Buying Guide

Research the Marbella Property Market

Before starting your property search, it is important to understand Marbella’s diverse neighbourhoods, each offering a distinct atmosphere, amenities, and property styles.

Puerto Banús is known for its luxury marina, designer boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

The Golden Mile is home to some of the most prestigious properties on the Costa del Sol.

Nueva Andalucía, often referred to as the Golf Valley, is ideal for golf lovers and outdoor lifestyles.

Sierra Blanca offers secure gated living with panoramic views and proximity to the Golden Mile.

La Zagaleta is famous for ultra-luxury estates, privacy, and exclusive facilities.

Understanding the variety of property types, from beachfront villas and modern apartments to hillside estates with sea views, helps narrow your search. Market knowledge is essential, as some areas show stronger appreciation and rental performance than others. Reviewing access to schools, transport links, healthcare, and leisure facilities will also help identify a location that fits both your lifestyle and long-term plans.

Establish Your Budget and Financing Options

A clear budget should include not only the purchase price but also acquisition costs, taxes, and ongoing expenses. Foreign buyers have access to Spanish mortgages, with banks typically lending up to 70 percent of the property value for non-residents.

Key costs to consider include:

Property Transfer Tax (ITP), generally between 8 and 10 percent depending on value

Notary and legal fees, typically adding around 1 to 2 percent

Ongoing costs such as IBI, the local annual property tax

If you plan to spend more than six months per year in Spain, consulting a tax advisor is advisable. Residency status and potential Golden Visa eligibility may offer additional advantages for qualifying investments of 500,000 euros or more.

Engage a Local Real Estate Agent

Working with a knowledgeable local agent is one of the most important steps in Marbella’s competitive market. A reputable agent provides access to off-market properties, realistic pricing insight, and guidance throughout the entire process. It is essential that your agent understands the legal and administrative requirements for foreign buyers.

An experienced agent will also connect you with trusted lawyers and mortgage brokers, reducing risk and simplifying the transaction. At One Life Properties, our team of experienced advisors supports buyers from the first viewing through to completion, ensuring clarity and confidence at every stage.

Due Diligence and Market Insight Gathering

Thorough due diligence is essential when purchasing property in Spain. Engaging a qualified local lawyer is highly recommended, starting with obtaining your NIE, the Spanish tax identification number required to buy property.

Key checks include confirming the property is free of debts, liens, or legal claims, reviewing community fees and regulations, and verifying planning permissions and urban classifications. Understanding upcoming developments in the area is also important, as they may impact future value.

Market insight is equally important. Reviewing recent sales data, rental demand, and price trends with your agent helps ensure you make an informed decision. At One Life Properties, we work closely with some of the most respected legal professionals on the coast and are happy to introduce you to the right specialists.

Property Viewings and Choosing Your Home

Once your research and budget are in place, property viewings begin. These can be conducted in person or virtually, depending on your circumstances.

During viewings, assess the overall condition of the property, including structure, water pressure, and finishes. Consider the benefits of the location, such as proximity to schools, amenities, and transport. Think about whether the property suits year-round living or seasonal use, and evaluate its rental appeal and resale potential.

Preparing a checklist helps ensure that each property is assessed objectively against both lifestyle needs and investment goals.

Making an Offer and Negotiating the Price

When you have found the right property, the next step is making an offer. In Marbella, buyers typically negotiate within a range of 5 to 10 percent below the asking price, depending on demand and market conditions.

Once a price is agreed, a reservation contract is signed and a deposit is paid, usually around 10 percent of the purchase price. This secures the property while legal checks are completed and confirms the buyer’s intention to proceed.

Signing the Reservation Contract

The reservation contract outlines the agreed terms of the sale and specifies penalties should either party withdraw. Your lawyer should review this document carefully to ensure all conditions are clear and legally sound before proceeding to the final stages.

Securing Financing and Finalising the Mortgage

If mortgage financing is required, it is important to work with banks and brokers experienced in assisting international buyers. Spanish lenders typically request proof of income, bank statements, and a valuation report.

Banks such as BBVA, Banco Santander, and Sabadell are well known for working with non-resident buyers. Finalising mortgage approval before completion ensures a smooth closing process. One Life Properties can introduce you to trusted mortgage brokers who specialise in international clients.

Finalising the Purchase with a Notary

In Spain, property purchases are completed in front of a notary. The notary formalises the Escritura, the final deed of sale, ensuring that both parties fully understand the agreement.

Once signed, ownership is officially transferred, payments are completed, and the keys are handed over. Notary fees typically range between 0.1 and 0.5 percent of the property value.

Post-Purchase Steps

After completion, several administrative steps remain. The property must be registered with the Land Registry, utilities transferred into your name, and IBI payments set up. Non-resident owners or those planning short-term rentals may wish to appoint a property management company to handle maintenance and tenant coordination.

Home insurance should be arranged, and if rental income is planned, a tax advisor can help ensure compliance with Spanish rental regulations.

Are You Ready to Start the Process?

Buying a home in Marbella is both a lifestyle decision and a strategic investment. With strong international demand, attractive tax structures, and long-term market stability, Marbella continues to rank among Europe’s most desirable property destinations.

While the buying process involves several steps, the right professional support makes it straightforward and secure. At One Life Properties, we guide buyers through every phase of the journey. Whether you are looking for a family home, a holiday retreat, or a long-term investment, having experienced professionals by your side ensures confident decisions aligned with your personal and financial goals.