In recent years, more and more Lithuanians have been drawn to real estate in Spain — whether to escape colder climates, make a reliable investment, or finally fulfil the dream of owning a home by the Mediterranean. But before you take this exciting step, it’s crucial to make sure everything is done right: from legal documentation and property conditions to financial and cultural specifics. With so much information available (and plenty of cultural differences to navigate), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why choosing trusted partners is key — such as our real estate agency “Vive Ahora Homes”, which helps clients find and safely purchase property in Spain. Want to make the right decision and enjoy life under the Spanish sun? Let’s go through the most important things every buyer should know.
1. Understand the legal and tax requirements
Buying property in Spain comes with its own legal and tax framework that every foreign buyer should be aware of. One of the first steps is obtaining an NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — a personal identification code required for foreigners purchasing real estate. You’ll need this number not only to buy a property, but also to pay taxes, open a bank account, and sign utility contracts.
Another key point: hire a lawyer. Many first-time buyers ask whether a lawyer is really necessary since notaries are involved in the process. Based on years of experience, the answer is clear — yes, a lawyer is essential.
In Lithuania, notaries usually play the central role in property transactions. In Spain, however, the process differs: the lawyer’s involvement is critical before signing the preliminary purchase contract and paying the standard 10% deposit. This stage starts with a reservation contract — a document securing the buying opportunity, but only if legal conditions are met (no debts, mortgages, or co-owners).
Having a lawyer from the very beginning ensures all documents are requested from the seller and thoroughly checked before you sign the preliminary agreement (contrato de arras). If the property turns out unsuitable due to legal issues, your deposit is refunded — saving you from costly mistakes.
Don’t forget about taxes. Depending on the region, the property transfer tax (ITP) usually ranges from 6–10%. For new builds, you’ll pay VAT (IVA), typically 10%. In addition, there’s an annual property tax (IBI) and smaller state fees.
Understanding these nuances helps you avoid unexpected expenses and legal uncertainty. When in doubt, consult professionals directly.
2. Choose a reliable real estate agency
The Spanish property market is a field where professional guidance is invaluable. Choosing a trustworthy real estate agency not only saves time but also reduces the risk of encountering fake listings, dishonest sellers, or problematic documents. When selecting an agency, it is worth checking its experience, client feedback, licenses, and the range of services it provides.
Ask whether the agency works with Lithuanian-speaking specialists, whether it assists in preparing all documents, and whether it provides support with taxes, banks, or translation services.
At “Vive Ahora Homes”, our services cover every aspect of the purchase process — from property search and viewings to finalizing the deal. Our team also helps with banking matters, documentation, and day-to-day issues even after the purchase. We can even arrange renovation and furnishing work in your new home, which is especially valuable when dealing with specific requests or cultural differences. Our clients appreciate transparency, open communication, and long-term partnership.
3. Assess the location and lifestyle
One of the most important steps is to clearly define the purpose of your purchase. Are you looking for a permanent residence, a holiday home, or an investment with rental or resale potential? The location you choose should reflect your personal priorities — climate, proximity to the sea, infrastructure, transport connections, and even the size of the Lithuanian community in the area.
The most popular regions include Alicante and Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and the Canary and Balearic Islands. Each has its own climate, price level, and lifestyle. For those with smaller budgets, Valencia and Alicante remain attractive alternatives, while Costa del Sol is ideal for those seeking a more varied lifestyle, luxury, and entertainment. If you are considering an investment, pay close attention to potential rental yields and market trends.
Choosing the right real estate property is an individual decision, so we always recommend learning as much as possible about the specifics of each region and, when necessary, seeking professional advice.
4. Check the property’s condition and documentation
Buying property in Spain is not only about signing contracts. It is equally important to thoroughly assess the technical condition of the property. A visual inspection is necessary, but for older or lower-priced properties, it may also be wise to bring in independent experts to evaluate the state of the building, including insulation, electricity, plumbing, and roofing.
It is also essential to confirm that there are no debts associated with the property — whether unpaid utilities, community charges, or tax obligations. The seller must provide all required documents, including the title deed (escritura), the latest land registry extract (nota simple), tax payment receipts, an energy performance certificate, and a certificate of community debts (if the property is part of an apartment building).
Avoid rushed decisions and review all documentation with a professional who understands both Spanish law and the needs of Lithuanian buyers — a service we provide at Vive Ahora Homes.
5. Plan your budget realistically
Property prices in Spain vary widely, from modest apartments costing a few tens of thousands to luxury villas worth millions. It is important to calculate not only the purchase price but also additional expenses, which typically amount to 10–13% of the property’s value. These include the transfer tax or VAT, stamp duty, notary fees, land registry fees, lawyer fees, and mortgage administration costs. Don’t forget travel expenses, temporary accommodation during viewings, and furnishing your new home.
Foreign buyers can also access mortgages from Spanish banks, which often finance up to 60–70% of the property’s value. However, you must be ready to present proof of stable financial status and income (including salaries, dividends, or rental income).
With the help of our specialists, we can provide a detailed calculation of all costs and, if needed, organize meetings with bank representatives, notaries, or other experts. Through cooperation with banks, we have successfully secured 100% mortgage approvals for our clients, offering fixed annual interest rates of just 2% for 20 years, without Euribor. We also ensure there are no hidden or unexpected fees, making your investment planning as smooth as possible.
Real estate in Spain remains one of the most attractive opportunities both for Lithuanians seeking relaxation and for those wishing to protect and grow their capital. Success, however, depends on thorough preparation, accurate information, and having the right professionals by your side. If you want to buy property in Spain safely, transparently, and with confidence, reach out to Vive Ahora Homes. We promise to help you find your dream home in the land of sunshine and guide you every step of the way towards your new life under the Spanish sun.
