Frequently Asked Questions about Marbella Real Estate Market (FAQ)

Last updated: January 2026. Tax and legal rules may change. Always confirm applicability on a case-by-case basis.

This Marbella Real Estate FAQ provides clear answers to common questions about buying, investing, and living in Marbella. It primarily draws on Drumelia’s market guides, plus a small number of official Spanish/Andalusian sources where needed.

New Buyer & Legal Questions

Can I buy property in Spain if I’m not a resident?

Yes. Spain allows non-residents of any nationality to buy and own property. You do not need Spanish residency to purchase real estate. For the practical “how-to” steps and what to prepare before you start searching, see Drumelia’s Purchase Guide.

Purchase Guide: How to Buy Property in Marbella

Do I need a NIE to buy property in Marbella?

Yes. A NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is mandatory to complete the purchase, pay taxes, and register ownership. Drumelia’s Purchase Guide includes NIE as a basic requirement.

Purchase Guide: NIE and basic requirements

What documents do I need to buy a property as a foreigner?

At minimum, you will need a valid passport and a NIE. In practice, you should also prepare bank/KYC documentation (source of funds, income proof, etc.), especially in the luxury segment. Your lawyer will guide you through what is required for due diligence and compliance.

Purchase Guide: Preparation before you start searching

Is there a Golden Visa available if I buy property?

Spain has historically offered an Investor Visa (“Golden Visa”) for non-EU investors purchasing property worth €500,000 or more; however, this route ended on 3 April 2025 and new applications are no longer accepted. There are other ways to obtain residence in Spain, such as the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa and the Digital Nomad / Telework (International Remote Worker) Visa, among other permits depending on personal circumstances. Always check the latest requirements with Spanish consular services.

Do I need a Spanish bank account to buy property?

A Spanish bank account is not legally required to buy, but it is strongly recommended for paying taxes, utilities, community fees, and for secure payments at completion. Drumelia’s Purchase Guide highlights this as “optional but makes everything easier”.

Purchase Guide: Spanish bank account (recommended)

Can I own investment property and rent it out?

Yes. Non-residents can own property and rent it out long-term or short-term. If you plan to operate as a holiday rental, make sure the property complies with current rules and has the correct registration/licence where required. In Andalucía, the official guidance is provided by the Junta de Andalucía.

Buying Process & Costs (from Drumelia Purchase Guide)

What is the typical process to buy property in Marbella?

The typical purchase process includes preparation, viewings, offer, due diligence (legal / urbanistic / technical), private purchase contract, and notary completion. Drumelia’s Purchase Guide outlines the full step-by-step process and common timelines.

Purchase Guide: Step-by-step buying process

What are the buying costs in Marbella?

Plan approximately 12–13% on top of the net purchase price; this typically includes purchase taxes (ITP for resale or VAT + AJD for new builds), legal fees, notary, Land Registry, and other standard costs. Drumelia provides both an explanation in the Purchase Guide and a dedicated cost page.

Are there reduced tax regimes for investors?

In Andalucía, a 2% reduced ITP regime exists for qualifying real-estate professionals buying with the intention to resell, but it is strictly conditioned. As of 1 January 2026, this incentive is significantly more restricted, including (among other requirements) a €500,000 cap (including annexes, using the higher of agreed price vs cadastral reference value) and a 2-year resale deadline, plus the requirement that the buyer’s activity qualifies and that the incentive is explicitly stated in the purchase deed. Always confirm eligibility with a qualified tax lawyer before relying on this regime.

Official reference (Andalucía BOJA, 31 Dec 2025):
BOJA (31/12/2025) — Ley 8/2025 (Budget Law introducing tax changes effective 2026)

Mortgage & Financing

Can non-residents get a mortgage in Spain?

Yes. Spanish banks can provide mortgages to non-residents, with terms depending on borrower profile and bank policy. Drumelia’s Purchase Guide and Mortgage Calculator provide practical guidance and assumptions commonly used in the market.

What is a typical mortgage down payment?

As a general rule, non-resident buyers should plan for a larger down payment than residents. In the luxury segment, expectations can differ by bank, price level, and borrower profile. Drumelia provides typical assumptions in the Purchase Guide and Mortgage Calculator, but the bank will always lend based on the lower of purchase price or its own valuation.

Other Useful Questions

Can I start the buying process remotely?

Yes. Remote purchases are technically possible using video tours and a power of attorney, but Drumelia recommends at least one in-person visit before committing — especially in the high-end segment.

Purchase Guide: Buying without visiting in person

How long does ownership transfer take after notary?

After signing at the notary, registration at the Land Registry takes time to process. In practice, it is common for registration to take several weeks depending on workload and complexity. Your lawyer will handle filings and follow-up.

Purchase Guide: Notary completion and next steps

How do I choose an agent to sell my property in Marbella?

A structured selling process matters. Drumelia’s Selling Guide covers how to choose an agent, prepare your home, define the right strategy, manage viewings, negotiate offers, and complete the sale at notary.

Selling Guide: How to Sell Your Property in Marbella

Additional Resources

Questions? Contact our team — we’re here to help with any aspect of buying, selling, or investing in Marbella real estate.

Call us Contact