Guide to Taxes and Expenses when Buying a Home in Spain

Guide to Taxes and Expenses when Buying a Home in Spain

Buying a home involves more than just the purchase price. At Buckingham Property Advisors, We want you to be fully informed about all the associated costs so that you can plan your investment properly.

Principal Taxes

VAT or ITP: Which one applies?

The tax you will pay depends on whether you buy a new or second-hand home:

New Housing (VAT):

  • 10% of purchase price for primary residence
  • 21% for second home or luxury home (over 450m²)
  • Additional: AJD (Stamp Duty) between 0.5% and 1.5%

Second-hand housing (ITP):

  • Varies according to the autonomous community
  • Between 6% and 11% of purchase value
  • Madrid: 6%
  • Catalonia: 10%
  • Andalusia: 7%

Notary and Registry fees

Notary

Costs regulated by official tariff:

  • 100.000€ house: approximately 600-850€.
  • 200.000€ house: approximately 850-1.200€.
  • 500.000€ house: approximately 1.500-2.000€.

Land Registry

Similar to the notary fees, between 400€ and 1.500€ depending on the value of the property.

Administrative Expenses

Although optional, it is highly recommended. A gestoría is in charge of:

  • Document processing
  • Registration
  • Tax settlement
  • Typical cost: 300-600€.

Home Appraisal

Mandatory if you apply for a mortgage:

  • Cost: 250-500€.
  • Performed by official appraiser
  • Valid for the bank

Mortgage Expenses (if applicable)

Opening: 0.5% - 1% of borrowed capital

Appraisal: 250-500€

Bank management: 300-600€

Home insurance: Mandatory, 200-500€ per year

Life insurance: Recommended, varies according to age and capital

Other Expenses to Consider

Municipal Capital Gains: In case of purchase from heirs or donation

Community of owners: Monthly fee if apartment or urbanization

IBI (Real Estate Tax): Annual, varies by municipality

Supplies: Water, electricity, gas

Moving and renovations: If necessary

Practical Example

For a second-hand home of 250.000€ in Madrid:

  • ITP (6%): €15,000
  • Notary fees: 900€.
  • Registration: 700€.
  • Agency: 450€.
  • Total expenses: approximately €17,050 (6.8%)

If you also apply for a mortgage of 80% (200.000€):

  • Opening (1%): 2.000€.
  • Appraisal: 350€.
  • Bank administration: €450
  • Total additional: €2,800
  • Grand total: 19,850 (7.9%)

Buckingham Councils

1. Budget the 10-12% of the purchase price for additional expenses

2. Compare mortgage offers - costs can vary significantly

3. Negotiate with the seller some minor expenses

4. Consultation with experts to optimize your tax situation

Our Integral Service

At Buckingham Property Advisors, we accompany you throughout the whole process:

  • Personalized tax advice
  • Accurate expense calculator
  • Contact with trustworthy agencies
  • Negotiation with banks
  • Complete documentation management

Do you have any doubts about the purchase costs? Request a free consultation with our consultants and get a detailed breakdown for your specific case.