Buying property in Spain, and in Valencia in particular, is a project that attracts more and more international buyers. Between the Mediterranean climate, the quality of life, the economic dynamism and still-attractive prices, Valencia is a real opportunity, whether for a second home, a permanent move or a rental investment.
But buying property in Spain as a foreigner means understanding a process that differs from your home country: the administrative steps, the legal framework and a market that varies a lot between neighbourhoods and surrounding towns. A well-prepared project is what avoids unpleasant surprises. Here is the complete step-by-step guide to the Spanish buying process, from the first idea to the keys.
Valencia attracts many international buyers each year thanks to its quality of life and dynamic real estate market.
1. Clearly define your project and budget
Before visiting anything, clarify your objectives and your budget:
- The type of purchase: primary residence, second home or rental investment
- The overall budget, including costs and any renovation work
- The type of property: apartment, villa, townhouse (see our guide on houses in Valencia and its surroundings)
- The location: city centre, residential areas or surrounding towns (see the best neighbourhoods to live in Valencia)
A clear vision guides your search and saves you time.
2. Get your NIE
The NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) is mandatory for any property purchase in Spain. You need it to sign the deed, pay the taxes and open a Spanish bank account. It can be obtained in Spain or through the Spanish consulate in your country, and anticipating it early makes everything smoother. Full details in our guide on how to obtain the NIE in Spain. You will also need a local account: see opening a bank account in Spain.
3. Arrange your financing
Financing is a key step. You can buy in cash, with a Spanish mortgage, or with financing from your home country. Spanish banks generally lend up to 70% of the price for non-residents and 80% for residents.
Also plan for the costs, generally 10 to 14% of the price depending on whether the property is new or resale. For the details, see our guides on financing a property purchase in Spain and borrowing in your home country or in Spain. The largest cost is the transfer tax (ITP), which in Valencia is 9% for resale property since 2026.
4. Find the right property
In Valencia the market is dynamic and competitive: attractive properties sell fast. Buying without local knowledge can mean overpaying, choosing the wrong location or missing the best opportunities.
Professional support saves time and gives access to off-market properties. This is where a buyer’s agent or a lawyer makes the difference, especially if you buy remotely from abroad.
5. Make an offer and sign the deposit contract (arras)
Once the property is chosen, you submit an offer. If it is accepted, you sign a deposit contract (contrato de arras) and pay a deposit, usually around 10% of the price.
This step legally commits both parties and sets the conditions of the sale, so the clauses must be clearly drafted to protect you. It is also one of the moments where classic pitfalls of buying in Spain appear, so have the contract reviewed before signing.
6. Check the legal status of the property
Before the final signature, make sure the property is properly registered, free of debts or charges, and compliant with urban planning rules. The key document is the nota simple from the Land Registry: read our guide on the nota simple in Spain.
Remember that the notary authenticates the deed but does not run all these checks himself. If you use a mortgage, the bank will also order a valuation (tasación) of the property.
7. Sign the title deed at the notary
The official signature takes place before a notary. At that moment, the remaining balance is paid (usually by bank transfer or banker’s cheque), the taxes are paid, and the keys are handed over. This is the step that officially makes you the owner.
8. Complete the formalities after the purchase
After signing, a few procedures remain: registering the property at the Land Registry, changing the water, electricity and service contracts, and organising property management if you plan to rent it out. For an overview of the ongoing costs, see our guide on property taxes and running costs in Valencia.
Why get professional support when buying in Spain?
Buying property abroad involves legal, administrative and cultural differences. Language barriers, an unfamiliar market and complex procedures can make the process stressful.
Based in Valencia, our French-speaking and English-speaking agency Buenapart supports you at every stage. As both property hunters and estate agents, we provide a personalised property search, complete administrative assistance, legal security for the transaction, and access to a trusted local network of notaries, banks and partners. We can manage the entire purchase remotely if you cannot travel.
Our goal is simple: help you buy property in Valencia with confidence, transparency and peace of mind. Let’s talk about your project.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner buy property in Spain?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreigners (EU or non-EU) buying property in Spain. You only need a valid passport and a NIE. Buying itself is open to everyone.
What are the main steps to buy property in Spain?
Define your project and budget, get your NIE, arrange financing, find the property, make an offer and sign a deposit contract (arras), check the legal status (nota simple), sign the title deed before a notary, and complete the post-purchase formalities.
How much are the costs of buying property in Spain?
On top of the price, budget around 10 to 14%. The main line is the transfer tax (ITP), 9% for resale property in Valencia since 2026, plus notary, land registry and legal or agency fees.
Do I need a lawyer or an agent to buy in Spain?
It is strongly recommended. The notary authenticates the deed but does not defend your interests or run all the checks. A trusted agent or lawyer verifies the legal status, the debts and the urban planning situation before you sign.
Can I buy property in Spain remotely, without travelling?
Yes. The whole purchase can be handled through a power of attorney (poder notarial): NIE, viewings, negotiation and even the notary signature can be managed on your behalf.
How long does it take to buy property in Spain?
Typically two to three months from accepted offer to signature, depending on financing and checks. Getting your NIE and mortgage pre-approval early avoids delays.