What to Check Before Buying a Property: A Complete Guide

Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. Whether you're purchasing a permanent home, a holiday property, or a real estate investment, carrying out the right checks beforehand can help you avoid legal issues, unexpected expenses, and costly mistakes.

In this guide, we explain everything you should review before buying a property, especially if you're planning to purchase a home on the Costa Brava.

1. Verify the Legal Status of the Property

Before making any commitment, ensure that the property is legally registered and that the seller is the rightful owner.

One of the first documents you should request is a Land Registry Extract (Nota Simple), which confirms:

• The registered owner.
• Outstanding mortgages.
• Liens or legal claims.
• Easements or rights affecting the property.
• Other registered charges.

This document provides a clear overview of the property's legal situation.

2. Check the Urban Planning Documentation

Not every property fully complies with local planning regulations.

Before buying, make sure that:

• The property has the necessary building permits.
• There are no ongoing planning or legal disputes.
• Any extensions or renovations have been officially approved.
• The built area matches the official records.

This is particularly important when purchasing villas or detached houses.

3. Inspect the Overall Condition of the Property

A great location doesn't always guarantee that a property is in good condition.

Carefully inspect:

• Roof and structure.
• Exterior walls.
• Damp or moisture issues.
• Cracks.
• Electrical installation.
• Plumbing.
• Windows and insulation.
• Heating and air conditioning systems.

For older properties, hiring an independent building surveyor is highly recommended.

4. Review Community Fees

If you're buying an apartment or a property within a residential community, ask about:

• Monthly community fees.
• Approved special assessments.
• Financial health of the homeowners' association.
• Included services.
• Planned maintenance or renovation works.

Low community fees may sometimes indicate significant future expenses.

5. Understand the Purchase Costs

The purchase price is only part of the total cost.

You should also budget for:

• Property Transfer Tax (or VAT on new-build properties).
• Stamp Duty (where applicable).
• Notary fees.
• Land Registry fees.
• Legal or administrative costs.
• Mortgage-related expenses (if financing the purchase).

Knowing the total investment beforehand helps avoid unexpected surprises.

6. Request the Energy Performance Certificate

Every property sold in Spain must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

This document provides information about:

• Energy consumption.
• CO₂ emissions.
• Energy efficiency rating.
• Recommendations for improving efficiency.

A better energy rating can reduce long-term running costs.

7. Evaluate the Location

The property itself is important, but so is its surroundings.

Consider factors such as:

• Distance to the beach.
• Shops and supermarkets.
• Schools.
• Medical facilities.
• Public transport.
• Noise levels.
• Sun exposure.
• Planned infrastructure developments.

A good location will improve both your quality of life and the property's long-term value.

8. Check Orientation and Views

On the Costa Brava, orientation can significantly affect comfort and value.

South-facing properties generally benefit from:

• More natural light.
• Better energy efficiency.
• More sunshine during winter.

Sea views also tend to increase both the property's value and future resale potential.

9. Inspect Utilities

Ensure all utilities are fully operational:

• Water supply.
• Electricity.
• Gas.
• High-speed internet or fibre optic connection.
• Drainage system.

If the property has been vacant for some time, it's advisable to have all installations checked.

10. Explore the Neighbourhood

Spend time getting to know the area before making a decision.

Visit at different times of the day to assess:

• Traffic.
• Parking availability.
• Noise levels.
• General atmosphere.
• Safety.
• Nearby businesses and services.

Even the perfect home may not suit your lifestyle if the surrounding area doesn't meet your expectations.

11. Consider Investment Potential

If you're buying as an investment, analyse:

• Property price trends.
• Rental demand.
• Capital appreciation potential.
• Maintenance costs.
• Expected rental yield.

Areas such as Platja d'Aro, S'Agaró, Calonge and Palamós continue to offer attractive investment opportunities on the Costa Brava.

12. Work with Local Professionals

Buying a property involves legal, financial, technical and administrative procedures.

Working with an experienced local real estate agency can help you:

• Find the right property.
• Negotiate the purchase price.
• Verify all legal documentation.
• Coordinate the entire buying process.
• Avoid costly mistakes.

Professional guidance provides peace of mind throughout one of life's most important investments.

Property Buying Checklist

Before signing the purchase agreement, make sure you've checked:

• ✔️ Land Registry Extract (Nota Simple).
• ✔️ Urban planning compliance.
• ✔️ Overall condition of the property.
• ✔️ Community fees.
• ✔️ Taxes and purchase costs.
• ✔️ Energy Performance Certificate.
• ✔️ Location and nearby services.
• ✔️ Orientation and views.
• ✔️ Utilities.
• ✔️ Neighbourhood.
• ✔️ Investment potential (if applicable).
• ✔️ All legal documentation.

Buy with Confidence with Immogrupstar

Buying a property is much more than finding a beautiful home. It requires careful analysis of legal, financial and technical aspects to ensure a secure and stress-free purchase.

At Immogrupstar, we guide both national and international buyers through every stage of the purchasing process in Platja d'Aro, S'Agaró, Calonge, Palamós, Santa Cristina d'Aro and Sant Feliu de Guíxols. Our extensive knowledge of the Costa Brava real estate market allows us to help you find the right property while ensuring every legal and administrative detail is properly managed.

From the first property viewing to signing at the notary, our team is committed to making your buying experience smooth, transparent and secure.

If you're planning to buy a property on the Costa Brava, Immogrupstar will be delighted to help you find your ideal home and guide you through the entire process with professionalism, local expertise and complete peace of mind.