If you are thinking of going on a viewing trip, then you really ought to have considered the documents you will need if you find your perfect property.
You may wish to move fast, so think about this before you start looking. Failure to have all the necessary documents to complete the purchase will result in delays, or worse.
These are the three personal things you will need.
1) Passport
You will need a valid passport as proof of identity when buying a property in Spain.
2) NIE Number
Your NIE Number is your unique foreign tax ID for all property and tax payments, which will last you all your life.
You can apply for this at a Spanish consulate or at a police station in Spain. You will need to fill out an application form and take your passport, two passport photos and proof of why you need the number.
One option is to give your lawyer power of attorney to obtain this for you.
HOW TO GET YOUR NIE NUMBER IN SPAIN
3) Spanish bank account
Once you have your NIE Number, you can use it to help you open a Spanish bank account. It is advisable to do this in person and pre-book an appointment with an English-speaking staff member.
The documents you will need depend on whether you are resident in Spain at the time, but will always include your passport and proof of address.
You can use A Place in the Sun Currency to transfer funds from the UK.
Property and legal documents
Once you start the purchase process, you should be aware of the paperwork involved, produced by your estate agent, lawyer or the vendor.
Nota Simple: A Land Registry report to verify ownership and show any debts or mortgages on the home.
Title deed (Escritura Pública): To confirm the seller's legal ownership.
Certificate of habitability (Cédula de Habitabilidad): To confirm the property is legally habitable.
Building licences and permits (Licencia de primera ocupación): To ensure the legality of construction or extensions.
IBI receipts: Proof that the previous owner has paid the annual property tax.
Energy efficiency certificate: A legal document showing how much energy the home uses.
Recent utility bills: The current owner needs to show the payment status.
If you are buying in a community
Community of owners' documentation: Proof that the previous owner does not owe any fees.
Contrato privado de Compraventa
The Contrato privado de Compraventa is the private preliminary sales contract.
When signing the preliminary sales contract, you will need a power of attorney document (if applicable), your passport, documentation confirming marital status (if applicable), proof of address and proof of payment of the agreed purchase price.
Find out more about buying property in Spain
From the paperwork you need to the costs and steps involved, our free guide takes you through the Spanish buying process.
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