Part 2: The dream of Spain – The actual purchase, the steps you must not miss
Taking the step from dream to reality means not only finding the right home – but also understanding *how* a home purchase in Spain actually works. It differs from the Swedish system, and that is precisely why it is so important to have the right support along the way. Here you will get an overview of the purchase itself – step by step.
Financing – start at the right end
Before you start booking viewings, you should have the financing ready. This gives you both negotiating power and security when the right property comes along. In Spain, it is possible to borrow up to 70% of the home's market value, often through local banks - the loan will then be in euros. An alternative is to borrow your Swedish home in Swedish kronor. Some choose to combine both.
Notar Spain will help you find a plan that suits your situation – and will open the door to banking contacts if you need it.
Legal representative – your most important partner
Unlike in Sweden, where the broker often handles large parts of the deal, in Spain you hire a legal representative (lawyer) who exclusively represents you as the buyer. The representative reviews contracts, reviews title deeds, checks that there are no debts or obstacles, and makes sure that you don't miss any legal details.
Notar provides contact with reputable lawyers – it is a security that should not be underestimated.
Bidding – usually a direct negotiation
In most cases, you are the sole bidder. This means you can place a bid (often below the starting price) and enter into direct negotiations with the seller.
Bidding like in Sweden, where several people bid over each other, is unusual. In new production, fixed prices apply instead.
Think strategically, get support from the broker – and remember that a quick deal is often appreciated by the seller.
Duty to investigate – what you are responsible for
In Spain, there is a strict duty to inspect: as a buyer, you are responsible for inspecting the property before you sign anything. Homes are sold in their current condition, which makes it difficult to claim defects afterwards – even if there are hidden defect clauses.
If you want to be extra careful, your legal representative can help you book a technical inspection by an independent architect. This is especially recommended for older properties.
Contract and down payment – two important steps
When the buyer and seller agree on the price and terms, a reservation agreement is signed. You then pay approximately 1% of the purchase price, the home is removed from the market, and the lawyer gets access to documentation and title deeds.
After approximately 2–3 weeks, the purchase contract is signed. The down payment is then paid, which for used homes is 10% minus the reservation fee. For new construction, the down payment varies between 10–30%, depending on the project and agreement.
Summary – safe, but different
Buying a home in Spain is a clear and structured process – but it is different from Sweden. With the right broker and legal representative by your side, the risk of mistakes is reduced.
You don't need to know all the steps on your own – but you do need to know what questions to ask.
In the next part, we will tell you what happens after the contract – from taking possession to keys in hand.
- Mayis Garoian, licensed broker at Notar Spain
The broker's final words
There is an intense but fun process involved in finding the right home. I usually say that buying in Spain comes with 3 different safety nets.
1: Broker who shows and presents the home
2: Lawyer/agent who checks that everything is green
3: Notary Public who in turn collects documentation prior to occupancy and then signs off in connection with occupancy.
It is more regulated than you might think. Both buyers and sellers have good safety nets which are a prerequisite for a successful and safe transaction in Spain.
— Mayis Garoian, licensed broker at Notar Spain