Marbella, on the Costa del Sol, is a hotspot for international property investors — thanks to its:
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Mediterranean lifestyle
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Warm climate
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International schools
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Luxury villas and beachfront apartments
But buying property in Spain as a foreigner requires careful legal steps — and Marbella is no exception.
⚖️ Can Foreigners Buy Property in Marbella?
✅ Yes. Foreigners have the same rights as Spanish citizens when it comes to buying real estate in Spain.
There are no restrictions based on nationality.
Whether you’re from the UK, USA, UAE, or anywhere else — you can legally own residential or commercial property in Marbella.
📋 Legal Requirements Before You Buy
Here’s what you’ll need before signing a property contract:
| Requirement | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| NIE number | Your Spanish tax ID — required for all purchases |
| Spanish bank account | To pay taxes and manage utilities |
| Power of Attorney (optional) | Lets your lawyer handle everything if you’re abroad |
| Independent lawyer | To conduct due diligence, draft contracts, and protect you |
💡 At Borderless Lawyers, we handle everything — including NIE and POA setup remotely.
🔍 The Legal Purchase Process in Marbella
Step 1: Property Reservation
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A small deposit (usually €3,000–€6,000)
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Removed from the market temporarily
Step 2: Due Diligence & Legal Checks
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Title deed review
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Urban zoning confirmation
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Mortgage/debt check
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Property tax compliance
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Community and license checks
Step 3: Contrato de Arras
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You sign a deposit contract and pay 10%
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Sets the purchase timeline and conditions
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Protects you with legal clauses
Step 4: Public Deed at Notary
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Final signing (escritura pública)
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Notary verifies documentation
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Remaining payment is made
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Property officially transferred
💶 What Taxes and Costs Will You Pay?
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| ITP (resale tax) | 7% in Andalusia |
| Notary & Registry Fees | ~€1,200–€2,000 |
| Legal Fees | ~€1,500–€3,000 |
| Bank Fees / Transfer Costs | €200–€1,000 |
| NIE & POA (if needed) | €100–€300 |
📌 See full article on Marbella property taxes →
🧠 Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Signing an arras contract without legal review
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Buying without checking urban planning or license status
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Underestimating closing costs
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Relying solely on the agent’s advice
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Skipping inheritance/tax planning
🧑⚖️ Why Use Borderless Lawyers
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Local lawyers based in Marbella
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Native English (and multilingual) team
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Clear fixed-fee pricing
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100% representation in your interest — not the seller’s
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We handle the full process, remotely if needed
📞 Ready to Buy in Marbella?
Get expert legal support and full peace of mind when buying property in Marbella. Whether you’re planning a visit or buying remotely, we guide you every step of the way.