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The Real Cost of Buying Property on the Costa del Sol (2026 Guide)

The Real Cost of Buying Property on the Costa del Sol (2026 Guide)

One of the most common questions overseas buyers ask is:

“What are the real costs of buying property in Spain?”

Feel free to try out Property Purchase Cost Calculator here

Many buyers assume the total purchase cost will be around 10% of the property price, but the reality can be slightly different depending on the property type and financing.

Understanding these costs upfront helps avoid surprises during the purchase process.

Property Transfer Tax

For resale properties in Andalucía, the standard transfer tax (ITP) is:

7% of the purchase price

This tax is paid when the title is transferred to the buyer.

For new-build properties there is 10% VAT


Stamp Duty (AJD)

For certain transactions, particularly new-build purchases with mortgages, stamp duty may apply.

The typical AJD rate in Andalucía is around 1.2%.


Additional Buying Costs

Buyers should also budget for:

  • Notary fees
  • Land registry fees
  • Legal representation
  • Mortgage arrangement costs (1-2%)
  • Property valuation

These typically add 2–3% of the purchase price.

Typical Total Purchase Budget

A realistic budget looks like this:

CostApproximate %
Property transfer tax7%
Legal, notary, registry2–3%
Mortgage costs1–2%

Total estimated costs:

10–13% of the property price

Why Buyers Underestimate Costs

Online discussions often reveal that buyers focus on the property price but overlook:

  • Community fees
  • Maintenance costs
  • Insurance
  • Non-resident taxation

Even owners who do not rent their property are liable for imputed income tax as non-resident property owners.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the full cost of ownership helps buyers make informed decisions and prevents financial surprises.

Before purchasing property in Spain, it’s essential to calculate:

  • Purchase taxes
  • Ongoing ownership costs
  • Potential rental income
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