Should I buy a new build or a resale property in Spain?

Neither is better for everyone. A new build gives you a modern, energy-efficient home, choices on finish and legal protections such as bank-guaranteed stage payments, but you wait for it to be built. A resale is ready to use and established, but needs more legal checks and may need work.

On a new build you normally pay in stages. Those stage payments must be protected by a bank guarantee paid for by the developer, and you should not pay anything before a building licence is granted. Ask to see the guarantee and keep the original safe. Costs are 10% VAT plus stamp duty rather than transfer tax.

On a resale you can see exactly what you are buying and move in sooner. The legal checks matter more: ownership, charges, licences, community debts and whether any extension was built legally. Costs are transfer tax (ITP) at the regional rate.

Whichever you choose, use an independent lawyer, ask what the community fees are, and ask about running costs, not only the price.

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and figures were last checked in November 2026 and change, so take independent advice from a Spanish lawyer for your own purchase.