1. Legal Verification of the Property (Due Diligence)

Before making a purchase, a thorough check of the property's legal situation is essential. This ""due diligence"" process helps avoid legal or financial surprises.

• Is the seller legally the owner of the property?
• Is the property free of debts, mortgages, or condominium charges?
• Does it have the necessary building permits and comply with local urban planning regulations?
• Are the details in the Property Registry and cadastre consistent?

Tip: Hire a lawyer specialized in Spanish real estate to secure this crucial step.

2. Knowledge of the Local Market

The real estate market in Alicante is very heterogeneous depending on the neighborhood. It is therefore important to understand the local specifics before buying.

Alicante consists of:

• Tourist districts: Playa de San Juan, Cabo de las Huertas
• Residential areas: Benalúa, Carolinas Altas/Bajas, Babel
• Attractive neighboring towns: El Campello, San Vicente del Raspeig, Santa Pola

Prices per square meter, rental yield, seasonal demand, and urban planning projects can vary greatly from one area to another.

Advice: Analyze market data (via Idealista, Fotocasa, or local agencies) and find out about upcoming infrastructure projects.

3. Obtaining the NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)

The NIE is an identification number required for all administrative procedures in Spain. It is mandatory for:

• Signing the deed of purchase of the property
• Opening a Spanish bank account
• Paying taxes and fees related to the property

The NIE application can be done in person at a police station in Spain or through the Spanish consulate in France.

Note: The processing time can range from a few days to several weeks depending on the period and the city.

4. Taxes and Fees Related to the Purchase

In addition to the purchase price of the property, there are additional costs, which represent around 10 to 13% of the total amount:

• Transfer taxes (ITP): 10% for older homes in the Valencian Community
• Notary and registration fees
• Lawyer’s fees: generally 1% of the price of the property
• Banking fees: especially in the case of credit or international transfer

For a new property, the fees differ: VAT (10%) + AJD (1.5%).

Good to know: These fees are mostly non-negotiable but can be anticipated in your overall budget.

5. Regulations on Tourist Rentals

If you plan to make money from your property through platforms like Airbnb or Booking, be aware that tourist rentals in the Valencian Community are highly regulated.

You will need to:

• Obtain a tourist rental license (VT number) from the Generalitat Valenciana
• Comply with safety, hygiene, and accessibility standards
• Check if restrictions apply in the area (saturated areas, quotas, etc.)

Important: Obtaining the license may be refused in some buildings or neighborhoods. Make sure to check before buying.

Need personalized support?

Planning to buy property in Alicante and want to avoid pitfalls?

• ✅ Receive a complete PDF checklist of key steps
• ✅ Benefit from a personalized guide based on your profile (residence, investment, rental)

Contact us now to plan your project with peace of mind.

FAQ – Buying Property in Alicante

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Spain?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a lawyer specialized in Spanish real estate law. They ensure the property is legally compliant and protect your interests throughout the transaction.

Can I buy property in Alicante without being a Spanish resident?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Spain without being residents. However, you will need to obtain an NIE and open a local bank account.

What is the average time to finalize a property purchase in Alicante?

It usually takes between 4 and 8 weeks from the purchase offer to the signing of the final deed at the notary, depending on the complexity of the file.