⭐ 72+ Google reviews | 30+ years experience | Costa Blanca & Valencia
Conveyancing and Legal Support for International Property Buyers and Sellers in Spain
Property Lawyers Costa Blanca & Valencia | Conveyancing for International Clients
Expert Legal Support for Buying and Selling Property in Spain
Looking for English-speaking property lawyers in Jávea or the Costa Blanca? Buying or selling property in Spain can be complex for international clients unfamiliar with Spanish property law, local regulations and tax obligations. Our conveyancing solicitors in Jávea and Valencia have helped foreign buyers and sellers for over 30 years, providing complete legal protection at every stage.
📞 +34 965 792 946 | 📱 +34 607 320 768 (WhatsApp)
Why You Need a Property Lawyer in Spain
Buying or selling property in Spain involves much more than signing at the notary, especially when property ownership is linked to 👉wills and inheritance matters in Spain. Spanish property law, local planning rules, taxes, debts attached to the property and administrative procedures can create 👉serious problems if they are not handled correctly.
Common risks without a lawyer:
- Property with hidden debts or mortgages
- Illegal constructions or builds without planning permission
- Unpaid community fees
- Undetected urban planning issues
- Contracts that favour the seller or estate agent
As independent property lawyers, we do not work for the estate agent or the seller. Our only role is to protect your interests and ensure the property is legally sound before you commit.
Buying a property in Spain without independent legal advice can expose you to hidden debts, illegal constructions or planning issues that may surface years later.
What we do for buyers:
✅ Full legal due diligence on the property
✅ Verification of ownership and title deeds at the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad)
✅ Checks for mortgages, debts, charges and liens
✅ Review of planning permissions and building legality
✅ Verification of property boundaries and land classification
✅ Drafting and review of reservation contracts (contrato de arras)
✅ Drafting and review of purchase contracts
✅ Legal representation at the Spanish notary
✅ Power of Attorney (POA) if you cannot attend in person
✅ NIE application (Foreign Identification Number)
✅ Spanish bank account opening assistance
✅ Calculation and payment of taxes and fees
✅ Registration of the property at the Land Registry
✅ Transfer of utility contracts (water, electricity, gas)
✅ Legal and administrative support after completion
Property Sales in Spain – Legal Protection for Sellers
Selling a property in Spain also carries legal responsibilities. Sellers may be liable for outstanding taxes, community debts or incorrect documentation if the sale is not properly managed.
What we do for sellers:
✅ Complete legal preparation of the sale
✅ Obtaining the Energy Performance Certificate
✅ Review and update of all property documentation
✅ Drafting and review of sale contracts
✅ Coordination with notary and buyer’s lawyers
✅ Calculation of capital gains tax (plusvalía)
✅ Calculation of income tax on property gains
✅ Assistance with non-resident tax obligations
✅ Representation via Power of Attorney if you are abroad
✅ Settlement of outstanding debts linked to the property
✅ Secure completion and post-sale formalities
Typical Property Scenarios for International Clients in Spain
Buying Property in Spain as a Foreign Buyer
Typical scenario:
International buyers purchase property in Spain without being fully familiar with Spanish property law, planning regulations or hidden liabilities attached to the property.
Common challenges:
Outstanding debts, illegal constructions, planning restrictions, unclear ownership history and contracts drafted primarily in favour of the seller or estate agent.
How these situations are usually handled:
Before completion, buyers typically rely on independent property lawyers to carry out full legal due diligence, verify title deeds, check debts and ensure the property is legally sound before signing.
Apartment Purchase in Dénia – Hidden Mortgage
Typical scenario:
International buyers agree to purchase an apartment in Spain, only to discover late in the process that the property has an undisclosed mortgage.
Common challenges:
Outstanding mortgages registered at the Land Registry, lack of transparency from the seller, and risk of inheriting the seller’s debt.
How these situations are usually handled:
Before completion, the mortgage is identified through Land Registry checks and cancelled at the notary using the sale proceeds, ensuring buyers acquire the property free of charges.
Property Sale in Moraira – Documentation Issues
Typical scenario:
Non-resident owners attempt to sell a property in Spain but encounter repeated delays due to documentation problems.
