How to Buy Property in Costa Blanca – Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
If you are thinking about buying property in Costa Blanca, understanding the process will help you make more confident decisions.
Buying property in Costa Blanca is something thousands of international buyers do every year. The region attracts people looking for sunshine, a Mediterranean lifestyle and attractive real estate opportunities in Spain.
Towns such as Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Benidorm and Rojales are especially popular with buyers looking for a second home, an investment property or even a permanent move to the Spanish coast.
Although it may seem complex at first, buying property in Spain is actually a straightforward process when you understand the steps and have the right professional guidance.
In this guide you will learn how to buy property in Costa Blanca step by step, so you know what to expect before starting your search.
Can foreigners buy property in Spain?
Yes. Spain places no restrictions on foreign buyers purchasing property, whether they are residents or non-residents.
In fact, a significant proportion of property purchases in Costa Blanca are made by international buyers, especially from northern Europe.
The buying process is very similar to that for Spanish citizens, although a few administrative steps are required before completing the purchase.
Once you understand these steps, buying property in Spain is generally clear and secure.
Step 1: define your real budget
Before starting your property search, it is important to define a realistic budget.
In addition to the purchase price, there are several additional costs involved when buying property in Spain. As a general rule, buyers should calculate around 10–15% on top of the property price to cover taxes and administrative expenses.
Typical purchase costs include:
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property transfer tax or VAT
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notary fees
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property registry fees
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legal or administrative assistance
It is also important to consider annual property costs, such as local property tax (IBI), community fees and utilities.
If you want to understand these costs in more detail, you can read our guide on the costs of maintaining a property in Costa Blanca.
Step 2: obtain your NIE number
One of the first steps for foreign buyers is obtaining an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero).
This identification number is required for any legal or financial transaction in Spain, including buying property, opening a bank account and paying taxes.
You can apply for the NIE either in Spain or through a Spanish consulate in your home country.
Step 3: open a Spanish bank account
While not always legally required, most foreign buyers open a Spanish bank account.
This makes it easier to pay purchase costs, taxes and later manage ongoing property expenses such as utilities and local taxes.
Step 4: reserve the property
Once you find the right property, the next step is usually signing a reservation agreement.
This document removes the property from the market for a short period while the legal documentation is reviewed.
A small reservation deposit is typically required.
Step 5: sign the deposit contract
After the reservation, the next step is signing the deposit contract (Contrato de Arras).
At this stage the buyer usually pays around 10% of the purchase price, which will later be deducted from the final payment at the notary.
This contract defines the conditions of the purchase and sets the expected completion date.
Step 6: completion at the notary
The final step of the purchase process is signing the public deed of sale at the notary.
During this appointment the transaction is legally completed, the remaining payment is made and the buyer receives the keys to the property.
The notary verifies that all documents are correct and that the transaction complies with Spanish law.
Step 7: property registration
After signing at the notary, the property is registered in the Spanish Land Registry under the buyer's name.
This guarantees legal ownership of the property.
How much does it cost to buy property in Costa Blanca?
Besides the property price, buyers should consider additional purchase costs.
Typically these costs represent around 10–15% of the purchase price.
The main expenses include:
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property transfer tax for resale properties
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VAT and stamp duty for new builds
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notary fees
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land registry fees
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legal or administrative assistance
Compared to many other European countries, the property purchase process in Spain remains relatively accessible when buyers receive proper guidance.
Buying property in Costa Blanca: what you should know
Costa Blanca is one of the most attractive regions in Spain for international property buyers.
The climate, infrastructure and high quality of life make the area extremely appealing.
Locations such as Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Benidorm and Rojales offer a wide range of properties and easy access to Alicante International Airport.
Whether you are looking for a holiday home, an investment opportunity or a permanent residence, Costa Blanca offers options for different budgets and lifestyles.
Frequently asked questions about buying property in Costa Blanca
Can foreigners buy property in Spain?
Yes. Foreign buyers can purchase property in Spain without restrictions.
How long does the buying process take?
In most cases the entire process takes between 4 and 8 weeks, from reservation to completion at the notary.
Is buying property in Costa Blanca expensive?
Compared to many European regions, property prices in Costa Blanca remain competitive while offering a high quality of life.
Do I need an NIE to buy property in Spain?
Yes. The NIE number is required for any property transaction in Spain.
Thinking about buying property in Costa Blanca?
If you are considering buying property in Torrevieja or elsewhere in Costa Blanca, professional guidance can help you make confident decisions.
At Vivee Real Estate we assist national and international buyers throughout the entire process, from property search to completion at the notary.
Visit our website to explore available properties and learn more about the local real estate market.
About Vivee Real Estate
Vivee Real Estate is a real estate agency specialised in helping national and international buyers find property in Torrevieja and across different areas of Costa Blanca.
In addition to assisting clients throughout the buying or investment process, the Vivee team regularly shares information about the local real estate market, city development, new urban projects and residential opportunities for those looking to live or invest in this Mediterranean region.
Through this blog, Vivee Real Estate provides practical guides and useful information to help buyers make informed decisions before purchasing property in Spain.
