Whether you’re planning to retire, relocate, or invest in Valencia, it’s crucial to understand the legal process and avoid risks before signing anything.
This 10-step checklist will help you make a safe, compliant purchase as a foreign buyer in Spain.
✅ Step 1: Get Your Spanish NIE Number
Before you can buy property, you’ll need a Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE).
📌 This is your Spanish tax ID and is mandatory for:
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Signing the title deed
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Paying property taxes
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Opening a Spanish bank account
We can obtain your NIE for you — in Spain or remotely via Power of Attorney.
📝 Step 2: Review the “Nota Simple”
This land registry extract shows:
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Who owns the property
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Existing debts or liens
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Legal size and classification
✅ Never move forward without having this document reviewed by a lawyer.
⚠️ Step 3: Check for Debts or Legal Issues
In Spain, debts can transfer with the property — such as:
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Unpaid IBI (property tax)
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Mortgages or embargoes
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Utility arrears
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Community fees
We check for encumbrances and financial risks before you pay a deposit.
📐 Step 4: Verify Urban Planning & Licenses
Many homes in Valencia — especially in rural or coastal areas — may have:
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Unlicensed additions
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Construction without permits
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Fines pending from town hall
✅ We request full urban planning files and confirm compliance.
🏦 Step 5: Open a Spanish Bank Account
To manage your transaction, pay taxes, and receive utilities, you’ll need a local account.
We assist with:
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Opening accounts remotely
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Currency exchange setups
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Ensuring banking compliance for non-residents
✍️ Step 6: Review or Draft the Arras Contract
This reservation contract is legally binding in Spain. It must be carefully reviewed to:
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Protect your deposit
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Define conditions clearly
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Allow exit if legal issues arise
✅ We draft a buyer-friendly version of the arras contract.
🧾 Step 7: Calculate Total Purchase Costs
In Valencia (Comunidad Valenciana), your purchase will include:
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10% ITP (transfer tax) for resale properties
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Notary + Registry fees (~1.5% combined)
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Legal fees and POA costs
📌 Budget 12–13% on top of the purchase price.
🖋️ Step 8: Sign the Deed (Escritura) at the Notary
The notario ensures the deed is properly executed, but does not replace your lawyer.
We:
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Represent you or attend with you
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Coordinate with the seller
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Confirm payment and registration
🏛️ Step 9: Register the Property in Your Name
After signing, we submit the deed to the Valencia Land Registry, update ownership, and:
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Pay transfer taxes
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Handle municipal registration
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Switch utilities and local tax records
🧑⚖️ Step 10: Protect Your Investment Legally
We strongly recommend:
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Drafting a Spanish will if you own assets here
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Reviewing rental license options
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Structuring the purchase for tax efficiency (especially if renting or gifting later)
📞 Buying in Valencia? Get Expert Legal Guidance
Our Valencia-based legal team supports foreign buyers through every legal step, in English, Dutch, French, Swedish, or German.