{"id":8624,"date":"2025-06-23T12:57:59","date_gmt":"2025-06-23T10:57:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/8624-nieruchomosci-w-hiszpanii-o-to-pytaja-kupujacy"},"modified":"2026-03-20T10:40:28","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T09:40:28","slug":"real-estate-spain-buyer-questions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/8624-real-estate-spain-buyer-questions","title":{"rendered":"Real Estate in Spain: What Buyers Ask Most Often"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Planning to buy property in Spain and looking for reliable information? Whether you&#8217;re interested in apartments for sale in Spain, houses on the Iberian Peninsula, or a holiday rental investment located a few meters from the beach \u2013 it&#8217;s worth knowing the answers to the most frequently asked questions.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/8628-holiday-apartment-for-rent-how-to-prepare-it\">Holiday rental apartment? How to prepare it?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/8630-property-in-spain-how-to-buy\">How to buy property in Spain?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/8635-rights-and-responsibilities-of-property-owners-in-spain\">Property in Spain: Know the rights and obligations of owners<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>What costs are associated with buying on the primary or secondary market? Can you, as a Pole, apply for a mortgage in Spain? What is meant by the term &#8216;developer state&#8217; and what are the real costs of maintaining a property on the Costa del Sol?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With over 20 years of experience serving clients from Poland and across Europe, we help you safely buy an apartment, penthouse, house, or exclusive villa on the Costa del Sol. Which locations do our clients choose? The most popular towns include Marbella, Torremolinos, Malaga, Mijas, Estepona, Benalmadena, and Fuengirola.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Below you will find practical answers to the questions our clients most frequently ask when looking for property for sale on the Costa del Sol. Check it out!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Should I buy an apartment, house, or villa on my own or with a real estate agency?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are interested in buying property in Spain (on the Costa del Sol), e.g., in popular Marbella, Malaga, Estepona, Fuengirola, or Mijas, we have good news for you. When buying an apartment, penthouse, house, or Mediterranean villa, <strong>you do not pay a commission to the agent<\/strong>. These costs are covered by the seller. For new properties, the developer covers them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This means that <strong>you can use professional agency support at no extra cost<\/strong>. Especially since local agents \u2013 including those from the experienced Polish agency <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\">International Investment Marbella<\/a> \u2013 know the local market, language, and laws. Therefore, they can offer the best properties while ensuring complete transaction security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Developer State. What does it mean on the Costa del Sol?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike the Polish market, <strong>the developer state in the land of flamenco means the apartment is already finished<\/strong>. What does this entail? Installed floors, painted walls, a finished kitchen (often with appliances), or ready bathrooms (with fixtures, shower cabin, or bathtub). The buyer is essentially left with furnishing the property with movable furniture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. What costs are involved in buying a new property?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Buying houses and apartments by the Mediterranean Sea involves costs that are worth knowing before signing the contract. Here are the main fees:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>VAT \u2013<\/strong> the primary tax when purchasing new units. Instead of the tax on civil-law transactions (as in the secondary market), VAT applies here.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Deed Tax (AJD)<\/strong> \u2013 calculated on the transaction value and paid once upon purchase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Notary fees and land registry entry \u2013<\/strong> approx. 0.5% of the price<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lawyer&#8217;s services<\/strong> \u2013 typically 0.5%\u20131% of the property value<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sworn translation<\/strong> \u2013 approx. 500-1000 euros.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In total, this amounts to approx. 13% of the property value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. What costs are associated with buying a resale property on the Costa del Sol?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When buying a resale unit, you must pay, among other things, the Property Transfer Tax (ITP). It ranges from 7% to 10% of the purchase price, depending on the region of Andalusia and the property&#8217;s value. This applies only to the secondary market \u2013 it does not apply to new properties (where VAT and AJD apply).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, similar to buying a new property, you must account for stamp duty, notary fees, land registry entry, as well as lawyer or translator services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Is the okupa problem present on the Costa del Sol?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The problem of squatting in apartments or houses by so-called &#8216;okupas&#8217; is practically non-existent on the Costa del Sol. Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This region is characterized by high investment activity, professional property management, and a high level of security. Many new developments are gated communities, often with security and surveillance, which effectively prevents intrusions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Incidents related to okupas are more commonly heard about in large cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, or Valencia, where the problem mainly affects older, unoccupied, and densely built-up infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>So, if you are considering buying on the Costa del Sol, you can feel secure.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Can I get a mortgage for property in Spain?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When buying an apartment or house in Spain, you can obtain a mortgage from a local bank \u2013 even if you are not a resident. For foreigners, banks typically finance <strong>up to 70% of the property value<\/strong>. Real estate agencies like International Investment Marbella will help you navigate this entire process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Is it better to get a loan in Poland or Spain?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It is worth considering obtaining a loan in Spain, especially since its interest rates are lower than in Poland. Loans are based on EURIBOR, and interest rates in 2025 are around 4%. For comparison, in Poland, mortgages are still based on WIBOR, with interest rates reaching approximately 7-8%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. What can I use the funds from a mortgage taken out at a local bank for?