• Choose an Agent - A good agent will understand your requirements, scour the market on your behalf, arrange and accompany you to viewings, and guide you through every stage of the purchase. We can be your sole agent. Instead of endlessly scrolling through the internet or visiting the many pop up offices in Nerja - we will take the strain off of you as a bespoke property finder! We collaborate with all local agencies and even have access to properties that aren’t widely advertised.
• Know your requirements - it is important to define your budget and priorities. This helps to focus the search and ensures we show you only the properties that suit your needs. Research, visit, and inspect selected properties.
• Viewings - we organise your day - let us know when you are free and we will arrange the viewings of shortlisted properties around you, so you do not lose unnecessary time during your stay. We pick you up…. We schedule a suitable time frame per property.
• Be prepared - We can put you in touch with a registered local lawyer so you are ready to complete the purchase promptly once you have found your new home. We can introduce you to a local lawyer as we can recommend a number of very reputable local law firms.
• Required Documents - A NIE (Numero de identidad de extranjero / Foreigner Identification Number) is required for all tax transactions and property purchases.
• Bank Account - Necessary to pay purchase costs, taxes and setting up direct debits for utilities and community fees.
• Make an Offer - Find your perfect property and make an offer! We will negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best result e.g. negotiating price, completion dates, and included furniture or fixtures.
• Reservation Contract - Sign a contrato de reserva to take the property off the market, usually with a deposit. This deposit is dependent on the price of the property and is usually from 3000 - 1% of the value of the property. A contract is made for signature by all parties. On this document you will be give a 10% date and an approx completion date. And the conditions of the sale eg. fully furnished / subject to mortgage. This document confirms the sales price and takes the property off the market until the PPC date. This is usually 2-3 weeks.
• Property documentation: During these weeks, your lawyer will receive the property documents and will do the legal due diligence eg. check the property is free from debts and the paperwork is complete and the property is legal etc.
• Private Purchase Contract (PPC) - Sign a contrato de arras to formalize the sale conditions and pay 10% of the purchase price minus the reservation deposit. This document usually includes the inventory and the agreed sale completion date.
• Completion - The final public deed (escritura) is signed before a notary and the remaining balance is paid. Ownership is officially transferred (property is registered at the Registro de la Propiedad), and all necessary contracts are changed into your name eg. Utility bills, internet, council tax and community fees, and the keys are handed over.

Congratulations! Time to enjoy your new home. We are always here for you - never far away.

Other Important Considerations:

• Power of Attorney? Will you be present during the sales process or do you need a POA? Consider granting power of attorney to a solicitor if you cannot be present for the signing. As well as signing contracts they can arrange payments and complete the purchase on your behalf.
• Exchanging currency - Use specialist services to manage risks if moving funds from abroad. If you need to exchange your local currency to euros, we can assist with finding you the best rate!
• Mortgage - It's always a good idea to arrange financing early. Non-residents may face stricter lending criteria.
• Renovation and reform - we work closely with professionals such as interior design
• Interior Design - whatever your taste we can put you in touch with a designer to help create your beautiful home
• Licence to Rent? - Does your chosen property already have a rental licence and an NRA or do you need to obtain one? Purchasing as an investment? Will you be renting your house out? Did you know you need a licence to.

Costs and Taxes (Budget 10-15% extra)

The purchase price is not the only cost to consider. Buyers should also budget for additional costs, which typically include:

• Transfer Tax (ITP): Generally around 7% for resale properties (varies by region).
• Or
• VAT (IVA) and Stamp Duty (AJD): 10% VAT for new builds, plus 1.2% - 1.5% Stamp Duty.
• Notary and Land Registry Fees: Mandatory fees for documenting and registering the sale.
• Legal Fees: Lawyer fees for conveyancing.
• Mortgage costs (if applicable)

The exact costs depend on the property and your personal circumstances.