Common challenges:
Incorrect Land Registry records, unpaid community fees, missing energy certificates and discrepancies between registered boundaries and the actual property.
How these situations are usually handled:
Documentation is reviewed and regularised before completion, allowing the sale to proceed smoothly and avoiding last-minute issues at the notary.
Off-Plan Purchase in Valencia – Contract Protection
Typical scenario:
International clients purchase off-plan property from a Spanish developer.
Common challenges:
Unclear building permits, lack of bank guarantees for stage payments, unbalanced contractual clauses and insufficient protection against construction delays.
How these situations are usually handled:
Contracts are reviewed in detail, bank guarantees verified and contractual clauses negotiated to ensure buyers are adequately protected before committing to the purchase.
Remote Purchase via Power of AttorneyTypical scenario:
Buyers living outside Spain wish to purchase property but cannot travel for the transaction.
Common challenges:
Signing contracts, attending the notary, and completing legal formalities remotely.
How these situations are usually handled:
Through Power of Attorney, buyers can complete the entire purchase remotely, including contract negotiation, notary signing, Land Registry registration and utility transfers.
The transaction was completed in 5 weeks without the clients leaving Australia.
Property Division After Divorce
Following a divorce, former spouses need to divide jointly owned property in Spain.
Common challenges:
Valuing multiple properties, agreeing on a fair division, tax implications and transferring ownership correctly.
How these situations are usually handled:
Property division is usually addressed alongside the divorce proceedings, with legal and tax advice ensuring assets are transferred fairly and efficiently.
👉 Divorce and family law in Spain:
Purchase with Unpaid Community Debts
Typical scenario:
A buyer pays a reservation deposit for a property in Spain before discovering outstanding community fees.
Common challenges:
Under Spanish law, unpaid community debts can transfer to the new owner if not settled before completion.
How these situations are usually handled:
Community debts are identified during due diligence and cleared by the seller before completion, preventing buyers from inheriting past liabilities.
Property Disputes and Legal Conflicts
Typical scenario:
Disputes arise during or after a property transaction between buyers, sellers, developers or neighbours.
Common challenges:
Contractual breaches, hidden defects, boundary disputes or disagreements following failed transactions.
How these situations are usually handled:
When conflicts cannot be resolved amicably, property matters may require negotiation or court proceedings with the support of lawyers experienced in 👉property litigation and legal disputes in Spain.
What Our Clients Say
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 72+ Five-Star Reviews on Google
“I highly recommend Tomas for anyone needing legal support in Spain. They guided me expertly through both a property purchase and a divorce, showing deep knowledge of Spanish law, attention to detail, and clear communication throughout. Reliable, efficient, and trustworthy — an excellent choice for expats or locals alike.” — Lisa D., United Kingdom
“Professional and knowledgeable expert. Highly recommended.” — C. Arkesteijn, Netherlands
“Excellent collaboration and good service — always making time when needed.” — Honey Joy I., Philippines
“A very personal service and advised me very well abroad!” — Liam S., Germany
“A seasoned lawyer with in-depth legal expertise.” — F. Mooij, Netherlands
“Attentive, honest and clear. Exactly what you look for in a lawyer.” — Nina K., Belgium
Our Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We analyse your situation, requirements and budget. We answer all your questions about buying or selling property in Spain.
Step 2: Legal Due Diligence
Complete verification of the property: title deeds, debts, charges, planning status, and building permits.
Step 3: Contract Negotiation
Assistance during negotiations. Drafting or review of all contracts to protect your interests.
Step 4: Notary Completion
Attendance or representation via Power of Attorney at the signing of the public deed.
Step 5: After-Sale Support
Land Registry registration, utility contract transfers, and ongoing support for any questions.
Areas We Cover
Property Lawyers in Jávea
Based in Jávea, we are the most reviewed law firm in the area with 72+ five-star reviews. We assist international buyers purchasing villas, apartments and land in Jávea and surrounding areas, including Benitachell and Gata de Gorgos.
Property Lawyers in Denia
We regularly assist clients buying and selling property in Dénia, from beachfront apartments to countryside fincas. Our team handles all legal aspects of your transaction with the Dénia Land Registry and local authorities.
