Buying any home is daunting. But when it’s in another country, legal and financial system the challenges mount. Let’s break it down and make it simple…
If you’ve ever thought “I’d love to buy in Spain, but I’m not sure how it all works,” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common concerns for international buyers.
In Your Overseas Home’s annual survey, worries over the Spanish property buying process often feature among those yet to buy.
But here’s the good news: buying property in Spain is easier, safer and more structured than you might think. Indeed, when we asked those same international buyers afterwards how the buying process went, 93% said it had been very easy or quite easy. That’s especially so when they buy with the help of Your Overseas Home.
Why wait? Discover Porta de Mar today
But how about buying on a new-build development like Porta de Mar? Again, good news – it’s even easier!
Here’s what to expect, and why there’s really nothing to fear.
Step 1: Sort out your paperwork
Before you can buy a property in Spain there are some legal and tax requirements. Don’t worry, none of these are difficult, and your lawyer and Porta De mar can even help you with them.
The first is to get your tax number: the NIE (número de identidad de extranjero). In effect, it is your financial identity in Spain. You do this either in Spain, which is the easiest option, or if you are outside Spain, at your Spanish Embassy or Consulate. It only costs around €10 and lasts for your lifetime.
At Your Overseas Home we certainly recommend registering with Smart Currency Exchange too. It only takes a few minutes, is completely free, and means that you can talk through the international payments process with a real expert.
Ready to head to Spain to take a look? Download your free Viewing Trip Guide to ensure you are completely in control.
Step 2: Reserve your property
Once you’ve chosen your home – whether that’s a penthouse with sea views or a garden townhouse — the first step is a reservation agreement. This usually involves paying a deposit, which holds the property for you while legal checks are carried out.
At Porta de Mar, the sales team will walk you through this process and introduce you to a recommended bilingual lawyer, who will represent your interests throughout the purchase. If you wish to use your own lawyer, that’s fine too.
Step 3: Legal checks and contract
Your lawyer will carry out due diligence, checking land registry details, planning permissions and confirming that everything is in order. This is standard practice and ensures peace of mind. As the first buyer of the property, most processes will be simpler than with a resale property, where there would have to be further checks.
Then comes the purchase contract, which outlines the payment schedule, delivery date and any customisation options for your property. It’s all done transparently, in English and Spanish.
Step 4: Stage payments during construction
Spain’s new-build system uses stage payments, meaning you pay in instalments as construction progresses. This spreads the cost and allows you to track progress with confidence.
There are full legal protections under Spanish law, in case of delays in construction or if there were any problems after it is finished.
At Porta de Mar, the build is already underway, with completion of the current Barlovento phase expected by early 2027. You’ll receive regular updates, site access (where possible) and support from our dedicated team on the ground.
Step 5: Completion at the notary
Once your property is finished and inspected, the final step is signing the escritura (title deed) at a local notary office. Your lawyer will attend with you (or on your behalf if you choose to use power of attorney). Then the property is officially yours.
You’ll receive the keys, your home is registered in your name, and — just like that — you own your piece of the Mediterranean.
A word on tax
The Spanish Prime Minister recently threatened to impose a 100% property tax on international buyers from outside of the European Union.
While this move seems extremely unlikely to be agreed by the Spanish parliament, if imposed it would in any case not apply for the properties at Porta De Mar. That’s because the tax as threatened would not apply to new build properties. Another reason not to worry.
A few extra things that make it even easier…
- You don’t need to speak Spanish – all documents are translated and professionals speak excellent English.
- You don’t have to be in Spain all the time – your solicitor can act with power of attorney.
- You can buy as an individual or a company, and finance is available if you need it.
- Your rights are protected – Spain has strong property laws for international buyers, especially for new builds.
What’s stopping you?
If the only thing between you and your dream home is a bit of red tape, we’ll help you cut through it. Buying at Porta de Mar isn’t complicated — it’s a series of logical, secure steps, supported by experts at every stage.
