Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy land in Spain as a foreigner?

es, any foreign citizen can buy land in Spain without needing residency. The only legal requirement is obtaining a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), which is necessary for any legal transaction in Spain. We assist you with obtaining the NIE and completing all the purchase paperwork.

Do I need a residence permit to build a house in Spain?

No. You do not need to be a resident to build a home in Spain. You can purchase and build as a non-resident, provided the land complies with local building regulations. If you invest over €500,000, you may qualify for a Golden Visa, which grants residency to investors.

How long does it take to get a building license?

It depends on the municipality and local administrative workload. On average, it takes between 2 and 6 months. Coastal or rural areas may require extra reports such as environmental impact studies. We handle all permits and follow-up.

Can I finance the purchase or construction from abroad?

Yes, many Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, typically covering 60–70% of the appraised value. Construction loans are also possible with a licensed project and approved building license. We work with banks experienced in handling foreign clients.

What are the legal steps to build a house in Spain?

First, ensure the land is buildable. Then, hire an architect to create the design and technical project. With this, you apply for a building license from the Town Hall. Once approved, construction begins with a registered building company. After completion, you obtain the first occupancy license and register the finished property. We manage the full process on your behalf.

What taxes do I have to pay when buying land or building?

If the land is purchased from a developer, 21% VAT applies. If bought from a private seller, a Transfer Tax (ITP) of approximately 6–10% is due. Municipal fees and the Construction Tax (ICIO), typically around 4–5% of the project value, must also be considered. We will analyze each specific case with specialists to provide a complete, transparent, and tailored breakdown of all associated costs.

Which professionals are required to build a house?

The basic technical team includes:
Architect (design and project & execution)
Technical architect or quantity surveyor (construction management)
Health and safety coordinator (Architect, Technical archuitect)
Certified building contractor

What warranties does Spanish law offer for new construction?

Under Spanish law (LOE), construction carries these mandatory guarantees:
-1 year for minor defects and finishes
-3 years for habitability or functional issues
-10 years for structural damage
New homes must also be covered by 10-year structural insurance. We only work with builders who meet these legal and quality standards.

Can I build a house on rural land?

In most cases, rural land is protected and cannot be built on. However, exceptions may apply depending on the region and the type of project (e.g., agricultural use). We conduct a thorough urban planning check before any land purchase. If you’re considering a more rural development, we’ll investigate the possibilities, explore creative solutions, and adapt to the regulations to make your project feasible.

What’s the difference between an architect and a technical architect?

The architect designs the building, execution and directs the project from a creative and legal standpoint. The technical architect oversees the execution of the work on site and including quality control. Both roles are legally required in Spain for new builds.

What is the approximate construction cost per square meter?

We offer proposals starting from €1,800/m², excluding VAT and additional costs such as taxes, permits, technical fees, interiorism and landscaping. These costs can vary depending on location, design, and materials, but we ensure to provide accurate quotes from the outset.

Is it mandatory to hire an architect in Spain?

Yes, an architect is required by law for any new construction or structural alteration. You’ll also need a technical team (including a surveyor and safety coordinator). Our office provides all required professionals in one package.

Can I manage the project remotely?

Absolutely. We offer full online management, regular video calls, mothly progress reports, digital blueprints, and photo updates. You can monitor your project from anywhere.

How do construction contracts and payments work?

Before construction begins, we will go through the design phases with you, during which we’ll specify a detailed and precise budget for the construction company. The company will review this budget, and, just like in the design phase, the work will be organized into stages.
Once the contract with the construction company is signed, deadlines, quality standards, guarantees, and payment terms will be defined. Payments are usually made in stages: start, structure, enclosures, finishes, etc. We ensure that everything is carried out as agreed and protect your interests throughout the process. We will manage the construction company on your behalf, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

What happens if there are delays or problems during construction?

First, we will evaluate the cause of the delay: whether it’s due to non-payment, lack of technical work, or if the construction company is falling behind schedule. Corrective measures will be applied as appropriate in each case. Our role is to anticipate problems, enforce contracts, and keep you informed at every stage. We act as your direct representative on-site.

Can I get residency by investing in a property?

Yes, if you invest €500,000 or more in real estate without financing, you can apply for a Visa in Spain, which grants you and your family Spanish residency. We connect you with experienced immigration lawyers who handle the entire application.

Which areas are best for foreigners to build a home in Spain?

The most popular regions include:
Andalucía (Malaga, Granada, Alemeria, Jaen)
Costas del Sol, Levante, Tropical…
Marbella, Fuengirola, Nerja
Alicante and Costa Blanca
Balearic o Canarí Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Tenerife)
Valencia Region
Northern Spain (Cantabria, Asturias, Basque Country)
We help you select the ideal location based on your lifestyle, budget, and goals.

Are there architectural restrictions depending on the region?

Yes, each region and municipality has its own building codes, affecting materials, heights, design, and landscaping. In protected or rural zones, traditional styles may be required. We adapt the design from the beginning to comply with local regulations.

Can I add a swimming pool or make extensions later?

Yes, but each new addition requires a separate permits. If you plan to add a pool or extend in the future, it’s best to include it in the initial design and permit to avoid delays and additional costs.

Disclaimer:
Each project is unique. The answers and information provided on this website are general and based on typical circumstances. However, each case may have specific nuances and details depending on factors such as the land location, local regulations, municipal requirements, type of construction, budget, and more. It’s important to note that timelines, costs, and procedures may vary depending on the complexity of the project and local regulations. For a detailed and personalized assessment, we recommend contacting our team for tailored advice.

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