Property Lawyers in Moraira
Moraira is popular with British and Dutch buyers seeking luxury villas. We provide full conveyancing services for property purchases in Moraira, Benissa, Calpe and Altea.
Property Lawyers in Valencia
With our office in Valencia city, we assist clients purchasing property in the city centre, the beach areas and the wider Valencia region, including Gandía, Oliva and Torrevieja.
Costs and Fees
Our fees are transparent and agreed in advance. We provide a detailed quote before starting any work.
For a standard property purchase, our fees cover:
- All legal checks and due diligence
- Contract review and negotiation
- Attendance at the notary
- Land Registry registration
- Administrative follow-up
Contact us for a personalised quote.
Do I need to travel to Spain to buy a property?
No. We can handle the entire purchase via Power of Attorney (POA). You sign the POA at a notary in your country, and we act on your behalf in Spain.
How long does a property purchase take in Spain?
Generally between 4 and 8 weeks after signing the reservation contract. This can be faster if all documentation is in order.
What are the biggest risks when buying property in Spain without a lawyer?
The main risks include: purchasing a property with hidden debts or mortgages that transfer to you, buying an illegal construction that could be demolished, unpaid community fees you inherit, and signing contracts drafted to favour the seller. An independent lawyer checks all of this before you commit.
How much does it really cost to buy a property in Spain, including all fees?
Budget 12-15% on top of the purchase price. This includes Transfer Tax (10% in Valencia), notary fees (0.5-1%), Land Registry (0.5%), and legal fees (around 1%). We provide a detailed cost breakdown before you commit to any purchase.
Can British citizens still buy property in Spain after Brexit?
Yes, absolutely. British citizens can buy property in Spain with no restrictions. The main change is that UK buyers are now limited to 90-day stays within any 180-day period unless they obtain a visa or residency. We help British clients navigate both the property purchase and residency options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to travel to Spain to buy a property?
No. We can handle the entire purchase via Power of Attorney (POA). You sign the POA at a notary in your country, and we act on your behalf in Spain.
How long does a property purchase take in Spain?
Generally between 4 and 8 weeks after signing the reservation contract. This can be faster if all documentation is in order.
What are the buying costs in Spain?
Budget approximately 10-13% of the purchase price for:
- Transfer Tax (ITP): 10% in the Valencia region
- Notary fees: ~0.5-1%
- Land Registry fees: ~0.5%
- Legal fees: ~1%
Do I need a NIE to buy property?
Yes, the NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is mandatory for any property purchase in Spain. We can arrange this for you.
What is the difference between a lawyer and a “gestor”?
A lawyer verifies that the property is legally sound and protects your interests. A “gestor” only handles administrative paperwork. For a property purchase, a lawyer is strongly recommended.
Do you work with the estate agent?
We are independent from any estate agent. Our only client is you, and we only protect your interests.
Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a foreigner?
Yes, Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, typically up to 60-70% of the property value. We can recommend trusted mortgage brokers.
What happens if problems are found with the property?
We advise you on the best course of action: negotiate a price reduction, request the seller to fix the issues, or in serious cases, recommend not proceeding with the purchase.
Contact Us
Are you looking to buy or sell property in Spain with complete legal protection?
Contact our firm for a free initial consultation and professional, independent advice tailored to international clients.
📞 Telephone
✉️ Email
info@lawyerssolicitorsjavea.com
📍 Our Offices
Jávea (Head Office) Avenida del Pla, 126, 2nd Floor Offices 28 A and 28 B 03730 Xàbia/Jávea, Alicante
Valencia Calle Burriana, 34, 1st Floor Valencia
Opening Hours
Office: Monday – Friday: 9:00 – 20:00 Telephone Service: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Tomas Ballestero Lawyers – Over 30 years helping international clients buy and sell property in Spain
Related Legal Services If you are buying property in Spain, you may also need:
Spanish Wills and Inheritance– Protect your property investment with a valid Spanish will. Our inheritance lawyers help you plan your estate.👉/services/inheritance-and-wills-services/
Divorce and Family Law – If property division is part of your separation, our divorce lawyers handle all aspects of Spanish family law.👉/services/divorce-family-law/
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