A typical Spain purchase follows:
(1) offer accepted,
(2) reservation agreement and deposit,
(3) legal due diligence (Land Registry checks via nota simple, debts, planning/licences, community fees),
(4) private contract (often “arras”) with a larger deposit,
(5) completion at the Notary where funds are transferred and the escritura is signed, and
(6) registration at the Registro de la Propiedad.
You should avoid paying significant deposits before a lawyer confirms title, charges, and planning status—especially for rural homes or properties with extensions.
Download Spain Buying Guide to learn more about the process from start to finish.
