Costs of Buying Property in Spain – Complete 2026 Breakdown

One of the most common questions we’re asked by foreign buyers is simple: how much does it really cost to buy property in Spain?

The purchase price is only part of the picture. In addition to the agreed price, buyers must budget for taxes, notary fees, Land Registry costs, and legal services. Failing to calculate these correctly can cause financial stress at completion or delay the transaction.

In 2026, the general rule of thumb remains:

• ✔️ Resale property: 10–13% of the purchase price
• ✔️ New build property: 12–15% of the purchase price

The exact figure depends on the region, whether the property is resale or new build, whether a mortgage is involved, and your tax residency status.

If you’re at the early stage of the process, you may also want to review: Buying Property in Spain – Complete 2026 Guide.

Property Transfer Tax (Resale Properties)

If you are buying a resale property in Spain, you will pay Property Transfer Tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales – ITP).

The rate varies by region but is commonly around 10% of the purchase price. Some regions apply progressive rates depending on value.

Examples of typical regional rates (subject to change):

• ✔️ Valencia & Alicante – typically 10%
• ✔️ Murcia – typically 8–10%
• ✔️ Andalusia – generally 7%
• ✔️ Catalonia – around 10%

ITP is payable within 30 days of signing the title deed at the notary.

VAT & Stamp Duty (New Builds)

If you are buying a brand-new property directly from a developer, different taxes apply:

• ✔️ VAT (IVA) – usually 10%
• ✔️ Stamp Duty (AJD) – typically 1–1.5% depending on the region

New build purchases therefore generally cost slightly more in tax than resales.

For more on developer purchases, see: Due Diligence for New Build & Off-Plan Property.

Notary Fees

Notary fees are regulated by law and are based on the purchase price. For an average property purchase, buyers typically pay between €600 and €2,500.

Land Registry Fees

Once the deed is signed, the property must be registered at the Land Registry. Registry costs typically range from €400 to €2,500 depending on the property value.

Legal Fees

Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of the transaction. Most property lawyers charge a fixed fee or a small percentage of the purchase price.

Using an independent lawyer is strongly recommended to protect your deposit, verify ownership, and prevent future legal issues.

Read more about why this matters here: Due Diligence for Resale Property in Spain.

Mortgage Costs

If you are financing your purchase with a Spanish mortgage, additional costs may apply.

Although banks now cover most mortgage-related notary and registry costs under Spanish law, buyers should still budget for:

• ✔️ Property valuation (typically €300–€600)
• ✔️ Mortgage arrangement fees (if applicable)

See our full guide: How to Get a Mortgage in Spain as a Foreigner.

Other Costs to Budget For

Beyond the legal purchase costs, buyers should consider:

• ✔️ Community of Owners fees
• ✔️ Annual IBI (local property tax)
• ✔️ Utility reconnection or transfers
• ✔️ Insurance
• ✔️ Furniture and initial setup costs

See: After the Notary – Registration, Taxes & Utilities.

Common Budgeting Mistakes

We regularly see buyers caught out by:

• ❌ Underestimating transfer tax
• ❌ Forgetting stamp duty on new builds
• ❌ Not factoring in legal and registry fees
• ❌ Assuming taxes are included in the price

Proper cost planning is not just about budgeting — it ensures you can complete on time without financial stress.

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✉️ Email: info@platinumlegalspain.com

Buying property in Spain should be exciting — not financially uncertain. Plan the numbers properly before signing anything.