Taxes When Buying Property in Marbella (2026 Guide)
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Buying property in Marbella involves more than just the purchase price. Understanding the taxes and additional costs is essential to avoid surprises and plan your investment correctly.
We will explain all the taxes when buying property in Marbella, whether you are purchasing a resale home, a new development, or investing as a non-resident in Spain.
This guide is especially useful for international buyers and non-residents who want a clear overview of all property purchase taxes in Marbella before making a decision.
What Taxes You Pay When Buying a Property in Marbella (ITP, VAT & Stamp Duty)
When buying property in Marbella, taxes depend on the type of property:
• Resale properties → Property Transfer Tax (ITP)
• New build properties → VAT (IVA) + Stamp Duty (AJD)
The taxes you pay depend mainly on whether the property is resale or new build. Below is a clear breakdown of the most common scenarios.
Property Transfer Tax (ITP) – Resale Properties
If you buy a resale property in Marbella, you will pay ITP (Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales).
Rate: 7% in Andalusia
Who pays it: The buyer
When: Within 30 days of signing the title deed
This tax applies to most second-hand apartments, villas, and townhouses. ITP is calculated based on the official purchase price stated in the title deed signed at the notary.
VAT (IVA) – New Build Properties
For new developments or properties sold directly by a developer, VAT applies instead of ITP.
VAT rate: 10%
Who pays it: The buyer
Applies to: New homes, off-plan projects, first occupancies
VAT applies to off-plan purchases and newly built homes purchased directly from the developer.
Stamp Duty (AJD)
Stamp Duty (AJD – Actos Jurídicos Documentados) applies only to new properties.
Rate: 1.2% in Andalusia
Paid together with VAT
These percentages are estimates and may vary depending on legal fees, property value, and individual circumstances.
Total Costs of Buying Property in Marbella (Real Example)
Beyond taxes, buyers should budget for additional purchase costs. These percentages are estimates and may vary depending on legal fees, property value, and individual circumstances:
Resale properties: approx. 8–10% of the purchase price
New build properties: approx. 12–14% of the purchase price
These costs include:
Taxes (ITP or VAT + AJD)
Notary fees
Land registry fees
Legal fees
Administrative costs
Planning these costs in advance is essential when buying property in Marbella as a foreign buyer.
💡 For example, on a €500,000 resale property in Marbella, expect approximately €35,000 in taxes (ITP at 7%) plus €10,000–€12,000 in notary and registry fees.
Taxes for Non-Residents Buying Property in Marbella
Non-residents can freely buy property in Marbella, but taxation rules differ slightly.
You pay the same purchase taxes as Spanish residents
After purchase, you may be subject to:
Property Tax (IBI) – Annual local tax based on cadastral value
Non-resident income tax if letting the property
Wealth tax depending on asset levels
Working with a local real estate agent and legal advisor helps ensure full compliance.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Property Taxes in Marbella
Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about taxes when buying property in Marbella. These FAQs cover key concerns for both residents and non-residents, helping you understand tax obligations, costs, and timelines before completing a property purchase in Spain.
Do non-residents pay higher taxes when buying property in Marbella?
No. Non-residents pay the same purchase taxes as Spanish residents when buying property in Marbella. Differences only apply to annual taxes after the purchase, such as non-resident income tax or wealth tax, depending on individual circumstances.
What taxes do I pay when buying a resale property in Marbella?
When buying a resale property in Marbella, buyers must pay Property Transfer Tax (ITP). In Andalusia, the ITP rate is 7% of the purchase price, payable within 30 days after signing the title deed.
What taxes do I pay when buying a new build property in Marbella?
In Marbella, new build property purchases are subject to VAT (IVA) at 10% of purchase price, plus Stamp Duty (AJD) at approximately 1.2% in Andalusia. These are paid at the time of deed signing.
When do I have to pay the taxes?
Taxes are paid shortly after signing the title deed at the notary, usually within 30 days.
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Marbella?
While hiring a lawyer is not legally mandatory, it is strongly recommended, especially for foreign buyers. A qualified property lawyer ensures proper due diligence, verifies ownership and debts, reviews contracts, and confirms that the property complies with Spanish urban planning laws. Legal representation significantly reduces risk and ensures a safe and transparent purchase process.
Can taxes be paid in instalments when buying a property in Spain?
In most cases taxes like ITP and VAT are due shortly after notarisation. In some regions authorities allow payment in instalments or deferment if approved, but this is not guaranteed. Check with your lawyer or gestor for specific procedures.
Does ITP vary by property value in Marbella?
In some parts of Andalusia, transfer tax (ITP) can vary slightly depending on municipal regulations or property value bands, but in most resale cases in Marbella you pay a flat 7% ITP on the declared purchase price. Your advisor will confirm exact applicability.
Get Expert Guidance Before You Buy
Understanding taxes when buying property in Marbella is essential, but every situation is different depending on residency status, property type, and investment goals. If you are planning to buy property in Marbella and want clear guidance on taxes and total costs, speaking with a local real estate expert can help you avoid costly mistakes. Tax laws change frequently, speak with a local expert to get the latest guidance tailored to your investment goals.
