Six things you need to know before you buy property in Marbella
Buying a property in Marbella is a dream for many people. But with house prices in the area becoming more affordable, it’s something that can easily become a reality. Whether you are buying to move to Spain full-time, planning for your retirement or would simply like a holiday, there are a few things that you need to know before you purchase property in the area. Here are six key issues you need to be aware of.
- You need to get the basics right
It is important to realise that if you want to get a mortgage to buy a Spanish property or be taken seriously by the seller, you need to get certain things in place. If a bank or estate agent feels that are you really invested in the idea of buying property in Marbella they are less likely to feel confident with you. That means that it is essential that you should get the basics right.
Firstly, it is essential that you obtain an NIE (Numero de Identificacion de Extranjeros) number. This number shows that you are registered with the authorities in Spain and is required for any property purchase in the country. Admitting that you don’t have one or that you don’t know what it is could suggest to the seller or mortgage provider that you don’t really know what you’re doing.
Additionally it is extremely beneficial to have a Spanish lawyer as well as an open Spanish bank account to prove that you are taking the appropriate steps to buy property.
- Understand Marbella before you buy here
Most people know Marbella as holiday destination that is full of tourists as well as celebrities and the wealthy. It may be the case that you have travelled to Marbella in the past and enjoyed it so much that you decided to buy property here. But it is important to remember that Marbella is a real city, not just a destination.
Choosing the location of your property is absolutely vital, as some parts of Marbella are better than others, and each area has its own strengths and weaknesses. You need to learn the ins and outs of the property market here if you want to buy somewhere as an investment. Price can be a key issue – naturally properties closer to the beach front and the trendy Golden Mile will be more expensive, but bargains can be found in outer locations. But you should be aware that the expensive properties close to the beach are always more likely to hold their value, no matter what happens in the rest of the market.
- You need to know how you will use the property
There are many different reasons that you might want to buy a property in Marbella, but to make sure you get somewhere that is right for you, it is vital that you know exactly what you want your purchase for. For example you might be buying to go out and live in Marbella full time or you might be buying the property as a holiday home that you will rent out for some of the year.
If you are buying a property that you are going to let to other people, you need to choose a location and layout that is going to be suitable. It can be tempting to fall in love with a property that would be perfect for you, but remember that it’s not you that it has to impress.
- Visit the properties you are interested in
One of the really key mistakes that people make when buying property in Spain is failing to go and actually see the property they are buying. Yes, it might be expensive and frustrating to have to get there just to see properties that you may not buy, but remember that this is a huge expense – this is something that you need to do. Photos and descriptions can be misleading, so you at the very least need to have someone you trust visit the property to get an idea of what it’s really like.
- Get legal help
Buying property in Spain is a very complicated business. If you don’t have a comprehensive understanding of the Spanish language and Spanish law, you will undoubtedly need a lawyer can advise you in English. As soon as you have decided that you are serious about buying a property in Marbella, you need to appoint a lawyer with experience in purchases from abroad.
- Be aware of the fees
It’s also important to be aware that there are a number of fees and taxes that Marbella property buyers need to pay. Firstly, there’s VAT and stamp duty, but there is also something known as the Transfer Tax which is payable by the buyer if the vendor is not a developer or a property seller. This tax is scaled, and is either 8%, 9% or 10%.
There are also notary and property registry fees which could be in excess of €3,000 depending on the value of the property or the complexity of the title deed.
You May Also Enjoy
Busiest ever Boxing Day on Rightmove as home-hunters prepare for 2026 move
How to add £30K to your property value and find a buyer fast this new year
Speed, certainty, and strong results: why property auctions are set to thrive in 2026
2026 Predictions for the Mortgage Sector
UK’s most affordable cities
