So, can Brits still buy in Spain? Yeah. Brexit didn’t change that. But stuff around it? That’s different.
- You’re now a non-EU buyer. Means higher taxes, tighter mortgage rules.
- Want to stay more than 90 days? Gotta get a visa.
- Renting it out? You’ll pay more tax than before.
- Golden Visa’s going. After April 2025, no fast-track residency for investors.
So if you’re looking to buy, live, or invest, it’s still doable. Just plan ahead.
Best Places to Buy
Depends on what you want.
For Retiring
- Costa del Sol – Brits everywhere, decent weather, good hospitals.
- Costa Blanca – Cheaper than Costa del Sol, easy coastal life.
- Valencia – City life but still got a beach, lower prices than Barcelona.
For Investment
- Madrid & Barcelona – Expensive, but rentals go fast.
- Seville & Granada – Growing expat market, property still affordable.
- Málaga & Mallorca – Short-term holiday rentals do well here.
Cheapest Areas
- Murcia & Almería – Cheapest coastal spots.
- Extremadura – Country homes under €80k.
- Castilla-La Mancha – Loads of cheap village houses.
How to Buy in Spain (Step-by-Step)
Not as quick as the UK. Expect delays, loads of paperwork.
1. Get an NIE (Foreigner’s ID)
- No NIE = no property.
- Get it at a police station in Spain or a Spanish consulate in the UK.
2. Open a Spanish Bank Account
- You need one for taxes, mortgage, bills.
- Some banks are expat-friendly (Sabadell, CaixaBank).
3. Get a Mortgage (If Needed)
- Brits can still get Spanish mortgages, but banks are more strict.
- Expect 60-70% loan-to-value.
- Interest rates? Around 3-4%.
4. Find a Property & Make an Offer
- Use an API-certified agent.
- Get a lawyer. Some properties have outstanding debts—you don’t want to inherit them.
5. Pay a Deposit & Sign a Contract
- Usually 10% upfront.
6. Final Contract at the Notary
- Nothing’s official until you sign with a notary.
Process? 8-12 weeks, sometimes longer. Spain runs on its own time.
Hidden Costs – What They Don’t Tell You
It’s not just the property price. Add 10-15% extra for taxes and fees.
| Cost | Amount |
| Property Transfer Tax (ITP) (Resale Homes) | 6-10% |
| VAT (New Homes) | 10% |
| Stamp Duty (AJD) | 0.5-1.5% |
| Notary & Legal Fees | 1-2% |
| Mortgage Setup Fee | 0.5-1% |
So that €200k place? You’re really spending about €220k-€230k.
Is It Worth Buying?
Yes, if:
- You’re living there full-time or planning to rent it out long-term.
- You’re investing for the future—prices are still rising.
No, if:
- You’re only using it a few times a year. Renting might be smarter.
Spain’s property market is still solid, but post-Brexit, it takes more planning.
