Real costs of buying a house in Spain: taxes, notary, land registry and community fees
In addition to the property price, calculate taxes and other expenses to avoid surprises. Here is a practical breakdown.
Purchase taxes
New build: VAT + AJD (Stamp Duty).
Resale: ITP (regional rate).
Deed and financing costs
Notary and Land Registry.
Agency/administration fees (if there is a mortgage).
Valuation and opening commission (if applicable).
Recurring costs
Property tax (IBI) and garbage collection fee.
Community fee (if applicable).
Home insurance and maintenance.
H2 · Indicative examples
Property price | Taxes* | Deed and miscellanea | Approx. total |
€200,000 | Check according to type (ITP/VAT+AJD) | €3,000–5,000 | Add to price |
€400,000 | Check according to type (ITP/VAT+AJD) | €5,000–8,000 | Add to price |
€800,000 | Check according to type (ITP/VAT+AJD) | €8,000–12,000 | Add to price |
*The tax rate depends on the Autonomous Community and the type of property.
H2 · Tips
Keep a generous contingency fund.
Ask the agent for a preliminary estimate of taxes and costs.
Review the community budget and possible special assessments.
