door 
I meet British people every week here on the Costa del Sol, and I’m hearing the question more and more often: ‘Can we buy a property in Spain after Brexit?‘ Can we live here?‘
The good news is straightforward: yes, you can still definitely buy property in Spain. Although a few practical details have changed, the process remains secure, well-regulated and familiar.
Can UK Citizens Still Buy Property in Spain After Brexit?
In short, the answer is yes. Brexit has not affected your right to own property in Spain.
In fact, the Spanish property market continues to welcome international buyers. British buyers remain one of the most significant groups in the Costa del Sol real estate market, particularly in areas such as Benalmádena, Marbella en Estepona.
However, there is one key difference. You are now treated as a non-EU buyer. This sounds more complicated than it is. In reality, it simply means:
- You may need to complete a little more paperwork in some cases
- Slightly different mortgage conditions
- New rules regarding how long you can stay in Spain.
From my experience of living in Benalmádena, I can tell you that, day-to-day, this change has not put off serious buyers. Many of my clients still complete purchases smoothly within a few weeks.
What Changed After Brexit? (And What Stayed the Same)
Let’s break this down clearly, as this is often where confusion arises.
What stayed the same?
- You can still buy property in Spain without any restrictions
- The legal purchase process remains unchanged
- As a foreign buyer, you have full ownership rights
- U kunt rent out your property (with the correct licence)
What changed?
The main changes are related to residency and administration.
1. The 90-day stay rule: you can stay in Spain for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.
2. Residency options
If you want to stay longer, you will require a visa. The most common options are:
- Non-lucrative visa (popular with retirees)
- Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers)
3. Mortgage conditions
Spanish banks still offer mortgages to UK buyers. However:
- Loan-to-value is usually 60–70%
- Strong proof of income is required
- Terms can vary slightly more than before
Praktische tip: Get mortgage pre-approval before you start your property search. This will save you time and strengthen your negotiation position.
Step by step: Buying Property in Spain (Post-Brexit)
The buying process itself has not changed. It is still structured, transparent and legally secure. We have a complete guide on what you need to buy a property in Spain.
Here is a summary of what the process will look like:
- Obtain your NIE (foreign ID) number
- Open a Spanish bank account.
- Find a property and agree on a price.
- Hire an independent lawyer to conduct due diligence.
- Sign a private purchase contract
- Voltooi de aankoop bij de notaris
From my experience of helping clients, I would say that the legal step is the most important. A good lawyer will check debts, ownership and licences. This is how you protect yourself.
At Costa Prime Realty, we guide buyers through each step, from searching for a property to completing the purchase and beyond. For many international clients, this comprehensive support makes the process much easier and less stressful.
Pros and Cons of Buying Property in Spain After Brexit
It is important to consider both sides clearly.
Advantages of Buying a Property in Spain:
- No ownership restrictions
- Strong demand for property investment in the Costa del Sol.
- Lifestyle benefits: climate, healthcare, safety
- Rental potential, especially in coastal areas
- Diversification outside the UK market
Considerations when buying a property in Spain:
- 90-day limit without residency
- More paperwork compared to EU buyers.
- Currency fluctuations (GBP to EUR).
- Slightly stricter mortgage conditions
In practice, however, most buyers see these as manageable rather than limiting. This is especially true if your goal is a second home or long-term investment.
Why the Costa del Sol Remains a Top Choice
Taylor Wimpey España, one of the leading Spanish home builders, reports that 75% of its British reservations are in the Costa del Sol.
Even after Brexit, demand has not slowed down. In fact, it has evolved.
Today’s buyers are more informed. They are looking for:
- Safe, established areas
- Easy airport access
- Good healthcare facilities nearby
- Rental potential or long-term value
This is precisely why places like Benalmádena remain so popular. There are international schools following the British curriculum, stranden, and a strong expat community. Having lived here with my family for nine years, I still consider it to be one of the most balanced places on the coast.
Another interesting trend is the rise of ‘lifestyle investors‘. These are buyers who want to enjoy their property and receive a return on their investment. They use the property for part of the year and rent it out for the rest of the time.
Key Takeaway and Conclusion: Brexit Changed the Rules, Not the Opportunity
Brexit did not put an end to buying property in Spain.
Instead, it introduced a few additional administrative steps en new residency rules. With the right guidance, these are easy for most buyers to manage.
The fundamentals remain strong:
- A stable property market
- Clear legal processes
- High international demand
- Excellent lifestyle value
In fact, the Costa del Sol has become even more appealing to careful, long-term planners.
Buying property in Spain after Brexit remains straightforward and secure. The key lies in understanding the updated rules and working with the right professionals.
Als u overweegt om Aankoop van een woning aan de Costa del Sol, Costa Prime Realty can guide you through the entire process, from the first viewing to legal checks and after-sales support. Feel free to reach out for an informal, no-obligation chat.
My name is Izidor and I will be happy to answer all your questions. Hopefully I will meet you here!
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