Buying Property in Madrid as a Foreigner? Know Your Tax Obligations

Madrid offers excellent opportunities for international buyers, but understanding property taxes and legal fees is essential to avoid surprises.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll pay — and how we help you navigate every step.


💰 1. Transfer Tax (ITP) – Resale Properties

If you’re buying a second-hand property (from a private individual), you’ll pay:

  • Transfer Tax (ITP): 6% of the purchase price (flat rate in Madrid)

💡 Some regions in Spain have higher ITP rates — Madrid is relatively favorable.


🆕 2. VAT (IVA) & Stamp Duty (AJD) – New Builds

If you’re buying a newly built property from a developer:

  • VAT (IVA): 10% of the purchase price

  • Stamp Duty (AJD): 0.75% in Madrid (on notarized deed)

📌 These apply to first-time sales only, including some new developments.


đź§ľ 3. Notary & Registry Fees

These are public administrative costs required to finalize the transaction:

Fee Type Estimated Range
Notary Fees €600–€1,200
Land Registry Fee €400–€800
Deed Preparation €200–€400

The exact amount depends on the property value and complexity.


🏛️ 4. Plusvalía Municipal (Capital Gains Tax)

A local tax paid to the Madrid municipality based on the increase in land value since the last sale.

  • Usually paid by the seller, but can be negotiated

  • Buyer must ensure it’s paid to avoid future liability

📌 We include Plusvalía terms in the arras contract to protect you.


đź’Ľ 5. Legal Fees (Property Lawyer)

  • Standard fee: 0.75% to 1.5% of the property price

  • Often capped with a fixed minimum

  • Covers: due diligence, POA, contracts, notary, registration

📌 We offer fixed-fee packages for foreign buyers — with no hidden costs.


đź“… 6. Annual Property Taxes After Purchase

Once you own the property, you’ll also pay:

IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles)

  • Annual municipal property tax

  • Based on cadastral value

  • Usually ranges €300–€1,500/year

IRNR (Non-Resident Income Tax)

  • Applies even if the property is vacant

  • Based on imputed rental value

  • Typically 0.48%–0.75% of cadastral value

📌 We help you file annual tax returns for Madrid property owners.


đź’ł 7. Other Possible Costs

  • Mortgage set-up or notary costs (if applicable)

  • Bank transfer fees

  • Currency exchange fees

  • Property insurance (optional but recommended)


📊 Example: Costs for a €400,000 Resale Flat in Madrid

Category Estimated Amount
Transfer Tax (6%) €24,000
Notary + Registry Fees €1,500
Lawyer Fees (1%) €4,000
Plusvalía (negotiable) €0–€2,500
Total (approx.) €29,500–€32,000

📌 We provide a personalized cost estimate before you sign any deposit.


🧑‍⚖️ Why Work With a Property Lawyer?

✔️ Avoid tax penalties or double-payment
✔️ Get cost transparency from day one
✔️ Ensure correct filings and on-time payment
✔️ Plan for resale or rental tax implications
✔️ Peace of mind with bilingual legal support


📞 Want a Full Madrid Property Tax Breakdown?

We’ll explain your total cost of purchase and handle all filings, deadlines, and legal paperwork — so you can focus on your move or investment.

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