The notary process when buying in Spain 2026

Buying

The notary process when buying in Spain 2026

15 July 20266 min read

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What the notary does

Verifies parties' identity, confirms the property description matches the nota simple, witnesses signing, and reads the escritura aloud. The notary is impartial — represents neither side.

What the notary doesn't do

Check structural condition. Check community fees are paid. Check IBI is paid. Check planning. That's your lawyer's job — and exactly why you need one.

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Who pays what (default in Andalucía)

  • Notary fee (€600–€1,800 depending on price): buyer
  • Registry fee (€400–€1,200): buyer
  • AJD or ITP (1.5% or 7%): buyer
  • Plusvalía: seller
  • Previous mortgage cancellation: seller

What you must leave with

  1. Copia simple of the escritura (immediate, free)
  2. Receipt of payment + bank check stubs
  3. NIF/NIE confirmed on the deed
  4. Booking with the Registry of Property within 30 days (lawyer does this)

See our buying property as non-resident.


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