Frequently Asked Questions
- 01
While not legally required, it's strongly recommended to use a qualified and independent lawyer (abogado).
In Spain, your property agent cannot act as your legal representative. A good, independent Spanish abogado (lawyer), will handle crucial due diligence on your behalf, ensuring the property's title is clean and there are no outstanding debts or legal issues. They also verify that the property has all the correct licences and permits. This is your best protection against potential issues, providing peace of mind throughout the compraventa (buying-selling) process.
Our team can recommend trusted, English-speaking lawyers in the area. Contact us for a Lawyer Referral - +34 966 718 392 or email Sales@Homes4u.es
Buying in Orihuela Costa? Call today on +34 655 30 17 30 or email Sales@SellingOrihuelaCosta.com
- 02
Yes, the NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is essential. It's a unique tax identification number required for all legal and financial transactions in Spain, including buying property.
An NIE is your Foreigner's Identification Number. You'll need it to sign the escritura de compraventa (deed of sale) at the notaría (notary's office) and to pay taxes on the property.
We always recommend starting this process early, as it can take a few weeks to obtain.
Find out what the difference is between an NIE and TIE, read our blog post: https://www.homes4u.es/post/nie-vs-tie-in-spain-whats-the-difference
- 03
The Nota Simple is a vital legal document that provides an official, up to date summary of a property's legal status.
This document, issued by the Spanish Registro de la Propiedad (Land Registry), confirms who the registered owner of the property is and provides a detailed description, including any outstanding debts, mortgages, or legal charges on the property.
It's a critical part of the due diligence process and is what your abogado (lawyer) will use to verify that the property is free of legal encumbrances and can be legally sold. It protects you from any hidden liabilities.
- 04
Yes, buying property in Spain is a safe and secure process when all legal and financial checks are completed correctly.
Spain has a well established legal framework for property transactions. The key to a secure purchase is to hire the right professionals: an independent abogado (lawyer) to perform due diligence and a trusted, legal API certified real estate agent to guide you.
When these steps are followed, the process is transparent and fully regulated. As a company, we prioritise transparency and only work with vetted professionals to ensure your investment is protected.
Verify your real estate agent is legal immediately: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=740333764779418&set=a.444434834369314
Read our Client Testimonials to see how we've helped others achieve their dream of owning a home in Spain! https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17895073218004748/
- 05
The process usually takes around 2 to 3 months from the moment an offer is accepted until the completion of the sale, known as escrituración. If needed, the buyer or seller can request a longer completion date.
The timeline can vary depending on a few factors, such as the efficiency of the legal checks and whether you are a cash buyer or require a mortgage. Getting your NIE and other documents sorted early can significantly speed up the process. A resale property can often be a quicker transaction than a new build, which might have a longer construction and paperwork period.
