Buying guide
How to buy a house in Murcia, step by step
What you need, what it costs and who does what, in plain English.
The steps
- Set your total budget, including taxes and fees.
- Get your NIE and a Spanish bank account.
- View and choose. Ask for the nota simple and the property file.
- Your lawyer checks charges, planning, water, licences, and unpaid IBI or community fees.
- Sign a reservation contract (arras) with a deposit.
- Sign the deed before a notary and pay.
- Register the property and move the utilities into your name.
Sources reviewed on 5 October 2026. The 2025 law establishes these reference rates; confirm legislation and the tax base applicable on the transaction date.
Taxes and professionals
| Item | What it is | Who handles it |
|---|---|---|
| NIE | Foreigner identification number, required to buy. Issued by the National Police or a Spanish consulate. | Agent (gestor) or lawyer |
| Bank account | To pay the price, taxes and bills. | Bank |
| Tax on resale homes | Transfer tax (ITP) of 7.75% in the Region of Murcia since 25 July 2025. Reduced rates are subject to conditions; confirm your applicable rate with the Murcia tax authority and your adviser. | Tax adviser |
| Tax on new builds | VAT at 10% plus stamp duty (AJD) of 1.5% in the Region of Murcia. | Tax adviser |
| Notary | Signs the deed and checks identity, charges and means of payment. | Notary |
| Land Registry | Registers you as the owner. Ask for a nota simple before paying anything. | Registrar |
| Non-resident seller | The buyer withholds 3% of the price and pays it to the Spanish tax agency. | Tax adviser |
Sources: Region of Murcia Law 3/2025 (BOE), La Moncloa, Spanish notaries, Land registrars.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to buy a house in Murcia on top of the price?
As a guide, 9% to 11% of the price for a resale home, including tax, notary, registry, agent (gestor) and lawyer. This is our estimate, not an official figure: ask your adviser for the exact amount.
Can I buy if I'm not resident in Spain?
Yes. You need an NIE and a bank account. Residency is a separate process: EU citizens apply for a registration certificate, others need a visa. Buying property does not guarantee a residence permit. Ask an independent professional about current requirements.
What should I check before buying a finca?
Title and charges (nota simple), cadastre, planning status and legality of buildings, water rights and irrigation community, access and rights of way. Always use an independent lawyer and, where there are buildings, an architect.
This guide is for information only and is not legal or tax advice. Before signing or paying anything, consult an independent lawyer and tax adviser.