A Complete Guide to Buying Property in Barcelona

How to Buy Property in Barcelona, Spain – A Step-by-Step Guide from GG Real Estate Barcelona

Buying property in Spain is not only an exciting step toward a new lifestyle but also a legally complex process that requires a careful and professional approach. This is especially true in a vibrant and dynamic city like Barcelona, one of Europe’s most iconic urban destinations.

At GG Real Estate Barcelona, we guide our clients through every stage of the process — ensuring clarity, confidence, and comfort from start to finish.

1. Preparation: Market Research and Choosing the Right Agent

The first step is understanding the market. Barcelona offers a wide variety of properties — from luxury homes in Sarrià or Pedralbes to more affordable options in Sant Andreu, Badalona, or along the Costa Brava.

Choosing a trustworthy agent is an investment in the safety of your purchase. A qualified agent will:

• Guide you through every stage of the purchase;
• Know the market and legal nuances;
• Help you avoid risks;
• Recommend properties based on your goals (residence, rental, or investment).

At GG Real Estate Barcelona, we pride ourselves on speaking your language and offering full-service support — from the first call to handing over the keys.

2. Traveling to Barcelona: Organizing Property Viewings

When planning your visit:

• Prepare a shortlist of properties in advance;
• Limit your schedule to 5–6 viewings per day;
• Pay attention not only to the property itself but also to the neighborhood: infrastructure, transport, noise levels, proximity to schools and shops.

Pro Tip: View the property at different times of day — impressions can change between morning and evening.

3. Paperwork: What You Need Before the Purchase

Before buying property in Spain, you'll need to:

Obtain an N.I.E. (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)
This is a foreigner’s identification number required for all legal and financial transactions in Spain.

Open a Spanish Bank Account
Recommended banks: Sabadell, CaixaBank, Santander, Bankinter
You’ll typically need:

• Passport
• N.I.E.
• Proof of income
• Proof of address

Hire a Lawyer and Tax Advisor
Your lawyer will handle due diligence, verify the property’s legal status, prepare contracts, and oversee the transaction.

4. Legal Process: Key Contracts and Agreements

Buying real estate in Spain involves several legally binding steps. The main contracts include:

Reservation Agreement (Contrato de Reserva)

A preliminary agreement to show your interest and temporarily take the property off the market.

• Signed with the agency or seller;
• Deposit: usually €3,000–€10,000 or around 1% of the price;
• Valid for 7–14 days;
• Non-refundable unless specific conditions are met.

Purpose: Secures the property during legal checks and preparations.

Deposit Agreement (Contrato de Arras Penitenciales)

The most common and legally protective agreement.

• Signed after legal checks are completed;
• Buyer pays 10% of the purchase price;
• If the buyer backs out — deposit is forfeited;
• If the seller backs out — deposit is returned double.

Advantage: Protects both parties while allowing time for mortgage approval and formalities.

Private Purchase Contract (Contrato Privado de Compraventa)

Used to finalize terms before notary signing.

• Legally binding;
• Termination requires court involvement;
• Must be carefully reviewed by a lawyer.

Option to Purchase (Contrato de Opción de Compra)

Gives the buyer the right (but not the obligation) to buy the property.

• Requires a deposit (usually 10%);
• Buyer can withdraw;
• Seller cannot back out.

Ideal if the buyer needs more time — e.g., for mortgage approval.

5. Final Stage: Notarial Signing (Escritura Pública)

Escritura de Compraventa is the official notarial deed that finalizes the transfer of ownership.

Present at signing:

• Buyer and seller (or their legal representatives);
• Bank representative (if there’s a mortgage);
• Notary.

Payment:
Usually made via bank check (cheque bancario) from a Spanish bank. Bank transfers are possible with prior arrangement with the notary.

After signing, the deed is registered in the Property Registry (Registro de la Propiedad) — making you the legal owner.

6. Financial Considerations: Mortgages, Taxes, and Property Costs

Mortgages for non-residents:

• Up to 60% of the property's value;
• Term: up to 25 years;
• Interest: 2%–2.5%, fixed or variable;
• Required insurances: life and property.

Taxes and Fees:

• ITP (Transfer Tax): approx. 10%;
• Patrimonio (Wealth Tax): on assets above €700,000;
• IRNR: Non-resident income tax (even on unused properties);
• IBI: Annual municipal tax;
• Community Fees: Maintenance of shared areas in complexes.

7. After the Purchase: Registration and Setup

Don’t forget to:

• Register the property in the Land Registry;
• Transfer utility contracts (water, electricity, gas, internet);
• Pay applicable taxes and fees;
• Update your bank and property management details.

Final Thoughts: Trust the Professionals

Buying property in Barcelona is more than a transaction — it’s the beginning of a new chapter in your life.

Choose a partner who will be by your side from the first step to key handover.

GG Real Estate Barcelona

• We speak your language
• We provide legal and tax expertise
• We know the Barcelona market inside and out

We don’t just sell homes — we open the door to your new life in Spain.

👉 Contact us to learn more about how to safely and profitably buy property in Barcelona for living or investment.