Buying a home in Mallorca starts with finding the right fit for your life: the setting, the property itself and the practical costs of ownership. This guide outlines the main steps, from an initial search to collecting the keys.
Start with how you will use the property
Decide whether you are looking for a permanent home, a holiday retreat or a place for longer stays. Consider the journeys you will make regularly, the amount of outdoor space you want and the maintenance you are comfortable taking on. Visit the neighbourhood at different times and, where possible, in more than one season.
Explore our Living in Mallorca guides for schools, healthcare and everyday life. You can also compare Cala Vinyes, Bendinat, Santa Ponsa, Portals Nous and Port Andratx.
Set a complete budget
Allow for more than the asking price. Ask for a written estimate covering purchase taxes, legal advice, notary and registration costs, any financing costs and the work you intend to carry out. Also consider community charges, insurance, local taxes, utilities, garden and pool care.
The tax treatment depends on the transaction. A first delivery of a new home by a developer generally involves IVA and normally AJD; a resale generally involves ITP. Your adviser should confirm the applicable tax basis, rates and any relief for your circumstances. See the Spanish Tax Agency’s guidance on IVA and ITP and ATIB’s information on transfer taxes.
Arrange independent checks before committing
Choose an independent lawyer to review the purchase and explain the documents you are being asked to sign. A technical inspection can help you understand the property’s condition and any likely works.
- Obtain an up-to-date nota simple and check ownership, registered charges and restrictions.
- Ask your advisers to compare the registered and cadastral information with the property as it stands, including extensions, pools and outbuildings.
- Check planning permissions, occupation documentation, energy certification and any restrictions relevant to your intended use.
- For an apartment, review community charges, outstanding payments, meeting minutes and planned works.
- If letting or renovation is important to your plans, establish what is permitted before relying on that possibility.
The official Land Registry service explains the information available in a nota simple. It is one part of the checks, alongside legal advice and inspection of the property.
Prepare identification and financing early
If you are buying as a foreign national, arrange your NIE identification requirements with your adviser in good time. A NIE is an identification number; it does not itself grant residence rights. The Ministry of the Interior’s NIE guidance sets out application routes and documents.
If you need a mortgage, discuss affordability and the lender’s requirements before committing to a purchase timetable. Have your lawyer review any reservation or deposit agreement, including the conditions, deadlines, included items and consequences if either party cannot complete.
Completion and the first weeks of ownership
Your lawyer and notary can guide you through the deed, payment arrangements and completion documents. Confirm how registration and tax filings will be handled, and prepare the handover of keys, meter readings, insurance and utility accounts.
Where the seller is non-resident, ask your adviser to address the buyer’s withholding obligation. The Spanish Tax Agency explains the 3% withholding and Modelo 211. Ongoing tax obligations depend on residence, ownership and use, so obtain advice suited to your situation.
Plan your search with Jaguar Property
Tell us what matters most to you, from walking access to local amenities to a quiet setting, a particular school journey or space for visiting family. We can help you compare properties and arrange viewings so that you can assess the details in person.
Browse our property listings or contact Jaguar Property to discuss your search.
This is general buying information. Your independent legal and tax advisers should confirm the requirements for your purchase.