Are you a foreign buyer considering buying a property in Marbella? Marbella remains one of the most attractive destinations for international buyers. Its climate, quality of life, safety and highly consolidated real estate market make it an ideal choice for those looking to invest or establish a second residence.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about buying a property in Marbella as a foreigner, with up-to-date information on the process, legal requirements and costs.
The answer is yes. Any foreigner can buy a property in Marbella without restrictions, whether they are resident in Spain or not. It does not matter whether you are an EU citizen or from outside the EU; the process is the same.
Types of properties you can buy in Marbella
Obtaining an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
The NIE is mandatory for carrying out any financial transaction in Spain. You will need it to:
The NIE can be obtained:
Starting this process as early as possible will help avoid delays in the purchase.
Opening a bank account in Spain
Although it is not legally mandatory, opening a Spanish bank account is highly recommended.
It will allow you to:
Banks usually require:
Choosing the best area to buy in Marbella
One of the most important decisions when buying a property in Marbella is choosing the right area. Marbella is divided into several different zones, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular areas among foreign buyers include:
Best areas to buy property in Marbella
Researching the area carefully will help you make a more informed investment decision.
Reservation contract or deposit agreement
Once you have found the property you wish to buy, it is common practice to sign a reservation or deposit agreement (arras contract) with an initial payment of 10% of the purchase price.
This contract:
It is essential to ensure that this contract is properly reviewed before signing.
Costs and taxes when buying property in Marbella
One of the most common questions is how much the purchase will really cost. Below are the main taxes and expenses to consider:
Taxes when buying property in Marbella
Other costs
Overall, you should expect to pay between 9% and 13% extra on top of the purchase price.
Signing the title deeds before a notary
Once all formalities and payments have been completed, the final step is to sign the title deeds before a Spanish notary. This is when the property is officially registered in your name.
If you cannot attend in person, you can sign through a power of attorney, which is very common among international buyers.
Although it is not compulsory, hiring a specialised lawyer is highly recommended.
The lawyer will check:
A lawyer provides peace of mind and helps prevent future legal issues, especially if you do not speak Spanish or are unfamiliar with the Spanish legal system.
Yes. You can rent out your property in Marbella for:
However, it is important to be aware that there are specific regulations governing rentals, particularly holiday lets. For this reason, it is advisable to seek professional advice regarding:
If you own a property in Marbella but do not reside in Spain, you will still have certain annual tax obligations, even if the property is not rented out.
The most relevant taxes include:
A tax advisor can help you manage these obligations easily and ensure compliance.
Buying a property in Marbella as a foreigner is a safe, well-regulated and straightforward process, provided you receive the right professional guidance. The key is understanding each step, the additional costs involved and choosing the area that best suits your needs.
Marbella remains an excellent option for those seeking a luxury real estate investment, a second home or a lifestyle change on the Costa del Sol.
If you would like more details about the process, taxes or choosing the right area, please contact us for personalised advice.
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