Costs and taxes when buying a property in 2026
Buying a property in Spain in 2026 involves more than just paying the purchase price. Costs and taxes when buying a property in 2026 are a key factor that every buyer, especially international buyers, should understand before moving forward.
In areas such as the Costa Blanca and the Costa Cálida, where many buyers purchase a home as a main residence or a second home, these additional costs often raise questions. Planning ahead is therefore essential to avoid unexpected expenses.
As a general rule, experts recommend having additional savings of around 10% to 12% of the property price, specifically to cover taxes and purchase-related costs.
What costs are involved when buying a property?
These are the mandatory costs you should expect in 2026 when buying a new or resale property in Spain.
Notary fees
The purchase deed must be signed before a notary. Notary fees are regulated by the Spanish state and depend on the value of the property.
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Approximate cost: between 0.2% and 0.5% of the purchase price
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Typical amount: between €600 and €875
Land Registry fees
Once the deed has been signed, the property must be registered at the Land Registry so the buyer is officially recorded as the legal owner.
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Approximate cost: between 0.1% and 0.25% of the property price
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Typical amount: between €400 and €650
Conveyancing / gestoría fees (optional)
A gestoría or conveyancing service handles tax payments and administrative paperwork. It is not mandatory if you buy without a mortgage, but it is common when a bank is involved.
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Estimated cost: around €300
Taxes when buying a property in 2026
The tax burden depends on whether the property is new-build or resale, and on the autonomous region where it is located.
Taxes on new-build properties
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VAT (IVA): 10% of the declared purchase price
(4% in certain cases of protected housing) -
Stamp Duty (AJD): varies by region
In the Valencian Community and the Region of Murcia, it usually ranges between 0.5% and 1.5%
Taxes on resale properties
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Property Transfer Tax (ITP)
In 2026, the general rate usually ranges between 6% and 10%, depending on the region.
In the Valencian Community and Murcia, reduced rates may apply for:
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young buyers
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large families
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people with disabilities
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primary residence purchases under certain conditions
Additional costs if you need a mortgage
If you require financing, some extra costs must be taken into account.
Property valuation
Banks require an official valuation before approving a mortgage.
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Estimated cost in 2026: between €250 and €600
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Validity: 6 months
Mortgage arrangement fee
Some lenders charge an arrangement or opening fee, which can be up to 2% of the loan amount, although this is becoming less common. It must be clearly stated in the binding offer.
Estate agency fees
In certain transactions, especially when using a property finder or personal shopper service, professional fees may apply. The percentage depends on the service provided and the local market.
How are purchase costs paid?
With a conveyancing service
The conveyancer requests a provision of funds before completion. This amount is used to pay notary fees, land registry fees and taxes.
If there is any surplus, it is refunded to the buyer. If additional funds are needed, the buyer is asked to top up the difference.
Without a conveyancing service
If the buyer handles the process directly, payments are made as follows:
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Notary and land registry fees at the time of signing
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VAT or IGIC paid to the seller (new-build property)
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ITP or AJD paid to the regional tax authority
How much are the total purchase costs?
In general terms, costs and taxes when buying a property amount to around 10% to 12% of the purchase price.
Example (property priced at €200,000 on the Costa Blanca)
New-build property
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Notary: €1,000
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Land Registry: €500
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Conveyancing: €300
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VAT (10%): €20,000
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AJD (approx. 1%): €2,000
Approximate total: €23,800
Resale property
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Notary: €1,000
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Land Registry: €500
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Conveyancing: €300
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ITP (approx. 8%): €16,000
Approximate total: €17,800
Figures may vary depending on the municipality and the buyer’s personal circumstances.
The cadastral reference value
Since 2022, the cadastral reference value has been in force and is used as the tax base for taxes such as ITP and AJD.
This means:
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If the declared purchase price is lower than the reference value, taxes will be calculated based on the cadastral value
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If the declared price is higher, the declared price will be used
This is particularly relevant in high-demand areas such as the Costa Blanca.
How to reduce purchase costs
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Check whether you qualify for reduced ITP or AJD rates
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Request quotes from different notaries (they may apply discounts of up to 10%)
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If buying without a mortgage, you may avoid conveyancing fees
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Plan the purchase with professional advice from the outset
Conclusion
Understanding costs and taxes when buying a property in 2026 is essential to buying safely and avoiding unexpected expenses. Good planning makes a real difference, especially for international buyers.
At Esentya Estate, we help international buyers invest safely in the Costa Blanca and the Costa Cálida, guiding them through the entire purchase process with transparency and confidence.
Sources: Spanish Tax Agency, Cadastre, current regional regulations