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.
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:
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.
When planning your visit:
Pro Tip: View the property at different times of day — impressions can change between morning and evening.
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:
Hire a Lawyer and Tax Advisor
Your lawyer will handle due diligence, verify the property’s legal status, prepare contracts, and oversee the transaction.
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.
Purpose: Secures the property during legal checks and preparations.
Deposit Agreement (Contrato de Arras Penitenciales)
The most common and legally protective agreement.
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.
Option to Purchase (Contrato de Opción de Compra)
Gives the buyer the right (but not the obligation) to buy the property.
Ideal if the buyer needs more time — e.g., for mortgage approval.
Escritura de Compraventa is the official notarial deed that finalizes the transfer of ownership.
Present at signing:
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.
Mortgages for non-residents:
Taxes and Fees:
Don’t forget to:
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.
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.
