Don’t Buy Property in Valencia Without This Legal Checklist

Buying real estate in Valencia as a foreigner? Make sure you understand every legal step — from NIE to notary — to avoid costly mistakes.

Our local lawyers created this simple checklist based on real cases we’ve handled.

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📋 10-Step Legal Checklist for Valencia Property Buyers

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✅ 1. Apply for Your NIE

The Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) is required to:

• Sign any property contracts

• Open a bank account

• Pay taxes and register the property

📌 We can obtain your NIE with or without a power of attorney.

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✅ 2. Open a Spanish Bank Account

All payments must be made from a Spanish account in your name. Some banks offer non-resident accounts with remote onboarding.

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✅ 3. Hire an Independent Lawyer

Don’t rely on the agent’s “recommended lawyer.” An independent lawyer will:

• Represent only your interests

• Review contracts

• Flag legal risks

• Protect your deposit

💡 Borderless Lawyers offers fixed-fee services and bilingual support.

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✅ 4. Conduct Full Due Diligence

Before you pay a deposit:

• Verify ownership and debts

• Check the Land Registry and Cadastre

• Review zoning and licensing compliance

• Confirm no legal issues or claims

📌 Never sign an arras contract before due diligence.

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✅ 5. Review the Arras Contract

This deposit contract commits you legally.

Make sure it includes:

• Proper withdrawal clauses

• Clear deadlines

• Seller obligations

• Penalty terms

📌 We prepare bilingual arras contracts with refund safeguards.

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✅ 6. Draft a Valid Power of Attorney (Optional)

If you can’t be in Spain:

• Grant POA to your lawyer

• We sign contracts, attend the notary, and register the title for you

• Your documents are apostilled and returned securely

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✅ 7. Sign the Notarial Deed (Escritura Pública)

This is the final, official step. A Spanish notary will:

• Read the deed aloud

• Confirm legal compliance

• Certify the purchase

Your lawyer ensures:

• Correct payment handling

• Legal representation

• Translations and explanations in English

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✅ 8. Register the Property

We register your title with the Valencia Land Registry, which makes you the legal owner.

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✅ 9. Pay All Taxes and Fees

After the deed, you’ll need to pay:

• Transfer Tax (ITP) or VAT + Stamp Duty

• Notary and registry costs

• Plusvalía Municipal (municipal gains tax)

📌 We handle all calculations and timely filing to avoid penalties.

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✅ 10. Draft a Spanish Will (Strongly Recommended)

If you own Spanish property, it’s smart to:

• Draft a Spanish-compatible will

• Prevent inheritance complications

• Ensure heirs benefit from regional tax reductions

📌 We create Spanish wills tailored to foreign owners of Valencia real estate.

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🧾 Summary Table

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📞 Need Help Navigating the Valencia Legal Process?

Whether you’re buying a home, investment property, or vacation flat — we guide you step by step. No legal risk, no language barrier, no stress.