Acquiring a property is a complex process in which searching is only the first step. Once you have found the ideal home, it is essential to remember that a whole series of documents are needed to buy a house. The seller must provide most of them, but the buyer must check they are correct. That way, there won't be a delay in the transaction.
Documents to buy a house that the buyer must provide
The buyer has to provide the National Identity Document or, if he is a foreigner, a passport or Foreigner Identification Number (NIE). The latter is available at any Immigration Office or the consular office of the buyer's residence.
If you're from abroad, we recommend having a bank account in Spain to directly debit taxes and housing expenses. The bank will request a non-resident certificate or the latest payslips.
On the other hand, a foreign buyer who doesn't want to travel to Spain to close the sale will need to grant powers to another person, either through a notarial power of attorney or a consular power of attorney.
Although not mandatory, we recommend requesting a simple note from the Property Registry if the seller does not provide it. It is the document that proves who the legal owner of the property is and notifies if there are any encumbrances. It can be requested online.
What are the documents requested from the seller?
The seller must provide the rest of the documents to buy a house, but it is fundamental to know them:
• DNI or residence card.
• Deed.
• Last IBI payment receipt.
• Energy efficiency certificate.
• Proof of payment from the community of neighbours if the property belongs to a residential complex.
• Certificate of occupancy, although it is not always required.
• Latest receipts for supplies.
• Certificate of outstanding mortgage debt, if any.
In the case of newly built housing, the documents to buy a house are, in addition to the identification of the seller or promoter, the following:
• Certificate of conformity of the facilities.
• Final work certificate.
• Building book, plans and construction license.
• First occupation license.
• Energy efficiency certificate.
And, whatever the type of home, you will need a document that is not mandatory but is advisable: the deposit contract. After signing the deed before a notary, we must register it in the Property Registry. Meanwhile, the ownership change will be completed in the Cadastre.
Taxes on the purchase of properties in Spain
In addition to the above, to buy a house in Spain, it is worth knowing that the operation is subject to the payment of some taxes that the buyer must pay:
• Value Added Tax (VAT) if it is a new home: it is 10% of the value as a general rule.
• Property Transfer Tax (ITP) if it is a used home: 6% and 11% of the sale price, depending on the autonomous community.
• Tax on Documented Legal Acts (IAJ). Between 0.5% and 1.5%, depending on the region.
Are you thinking of buying a property in Spain? Spainhouses.net helps you find it. Don't wait any longer, and start your search. Your dream home is waiting for you.