Yes, absolutely. There are no restrictions on foreigners owning property in Spain. EU and non-EU residents can both buy. Non-EU buyers can apply a Residency Visa if they wish to reside in Spain for over 6 months of the year. These visas allow borderless travel throughout the Schengen countries of Europe. 

Tip: Make sure you get a NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), which is a foreigner’s identification number required for all legal and financial transactions in Spain.

Although the municipality of Benahavís covers just 145 km², its geography is varied: from elevated forested estates to riverside pueblo living. Here are the key micro‑locations to consider:

*Price guidance for 2025 resale market; prime new builds command premiums.

How to decide?

• Lifestyle priorities:  golf, seclusion, village buzz, or turnkey rental yield?
• Plot/size tolerance:  Do you want acreage (La Zagaleta, Monte Mayor), or a lock‑and‑leave apartment (La Quinta)?
• Budget elasticity:  Factor 10‑13 % on‑costs (taxes & fees) and an extra buffer for renovations.
• Sun orientation & views:  West‑facing plots deliver stunning sunsets over Gibraltar.

Spend time touring each zone, we would be delighted to guide you, at different times of day before committing.

The Spanish property-buying process is relatively straightforward but differs from other countries. Here’s a simplified version:

1. Hire a bilingual lawyer – never rely solely on the seller’s or agent’s legal team.

2. Make a reservation deposit – usually €3,000–€10,000 to take the property off the market.

3. Sign a private purchase contract – typically with a 10% down payment.

4. Due diligence – your lawyer will check title, debts, building licenses, etc.

5. Complete at the notary – the deed (escritura) is signed, and you get the keys.

6. Register the property – the deed is filed with the Land Registry.

You can find a more indepth guide here. 

When buying property in Andalusia, budget for an additional 10–13% on top of the purchase price to cover the following:

• Transfer tax (ITP): 7% for resale properties.

• VAT (IVA): 10% if buying new from a developer... charged instead of ITP

• Notary and registration fees: ~1–2%

• Legal fees: ~1% of the purchase price

• Bank/mortgage fees (if applicable)

Annual costs like IBI (property tax), garbage collection, community fees (if in a gated complex), and non-resident income tax should also be considered.

Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, typically up to 60–70% of the property value. Rates are generally competitive, though documentation requirements can be strict.

Tip: Get pre-approved before you house hunt to know your budget and appear serious to sellers.

If you plan to rent out your property, especially on platforms like Airbnb, you must:

• Apply for a tourist rental license (VFT) from the Junta de Andalucía.

• Ensure the property meets legal standards, including air conditioning, first occupancy certificate, etc.

• Register all guests with the Guardia Civil.

Failure to comply can result in heavy fines.

Buying property in Andalusia is an excellent investment—whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, rental income, or permanent relocation. The key is to do your homework, build a local team, and understand the unique dynamics of the Spanish legal and tax systems.

With sunshine nearly year-round, vibrant cities, and welcoming communities, Andalusia continues to be one of Europe’s most compelling real estate destinations.