1. Hire a conveyance lawyer
Before paying a reservation deposit to an estate agent or developer (which are normally non-refundable), you should first hire a lawyer specialised in conveyancing. The reason is because a lawyer will be able to run a due diligence on the property and verify all is correct. As holding deposits are non-refundable, this tip will save you losing 6,000 euros on average. Do not be pressurised into signing a contract.
2. Plot of land under a developer’s name
One should never buy an off-plan in a land that is not registered under a developer’s name. There are far too many associated risks to take a gamble with your hard-earned money.
3. Building Licence
This is one of the biggest mistakes’ buyers make. Many problems could easily be staved off on following this advice. A Building Licence ensures a building is above board and the property is not built in green belt land, for example.
4. Bank Guarantees
A bank guarantee is of critical importance, acting as a safety net securing all your stage payments, should a developer fail to deliver your property on time or not at all.
5. Licence of First Occupation
A Licence of First Occupation is a certificate issued by a town hall which confirms that a newly-build fully complies with all planning and building regulations and is fit to be used as a dwelling. It assures compliance with Health, Access, Safety, Planning and Construction laws, and that the property has been fully completed, with no outstanding works. A LFO allows off-plan buyers to dwell in a property legally. Lenders ask for this licence on granting a mortgage loan and Authorities also demand it for holiday rental accommodations.
6. NIE number
A NIE number is a Fiscal Identification Number for foreigners and is required, among other things, to buy or rent property in Spain. See our Idealista guide explaining all about the NIE Number.
7. Snagging list
Before you complete on a new build, you should always do a snagging list of the property. You can either draw up a snagging list yourself or else appoint one of the many reputable surveyor companies that may carry it out on your behalf.
8. Post-completion: taxes, rates, utilities, community fees & other
Once you have acquired your new Spanish property, you need to face all the associated running expenses. Make sure you have carefully budgeted for this to avoid unpleasant surprises!
How to buy repossessed properties in Spain: complete buyers' guide
Buying a bank-owned property can be an excellent option for those seeking an affordable home, flexible mortgage terms or a solid investment. These properties offer several advantages if you know where and how to look.
6 in 10 buyers in Spain prioritise homes with pools, gardens or sports facilities
A recent study reveals that 6 in 10 buyers in Spain prioritise properties with pools, gardens, or sports facilities. These features have become key decision factors, reflecting growing demand for outdoor spaces and leisure amenities in the housing market.
Up to €30,000 in rent-to-buy support for young residents in Spain
On 15 September, the Spanish government announced a new package of measures designed to make housing more accessible for young people. One of the key initiatives is a new aid of almost €30,000 for rent-to-buy schemes.
Spanish police warn of squatters’ new tactic: changing locks or adding padlocks
The Local Police of Almenara (Castellón) have warned residents on social media about a new squatting tactic. Squatters are using deceptive methods to occupy empty homes without immediate detection.
Where foreigners are buying property in Spain in 2025
The British remain the largest group of foreign homebuyers in Spain, but interest is growing among citizens of other countries, including Germany, France, the Netherlands and Italy, particularly for properties on the Mediterranean coast, the main draw for foreign buyers.
The 10 Spanish provinces where new-build prices continue to rise
Spain’s new-build housing market is undergoing a boom. A combination of high demand, limited supply and rising prices has driven some provinces to record unprecedented growth over the past decade, culminating in 2024.
Affordable new-build apartments for sale on the Spanish coast
Looking to invest in a new home? Now is the perfect time to buy a brand-new property in Spain. We’ve curated a selection of the best new-build apartments for sale along Spain’s stunning coastline, all priced under 300,000 euros – offering affordable yet high-quality coastal living.