Buying a home in Mallorca as a foreigner: a step-by-step guide
The key steps to buy a property in Mallorca safely: NIE, due diligence, deposit contract and signing before a notary.
Buying a home in Mallorca is a safe process if the steps are taken in the right order and the property is checked before signing. This is the roadmap we follow with our foreign clients.
1. NIE and bank account
The first step is to obtain the NIE (foreigner’s identity number), essential to sign the deed and pay taxes. It is usually advisable to open a Spanish bank account too. Both can be arranged through a power of attorney, even without being on the island.
2. Property due diligence
Before committing, we check the Land Registry, charges and mortgages, planning status and licences. For villas and rustic estates we verify that the construction is legalised and not "out of ordinance".
3. Deposit contract
Once the property has been checked, a deposit contract (arras) is signed, reserving the home and fixing the price and deadlines. A good contract protects your deposit if the deal falls through for reasons beyond your control.
4. Signing before a notary
The purchase is formalised as a public deed before a notary and registered at the Land Registry. We accompany you at the signing and handle the taxes and the subsequent utilities.