Frequently asked questions

Look for an agent who works a defined area, explains the buying or selling process openly, and is willing to tell you when a property or price is not right for you. Ask how they qualify buyers, which languages they speak and how they coordinate lawyers and notaries. I am based in Benalmádena, in the province of Málaga, and work across the Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical; a first conversation by phone or video costs nothing and lets you judge whether the approach suits you.

In outline: you define your budget and objectives, view properties (in person or remotely), make an offer, sign a reservation contract with a deposit, instruct a lawyer for due diligence, sign a private purchase contract (usually with 10 percent paid), and complete at a notary where the balance is paid and the title deed is signed. You will need a Spanish tax identification number (NIE) and normally a Spanish bank account. Timescales for a resale purchase are typically six to twelve weeks; new builds follow the developer's construction schedule.

Yes. There are no restrictions on non-residents, whether from the EU or elsewhere, buying residential property in Spain. Non-EU buyers should check current visa rules for how long they can stay each year, and everyone should confirm their personal tax position with a qualified adviser.

As a general guide, budget roughly 10 to 13 percent on top of the purchase price. For a resale property in Andalusia this covers transfer tax (ITP, currently a flat 7 percent), notary and land registry fees and legal fees. For a new build you pay 10 percent VAT (IVA) plus stamp duty (AJD, 1.2 percent in Andalusia) instead of transfer tax. Mortgage costs, if applicable, are additional. Rates change, so please confirm current figures with your lawyer or tax adviser before committing.

Yes. The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the tax identification number every foreigner needs to buy property, open a bank account and pay taxes in Spain. It can be obtained in Spain at a police station, through a Spanish consulate abroad, or through your lawyer with a power of attorney. I can point you to the right route for your situation.

Yes, and many of my international clients do. I provide video viewings and detailed reports, your lawyer can act for you under a power of attorney, and the reservation, private contract and even the notary completion can be handled without you travelling. Most buyers still like to visit at least once before committing, and I will always tell you when I think a personal visit matters.

Generally yes. Spanish banks typically lend non-residents up to around 60 to 70 percent of the valuation, and residents up to 80 percent, subject to income and affordability checks. Non-resident applications require documentation of income and tax position from your home country. I can introduce independent mortgage brokers who work with international clients; the final terms depend on the lender.

A new development offers modern specifications, energy efficiency, a ten-year structural guarantee and staged payments during construction, but you wait for completion and pay VAT plus stamp duty. A resale property is available immediately, often in an established location with mature gardens and views, and pays transfer tax instead. Which is better depends on your timing, budget and taste — I work with both and will show you the trade-offs honestly.

It depends on how you will use the property. Benalmádena and Fuengirola suit buyers who want airport proximity, services and year-round life; Mijas and La Cala offer space and golf; Benahavís is known for hillside luxury and privacy; Estepona combines new-build quality with a Spanish town feel; the Costa Tropical is for those who want tranquillity and nature. My Areas pages describe each in detail.

Benalmádena is one of the most practical and varied locations on the coast: 15 minutes from Málaga Airport, with a train line, a marina, beaches, the whitewashed Pueblo and hillside residential areas such as Rancho Domingo and Torremuelle with sea views. It offers varied property types and price levels, and demand from both residents and tourists supports rental returns. It is where I am based.

Start with a realistic valuation based on comparable sales, not asking prices. Then prepare the property (presentation, documentation, energy certificate), market it professionally to international buyers, qualify enquiries, manage viewings and negotiate offers. After a reservation, your lawyer and the buyer's lawyer prepare the private contract and completion. I manage this whole process for owners in Benalmádena and across the Costa del Sol.

A market valuation compares recent sales of similar properties in the same area, adjusted for size, condition, views, orientation, outdoor space, parking and community facilities. Bank valuations for mortgage purposes are carried out by licensed valuation companies and can differ from market value. I provide a written market positioning report, free of charge and without obligation, for owners considering a sale.

Tell me your objectives, budget and preferred locations, and I prepare a shortlist with video viewings and honest commentary. When you travel, I organise an efficient tour so that a two- or three-day visit covers the right properties rather than dozens of unsuitable ones.

Register your requirements with me and I will send information on relevant developments, including pre-launch and off-market projects that are not yet publicly advertised. You receive floor plans, price lists, payment schedules and my assessment of each project before deciding which to visit.

The Mosher Collection is a luxury residential development in Rancho Domingo, one of Benalmádena's most prestigious residential areas. It offers contemporary two- and three-bedroom residences with spectacular views and resort-style amenities including an infinity pool, social area, coworking space and gym. Prices, availability and completion dates are confirmed directly with me, as they can change.