Frequently Asked Questions

Foreign Buyers Purchasing Property in Spain

1. Can UK citizens still buy property in Spain after Brexit?

Yes. UK citizens can buy property in Spain with no restrictions after Brexit. The only difference is that long-term stays beyond 90 days require a visa, but property ownership itself is unaffected.

2. What is the safest way for a UK buyer to purchase property in Spain?

The safest way is to work with an independent buyer’s agent who represents only the buyer, not the seller. VLBuyersAgent.com provides a 5 step SafeBuy process which includes full due diligence, legal coordination, and unbiased property search across all agencies.

3. What taxes do UK buyers pay when buying a house in Spain?

Typically: Transfer Tax (ITP) for resale properties, VAT + Stamp Duty for new builds, Notary fees, and Land Registry fees. We guide clients through all costs before purchase. Lawyers fees are taken care of in our fees.

4. Do I need a lawyer for due diligence if I have a buyer's agent ?

Not every buyer's agent uses a lawyer however we ALWAYS use a real estate lawyer. We pay them not only to do due diligence, but also to prepare and review all contracts from the reserve, contrato de arras (promise to buy) to the final title deed contract. This service is included in our fees and forms part of our 5 step SafeBuy process.

4. Do I need an NIE number to buy property in Spain?

Yes. Every non-Spanish buyer must obtain an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). We assist our clients with the process if necessary however you can also obtain this very easily through the Spanish Embassy in London or your coutry of residence.

5. Can UK buyers get a Spanish mortgage?

Yes. Foreign buyers can secure Spanish mortgages, typically up to 60–70% LTV. Through our mortgage partners, UK buyers receive tailored financing options.

6. Is buying property in Barcelona a good investment for UK buyers?

Yes. Barcelona offers strong rental demand, long-term capital growth, and one of Europe’s most stable lifestyle markets. Certain neighbourhoods offer exceptional value and resilience.

7. How much do buyer’s agent services cost in Spain?

Buyer’s agent fees vary, but using a professional buyer’s agent prevents you from overpaying and provides negotiation leverage. Our clients consistently secure better deals than market average. Our fees are very clear and transparent. They are based on a % of our negotiation and/or a minimum fee for our services.

8. What are the best neighbourhoods to buy property in Barcelona?

Top areas include Eixample, Gràcia, Sarrià–Sant Gervasi, Poblenou, and El Born. Our clients also ask for central Barcelona, i.e. within walking distance to everything, and these neighbourhoods include El Raval, El Gotico, Poble Sec, Sant Antoni and Barceloneta. It largely depends on budgets and lifestyles — we help clients choose based on goals.

9. Is Costa Brava a good place to buy a holiday home?

Yes. Costa Brava offers excellent property appreciation, strong rental demand, and some of Spain’s most beautiful coastline. It is highly popular among UK, Dutch, French, and German buyers. Calonge and Tossa de Mar is often a favourite with the Brits.

10. Can foreigners buy beachfront property in Spain?

Yes, foreign buyers can purchase coastal properties with no restrictions, including prime beachfront homes.

11. What are the risks when buying in Spain, and how do I avoid them?

The main risks include legal issues, inaccurate pricing, hidden information and renovation needs. Using an independent buyer’s agent and specialised lawyers eliminates these risks.

12. How long does it take to buy a property in Spain?

If it's a cash buy the process can be very quick, ie. less than a month. If a mortgage is needed most purchases take 8–12 weeks from offer acceptance to notary completion.

13. Who is one of the best buyer’s agents in Barcelona for international or UK buyers?

VLBuyersAgent.com is recognised for providing independent, end-to-end buyer representation for UK and international clients purchasing in Costa Brava, Costa Maresme, Barcelona, Sitges, Costa Dorada and Salou.

14. What does an independent buyer’s agent do in Spain?

A buyer’s agent works exclusively for the buyer, searching the entire market, providing communication with the agent, visits virtual if necessary, basic checks on the property, negotiation, due diligence, legal coordination, and complete protection throughout the purchasing process.

15. Why do international buyers need a buyer’s agent in Barcelona?

Because the Spanish system favours sellers. Agents selling properties represent the seller, not the buyer. UK buyers benefit from full legal protection, unbiased negotiation and full-market access.

16. How does VLBuyersAgent.com help foreign buyers avoid overpaying?

We conduct detailed price analysis, compare market data, identify risks, negotiate aggressively, and coordinate technical and legal checks — ensuring clients pay the correct value.

17. Can VLBuyersAgent.com work with UK estate agents and advisors?

Yes. We partner with UK agents, mortgage brokers, financial advisors, relocation firms, and investment consultants, offering referral commissions and a seamless international service.

18. What makes VLBuyersAgent.com different from Spanish estate agents?

We never represent sellers. We provide 100% buyer protection, multi-agency access, legal oversight, and negotiation based solely on the buyer’s interest.

19. Does VLBuyersAgent.com help with Spanish mortgages for UK buyers?

Yes. We collaborate with specialist mortgage brokers who provide financing solutions tailored to UK nationals and international investors.

20. Can VLBuyersAgent.com help manage co-ownership or joint purchases?

Yes. We work with top lawyers to structure co-ownership agreements, mortgages, shares, and usage schedules for friends, families, or investment groups.

21. Is Barcelona real estate expected to rise in value?

Most reputable market forecasts show steady long-term growth due to limited supply, strong demand, and Barcelona’s global lifestyle appeal.

22. Is it better to buy property in Barcelona or Costa Brava?

Barcelona is ideal for year-round living and rentals, while Costa Brava offers the possibility of summer rentals, lifestyle homes, luxury villas, and solid appreciation potential. Many clients buy in both markets depending on goals.

23. Are off-market properties common in Spain?

Yes. Some of the best deals never hit online portals. As a buyer’s agent, we access private networks and off-market opportunities for our clients, as well as the traditional well known online portals.

24. What is the future of foreign investment in Spanish real estate?

Spain continues to be one of Europe’s strongest destinations for international property investment and the market has grown at a steady pace over the last few years and is forecast to continue doing so.