We discuss the 5 most important points to consider if you want to buy a house in Marbella.
There are many things to take into account when you plan to buy a house in Marbella. In the following list of 5 points, we help you make the search and purchase as easy as possible. Here’s a hint: step 5 is especially important and might even allow you to skip the other steps!
Choose the type of property you dream of: buying a house, villa, or apartment in Marbella…
Here are some common types of houses you may come across in this popular Spanish region:
Villa
These detached houses are often surrounded by larger gardens and offer a lot of privacy. Villas come in various styles: from traditional Andalusian architecture with white walls and terracotta roofs to modern, sustainable, and minimalist designs. Many villas have private pools and stunning sea views. Read more about the different types of luxury villas here.
Apartment
In the coastal areas, you’ll find an abundance of apartments, ranging from studios to spacious family apartments. Most apartment complexes have communal pools and gardens that residents can use. You will also often find underground parking, which is handy to avoid having your car in the sun all day. The apartments are often located near the beach, making them ideal for holiday rentals.
Penthouse
These luxury apartments are located on the top floor of a building and often feature a large (roof) terrace with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Townhouse
These homes are connected to one another and typically offer a good balance between space and price. Townhouses are popular with families and often come with a private garden, in addition to shared gardens and a pool.
Finca
For those who enjoy rural life, there are fincas, traditional Spanish country houses located further from the beach. These properties are often surrounded by olive and fruit orchards, offering a quieter lifestyle with more land.
Conclusion
Each type of property in Marbella has its own charm and advantages, depending on your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, a permanent residence, or an investment, Marbella offers an abundance of options!
Determine the budget for a house in Marbella
When determining the budget for purchasing a house in Marbella, there are several factors to consider. Here are a few points to take into account:
Purchase price
Determine the amount you are willing to pay for the (second) home. Research the real estate market in the area you are interested in and compare prices to get a realistic picture.
Additional costs
In addition to the purchase price, you need to account for additional costs such as:
- Notary fees
- Registration fees
- Taxes (e.g., property transfer tax)
- Administrative fees
- Lawyer or real estate agent fees
Maintenance costs
A second home requires regular maintenance. Consider costs related to garden upkeep, cleaning, and potential renovations or remodeling.
Fixed costs
Don’t forget to include annual fixed costs in your budget, such as property tax (IBI), community fees (if your property is part of a complex), and insurance.
Rental income
If you plan to rent out your second home when you’re not there, you can deduct the estimated rental income from your costs. However, keep in mind that rental income can vary significantly depending on the season.
Travel expenses
If you don’t live in Spain and plan to travel regularly to your second home, you should also consider travel costs.
Economic and legal considerations
Stay informed about the local real estate market and legislation regarding second homes in Spain. This can affect your budget.
Conclusion
A detailed budget helps you make an informed decision and prevents financial surprises in the future. It may also be helpful to consult a financial advisor or real estate expert for personalized professional advice.
Find the best area for your needs. There are many!
When searching for the best area in Marbella to buy a house, it’s important to take your personal preferences into account.
For example, the center of Marbella is ideal for those who want to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and cultural activities. For families, neighborhoods like San Pedro de Alcántara and Nueva Andalucía are popular due to their proximity to schools and parks.
On the other hand, luxury developments such as Sierra Blanca and Los Monteros are highly rated by those looking for exclusivity and privacy.
Each neighborhood has its own charm and characteristics, so it’s essential to thoroughly explore the different options. Finding the perfect house in Marbella is not only about location but also about lifestyle.
Click here to read more about the different neighborhoods in Marbella for villas.
Review all the bureaucracy you need to go through
Buying a house in Spain typically involves complex bureaucracy. The procedure includes several steps, such as obtaining an NIE (foreign identification number), opening a Spanish bank account, and hiring a notary.
It’s important to hire a reliable local real estate agent and possibly a lawyer to guide you through the legal processes. Additionally, the buyer and seller need to draft a purchase contract, and relevant taxes and costs, such as transfer tax, must be applied.
Being well-informed about all the legal requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth purchase.
Click here to read more about the regulations regarding buying a house in Spain.
And lastly… Choose an agent you can trust to buy your house in Marbella
The final step, but perhaps the only one on the list that you really need to take: choosing a real estate agent. A good agent will guide you throughout the entire process, and how great is it if they can do it in your own language!
And, because they have local knowledge, they can also assist you in choosing the search area or the type of house you’re looking for.
Additionally, a real estate agent often works with a trusted notary and lawyer, and together, they can help you overcome all obstacles easily.
Click here to read our article about real estate agents in Marbella.
The Costa Sunsets team is happy to help you! Contact us or read more about our team.
