What Buyers Should Budget For: The True Cost of Buying a Resale Home in Spain

Planning Your Budget with Confidence on the Costa Blanca

If you're thinking about buying a resale home on the Costa Blanca (Valencian Community), it's important to understand the compulsory costs involved beyond the purchase price. Knowing what to expect from the start helps you plan your budget with confidence and avoid nasty surprises later on.

As a general rule, buyers should budget for approximately 12% to 14% of the property price to cover all taxes and professional fees.

Here is a breakdown of the main transaction costs you must budget for:

1. Property Transfer Tax (ITP)

This is the largest cost outside of the agreed sale price.

• What It Is: The Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales (ITP) is a compulsory regional tax levied on the purchase of all resale properties.

• The Cost: In the Valencian Community (which includes the Costa Blanca), buyers pay a standard $\mathbf{10\%}$ tax based on the purchase price (or the official reference value, whichever is higher).

2. Notary Fees

The Notary is an independent public official, not just a witness.

• What It Is: These are the fees for the Notary’s services in drafting, reviewing, and officially legalising the new Title Deeds ($\text{Escritura}$). The Notary ensures the entire process is legally compliant.

• The Cost: These fees are strictly regulated by the Spanish government and typically range from $\mathbf{€800}$ to $\mathbf{€1,500}$, depending on the complexity and value of the property.

3. Land Registry Fees

Once the public deed is signed at the Notary, it must be officially recorded.

• What It Is: This is the fee for registering the property in the Land Registry ($\text{Registro de la Propiedad}$) in your name. This formal registration is vital as it provides ultimate proof of ownership and protection against third-party claims.

• The Cost: Like Notary fees, these are regulated and generally range from $\mathbf{€500}$ to $\mathbf{€1,000}$.

4. Lawyer's Fees

Hiring a solicitor for a property purchase in Spain is highly recommended, especially for international buyers.

• What It Is: Your lawyer ($\text{Abogado}$) carries out all legal checks (due diligence), confirms there are no debts (e.g., mortgages, $\text{SUMA}$ tax arrears) on the property, and ensures the property meets every legal requirement.

• The Cost: Lawyer's fees typically range from $\mathbf{1\%}$ to $\mathbf{1.5\%}$ of the purchase price (plus $\text{VAT}$ at $21\%$). Their guidance gives you peace of mind that your investment is fully protected.

Cost Summary (For a Resale Property)	Approximate Cost Range
Property Transfer Tax ($\text{ITP}$)	10.0&
Lawyer's Fees	1.0% - 1.5%
Notary & Land Registry Fees	0.2% - 0.5%
TOTAL Estimated Budget	11.2% - 12.0%}

📞 Get Expert Advice & Your Budget Breakdown

Knowing your total budget from day one is the foundation of a successful purchase. Our team works closely with trusted solicitors to give you a precise breakdown of all costs before you make an offer.

Selling in Orihuela Costa or Ciudad Quesada? We have a list of motivated buyers waiting right now who have their budgets clearly defined.

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Buying? Download “The COMPLETE Costa Blanca property buying guide - 2025 Edition” at: www.BuyMyHomeInSpain.com

For a free, no-obligation valuation or expert advice on your property needs, contact our professional team today:

📞 Ciudad Quesada Office: +34 966 718 392

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📧 Email: sales@homes4u.es or sales@SellingOrihuelaCosta.com

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