What are the buying costs when purchasing a property in Marbella?

Costs and taxes foreign buyers need to know in 2025

Buying a home in Marbella involves more than just the price you see on the listing. If you’re planning to purchase a property in Spain, it’s important to understand the full picture — especially the additional costs that come with the deal.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect.

Marbella lifestyle living

1. Transfer tax or VAT

The biggest cost you’ll face is the purchase tax.

• Resale property: You pay a Property Transfer Tax (ITP), which in Andalusia is usually 7% of the purchase price.(If you buy a property through a Spanish company (S.L) for renovation and sale within 5 years – you only pay 2%)

• New-build property: You pay 10% VAT (IVA) instead, plus 1.2% stamp duty (AJD).

So:

• Buying a €500,000 resale home = €35,000 in tax (7%)

• Buying a €500,000 new-build = €56,000 in tax (10% + 1.2%)
  

Note: There are different tax levels in different regions in Spain – so be sure to check the region you want to buy in specifically.

2. Notary and land registration fees

Expect to pay around 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price to cover:

• Notary public to formalize the sale

• Property registration in the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad)
  

For a €500,000 property, this typically adds up to €3,000 to €5,000.

3. Legal fees

Hiring an independent lawyer is highly recommended.

Fees are usually 1% of the purchase price.

This gives you:

• Due diligence (checking licenses, debts, ownership, etc.)

• Drafting or reviewing contracts

• Managing the transaction and registration
  

Many law firms offer fixed packages for foreign buyers.Are you planning on doing multiple investments in properties? Then negotiate for a better deal.

4. Mortgage-related costs (if applicable)

If you finance the purchase with a Spanish mortgage, you may also pay:

• Bank setup or arrangement fee (0.5% – 1%)

• Valuation report (~€300–€600)

• Mortgage registration tax (varies)

• Property Appraisor fee

• Notary and registration fees for the loan documents
  

5. Other optional costs

• Surveyor or architect (if evaluating a renovation project)

• Translator or power of attorney if you’re not present

• Currency exchange fees if transferring large sums from abroad
  

Total cost estimate

In most cases, buying property in Marbella will cost an additional 10% to 13% of the property price, depending on whether it's a resale or new-build.

Example for a €500,000 resale home:

• 7% ITP = €35,000

• 1% legal = €5,000

• 0.8% notary/registry = €4,000Total = €44,000 (≈ 8.8%)
  

With some variation, 10% is a safe number to budget for.

63ºNO’s advice

We recommend all buyers set aside at least 10–12% of the purchase price for taxes and fees.If you’re buying with a mortgage, add a buffer.

Don’t let the hidden costs surprise you. We help our clients get full clarity from the start — with transparent advice, realistic budgeting, and introductions to trusted professionals.

Need help understanding your numbers? Contact us and we’ll walk you through the process.

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