Property Lawyer in Spain for Finns – Are you considering buying or selling a property in Spain? Tomas Ballestero Lawyers specialises in assisting Finnish clients with all types of property transactions in Spain. Our office is located in Jávea, Costa Blanca, and we provide comprehensive legal services for Finns buying and selling real estate in Spain.
Our Services for Property Buyers
When buying property in Spain, you need an experienced lawyer who understands both Spanish law and the specific needs of Finnish buyers. Our services include:
- NIE Number Application – Obtaining your foreign tax identification number, mandatory for all property transactions in Spain
- Due Diligence and Property Checks – Comprehensive investigation of the property’s legal status, encumbrances, mortgages and building permits
- Contract Preparation and Review – Drafting and reviewing reservation agreements, deposit contracts (contrato de arras) and the final title deed (escritura pública)
- Notary Coordination – Arranging the completion at the notary’s office and document translation
- Tax Planning – Advice on Transfer Tax (ITP), VAT (IVA) and Stamp Duty (AJD)
- Land Registry Registration – Registering your ownership at the Property Registry (Registro de la Propiedad)
- Power of Attorney – If you cannot be present, we can act on your behalf with a power of attorney
Our Services for Property Sellers
Selling property in Spain as a Finnish national requires compliance with several tax and legal obligations. We help you with:
- Capital Gains Tax Calculation – Plusvalía tax and IRPF capital gains tax for Finnish sellers
- 3% Retention for Non-Resident Sellers – The Spanish tax authority withholds 3% of the sale price; we advise on the refund process
- Energy Performance Certificate – Obtaining the mandatory energy certificate for the sale
- Sale Contract Preparation – Drafting sale documents and negotiation assistance
- Contract Review – Estate agent agreements and buyer contracts
- Avoiding Double Taxation – Leveraging the Finland-Spain tax treaty
Why Choose Tomas Ballestero Lawyers?
- Over 20 years of experience in international property transactions in Spain
- Full-service assistance from start to finish – from NIE number to property registration
- Local expertise in the Costa Blanca property market (Jávea, Dénia, Moraira, Calpe, Altea, Benidorm)
- Transparent pricing – no hidden costs
- Client-focused service – clear communication and personalised advice
Property Transaction Costs in Spain
| Cost | Buyer | Seller |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Tax (ITP) – resale | 10% (Valencia region) | – |
| VAT (IVA) – new build | 10% | – |
| Stamp Duty (AJD) | 1.5% | – |
| Notary fees | €600–1,200 | – |
| Land Registry fees | €400–800 | – |
| Lawyer fees | 1% + VAT | 1% + VAT |
| Capital Gains Tax (IRPF) | – | 19% |
| Plusvalía tax | – | Varies |
| 3% retention (non-resident) | – | 3% |
Contact a Property Lawyer for Finns
Whether you are buying your dream holiday home on the Costa Blanca or selling your property in Spain, get in touch with us. Call +34 965 792 946 or email info@lawyerssolicitorsjavea.com. You can also fill in the contact form below.
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Spain as a Finn?
While hiring a lawyer is not legally mandatory in Spain, it is highly recommended for foreign buyers. A lawyer checks the property’s legal status, ensures there are no encumbrances or debts, prepares contracts and handles the entire purchase process on your behalf.
What is a NIE number and how do I get one as a Finnish citizen?
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a foreign tax identification number required for all legal transactions in Spain, including property purchases, opening a bank account and tax filings. We can handle the NIE application on your behalf through the Spanish police or consulate in Finland.
How much does it cost to buy property in Spain including taxes and fees?
Expect approximately 10-13% in additional costs on top of the purchase price. This includes Transfer Tax (10% in the Valencia region for resale properties) or VAT (10% for new builds), notary fees, Land Registry fees and lawyer fees.
How long does the property purchase process take in Spain?
A typical property transaction takes 4-8 weeks from reservation to final title deed. The process includes NIE number, due diligence, deposit contract, financing and completion at the notary. New builds may take longer.
How is double taxation avoided between Finland and Spain on property?
The double taxation treaty between Finland and Spain prevents double taxation. Capital gains tax is paid in Spain (19%), and Finland provides a credit for tax paid in Spain. Note that Finland also has inheritance tax, so coordination between both countries is important. Our lawyer advises on proper documentation for Vero (Finnish Tax Administration).
Can I buy property in Spain without being there in person?
Yes, you can grant a power of attorney (poder notarial) to your lawyer who acts on your behalf. The lawyer can sign contracts, handle payments and register the property in your name. The power of attorney can be arranged at the Spanish consulate in Finland.