Articles on buying property in Spain
Practical, from first-hand experience, for international buyers.
Choosing a contractor on the Costa Brava: what to look at before a renovation begins
The biggest risks in a renovation rarely arise during the build. They arise during contractor selection. What we check, what we have learned to look for, and what we have walked away from.
Financing a second home in Spain: what banks do differently
Financing a second home in Spain is not the same as your first mortgage. What banks actually assess, what buyers underestimate, and what makes the difference.
Spanish property appraisal: how banks determine the value of your home
Spanish banks require an official property appraisal before approving a mortgage. What the report contains, how the valuation works, and what happens if the figure comes in just below what you need.
The Spanish escritura explained: what you sign at the notary
The escritura is the official property deed in a Spanish real estate transaction. What the document contains, who is present, and why the notary appointment is not the moment to solve problems.
Renovation permit in Palafrugell: licencia menor, licencia mayor and the summer works ban
Licencia menor, licencia mayor or comunicació prèvia? What Palafrugell's summer works ban means for your renovation timeline, and how to plan around it.
Closing costs buying property in Spain: the total picture
What does buying property in Spain actually cost beyond the purchase price? We paid €55,488 in taxes and costs on our own purchase in Baix Empordà — here's what surprised us.
Spanish mortgage with foreign income: what banks count
Dutch income, Spanish mortgage. We went through the process ourselves. Here's exactly what Spanish banks ask for — and where applications stall.
How much can you borrow as a non-resident in Spain: LTV explained
Spanish banks lend less to non-residents. This article explains the usual LTV ranges, what moves the ceiling up or down, and what it means for a property at €450,000.
How to apply for a Spanish NIE number as a non-resident
No NIE, no bank account. No bank account, no mortgage. What looks like one administrative task sits at the start of a chain. Start too late, and delays spread across the whole process.