The text on this page is directly translated from Swedish and tells about the conditions for Swedes in Spain. As such, there are passages in the content that are not true for other nationalities. The text was written in 2020 and the regulations may have changed.

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HERE WE GATHER SOME TIPS FOR THOSE CONSIDERING BUYING A HOUSE OR FLAT IN SPAIN

There are countless questions that arise during the process of acquiring a holiday home in Spain or perhaps something more permanent. We address these questions here, offering ideas and advice on how to approach the matter.

Many of these questions boil down to personal preference, which means there isn’t always a definitive answer. Our team, with experience dating back to 1990, has accumulated some valuable insights that we aim to share here.

A number of questions do have clear answers, and over time, we will bring in expertise to this platform to provide in-depth responses when things become more complex.

In the future, this site will also feature trusted professionals and service providers who can assist with matters such as electricity, plumbing, air conditioning, sun protection, security, cleaning, keyholding, and more.

Feel free to email suggestions to: mans@skybluemedia.se

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GOOD TO KNOW

 

Who pays the estate agent’s fee when I buy a house?
The seller.

 

One house, multiple agents
The same property is often listed with multiple estate agents, meaning no agent has exclusivity. This can result in the same house appearing in different places and at varying prices.

 

Are there additional costs on top of the house price?
Depending on the location, you can expect an additional 10% or so in taxes and fees for second-hand properties. For new builds, this percentage is slightly higher.

 

Spanish identification number
To open a Spanish bank account, you will need a NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) – a foreigner’s identification number in Spain. The NIE is also required for other purposes.

 

Spanish bureaucracy
Spanish bureaucracy can be rather complicated. Most people opt to hire a representative to handle this process. They ensure everything is done correctly during the purchase, and it provides peace of mind knowing you can email them questions about any issues that arise. Swedish estate agents active in the area are also very helpful.

 

Spanish bank account
To cover recurring expenses for your property, you will need a Spanish bank account. It’s practical to set up direct debits for these payments. Missing an electricity bill, for instance, will result in the power being cut off immediately. Some Swedish banks offer EURO accounts, allowing you to manage these payments from the same bank you use at home.

 

Notary Public
A Notary Public is an officially appointed lawyer who verifies the identities of buyers and sellers. They also check for any debts on the property, ensure payments are properly managed, and draw up the purchase agreement for land registry applications.

 

Property tax
In Spain, you pay IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles), usually annually. In some municipalities, it can be paid in instalments.

 

Property rental

Rules for renting out your property vary between municipalities and regions. Frequent letting often requires a rental licence.

 

Urbanisation
An urbanisation is a smaller area that typically operates as a community association. Each property owner holds their own deed – it’s not a shared ownership arrangement. Shared responsibilities may include pool maintenance, gardening of communal areas, etc. Each property has its own title deed.

 

Resident or non-resident
If you spend more than six months per calendar year in Spain, you are considered a resident. As a resident, you have similar rights and obligations to Spanish nationals. Non-residents maintain their permanent residence in another country, such as Sweden.

 

Legal representation
Given the complexity of Spanish bureaucracy, many people choose to hire a representative to manage it. This is helpful both during the purchase process (some estate agents assist with this) and later on during property ownership. Examples include dealing with unexpected taxes or correcting issues with direct debits.

 

Spanish property websites
Idealista is their equivalent of "Hemnet." It is not exhaustive but very useful when paired with Google Maps for research on specific areas.

 

Numbeo
If you’re curious about comparing the cost of living in a particular area, such as Murcia, to your home region or elsewhere, there is a website that provides global comparisons. Use the button here for Murcia.

 

Key Terms in Spanish:

• Home insurance: seguro de hogar

• Waste collection fee: basura

• Community association: comunidad de propietarios

• Municipal property tax: impuesto sobre bienes inmuebles (IBI)