We believe that offering more properties does not necessarily provide a better service.

Our priority is to identify well-located developments from established developers that are suitable for our clients’ objectives. We therefore focus on a carefully selected portfolio rather than attempting to promote every project available on the Costa del Sol.

🔍 We assess the developer’s track record

Before introducing a development to our clients, we review available information about:

• previously completed projects;
• experience in the Spanish property market;
• the company behind the development;
• construction progress and anticipated delivery times;
• feedback and information available from professional contacts and previous buyers.

No property purchase is entirely free from risk. However, examining the developer’s experience and history can help identify potential concerns before a buyer commits.

🏗️ We visit the development and its surroundings

A brochure or computer-generated image cannot show the full reality of a location.

We assess factors such as:

• access to roads and public transport;
• nearby shops, schools, beaches and healthcare;
• noise, traffic and surrounding construction;
• orientation, views and the position of individual units;
• current and planned development in the wider area;
• suitability for permanent living, holidays or rental use.

This helps us explain both the strengths and possible disadvantages of each option.

⚖️ We review the practical and legal framework

Together with the appropriate legal professionals, we consider matters such as:

• planning permission and relevant licences;
• the protection of advance payments;
• the purchase contract and payment schedule;
• expected community fees and ownership costs;
• possible rental restrictions;
• the project’s suitability for mortgage financing.

Independent legal due diligence must still be completed for each individual buyer before purchase.

🤝 We prioritise suitability over commission

Our objective is not to recommend a development simply because it is available.

We consider whether it genuinely matches your:

• budget;
• preferred location;
• intended use;
• timescale;
• lifestyle requirements;
• long-term ownership plans.

In some cases, our advice may be not to proceed with a particular property.

✅ What does our selection process mean for you?

You receive a more focused choice of developments that have already undergone an initial commercial and practical assessment.

This does not replace independent legal advice or guarantee future performance but it can help you avoid unsuitable options, save time and make a more informed comparison.

In one sentence

We do not promote every development on the Costa del Sol because careful selection is more valuable than an overwhelming catalogue of properties.

Yes. Many stages of a Spanish property purchase can be completed from abroad with the assistance of an independent lawyer and a properly drafted power of attorney.

A power of attorney allows an authorised representative to complete specific legal and administrative steps on your behalf. It can be signed before a Spanish notary or through an appropriate Spanish consulate abroad. Foreign notarised documents may also require an Apostille and an official translation before they can be used in Spain. Approximately 30% of our clients complete their purchase remotely without visiting the region before signing the contracts.

🖥️ Explore properties through a live video viewing

Before reserving a property, we can arrange a live online presentation that may include:

• a video tour of the showroom or available property;
• a presentation of the development and surrounding area;
• floorplans, specifications and current availability;
• information about prices and payment stages;
• an opportunity to speak with our team and the developer’s representative.

A virtual viewing is useful for shortlisting or reserving a property but buyers should still review all legal and technical documentation before committing.

⚖️ Legal representation throughout the purchase

Your Spanish lawyer can help coordinate:

• legal due diligence on the property or development;
• review of reservation and purchase contracts;
• the application for an NIE number;
• checks on payment accounts and guarantees;
• communication with the developer, bank and notary;
• signing the public purchase deed under a power of attorney;
• registration of the ownership with the Land Registry.

An NIE may be requested in Spain or through a Spanish consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. The application may also be submitted through a duly authorised representative although either the applicant or representative must normally appear in person for the application.

✈️ Do I need to travel to Spain?

It is often possible to complete the purchase without travelling to Spain. However, you may need to attend a notary or Spanish consulate in your home country to arrange the necessary authority and identification documents.

You can then visit the property at a later date, during construction or when it is ready for handover.

⏱️ A convenient option but not a reason to rush

Remote purchasing can be particularly helpful when a desirable new-build unit becomes available and travelling immediately is impractical.

However, speed should never replace proper due diligence. Before making a reservation, buyers should understand:

• exactly what is being purchased;
• the payment and completion schedule;
• the conditions for recovering a deposit;
• the development’s licences and legal status;
• the applicable taxes and additional costs.

✅ Buying remotely with confidence

With live video viewings, independent legal representation and clear communication, purchasing property in Spain from abroad can be a practical and well-managed process.

