Skip to content

Buying Process for Luxury Property in Marbella

Buy Property in Marbella with BARNES Marbella

Marbella is one of Southern Europe’s most sought-after destinations for luxury real estate investment. Thanks to its exceptional climate, high quality of life and exclusive residential areas, the city attracts both national and international buyers looking for luxury villas, high-end apartments and premium residences

As a specialist in luxury real estate in Marbella, Spain, BARNES Marbella provides expert guidance throughout the entire property buying process, ensuring a secure, transparent and well-structured investment aligned with your personal or financial objectives. 

Key Factors When Buying Property in Marbella 

Purchasing a property in Marbella requires careful consideration of several essential elements that directly affect value, lifestyle and long-term return. 

1. Define Your Purchase Budget 

Before starting your property search, it is crucial to establish a clear and realistic budget. In addition to the purchase price, buyers should account for acquisition costs in Spain, including taxes, notary fees, land registry costs, legal advice and potential renovation works. 

If financing is required, BARNES Marbella can assist you by introducing trusted banks experienced in mortgages for international buyers in Marbella

2. Purpose of the Real Estate Investment 

The objective of your purchase will determine the selection criteria. Buying a property as a primary residence differs significantly from acquiring a luxury villa in Marbella as a second home or an investment property for high-end rentals
Each profile requires a tailored approach and market strategy. 

3. Choosing the Best Location in Marbella 

Location is one of the most decisive factors in luxury real estate. Marbella offers prestigious areas such as: 

  • Golden Mile
  • Puerto Banús
  • Sierra Blanca
  • Nueva Andalucía
  • East Marbella 

 

Each zone offers a distinct lifestyle, architectural style and positioning within the Marbella luxury real estate market

4. Personalized Property Search Criteria 

Defining your priorities from the outset — living space, number of bedrooms, sea views, orientation, privacy, security and tranquillity — allows for an efficient and targeted search. At BARNES Marbella, we carefully select luxury properties in Marbella that meet the highest standards and align precisely with your expectations. 

Requirements to Buy Property in Spain 

Buying real estate in Spain involves a series of legal and administrative procedures. With BARNES Marbella, you benefit from full support throughout the process. 

Key requirements include: 

  • Foreigner Identification Number (NIE)
  • Spanish bank account
  • Valid passport or national ID
  • Independent legal and tax advice
  • Mortgage financing, if applicable, through banks specialised in international clients 
      

Buying Luxury Real Estate in Marbella with Confidence 

The luxury property market in Marbella offers exceptional opportunities, but it also requires in-depth local expertise and a thorough understanding of Spanish regulations. With BARNES Marbella, you are supported by a team specialised in buying, selling and investing in luxury real estate in Marbella, Spain, ensuring a seamless and secure acquisition from initial planning to completion before a notary. 

Key Insights and Frequently Asked Questions about the Buying Process

Yes, through a Power of Attorney, the entire purchase can be managed without needing to travel to Spain physically. At Barnes Marbella, we coordinate with your legal representative to ensure the reservation, deposit contract, and Public Deed are signed with full legal security while you remain in your home country.

The average timeframe ranges between 4 and 8 weeks, depending on legal due diligence and mortgage financing requirements. In the luxury real estate sector, this time is primarily dedicated to ensuring the property is free of liens. We work to streamline procedures across the Costa del Sol while maintaining absolute security.

We recommend budgeting an additional 10% to 12% to cover taxes, notary fees, and professional legal advice. This calculation varies between new builds (VAT) and resale properties (ITP). Obtaining specialized legal and tax advice is essential to breakdown these costs based on the specific location within the Costa del Sol or Andalucía.

We immediately connect your Marbella property with high-net-worth buyers in the world's leading major capital cities. When performing a real estate valuation with us, your villa or apartment on the Costa del Sol gains exposure across our global network. We combine international visibility in Paris, London, or Geneva with expert knowledge of Estepona, Sotogrande, or Benahavís to ensure an effective sale.

Discover the world of BARNES

Receive the best news on luxury real estate and our events