Suzanne realty

Do you have any questions about the properties, buying process, or investing?

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Book a 15-minute consultation, and let’s discuss the real estate opportunities on the Costa del Sol. The conversation will take place via WhatsApp, so we can connect comfortably from home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What costs are involved in buying a property in Spain?

Resale Property

  • Transfer Tax (ITP): 6%–10% of the purchase price

  • Notary Fees: €600–€1,200

  • Land Registry Fees: €400–€700

  • Legal Fees: 1%–2% of the purchase price

  • Total Additional Costs: approx. 8%–12%

New-Build Property

  • VAT (IVA): 10% of the purchase price

  • Documentary Tax (AJD): 1%–1.5%

  • Notary + Land Registry: €600–€1,200

  • Legal Fees: approx. 1%

  • Total Additional Costs: approx. 11%–13%

Example:

  • Resale apartment of €250,000: max extra costs ~€30,000 (~12%)

  • New apartment of €300,000: max extra costs ~€36,000–€38,000 (~12–13%)

Can you help me through the entire process?

Yes, I can assist you in hungarian, english, and spanish languages throughout the entire process—from property search to purchase, including legal and administrative matters. I can also help after the purchase with potential rental management and property operation.

How does property rental work on the Costa del Sol?

Types of Rental: Short-term (for tourists, Airbnb-style) or long-term (monthly rental).

Permits: Short-term rentals require a tourist license (“Licencia Turística”) obtained from the local town hall. Long-term rentals do not require a permit.

Taxes: Rental income is subject to local taxes and Spanish income tax; for short-term rentals, VAT (IVA) may also apply in certain cases.

Contracts: Long-term rentals should have a written contract (usually minimum 6–12 months). Short-term rentals follow the rules of the platform (Airbnb, Booking, etc.).

Management: The owner can manage the rental themselves or hire a property management company that handles bookings, cleaning, and customer service.

Rental Price Levels: Depend on location (Marbella, Benalmádena, Fuengirola), seasonal fluctuations, apartment size, and amenities.

Factors Affecting Rental Income on the Costa del Sol:

  • Location: Marbella, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, or central Malaga

  • Type & Size: Studio, 1–2 bedroom, penthouse

  • Amenities: Pool, terrace, view, parking, furnished

  • Season: In peak summer season, short-term rental rates can be 2–3 times higher than in winter

Average Rental Prices (around 2025, Short-Term / Airbnb):

Location1-Bedroom2-Bedroom3-Bedroom
Marbella€100–€150 / night€150–€250 / night€250–€400 / night
Benalmádena€70–€120 / night€120–€200 / night€180–€300 / night
Fuengirola€60–€100 / night€100–€180 / night€150–€250 / night
Malaga City€80–€120 / night€120–€200 / night€180–€300 / night

Long-Term Rentals (Monthly):

  • 1-Bedroom: €600–€900 + utilities/month

  • 2-Bedroom: €900–€1,500 + utilities/month

  • 3-Bedroom: €1,200–€2,500 + utilities/month

Note: For short-term rentals, prices vary greatly depending on season and demand.

How long does the property buying process take?

Without a Mortgage: Usually 4–8 weeks from offer acceptance to the registration of ownership at the Land Registry.

With a Mortgage: 6–12 weeks, as the bank’s loan approval and documentation extend the process.

Do you need a Spanish bank account to buy a property?

Yes, it is necessary for payment of the purchase price, utility bills, and taxes.

Is a Spanish tax ID (NIE) required to buy a property?

Yes, every foreign buyer is required to have an NIE number for the purchase and official procedures.

Is there a difference between buying a new-build and a resale property?

Yes. New-build properties are subject to VAT and documentary tax, while resale properties incur transfer tax (ITP). Legal and notary fees are similar for both.

How does a mortgage / financing work in Spain?

Banks typically finance 60–80% of the purchase price. To apply for a mortgage, proof of income and a Spanish bank account are required.

Do you need a lawyer to buy a property?

It is recommended, as a lawyer checks contracts, permits, and the Land Registry status.

What does the notary and Land Registry process involve?

The notary certifies the sales contract, and the Land Registry records the ownership in your name.


Typical Monthly and Annual Expenses on the Costa del Sol
Expense Type / ItemAverage (Apartment / Flat)
Community / HOA Feesapprox. €50–€150/month for a standard apartment. Higher in luxury or serviced complexes: €200–€500/month.
Electricity / Water / Gas / Internet (Utilities)Electricity + water + internet: approx. €100–€200/month on average.
Home / Property Insuranceapprox. €150–€400/year for an average apartment.
Local Property Tax + Garbage FeeGarbage collection + minor municipal fees: approx. €100–€150/year.
Maintenance, Minor Repairs, UpkeepFor an apartment, relatively low; annually a few hundred to a few thousand €, depending on the property.