Our role is to help you understand the available options and coordinate each stage so that you can make an informed decision wherever you are based.

A viewing trip with Amazing Costa del Sol is carefully planned around your needs, budget and preferred locations.

Rather than showing you a long list of unsuitable properties, we prepare a focused itinerary designed to help you compare the right options and understand each area properly.

1️⃣ Before your visit

We begin with an online consultation to discuss:

• your budget and purchasing objectives;
• whether the property will be a home, holiday residence or investment;
• your preferred areas and property type;
• your expected purchase timeframe;
• any questions about taxes, financing and the buying process.

We then shortlist suitable properties and prepare a realistic viewing schedule.

2️⃣ Planning your trip

We can advise you on:

• convenient flights and arrival times;
• suitable hotels and areas to stay;
• the length of visit needed;
• transport and car-hire options.

Airport transfers and local transport can also be arranged where agreed in advance. Any associated costs should be confirmed before your trip.

3️⃣ During the viewings

You will visit selected properties and explore the surrounding neighbourhoods, amenities and transport connections.

For new developments, this may include:

• visiting the development site;
• viewing a show home where available;
• reviewing floorplans, orientation and views;
• exploring the planned communal facilities;
• meeting the developer’s sales representative;
• comparing available units, prices and payment schedules.

We will help you assess not only the appearance of the property but also its location, running costs and suitability for your plans.

4️⃣ Clear advice without pressure

There will be time to discuss:

• the advantages and disadvantages of each option;
• community fees and expected ownership costs;
• rental possibilities and applicable restrictions;
• payment terms and the reservation process;
• the next legal and administrative steps.

You will never be expected to make an immediate decision during the viewing.

5️⃣ Experience the location

We recommend spending enough time in the area to experience the neighbourhood beyond the property itself.

Visit the local shops, restaurants, beaches and transport links. This is particularly important when buying a permanent home or a property you intend to use regularly.

6️⃣ Combine the viewing with a holiday

You can easily combine your property viewings with a short break or a longer holiday on the Costa del Sol.

A longer stay allows you to:

• experience the region at different times of day;
• understand the climate, services and lifestyle;
• decide whether it is somewhere you could genuinely feel at home.

✨ A viewing trip designed around you

Our objective is to make your visit organised, informative and enjoyable.

By the end of the trip, you should have a clear understanding of the available options and feel confident about your next step, whether you decide to proceed immediately or continue your search.

Is buying property on the Costa del Sol safe and a good investment?

Buying property on the Costa del Sol can be a secure and attractive decision when the purchase is supported by proper legal checks and a clear understanding of your objectives.

Spain has an established legal, notarial and Land Registry system. Buyers can obtain official information about the registered ownership of a property and any mortgages or other registered charges affecting it. Nevertheless, international buyers should always appoint an independent Spanish property lawyer to represent their interests.

🇪🇺 An established European property market

As part of Spain and the European Union, the Costa del Sol operates within an established legal and regulatory framework. EU citizens generally have the same rights as Spanish citizens when buying or selling property in Spain. Different residency and administrative requirements may apply to buyers from outside the EU.

Before purchasing, your lawyer should verify:

• the registered ownership and legal status of the property;
• any mortgages, debts or restrictions;
• planning permission and licences;
• community fees and rules;
• the full purchase costs and tax obligations;
• whether the property can legally be used for your intended rental activity.

📈 Strong demand

The Spanish property market has experienced significant price growth. The national Housing Price Index increased by 12.9% year on year during the first quarter of 2026. However, this is a national figure and results vary considerably between municipalities, developments and individual properties.

The Costa del Sol continues to attract international buyers but previous price increases do not guarantee future capital growth. In 2025, international buyers accounted for 13.82% of registered residential purchases across Spain, demonstrating the continuing importance of overseas demand.

A sound purchase should therefore be based on:

• the quality and precise location of the property;
• realistic local market comparisons;
• the total cost of ownership;
• your expected ownership period;
• genuine rental demand;
• the property’s long-term resale appeal.

☀️ A destination for year-round living

The Costa del Sol benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate and an established international community. It offers the infrastructure and services required for permanent living, second-home ownership and extended stays throughout the year. Official climate records confirm mild winters in Málaga although temperatures vary and should not be presented as consistently remaining between 18°C and 22°C.

