Why I moved to Spain and how to buy property there. a British expat shares her experiences of living there and the process of buying property in Spain.
I moved to Spain in 2019 for a number of reasons. First, I love the mild climate and being close to the sea. Second, I enjoy the healthy food and lifestyle. Third, the cost of living is lower than in the UK, and the average prices for property are significantly lower.
I bought a ground floor apartment in Selwo (Estepona) in 2020. The apartment is 5 minutes' drive from the beach, 15 minutes from Marbella, and 45 minutes from Malaga airport.
The buying process was relatively straightforward. I used a property agent to help me find an apartment that met my needs. The general fees for buying property in Spain are as follows:
1% Notar/Lawyer
5% Agency
8% Purchase tax
I did everything through the Notar, but I would recommend getting a Lawyer if you want to know about any potential pitfalls for a particular property. You will also need to pay a cash deposit through the Notar's office to start off the buying procedure.
Estepona is a beautiful coastal town with everything you will need and more. There are supermarkets, banks, a post office, restaurants, beach clubs, and bars. If you don't drive, there are regular buses from Selwo (Safari Park) to Estepona and back.
When I first arrived in Spain, I knew that I was going to stay long term, so I made the trip to the local police station with all my relevant documentation and got my NIE card. This is essential for anyone who wants to buy property in Spain, as it allows you to apply for a mortgage and pay the local rate. You will also only need to make a 30% down payment instead of 70%.
Brexit came and went, and now British Nationals can apply online for a TIE card if they plan on moving to Spain full time. This card gives you the same rights as a Spanish citizen, including the right to work and live in Spain.
If you are thinking about buy a property in Spain, I highly recommend it. The climate, lifestyle, and cost of living are all excellent. The buying process is also relatively straightforward, as long as you have all your paperwork in order.