People looking to buy a property in Marbella who are not used to Spain’s conveyancing system are sometimes taken aback at what seems to be an involved sales process. But what should not be overlooked is the fact that much of it can be put down to common sense. After all most people would not buy a property in their home country without hiring a lawyer, so why would they do so in Spain?
On top of that, a good real estate agent should be able to guide you through the buying process with a minimum of fuss, assisting you along the way in a professional manner with a good working knowledge of the steps that are involved. That is why it is important to use a reputable long established company like Greenlife Estates Marbella with its more than 20 years track record.
Even with the help and guidance of a professional real estate agent and a lawyer it is useful to have a brief guide to the steps one has to go through when buying a property. It is possible to complete the process on your own, but not recommended. There are several potential problems that a professional will be aware of and on the lookout for. Remember, the aim is to complete the purchase legally with all taxes due paid, thus avoiding legal problems later.
Below is a list of what your lawyer should be checking. It is intended as a brief outline and is not a substitute for legal or professional advice:
- Obtain an up to date copy of the Land Registry Extract, known in Spain as a nota simple. This will show the exact details of the property and land for sale. It will also list whether there are any debts or charges such as a mortgage registered against the property.
- Your lawyer should obtain an up to date receipt to prove the annual property tax (IBI) has been paid. The debt goes with the property, so if not checked the new owners may find themselves liable.
- Obtain a cadastral certificate. This will show the boundaries of the land and should match with the Land Registry record.
- Receipts from utility companies to show all bills have been paid up.
- If part of a community, a note from the Community President, stating all fees are paid and up to date.
- Make sure all taxes due are paid. More about that here.
This is by no means an exhaustive list.
Greenlife Estates has many years experience and has helped thousands of people through the buying process. Massimo Filippa, General Manager of the company, says: “With our experience in the property market, not just as agents but also as developers and as a management company, we know the entire sales process inside out. It is important that purchasers and sellers have the best advice and use a reputable company such as ourselves.”
“When our clients buy a Marbella home we make sure everything is in order and everything runs smoothly with no surprises.”
Information given is offered for information purposes, excluding the company from all responsibility, not constitute an official publication nor will it be binding. We always recommend check with your lawyer or adviser.
Massimo Filippa