Properties may attract short-term, seasonal or long-term rental demand but income and occupancy are never guaranteed. Rental regulations, owners’ community rules and local restrictions must be checked before purchasing.

🏗️ New-build or resale property?

Modern developments commonly offer better energy efficiency, contemporary facilities and lower initial maintenance requirements. Resale properties can offer more established locations, larger spaces or stronger value for money.

Neither option is automatically the better investment. The right choice depends on the property’s condition, location, price and suitability for your intended use.

✅ Our conclusion

Buying on the Costa del Sol can be both secure and financially attractive but every purchase should be assessed individually.

With independent legal advice, careful due diligence and realistic expectations, you can choose a property that supports your lifestyle and long-term objectives without relying on promises of guaranteed growth or rental returns.

Buy with a clear strategy, not simply with your heart.

A beautiful view or impressive show home should not be the only reason to purchase. The right property should also match your budget, intended use and long-term plans.

⏱️ Consider the timing but never rush your decision

Popular new developments may release apartments in several phases. Buying early can provide a wider choice of units and sometimes more attractive introductory pricing but the first phase is not automatically the best option for every buyer.

At Amazing Costa del Sol, we maintain direct relationships with developers and can inform clients about selected projects at an early stage. This gives you time to compare the available units, review the payment structure and prepare before making a reservation.

♻️ Examine energy efficiency and future costs

Energy performance is becoming increasingly important when purchasing property in Europe. The revised EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires countries to develop national renovation plans but it does not impose a blanket EU ban on selling or renting older residential properties. Individual countries retain flexibility over which buildings and measures they prioritise.

Older properties can still represent excellent value. However, buyers should investigate:

• the property’s energy performance certificate;
• the condition of the windows, insulation and air-conditioning;
• planned building or community renovations;
• likely maintenance and running costs;
• the cost of bringing the property up to modern standards.

New-build properties commonly provide stronger energy performance and modern technology but they should still be assessed on construction quality, location, community fees and the developer’s track record.

✅ Check rental eligibility before purchasing

A property’s suitability for holiday rentals must be assessed individually. It depends on municipal planning rules, the property’s legal status, the community statutes and current regional and national regulations.

Andalusian municipalities may limit tourist accommodation within particular buildings, neighbourhoods or zones. Properties must also comply with local planning requirements and cannot operate as tourist accommodation where the community statutes expressly prohibit it.

For new tourist-rental activity in a building governed by Spain’s Horizontal Property Law, express approval from the owners’ community has generally been required since 3 April 2025. The approval requires three-fifths of all owners who also represent three-fifths of the participation quotas.

For this reason, no town or development should be described as automatically offering an “easy tourist licence”.

📍Choose the location according to your objective

Different areas suit different buyers:

• Mijas offers convenient access to Fuengirola, beaches and everyday amenities.
• Casares Costa may appeal to buyers seeking a quieter coastal environment.
• Alcaidesa combines beaches, golf and proximity to Sotogrande and Gibraltar.

The best location depends on whether the property will be your permanent home, holiday residence, long-term rental or short-term rental investment.

📋 Complete the necessary checks before reserving

Before paying a reservation deposit, obtain independent legal advice and verify:

• ownership and registered debts or charges;
• planning permission and the property’s legal status;
• community rules and outstanding fees;
• rental eligibility;
• taxes and total purchasing costs;
• the payment schedule and contractual conditions;
• the property’s energy efficiency and likely maintenance costs

term rental or short-term rental investment.

💡 Our most important advice

Do not make an impulsive purchase and do not rely on attractive marketing alone.

Take time to compare the property, development, location and total cost of ownership. With professional guidance and proper legal checks, you can choose a home or investment that continues to meet your needs for many years.

In one sentence

A successful property purchase combines the right location, a suitable property and thorough due diligence – not simply the earliest available new-build opportunity.

Yes. The excellent quality of life is one of the main reasons international buyers choose to live on the Costa del Sol.

The region combines fresh food, modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare and a wide range of lifestyle amenities, all within a warm Mediterranean climate.

🥑 Fresh food and international shopping

Thanks to the region’s climate and agricultural tradition, fresh fruit and vegetables are widely available throughout the year. Local markets, fishmongers and supermarkets offer a broad selection of fresh produce, seafood and regional specialities.

