Buying a home in Marbella involves more than the purchase price. Foreign buyers must budget for property taxes, legal fees, notary costs, and registration expenses. Knowing these figures in advance is key to a smooth transaction.
At Borderless Lawyers, we give clients a full cost breakdown before they commit — avoiding surprises and ensuring all legal obligations are met.
🧾 1. Transfer Tax (ITP) – Resale Properties
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Applies if you buy a previously owned home
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Rate: 7% (Andalusia)
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Calculated on declared sale price (or higher if cadastral value applies)
💡 Must be paid within 30 days of notary signing.
🏗️ 2. VAT and Stamp Duty – New Builds
If you buy a brand-new property from a developer, you pay:
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10% VAT (IVA)
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1.2% stamp duty (AJD)
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No ITP in this case
We advise on VAT deductions if you’re buying as a business or investor.
🏛️ 3. Notary Fees
Based on the property price and deed length:
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Usually €600 – €1,200
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Paid at the time of signing
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Required for legal validity of the purchase
✅ We coordinate the notary and review the full cost estimate beforehand.
🏢 4. Land Registry Fees
Paid to register the deed in your name:
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€400 – €800 depending on value
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Includes title updates and certified copies
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Registration must occur after tax is paid
We handle this entire process for you.
⚖️ 5. Lawyer Fees
A must for foreign buyers:
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Full legal service: due diligence, POA, arras, signing, registration
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Average: 1% + VAT of property price
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Minimum fixed fee applies for lower-value properties
💡 Always use an independent lawyer — never rely on the seller’s advisor.
🏘️ 6. Plusvalía Tax (Seller or Buyer)
This municipal tax is based on:
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Property location
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Time since last sale
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Land value increase
By default, the seller pays — but in private contracts, it’s sometimes passed to the buyer. We check and negotiate this in your favor.
🧾 7. Annual Ownership Taxes (Post-Purchase)
After buying, you must budget for:
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IBI (property tax): €300–€2,000+/year
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Garbage tax: €50–€200/year
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Non-resident income tax (if not rented)
We offer post-purchase tax services and representation for non-residents.
📊 Sample Cost Breakdown – €500,000 Resale Home
| Item | Amount (€) |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | 500,000 |
| ITP (7%) | 35,000 |
| Notary | 900 |
| Registry | 600 |
| Lawyer (1% + VAT) | 6,050 |
| Total Estimated Costs | €42,550 |
💬 Final Word
Property taxes and fees in Marbella are significant — but predictable if you work with the right legal team.
At Borderless Lawyers, we give you a full legal + financial overview from day one, handle all filings, and ensure every euro is accounted for.
📞 Contact us now to get a personalized cost breakdown and buy property in Marbella with confidence.