Buyers are often surprised less by the taxes than by the number of smaller line items. Budget for acquisition costs as a percentage of price rather than a fixed sum, and confirm the current rules with a professional.
The main categories
Transfer tax or VAT, depending on whether the property is a resale or a new build. Notary and land registry fees. Legal fees. Where applicable, mortgage arrangement costs.
Then ongoing costs: annual property tax, community fees, insurance, utilities and maintenance. Ask an owner in the same community what they actually pay.
After completion
Non-resident owners have ongoing Spanish tax obligations. These are not optional and are usually handled by a fiscal representative.
