There comes a moment in every Brit’s life — usually in February, when it’s raining sideways — when you think:
“I could be in Spain right now.”
Not on holiday. Not eating a full English at 9am next to someone called Dave from Doncaster. I mean properly living there. Owning property. Becoming one of those mysterious people who say things like, “We winter in Alicante.”
So, what’s it actually like buying a home in Spain as a Brit?
Let’s put the kettle on and talk it through.
Foto above: New build flats in Estepona. On sale with AJ Andalucia Estates.
First Things First: Yes, You Still Can
Despite Brexit causing mild national hysteria and at least three WhatsApp arguments, British citizens can absolutely still buy property in Spain. Spain did not put up a sign saying:
“No Brits. Unless you bring biscuits.” You don’t need to be a resident to buy. You do need:
- A NIE number (a Spanish tax ID). Go to AJ blog to read more
about this NIE.- A Spanish bank account
- A healthy tolerance for paperwork
- Patience (this is Spain, not Milton Keynes)
Where to Buy: Sun, Sangria, and Strategic Decisions
Spain is not one place. It’s many personalities stitched together with sunshine.
The Reliable Favourite: Costa del Sol
Plenty of sunshine. Established expat communities. Golf courses everywhere. You’ll hear more Yorkshire accents than Spanish in some parts.
The Relaxed Charmer: Costa Blanca
Popular with retirees and remote workers. Good value. Proper beaches. Less “flash”, more “ahh, that’s nice.”
The City Lover’s Choice: Valencia
Gorgeous architecture, proper Spanish vibe, beach and culture. Slightly smug energy. You’ll tell everyone you didn’t want something “too touristy.”
The Island Dream: Balearic Islands
Beautiful. Expensive. Worth it if you can. You may need to sell a kidney. Choose wisely. Visit in August (boiling hot) and in January (still better than Birmingham)
The Process: Surprisingly Sensible
“This is where it all becomes real (and slightly terrifying).” Don’t you worry, if you buy with AJ we will be with you at the Notary during all the process till you leave the place with the keys in your pocket.
Here’s the comforting bit: the Spanish buying system is actually quite structured.
- You find a property.
- You make an offer.
- You pay a reservation fee.
- Contracts happen.
- You complete at the notary.
The notary in Spain is not just someone who stamps things in a dusty office above a kebab shop. They are an official public authority who ensures everything is legal and above board.
Use an independent lawyer. Not your mate’s cousin’s neighbour who “knows a bloke.”
The Money Bit (Brace Yourself)
In addition to the property price, expect around 10–13% extra
for:
- Transfer tax (or VAT on new builds)
- Notary fees
- Land registry
- Legal fees
It’s not a small amount — but at least there’s no stamp duty
panic deadline where you’re crying over Rightmove at midnight.
Mortgages for Brits
Yes, Spanish banks do lend to non-residents.
Typically:
- 60–70% loan-to-value
- Proof of income required
- Possibly more paperwork than applying for a Topshop card in 2004 Alternatively, many Brits release equity from UK property and buy in Spain outright — which feels wonderfully powerful and slightly terrifying.
Residency: The 90-Day Reality
Post-Brexit, Brits can spend 90 days in any 180-day period in Spain without residency.
If you want to live there full-time, you’ll need a visa — such as a non-lucrative visa or digital nomad visa.
Translation: It’s possible. Just plan ahead.
The Honest Truth: Is It Worth It?
Here’s what you’re really buying:
- 300 days of sunshine
- Outdoor living
- Slower pace of life
- Proper tomatoes
- The ability to smugly send weather photos to family back home
Yes, there will be bureaucracy. Yes, something will move slower than you’d like. Yes, you will at some point Google “why is Spain like this?”
But there is something deeply satisfying about unlocking your own front door, stepping onto a terrace, and thinking:
“I live here now.”
Not bad for someone who once complained about the price of a Freddo.
Final Advice from One Practical Brit to Another
Foto above: New build villa in Marbella. On sale with AJ Andalucia Estates.
- Visit multiple areas before committing.
- Get independent legal advice.
- Budget properly.
- Don’t rush.
- Learn some Spanish (ordering wine does not count).
Buying in Spain isn’t reckless. It’s not running away. It’s not giving up on Britain.
It’s simply choosing sunshine.
And frankly, after enough grey winters, that feels entirely reasonable.