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can get a mortgage covering up to 70% of the property&#8217;s value. The remaining 30% must be covered by your own funds. This is known as the down payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You also need to consider additional transaction costs (approx. 13%), which cannot be financed by the loan. What does this include? For example, VAT (10%) or Property Transfer Tax (ITP) \u2013 depending on the market, notary fees, lawyer costs, or translation fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>9. What is the rental yield for properties in Spain on the Costa del Sol?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Investing in Spain, especially on the popular Costa del Sol, is gaining increasing interest \u2013 and for good reason. The region attracts tourists year-round, which translates into high occupancy rates for short-term rentals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The average rental yield for a well-located property on the Costa del Sol ranges from 6% to 9% annually. For comparison, the average rental yield in Poland is currently around 5% annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luxury amenities, beautiful sea and mountain views, proximity to the beach, nearby golf courses, or services (restaurants, bars, shops, etc.) within walking distance \u2013 all of these are crucial for potential tenants and your future profits. Property prices by the sea are rising very rapidly. Several factors influence this. The sun shines here about 320 days a year. This, combined with the Mediterranean climate, attracts hordes of tourists to this part of Europe throughout the year, both those seeking peaceful relaxation and those looking for active holidays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The region&#8217;s tourist offerings are also significant, as is its fantastic infrastructure. It is easy to reach places like Gibraltar, Nerja, Sotogrande, Ronda, Caminito del Rey, San Pedro de Alcantara, Seville, or Granada, home to the famous Alcazaba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Costa del Sol is aptly called the Costa del Golf \u2013 you&#8217;ll see signs with these inscriptions as you drive around. Over 70 golf courses operate here, attracting enthusiasts of this sport, especially in autumn and winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The areas around Malaga or Marbella are also great for water sports enthusiasts \u2013 diving, snorkeling, yachts, or sailboats are just some of the options for spending time. The proximity of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, in turn, creates fantastic conditions for hiking. From the highest peaks, you can admire the coastline and the coast of Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>10. What are the maintenance costs for an apartment on the Costa del Sol?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining property on the Costa del Sol involves the following costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Monthly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Electricity<\/strong> \u2013 billed based on consumption, averaging <strong>60\u2013100 euros per month<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Community fees (comunidad)<\/strong> \u2013 the amount depends on the building&#8217;s infrastructure. This fee covers the maintenance costs of <a href=\"http:\/home\/www\/m.in\">e.g.<\/a> common areas such as: pools, gardens, jacuzzis, co-working spaces, SPA &amp; wellness zones, or gyms. The average range is <strong>150\u2013600 euros per month<\/strong>. The more extensive the infrastructure, the higher the costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Internet<\/strong> \u2013 internet packages cost an average of <strong>35-50 euros per month<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Quarterly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Water<\/strong> \u2013 fees depend on the region and supplier, averaging <strong>approx. 80 euros per quarter<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Annual:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Waste collection<\/strong> \u2013 around <strong>160\u2013180 euros per year<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Property tax (IBI)<\/strong> \u2013 its amount depends on the location and size of the property. It ranges from <strong>approx. 800 to 2000 euros per year<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Insurance<\/strong> \u2013 depends on the value and scope of coverage, usually <strong>50-100 euros per year<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Thinking about buying an apartment or house on the Costa del Sol?<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Our agents will offer you properties that perfectly match your needs. Whether you dream of a ready-to-move-in unit, a spacious property with a view of the Mediterranean Sea, or a house located near golf courses \u2013 we will find what you are looking for! Contact us to fulfill your dream of owning property in the heart of Andalusia.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Follow our profiles and stay up-to-date with the best offers and news:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/home\/www\/www.facebook.com\/people\/International-investment-Marbella\/100090009339827\/\"><strong> Facebook<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/home\/www\/www.instagram.com\/ii_marbella\/\"><strong>Instagram<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/home\/www\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/international-investment-marbella\/\"><strong>Linkedin<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/home\/www\/www.tiktok.com\/@ii.marbella?_t=ZN-8v3gmY9qpEs&amp;_r=1\"><strong>Tik Tok<\/strong><\/a><strong>, and <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/home\/www\/youtube.com\/@ii.marbella?si=K9hs4DhPktmCkvLj\"><strong>YouTube<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Planning to buy property in Spain and looking for reliable information? Whether you&#8217;re interested in apartments for sale in Spain, houses on the Iberian Peninsula, or a holiday rental investment located a few meters from the beach \u2013 it&#8217;s worth knowing the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Also check: What costs are associated [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2268,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[887,888,888,889,890,890,889,887],"tags":[762,764,766,767,854],"class_list":{"0":"post-8624","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"hentry","7":"category-blog","8":"category-costa-del-sol","10":"category-spain","11":"category-marbella-real-estate","15":"tag-costa-del-sol-en","16":"tag-hiszpania-en","17":"tag-marbella-en","18":"tag-mijas-en","19":"tag-nieruchomosc-en"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8624","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8624"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8624\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8960,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8624\/revisions\/8960"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2268"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8624"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8624"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.iimarbella.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8624"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}