Buying in Spain · Jávea
Buy in Jávea with clarity, not guesswork.
Buying property in Spain is straightforward when you understand the sequence, the real costs, and where protection actually comes from.
- Typical timeline
- 4–12 weeks
- Buyer costs
- ~10–13%
- Key protection
- Independent lawyer
Step-by-step
Understand the Spanish buying process before you commit
A clear sequence for international buyers buying in Jávea: what happens when, what matters, and where protection actually comes from. If you want help, we can connect you with trusted local lawyers, agents, and banking partners.
Align your real budget (not just the price)
In the Valencia region, plan around 10–13% on top of the purchase price. Getting to a clear all-in number early keeps everything calmer later, especially when a home moves fast.
- Resale homes: budget around 10% ITP (property transfer tax).
- New builds: typically 10% VAT plus stamp duty.
- Other costs: legal fees, notary and registry fees, plus setup (utilities, insurance, etc.).
Put the right team around you
Spain’s process works well when the right people are involved early. The notary completes the sale, but an independent lawyer and a strong local agent are what protect you along the way.
- Lawyer: runs due diligence, reviews contracts, flags risks, and protects your timeline.
- Local agent: helps you avoid “tourist logic” and focus on livability and resale.
Get your NIE and bank setup moving early
You’ll need an NIE (Spanish tax number) to buy property and handle taxes. Many buyers also open a Spanish bank account to pay deposits, taxes, and utilities cleanly. This can run in parallel with viewings.
- NIE: required to complete the purchase and pay taxes.
- Bank account: often used for deposits, closing funds, utilities, and direct debits.
- Timing: start early so admin does not slow down a deal you love.
Offer, reservation, and taking the home off-market
Once terms are agreed, it’s common to sign a reservation agreement with a fee that temporarily takes the home off the market. This gives you short breathing room while initial legal checks begin.
- Be realistic: well-priced homes in prime Jávea areas can move quickly.
- Keep it calm: urgency is normal, but process still wins.
Due diligence, then the private purchase contract
This is the core protection step. Your lawyer or at times a good agent verifies the land registry, debts, permissions, boundaries, and planning compliance so the legal reality matches what you think you’re buying. After checks are completed, you sign the private contract and typically reach around 10% paid in total.
- Registry checks: ownership, liens, and debts.
- Town hall / planning: permits, legality of extensions, and compliance.
- Coastal reality: older villas and extensions are exactly where checks matter most.
Notary day, completion, and registration
Completion happens in front of a notary. Funds are transferred, the deed is executed, taxes are handled, and registration follows. If you can’t travel, power of attorney can allow your lawyer to sign on your behalf.
- Notary: formalizes the signing and identity of parties.
- Taxes: paid after completion according to your case.
- Registration: property is recorded in your name at the Land Registry.
Need help navigating the process in Jávea?
We help international buyers keep things clear and coordinated, and we can connect you with trusted local lawyers, agents, mortgage brokers, and service providers based on your situation.
- Introductions to vetted lawyers
- Local agent guidance in Jávea
- Renovations & support
Contact us
Tell us what you’re buying (budget, timeline, resale vs new build), and we’ll point you to the right next step.
Talk to us →FAQ
Frequently asked questions
These are the questions we hear most often from
international buyers considering Jávea.
If you don’t see your question here, you can
reach out directly
.
- Do I need to be a Spanish resident to buy property in Jávea?
- No. Non-residents can buy property in Spain. You will need an NIE (Spanish tax number) to complete the purchase.
- What is an NIE and when do I need it?
- An NIE is a Spanish tax ID. It’s required to buy property, open a bank account, and pay taxes. Apply early through a consulate or in Spain, often with your lawyer’s help.
- How long does the buying process usually take?
- Many purchases complete in about 4–12 weeks from accepted offer to notary day. Timing depends on legal checks, financing, and seller readiness.
- Do I really need a lawyer if there is a notary?
- We highly recommend it. The notary formalizes completion but does not represent you. Your lawyer protects you before signing by checking ownership, debts, planning compliance, and contracts.
- How much should I budget on top of the purchase price?
- Many buyers in the Valencia region plan around 10–13% on top. That usually includes purchase tax (or VAT on new builds), legal fees, and notary/registry costs.
- Are deposits refundable if I change my mind?
- Often no. Once you sign the private purchase contract, deposits are typically binding. This is why legal review before signing matters so much.
- Can I buy without flying back for completion?
- Yes. Many international buyers complete using a power of attorney so their lawyer can sign at the notary on their behalf.
- Can foreigners get a mortgage in Spain?
- Yes, but non-resident mortgages usually require more paperwork and often lend around 60–70% of the purchase price. Start early if financing matters.
- Can you help with lawyers, agents, and other professionals?
- Yes. We connect buyers with trusted local lawyers, agents, contractors, and service providers, and help keep the process clear and coordinated.