guides
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about buying, selling, renovating, investing in and relocating to Marbella and the Costa del Sol. Browse by topic below.
Relocating to Marbella
Is Marbella a good place to relocate to?
Marbella offers over 320 days of sunshine a year, a large and welcoming international community, excellent private healthcare and schools, and quick connectivity through Málaga airport, around 40 minutes away. It suits families, remote workers and retirees alike.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Marbella?
No. English is widely spoken across the coast, and many services, schools and businesses operate in several languages. Learning some Spanish will make daily life easier and help you integrate.
What are the best areas to live in Marbella?
Popular choices include the Golden Mile, Nueva Andalucía, Puerto Banús, Elviria and San Pedro. The right area depends on your lifestyle, budget, proximity to schools and whether you prefer beachfront or hillside living.
What is the cost of living in Marbella?
Day-to-day costs are generally lower than in most Northern European cities. Dining, utilities and services are affordable, though prime property and international schools sit at a premium.
How do I get residency in Spain as a non-EU citizen?
Common routes include the Non-Lucrative Visa and work or self-employment visas. An immigration lawyer or gestor can guide you through the requirements and paperwork.
Buying property
Can foreigners buy property in Spain?
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Spain. You will need a NIE (foreigner identification number) and, in most cases, a Spanish bank account.
What upfront costs should I budget for when buying?
Plan for roughly 10–13% on top of the purchase price, covering transfer tax or VAT, notary fees, land registry fees and legal costs.
Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a non-resident?
Yes. Non-residents can typically borrow up to 60–70% of the property value, subject to income and the individual bank’s lending criteria.
How long does the buying process take?
From accepted offer to completion usually takes 6–12 weeks, depending on financing, due diligence and whether the property is a resale or a new build.
What is a NIE and do I need one?
A NIE is your Spanish tax identification number for foreigners. It is required for any property purchase, opening a bank account and paying taxes in Spain.
Legality & paperwork
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Marbella?
It is strongly recommended. An independent lawyer verifies ownership, checks for debts or planning issues, and protects your interests throughout the transaction.
How do I check a property has no debts or legal issues?
Your lawyer obtains a nota simple from the Land Registry to confirm ownership, charges, mortgages and any encumbrances before you commit to the purchase.
What taxes apply when owning property in Spain?
Owners pay annual IBI (council tax) and refuse collection fees. Non-residents also pay a non-resident income tax, and wealth tax may apply above certain thresholds.
Is buying off-plan property safe?
It can be, provided the developer is reputable and bank guarantees protect your deposit. A full legal review of the contract is essential before signing.
Selling property
What costs are involved in selling my property?
Sellers typically pay agency commission, the plusvalía municipal tax and capital gains tax on any profit. For non-residents, 3% of the sale price is retained at completion against tax.
How long does it take to sell a property in Marbella?
Timeframes vary with pricing and demand, but well-presented, correctly priced homes in prime areas often sell within a few months.
Do I pay capital gains tax when selling?
Yes, on the profit made. The rate and any available exemptions depend on your residency status and how long you have owned the property.
Renovating
Can I renovate a property I buy in Marbella?
Yes. Many buyers purchase older properties to modernise them. Some works require a licence from the local town hall, which we help arrange.
Do I need a licence to renovate?
Minor cosmetic works need a minor works licence, while structural changes require a major works licence and technical documentation. We manage this process end to end.
How much does a renovation cost?
Costs depend on the scope and finish level. We provide detailed budgets upfront and manage contractors to keep projects on time and on budget.
How long does a full renovation take?
A full turnkey renovation typically takes 4–9 months depending on the size, permits and specification of the project.
Investing
Is Marbella a good place to invest in property?
Marbella has a resilient, internationally driven market with strong rental demand and long-term capital growth in prime areas.
What kind of rental yields can I expect?
Yields vary by location and property type, but short-term holiday lets in prime areas can perform strongly across the long season.
Do I need a licence to rent out my property?
Yes, holiday rentals require a tourist licence registered with the Junta de Andalucía. We can advise on eligibility and the application process.
What makes a good buy-to-let investment in Marbella?
Proximity to the beach, amenities and Puerto Banús, good condition, and flexibility for both holiday and long-term lets tend to perform best.