Property Conveyancing in Costa Cálida

Buying property in Spain is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make, and the legal process is nothing like what you’re used to in the UK or Ireland. At PALS, we have been handling property conveyancing in Murcia and the Costa Cálida for over 30 years. Our English speaking solicitors guide buyers through every step of the purchase, from the first contract to the keys in your hand, making sure your investment is protected at every stage.

What does a conveyancing solicitor in Spain actually do?

A Spanish conveyancing solicitor is your legal safeguard. Unlike the UK where the notary plays a more central role in advice, in Spain, the Notary is a public official who witnesses the signing but does not perform the detailed due diligence. Our job at PALS is to investigate the property’s legal standing, ensure there are no hidden debts, verify planning permissions, and ensure the title deed is transferred correctly to your name.

We act exclusively in your interest, providing independent legal advice that guarantees the safety of your funds and the legitimacy of your new home.

Independent Advice

We work for you, not the developer or agent.

Legal Investigations

Comprehensive checks on ownership and debts.

Document Management

Handling all contracts and notary filings.

Buying a house in Spain and how the process works

Reservation contract

The first step to taking the property off the market. We review the reservation agreement before you pay any deposit.

Private purchase contract

A detailed legally binding contract (Arras). We draft or review this to ensure your rights are fully protected.

NIE number

We assist you in obtaining your Spanish Foreigner Identification Number, mandatory for any property purchase.

Completion at the notary

We represent you at the Notary’s office for the signing of the ‘Escritura’ (Title Deed) and exchange of payments.

Post-completion registration

Final registration at the Land Registry and payment of applicable taxes to finalize your ownership.

Our 30+ years of experience ensures a seamless journey through these stages.

Property due diligence and what we check before you buy

Land Registry check

We verify the current legal owner and ensure the property matches its official description. This prevents buying property from someone who doesn’t have the legal right to sell it.

Planning and habitability check

Crucial check to ensure the property was built legally and possesses the First Ocupation License. However, this is not required in the Region of Murcia.

Debt check

Spanish debts follow the property. We clear all outstanding mortgages and utility arrears.

Cadastral check

Verifying physical boundaries match Land Registry records to avoid future land
disputes.

Community fee check

For apartments or urbanizations, we ensure the current owner is up to date with community fees.

Conveyancing fees in Spain: what to budget for

Typically, you should budget between 10% and 13% of the purchase price for taxes and fees.

Cost Component	Estimated Amount
Transfer tax (ITP) / IVA	7,75% – 10% (Depending on region and property type)
Notary fees	Set by official scale, usually €600 – €1,200
Land Registry fees	Approximately 60% of notary fees
Solicitor fees	Professional fee for complete conveyancing service
Mortgage costs	Bank valuation and arrangement fees if applicable

Costa Cálida property (Murcia and Puerto de Mazarrón)

The Costa Cálida offers a unique lifestyle, but its regional laws can differ from those in Alicante or Andalusia. Our primary offices in Puerto de Mazarrón and Alhama de Murcia give us deep local knowledge of the municipal planning offices. Whether you are buying a villa in Bolnuevo, a duplex in Puerto de Mazarrón, or a golf property in Alhama, we know the specific local requirements for these areas.

Selling property in Spain and conveyancing for sellers

If you are selling, we ensure your obligations are met and your interests are protected. We handle the 3% retention for non-residents, ensure your Plusvalía tax is calculated correctly, and coordinate with the buyer’s representatives to ensure a smooth completion at the Notary. PALS handles the full cancellation of existing mortgages and ensures you receive your funds securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a solicitor for buying property in Spain?

Yes. Unlike many other countries, the Spanish Notary is impartial and does not advise either party on the legal status of the property. A solicitor is essential to perform the due diligence that protects your investment.

How much are conveyancing fees in Spain?

Solicitor fees typically range from 1% to 1.5% of the purchase price plus VAT, though fixed fees are often available for standard transactions. Total taxes and other costs usually total 10-13% of the price.

Can I buy property without being there in person?

Absolutely. By granting us Power of Attorney (PoA), we can act on your behalf for the signing at the notary, opening bank accounts, and utility connections.

How long does it take to buy a house in Spain?

Usually between 6 and 10 weeks from the initial deposit to completion at the notary, depending on how quickly the documentation and mortgage (if needed) are prepared.

What is the contrato de arras?

It is a private deposit agreement where the buyer pays a deposit (typically 10%). If the seller pulls out, they must pay back double the deposit; if the buyer pulls out, they lose their deposit.

What taxes do I pay when buying in Spain?

On a resale property, you pay Transfer Tax (ITP), which in Murcia is typically 8%. On a new build, you pay 10% IVA (VAT) plus Stamp Duty (AJD).