The first step to choosing the right real estate agent in Spain is to establish their market knowledge. Do some research yourself first, then ask the agent for the relevant figures. Prices, trends, areas and demand all tell a story. Numbers rarely lie. If their information matches that of reliable sources, it’s a good sign that they truly understand the local market. However, knowledge alone is not...

Yes, you have to pay tax when you buy property in Spain. The exact tax depends on the type of property. For resale properties, buyers usually pay property transfer tax (impuesto sobre transmisiones patrimoniales, or ITP), which is currently 7% in Andalusia, the region that includes the Costa del Sol. If you buy a new property from a developer, the taxes are different. Typically, buyers pay VAT (IVA)...

When exploring Costa del Sol real estate, many American buyers ask the same question: Can Americans buy property in Spain? The short answer is yes. Spain imposes no restrictions on U.S. citizens looking to purchase real estate. In fact, many Americans choose the Costa del Sol as a location for a second home, for retirement or for investment purposes. However, there are a few additional documents and...

Many international buyers ask me the same question: how easy is it to buy property in Spain? From my experience of working with clients on the Costa del Sol, I can tell you that the process is actually very straightforward if you have the right team supporting you. Spain has a clear legal system for purchasing property, and once you understand the steps involved, buying property here can be...

If you are researching non-resident property tax in Spain, you may initially feel confused. I often see this with clients. The term itself is misleading. In reality, there is no separate 'property tax' for non-residents. Instead, there is an annual income tax levied on property ownership in Spain. Let me explain in simple, practical terms. What Is the Non-Resident Income Tax in Spain? Let's start...

Although Spain has many beautiful places to buy property, not all regions offer the same lifestyle, climate or long-term investment potential. From my experience of working with international buyers on the Costa del Sol over the years, I have noticed that many people initially consider several areas before eventually focusing on one that best aligns with their priorities. When we first came to Spain,...

I drive clients along this road almost every week and I always enjoy the views on the way to Estepona. It's about an 80 km (49 miles) journey, and it usually takes between 55 minutes and an hour and 15 minutes, depending on which route you take and the traffic conditions. You can either take the paid AP-7 motorway or the free A7 road, as well as the free section of the AP-7. Both routes follow the...

As a father of two with a third child on the way, I understand how frustrating and confusing it can be to move your children to a new country and have to choose a school. When my family and I started considering life on the Costa del Sol, one of the first things we thought about was education. International schools here offer a variety of programmes, languages and learning styles. For parents, this can...

Whether you are planning a holiday home, retirement residence or long-term investment, buying property on the Costa del Sol is an exciting step. However, many international buyers are taken aback by the additional purchase costs. When buying property in Spain, you will incur additional costs such as taxes, legal fees and notary expenses. Based on my experience of helping buyers in Benalmádena, I...

Many international buyers ask if they can leverage a purchase by taking out a mortgage. 'Can foreigners get a mortgage in Spain?' The short answer is yes. Spanish banks regularly offer mortgages to international buyers, including non-residents, provided certain financial requirements are met. I have been living on the Costa del Sol for over nine years, raising two children here and helping...