10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home in Marbella (2026 Guide)
Your complete checklist for making a safe, smart, and profitable property purchase in Marbella.
Buying a home in Marbella is an exciting step — whether you’re looking for a luxury villa, a beachfront apartment, or an investment property. But the buying process in Spain works differently from many other countries, and asking the right questions before making an offer is essential to avoid risks, unexpected costs, or legal issues.
Here are the 10 most important questions every buyer should ask before purchasing a property in Marbella.
1. What is the real total cost of buying this property?
In Spain, the purchase price is only part of the total cost. Buyers should expect 11–13% in taxes and fees, including:
Property transfer tax (or VAT + stamp duty for new homes)
Notary fees
Registry fees
Legal fees
Bank charges (if using a mortgage)
Knowing the final number avoids unpleasant surprises.
2. Does the property have all legal documentation in order?
Before moving forward, ensure the property has:
Nota Simple (legal property registry extract)
Habitability / First Occupancy License
Up-to-date IBI tax payments
No outstanding community fees
Correct square meters registered
A lawyer can verify all documents and ensure the property is 100% legal.
3. Are there any ongoing or upcoming community costs?
If the home is part of a residential complex, ask about:
Monthly community fees
Reserve funds
Planned renovations or improvements
Special assessments
Luxury communities in Marbella can have high monthly fees due to security, pools, and facilities.
4. What’s included in the sale?
Buyers often assume furniture, appliances, or parking are included — but this isn’t always the case. Clarify:
Furniture
Appliances
Garage spaces
Storage rooms
Smart home systems
Pool or garden equipment
This prevents misunderstandings later.
5. Are there any legal or planning restrictions affecting the property?
This is especially important for:
Villas with renovations
Rural or rustic land
Basement expansions
Swimming pools
Extensions or roof terraces
Make sure no additions were built without a permit. Illegal modifications can cause problems later.
6. What are the average running and maintenance costs?
Marbella properties can vary widely in yearly expenses. Ask about:
Electricity and water averages
Property management costs
Garden and pool maintenance
Trash taxes (Basura)
Home insurance
If it’s a luxury villa, running costs can be significantly higher than an apartment.
7. How old is the property, and what condition is it in?
Request information about:
Year of construction
Renovations made
Condition of plumbing, electricity, and AC systems
Roof condition (very important for villas)
Foundation and insulation quality
Older buildings in Marbella may require modern upgrades.
Current Listings For Sale
2 days ago
7 days ago
3 weeks ago
8. What is the neighborhood like — both now and in the future?
Location is the most important factor in Marbella real estate. Ask:
What is the noise level in summer?
Are there plans for new developments?
How busy is the area during high season?
Is it mainly residential or tourist-oriented?
Visit the property at different times of day if possible.
9. What’s the property’s rental potential?
If you are considering renting the property:
Does it have a tourist rental license?
What are the average rental prices in the area?
What occupancy rates can be expected?
Are there restrictions from the community?
Many Marbella buyers invest with rental income in mind, so this is a key question.
10. What is the resale potential of the property?
Even if you’re not thinking about selling now, consider long-term value factors:
Demand in that specific area (Golden Mile, Nueva Andalucía, Elviria, etc.)
Views & orientation
Walkability
Distance to beach, schools, golf, and services
Property type (villas typically appreciate more than apartments)
Homes in prime locations hold value better and sell faster.
Conclusion: Asking the Right Questions Protects Your Investment
Marbella’s property market offers incredible opportunities, but every buyer should be informed before making a decision.
By asking these 10 essential questions, you’ll ensure:
You understand the true costs
You avoid legal issues
You choose the right location
You make a smart investment that grows over time
If you’re ready to take the next step or want expert guidance on finding the perfect home in Marbella, contact our team at Best House Marbella — we’re here to help you make the smartest move.
