The Spanish real estate system can be complex — and if you’re buying property in Madrid as a foreigner, you’re more exposed to legal mistakes than local buyers. From unclear ownership to urban planning risks, these errors can be costly and irreversible.
At Borderless Lawyers, we specialize in helping international clients avoid legal pitfalls throughout the property purchase process.
❌ Mistake #1: Signing Contracts Without Legal Review
Too many buyers sign:
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Reservation contracts drafted by agents
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Arras agreements without knowing the penalties
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Deeds with errors in square meters, names, or registry data
Solution: Always have an independent Spanish lawyer review all documents before signing anything.
❌ Mistake #2: Not Doing Proper Due Diligence
Skipping legal checks can lead to:
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Buying a property with undisclosed debts or liens
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Inheriting community or tax debts
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Discovering illegal construction after the sale
Solution: Have your lawyer verify all registries, licenses, zoning laws, and debts before paying any deposit.
❌ Mistake #3: Buying Without a Valid NIE
You cannot legally buy a property in Spain without an NIE (NĂşmero de IdentificaciĂłn de Extranjero).
Solution: Apply early or let your lawyer obtain it via Power of Attorney. This is often overlooked until the final signing — causing costly delays.
❌ Mistake #4: Relying Only on the Real Estate Agent
Agents represent the seller’s interests, not yours. Their contracts are often one-sided, and they are not qualified to provide legal advice.
Solution: Hire your own independent lawyer. They’ll protect you from unfair terms and hidden issues.
❌ Mistake #5: Assuming Remote Purchase Is Too Complicated
Many buyers think they must fly to Spain to close the deal. Not true.
Solution: Use a legally drafted Power of Attorney to let your lawyer handle the entire transaction on your behalf. It’s secure, flexible, and 100% legal.
❌ Mistake #6: Underestimating Taxes and Fees
Ignoring costs like:
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Transfer tax (ITP)
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Notary & Land Registry fees
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Legal and POA costs
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Currency conversion losses
…can wreck your budget.
Solution: Ask your lawyer for a full cost estimate in advance — based on the property type and location.
❌ Mistake #7: Registering Property Incorrectly
We’ve seen buyers:
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Register with misspelled names
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Forget to notify the Cadastre
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Fail to pay annual property taxes (IBI)
These errors can cause legal blocks when selling or inheriting the property later.
Solution: Ensure your lawyer manages the post-sale registration and tax notifications.
🧑‍⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Protects Foreign Buyers
We offer:
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Full due diligence
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Contract negotiation
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Remote signing via POA
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Tax and title registration
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Multilingual legal advice
Our goal is zero surprises, zero risk.
đź’¬ Final Word
Madrid offers fantastic real estate opportunities — but without legal guidance, a simple mistake can cost you tens of thousands.
At Borderless Lawyers, we specialize in working with international clients who want:
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Clear, honest legal advice
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Fixed-fee representation
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A seamless buying experience — in person or remotely
đź“ž Contact us now to protect your investment and buy property in Madrid with confidence.