International residents are also well catered for, with major supermarkets and specialist shops offering products from across Europe and further afield.

🌐 Reliable services and connectivity

The Costa del Sol is well suited to modern living. Fibre-optic internet is widely available in towns and many residential developments, making the area popular with remote workers, entrepreneurs and international families.

Residents also have access to banks, international schools, sports facilities, fitness centres, wellness services and professional support in several languages.

🍽️ Restaurants, culture and leisure

The region offers everything from traditional tapas bars and beachfront restaurants to Michelin-starred dining and luxury beach clubs.

Málaga, Marbella and the surrounding coastal towns host cultural events, festivals, concerts and exhibitions throughout the year. There is also a wide choice of golf courses, marinas, hiking routes and family-friendly attractions.

🏥 Healthcare and private medical services

Residents can choose between Spain’s public healthcare system and a broad network of private hospitals, clinics and specialist medical centres.

Many private providers offer multilingual assistance, which is particularly helpful for international residents and property owners spending part of the year in Spain.

🌞 A lifestyle designed for year-round living

The Costa del Sol is not simply a holiday destination. It offers the infrastructure, services and amenities needed for comfortable year-round living.

With its Mediterranean climate, international community, strong transport connections and wide range of leisure options, the region is an attractive choice for families, professionals, retirees and second-home owners.

Protecting buyers’ funds is one of the most strictly regulated aspects of purchasing property in Spain, particularly when buying a new-build property. The system is designed to minimise the buyer’s risk and prevent the misuse of their money.

⚖️ Legal protection for new-build payments

The protection of buyers’ funds is established under Spanish legislation, particularly Law 38/1999, the Building Regulations Act (Ley de Ordenación de la Edificación or LOE) and related regulations.

This legal framework requires developers to:

• Deposit all buyers’ payments, including reservation deposits and staged purchase payments, into special separate bank accounts
• Protect each payment through a bank guarantee or insurance guarantee (aval bancario or seguro de caución)
• Use these funds exclusively for the construction of the relevant development

These accounts and guarantees are subject to strict oversight by banks and public authorities, including the Bank of Spain.

📄What does this mean for the buyer?

For the buyer, the key protections are that:

• The developer cannot use the money freely
• The funds are kept separate from the company’s general operating finances
• Every payment can be traced and is legally protected

If the developer fails to complete the project within the contractually agreed timeframe, the buyer is legally entitled to:

• A refund of all amounts paid
• A refund of the VAT paid
• Statutory interest

This protection applies automatically without the need for complicated legal proceedings.

💶 When does the developer receive the purchase price?

For new-build properties, the developer receives the full purchase price only once the project has been completed and the final purchase deed has been signed before a notary.

Until then, the buyer’s funds are either:

• Held in protected accounts
• Covered by an individual bank guarantee issued in the buyer’s name

📜 The role of the notary and Land Registry

Another important layer of protection is provided by Spain’s notarial and Land Registry system, which is considered one of the safest in the world.

• The purchase deed can only be prepared by a public notary
• The notary verifies the property’s legal status, debts, mortgages and compliance with legal requirements
• Ownership cannot be transferred without the notarial deed

Registration with the Land Registry is therefore legally indisputable and protects the buyer in the future.

✨ Summary: why buyers’ funds are highly protected in Spain

• A legal requirement for bank or insurance guarantees
• Separate accounts for buyers’ advance payments
• Oversight by banks and public institutions
• Clearly defined buyer rights if the development is not completed
• A notarial and Land Registry system offering strong legal certainty

This combination makes buying property in Spain, particularly on the Costa del Sol, transparent and secure for international buyers.

Property purchases in Spain are normally priced and completed in euros. The purchase price, taxes, notary costs and Land Registry fees must therefore be budgeted and settled in euros.

International buyers can still use funds held in British pounds, US dollars or another home currency. These funds must be converted into euros before the relevant payments are made.

How can buyers reduce currency-conversion costs?

Exchange rates and provider fees can make a significant difference when transferring a large amount for a Spanish property purchase. Buyers should compare:

• The exchange rate offered
• Any transfer or conversion fees
• The final number of euros received
• Transfer limits and processing times
• Whether the provider is appropriately regulated

Traditional banks may apply exchange-rate margins or transfer charges, while specialist currency providers may offer different rates and services. No provider should be assumed to offer the mid-market rate without checking its full terms.

