. The northern Costa Blanca offers green surroundings and an upmarket feel. The south is known for its wide beaches and excellent value for money, while the Costa Cálida appeals to buyers looking for a relaxed setting and attractive property prices.
17. Can I buy a property without being there in person?
Yes. A notarised power of attorney allows an authorised representative to sign the title deed on your behalf, so you don’t have to attend the signing yourself.
18. What annual costs come with owning a home in Spain?
Typical costs include local property tax (IBI), community fees, insurance and utilities. You may also need to budget for maintenance or rental management.
19. Why is the Costa Blanca so popular with Belgian and Dutch buyers?
With more than 300 sunny days a year, beautiful beaches, easy travel connections and a pleasant climate, the Costa Blanca has plenty to offer. There’s also a wide choice of new-build and resale homes.
20. Why choose Holiday Estate?
We guide Belgian and Dutch buyers through the entire process of buying a home in Spain. From finding the right property to signing the title deed and support after the sale, you can count on personal guidance, local knowledge and service in your own language.
You’ll also find two useful brochures on our downloads page:
1. Everything you need to know about buying a home in Spain.
2. Your guide to financing a home in Spain.
