Buying property in Spain after Brexit — we know exactly how it works
Post-Brexit rules changed the process for British buyers in Spain. We represent British buyers exclusively — independent search, visa guidance, legal coordination, and honest advice from someone who knows this market in depth.
What has changed for British buyers in Spain
The 90-day Schengen rule
British nationals can stay in Spain (and the wider Schengen Area) for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Property ownership does not change this. For longer stays, a residency permit is required — the Non-Lucrative Visa being the most common route for buyers with passive income.
Tax treatment as a non-EU buyer
Post-Brexit, British owners pay 24% IRNR on Spanish imputed or rental income (versus 19% for EU residents). British non-residents cannot deduct property expenses when calculating tax on rental income. This affects the rental yield calculation for buyers who plan to let their property.
The buying process itself is unchanged
The property purchase process — NIE, arras contract, solicitor, notary — remains exactly the same for British buyers as before Brexit. The legal framework for buying is unaffected. The differences are in residency rights and tax treatment as an owner.
Buyer representation for British expats
We handle the buyer's side of the transaction completely — from independent property search to keys. We do not represent sellers or developers.
Independent property search
Listed and off-market. The best villas in Javea, Moraira, and Altea rarely appear on Rightmove Spain or Zoopla. We access them through local relationships built over years.
NIE and legal process
We coordinate NIE application, solicitor selection, and due diligence oversight. You will need your NIE before any contract can be signed — we make sure this is in place early.
Non-Lucrative Visa guidance
For buyers planning to spend more than 90 days per year in Spain, the NLV is the primary residency route. We advise on eligibility and connect you with immigration lawyers who specialise in British applicants.
Tax and cost transparency
We give you an honest breakdown of the total cost of purchase and annual ownership — ITP, notary, legal fees, IBI, IRNR — before you commit to anything.
How we work with British buyers
Initial conversation
We understand your criteria, budget, and timeline. We discuss the 90-day rule and residency options upfront so there are no surprises later.
Curated shortlist
We identify the best-fit properties from listed and off-market inventory. You receive a focused shortlist, not a portal dump.
Viewings and assessment
We accompany you to viewings and give honest assessments — value, condition, planning status, community fees — everything that affects the purchase decision.
Offer and negotiation
We negotiate on your behalf. Our interest is getting you the right price — not closing a deal quickly.
Completion
We coordinate with your solicitor through due diligence, arras signing, and notary completion. Keys in your hand.
We work for you — not for the seller
Most agents in Spain are paid by the seller. We are paid by the buyer. That changes everything about the advice you receive.
Buyer-only
We do not list properties for sellers or take developer commissions. Our only mandate is finding the right property for you at the right price.
English-speaking throughout
Every stage — search, viewings, legal coordination, notary — managed in English. No translation gaps at any point in the process.
Off-market access
The best properties in Moraira, Javea, and Altea rarely appear on portals. We access them before they list — if they list at all.
Selective
We work with a limited number of clients at a time. You get focused, personal attention — not an automated pipeline.
The questions we hear most from British buyers
Can British citizens still buy property in Spain after Brexit?
Yes, without any restriction. Brexit did not affect property ownership rights. British nationals can purchase property in Spain on exactly the same legal terms as before. What changed is residency rights — you now need a visa to live in Spain for more than 90 days in any 180-day period.
What is the Non-Lucrative Visa and do I qualify?
The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) allows British nationals to reside in Spain without working. The main requirement is demonstrating sufficient passive income — approximately £2,000+ per month from pension, investments, or other non-employment sources. It is applied for at the Spanish consulate in the UK before travelling. We connect buyers with immigration lawyers who handle the full application.
How much does buying in Spain cost on top of the purchase price?
Budget 10-13% above the purchase price for a resale property in the Valencian Community: 10% ITP transfer tax, approximately 0.5-1% notary and Land Registry fees, and 1-1.5% legal fees. New build: 10% IVA (VAT) plus 1.5% stamp duty instead of ITP.
What taxes will I pay each year as a British owner?
Annual obligations: IBI (local council tax, typically €300-1,500), IRNR imputed income tax at 24% on a notional income from the property even if not rented (typically €400-800 per year for mid-range properties), and possibly Spanish wealth tax if your Spanish assets exceed €500,000. A Spanish gestor can file all returns for €150-400 per year.
What areas do you recommend for British buyers?
The northern Costa Blanca — Javea, Moraira, Altea, Calpe — has the largest and most established British community in the region, with English-speaking doctors, lawyers, social clubs, and year-round infrastructure. Valencia city is growing in popularity with British buyers who want urban life at a fraction of UK costs. We cover both markets.
Tell us what you are looking for
A conversation costs nothing. Tell us your criteria and we will give you an honest view of what is available, what it costs to buy and own, and what the process looks like for a British buyer in 2025.
Contact reSELECTA