How are payments made during the purchase?

Payments are usually made in stages according to the reservation agreement, private purchase contract or off-plan payment schedule. Buyers can convert and transfer the required funds before each deadline rather than exchanging the entire purchase amount at once.

However, exchange rates can move between payment dates. Buyers should therefore plan their currency strategy early and keep sufficient funds available for taxes, legal fees and other purchasing costs.

Our team can help international buyers understand the payment schedule and coordinate it with their lawyer, bank, mortgage provider and chosen currency-transfer service.

Shrnutí

• Kupní cena nemovitosti ve Španělsku je vždy v eurech.

• Zdroje mohou být v českých korunách.

• Díky převodu za mid kurz lze dosáhnout výrazné finanční úspory.

• Klient má jistotu, že platí efektivně, transparentně a bez zbytečných nákladů.

An NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a personal tax identification number for foreign nationals and serves as the essential administrative key for official procedures in Spain. As soon as a foreign national has an economic or legal interest in Spain, an NIE becomes essential.

It is a unique, personal and permanent number that remains with you throughout your life, regardless of whether you stay in Spain temporarily or permanently.

When is an NIE required?

An NIE is required for practically every significant transaction, particularly when you:

• Buy or sell property
• Sign a reservation or purchase agreement
• Apply for a mortgage with a Spanish bank
• Register ownership with the Land Registry
• Open a bank account
• Transfer utility contracts for electricity, water or gas
• Arrange internet or mobile services
• Pay taxes connected with property ownership

Without an NIE, it is not possible to legally complete a property transaction or participate fully in Spain’s economic system.

Who issues an NIE?

The NIE is issued by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior through the immigration authorities and National Police. It can be obtained:

• In person in Spain
• Through a legal representative using a power of attorney

For most clients buying property, obtaining an NIE is the first step in the process.

Why is an NIE so important when buying property?

From the perspective of Spanish authorities and banks, an NIE is equivalent to a personal identification or tax number. Without it:

• A notary cannot complete the property purchase deed
• Ownership cannot be registered
• A Spanish mortgage cannot be completed
• Property purchase taxes cannot be paid

We therefore recommend applying for an NIE at the beginning of the process before reserving a specific property, particularly when planning to buy on the Costa del Sol.

A practical advantage for buyers

The good news is that:

• An NIE is not linked to permanent residence
• It does not automatically make you a Spanish tax resident
• Obtaining it is an administrative procedure rather than a complex process

In practice, we coordinate and simplify the application process for our clients so they can focus on choosing the right property rather than dealing with administration.

Summary

An NIE is not simply a formality. It is an essential requirement for completing a property purchase safely and legally in Spain. Once you have it, you can proceed with the remaining stages more efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays.

When buying property in Andalusia, the taxes depend primarily on whether you are purchasing a new-build or resale property.

Taxes on a new-build property

Buyers purchasing a new-build home directly from a developer generally pay:

• 10% VAT (IVA)
• 1.2% Stamp Duty (AJD)

These taxes are normally calculated on the purchase price. If you use a Spanish mortgage, the bank pays the taxes and formalisation costs associated with the mortgage deed. However, the buyer still normally pays the 1.2% AJD relating to the new-build purchase deed.

Taxes on a resale property

For a resale property purchased from a private owner, VAT and purchase AJD do not normally apply. Instead, the buyer pays Property Transfer Tax (ITP) at the general Andalusian rate of 7%. Certain reduced rates may apply to qualifying buyers and lower-value main residences.

The taxable amount may be based on the highest of the agreed purchase price, the declared value or the official cadastral reference value. Buyers should therefore check the reference value before signing a reservation or private purchase contract.

Additional purchase costs

Buyers should also budget for:

• Notary and Land Registry fees
• Independent legal representation
• Property valuation fees when applying for a mortgage
• Administrative or translation services where required

Notary and Land Registry charges follow regulated tariffs, while lawyers set their own professional fees. Buyers should request a detailed written quotation rather than relying on a fixed percentage estimate.

