Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in property in Northern Spain, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions our clients ask.
Feel free to reach out for any other questions that you may have!
Frequently Asked Questions – NorthernSpain.com
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in property in Northern Spain, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Below are answers to some of the most common questions our clients ask.
Can foreigners buy property in Northern Spain?
Yes! Spain has no restrictions on foreign property ownership. However, you will need an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), a tax identification number for foreigners, to complete the purchase.
What are the legal steps to buying a property in Spain?
The key steps include:
- Signing a reservation contract and paying a deposit.
- Conducting legal due diligence (checking debts, ownership, and planning permissions).
- Signing the purchase contract at a notary’s office.
- Registering the property in your name and settling taxes.
We guide you through every step to ensure a secure and smooth transaction.
What taxes and fees should I expect when buying a property?
You should budget around 10-15% of the purchase price for additional costs, including:
- Property Transfer Tax (ITP): 6-10% (depending on the region).
- Notary & Land Registry Fees: 1-2%.
- Legal & Administrative Fees: Around 1%.
- Mortgage Fees (if applicable): 1-2%.
Our team can provide a detailed cost breakdown before you commit to a purchase.
Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a foreign buyer?
Yes! Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, typically financing up to 60-70% of the property’s value. To qualify, you will need to provide:
- Proof of income.
- A good credit history.
- An NIE number.
We work with top Spanish banks to help you secure the best mortgage deal.
What are the best areas in Northern Spain to invest in property?
Northern Spain offers diverse opportunities depending on your goals:
- Coastal locations (e.g., Santander, San Sebastián) – Ideal for holiday rentals and lifestyle buyers.
- Urban centres (e.g., Bilbao, Oviedo) – Strong rental demand and capital appreciation potential.
- Rural properties (e.g., Asturias, Galicia) – Perfect for those seeking tranquillity or eco-tourism investments.
We provide market research and investment analysis to help you choose the best location.
How can I ensure a property is legally sound before buying?
Before purchasing, we conduct a full legal check, including:
✔️ Title deed verification (ensuring the seller is the legal owner).
✔️ Checking for outstanding debts or mortgages.
✔️ Reviewing building permits and zoning laws.
Our legal team ensures you avoid costly mistakes.
Do I need a lawyer when buying property in Spain?
While not legally required, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended to protect your interests, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Spanish property laws. We offer full legal support to ensure a smooth transaction.
What are the benefits of property investment in Northern Spain?
✔️ Stable property market with competitive prices compared to other parts of Spain.
✔️ Growing tourism and rental demand in coastal and city areas.
✔️ Lower cost of living compared to Madrid or Barcelona.
✔️ Potential for strong capital appreciation in high-demand areas.
We offer investment analysis to help you maximise returns.
Can I rent out my property in Spain?
Yes! However, rental regulations vary by region. Some areas require a tourist rental license, while others impose restrictions on short-term lets. We provide guidance on legal requirements, tax obligations, and profitability for rental properties.
How do I get started with buying property in Northern Spain?
- Define your goals – Are you buying for investment, retirement, or a holiday home?
- Explore the market – We provide tailored market research and property listings.
- Secure financing – We help with mortgage applications if needed.
- Start the legal process – Our team ensures full legal compliance before you sign.
👉 Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start your property journey in Northern Spain!
Are you a real estate agency?
No, we are not a real estate agency. We specialise in legal, financial, and investment advisory services to ensure that your property purchase in Northern Spain is secure, compliant, and profitable.
However, we collaborate with trusted real estate agencies to provide our clients with access to verified property listings and expert market insights. This partnership allows us to offer a comprehensive, end-to-end service, ensuring you find the right property while we handle all the legal and financial aspects of the transaction.
👉 Looking for expert guidance before buying? Contact us today for a free consultation!