Buying a home in Spain means more than just paying the price of the property. Foreign buyers in Barcelona must budget for property taxes and legal fees, which typically add 10–15% to the purchase cost.
This guide covers all the taxes and fees involved in a property purchase in Barcelona, including resale and new-build scenarios.
🧾 Overview of Property Purchase Costs in Barcelona
| Type of Cost | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Transfer tax (ITP) | 10% (resale property) |
| VAT + Stamp Duty (AJD) | 10% VAT + 1.5% AJD (new-build) |
| Notary fees | €500 – €1,200 |
| Land Registry fees | €400 – €1,000 |
| Legal fees (lawyer) | €1,500 – €4,000 |
| Bank & admin costs | €200 – €800 |
🏡 Property Transfer Taxes
✅ For Resale Properties (Second-hand)
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Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales (ITP): 10% in Catalonia
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Paid after signing the deed at the notary
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Must be paid within 30 days of the signing
✅ For New-Build Properties
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VAT (IVA): 10% on the purchase price
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Stamp Duty (AJD): 1.5% in Catalonia
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Both are paid at the time of signing the notarial deed
👉 New-builds are more expensive upfront due to double taxation (IVA + AJD), but often come with better energy ratings and warranties.
🖋️ Notary Fees
The notary is a public official who certifies the sale. Fees are regulated and depend on:
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Purchase price
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Number of buyers
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Number of pages in the deed
💶 Expect to pay between €500 and €1,200.
📚 Land Registry Fees
After the sale, your lawyer will register your ownership with the Registro de la Propiedad.
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Cost: €400 to €1,000 depending on the property value and complexity
⚖️ Lawyer Fees
Foreign buyers should hire a lawyer to:
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Handle due diligence
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Draft or review contracts
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Represent them via Power of Attorney
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Pay taxes and register the title
Typical range: €1,500 to €4,000 depending on services and complexity
🛡️ This is your best investment to avoid legal risks.
🏦 Other Costs to Expect
| Cost | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| NIE application | €150 – €500 |
| Power of Attorney | €200 – €600 |
| Bank transfer fees | €50 – €250 |
| Mortgage-related notary fees | €500 – €1,000 (if applicable) |
| Translation or sworn interpreter (optional) | €100 – €300 |
🗓️ When Are Taxes Paid?
| Tax/Fee | Payment Timing |
|---|---|
| ITP or IVA + AJD | Within 30 days of notary signing |
| Notary + Registry | Paid on signing day or just after |
| Legal Fees | Before or after deed signing |
🔍 Who Pays the Plusvalía Tax?
The municipal capital gains tax (Plusvalía Municipal) is usually paid by the seller — but buyers should confirm this in the arras contract. Your lawyer should verify whether:
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The seller has unpaid local taxes
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Plusvalía has been calculated fairly
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You are protected if the seller fails to pay
📋 How Much Should I Budget in Total?
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Resale property: ~12–14% of the purchase price
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New-build property: ~13–15%
Example: For a €500,000 resale apartment in Barcelona:
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ITP: €50,000
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Notary + Registry: ~€1,500
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Legal fees: €2,500
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Misc. costs: €500
Total costs: ~€54,500
💬 Final Word
Understanding property taxes and fees in Barcelona is essential for foreign buyers. With the right legal advice, all obligations can be handled smoothly and efficiently.
At Borderless Lawyers, we:
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Handle all tax filings on your behalf
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Prevent fines for late payments
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Provide upfront cost estimates and legal security
📞 Contact us to get a complete cost breakdown before you buy in Barcelona.