Before reserving a property, we recommend preparing a complete purchase-cost breakdown covering the price, taxes, legal fees and payment schedule. This gives international buyers a clear picture of the total funds required before making a financial commitment.

Yes. Foreign and non-resident buyers can finance a property purchase in Spain with a Spanish mortgage. Some banks offer financing of up to 70% of the property value, although the amount available depends on the lower of the purchase price or bank valuation, as well as your income, existing debts, assets and credit profile. Buyers must normally cover the remaining balance plus taxes and purchasing costs from their own funds.

🏦 What types of Spanish mortgages are available?

Spanish banks offer fixed-rate, variable-rate and mixed mortgages. Variable mortgages are commonly linked to Euribor plus a lender’s margin, while mixed mortgages provide a fixed rate for an initial period before changing to a variable rate. Euribor may rise or fall, so it should not be described as automatically cheaper or more stable than financing in another country.

📉 How does financing work for new-build properties?

For an off-plan purchase, the mortgage is generally completed when construction is finished and the property is formally handed over. Buyers therefore need to plan separately for the reservation payment and staged payments required during construction.

Some developments offer developer mortgage subrogation, allowing the buyer to apply to take over the part of the developer’s existing mortgage allocated to their property. This may reduce administration and offer competitive terms because the bank already knows the project. However, the buyer must still pass the bank’s affordability and credit checks and the existing mortgage should always be compared with alternative offers.

🧾 Can Spanish and overseas financing be combined?

Yes. The Costa del Sol is a well-established destination for international residents and foreign property buyers. It offers mature residential areas, strong infrastructure, extensive healthcare services, international schools and amenities that operate throughout the year. However, safety and suitability vary between towns and neighbourhoods, so each location should be assessed individually.

Safety and everyday life
Spain compares favourably with many OECD countries in measures such as homicide rates. The Costa del Sol includes numerous established residential communities popular with families, retirees and international residents. As with any destination, buyers should consider the precise neighbourhood, local security, transport connections and seasonal activity before choosing where to live.

Healthcare and international services
Spain’s national health system provides virtually universal coverage and a comprehensive range of services for those entitled to access it. The Costa del Sol also has public facilities such as Hospital Universitario Costa del Sol in Marbella and several private hospitals and clinics. Some private providers offer multilingual assistance specifically for international patients. Access and costs depend on your residency status, insurance and personal circumstances.

Legal protection when buying property
Buying property in Spain follows a formal legal process involving a public notary and registration with the Spanish Land Registry. The notary oversees the completion documents and applicable taxes, while the Land Registry records the buyer’s legal ownership. Foreign buyers should also appoint an independent property lawyer to check ownership, debts, planning status, licences and contractual conditions before making substantial payments.

Buyers of off-plan properties benefit from additional legal protection. Advance payments taken by a developer must be protected through a bank guarantee or insurance arrangement. This is designed to protect the buyer if construction does not begin or the property is not completed under the agreed conditions.

An established international property market
The Costa del Sol has a strong international buyer base and an established market for permanent homes, second homes and investment properties. Across Spain, foreign buyers accounted for 14.6% of residential purchases in 2024 and remained at historically high levels during 2025. Strong demand can support the market in desirable locations, although future price growth and rental returns can never be guaranteed.

The wider region is also highly rated by international residents. Málaga placed first in the 2023 Expat City Ranking and second in 2024, receiving particularly positive feedback for friendliness, lifestyle and ease of settling in. Marbella was named European Best Destination for 2024, reflecting the area’s continuing international appeal. These rankings demonstrate popularity rather than guaranteeing personal safety or investment performance.

Who is the Costa del Sol suitable for?
The Costa del Sol may be particularly attractive to families seeking an outdoor lifestyle, retirees looking for year-round services, professionals establishing a European base and buyers searching for a second home in Spain. Different areas offer very different lifestyles, from central Málaga and Marbella to quieter coastal and golf communities in Mijas, Casares Costa and Alcaidesa.

Buying safely
No property purchase is entirely risk-free. Foreign buyers should use an independent lawyer, complete full legal due diligence, verify all off-plan guarantees and investigate the property’s physical condition, community rules and potential rental restrictions before committing.

With the right location, professional legal support and careful checks, the Costa del Sol can be a safe and attractive place for international buyers to live and purchase property.