Costs of Buying Property in Marbella: A Guide for International Buyers

The price on the listing is only part of what a buyer pays. When purchasing a home in Marbella, international buyers should plan for taxes, notary and registry fees, legal support and a few ancillary costs. As a general guide, many buyers set aside roughly 10% to 13% of the purchase price on top of the price itself, although the exact figure depends on the property, its status and your circumstances. This guide explains each item so you can budget with confidence; the full purchasing process is described on our site.

Taxes when buying in Marbella

The tax depends on whether the property is a resale or a new build. For a resale home in Andalucía, Transfer Tax (ITP) applies at 7% of the price. For new build properties, VAT and Stamp Duty (AJD) apply instead; in Andalucía, AJD is 1.2%. Rates can change, so always confirm the current figures with your lawyer or tax adviser before signing.

Notary, land registry and legal fees

The deed of sale is signed before a Spanish notary, and the transfer is then recorded at the Land Registry. Both charge regulated fees that rise with the value of the property. Independent legal advice is strongly recommended: a lawyer checks the title, debts, licences and community documents, and can act under power of attorney if you cannot travel. If you are also considering selling in the future as a non-resident, it is worth keeping the paperwork from your purchase in order.

Other costs to budget for

• NIE number: a foreign identification number required for any property transaction in Spain.
• Spanish bank account: useful for utilities, community fees and annual taxes.
• Mortgage costs: if you finance the purchase, valuation, arrangement and related fees may apply.
• Annual costs: local property tax (IBI), community fees, insurance and, for non-residents, the non-resident income tax on imputed rental value.
• Furnishing and reforms: often overlooked, but significant for a new home.

A realistic budget example

As an illustration only, on a EUR 1,000,000 resale home in Andalucía the 7% ITP alone would be EUR 70,000, before notary, registry and legal fees. Because every transaction is different, ask for a personalised estimate before making an offer. Choosing the right area also affects the budget, so you may find our guide on where to live in Marbella useful, and you can browse the current luxury properties for sale.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I budget on top of the price?
Many buyers allow roughly 10% to 13%, depending on the property type and the services used. Your adviser can give a precise figure.

Do non-residents pay different purchase taxes?
The purchase taxes are generally the same for residents and non-residents; the difference arises in the annual taxes that follow.

Can I buy without travelling to Spain?
Yes, with a power of attorney granted to a trusted lawyer, although many buyers prefer to attend the signing.