Steps to follow to buy a house in Almería if you are a foreigner
Buying a house in Almería is a smart decision for those looking to enjoy a natural, peaceful environment with over 300 days of sunshine a year. This Andalusian province offers everything from sea-view villas to charming rural houses, making it a very attractive option for foreign buyers. If you're thinking about taking this step, here are the key steps to follow for a safe and hassle-free purchase.
1. Research the areas and the local market
Before jumping into buying, it’s essential to explore the different areas of Almería. The Almerian coast includes towns such as Mojácar, Vera, Aguadulce or San Juan de los Terreros—perfect for those who want to be close to the sea.
Analyze market prices, the type of property that best suits your needs, and consider factors such as proximity to services, transport, hospitals or tourist areas.
2. Get your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
The NIE is essential for carrying out any legal transaction in Spain, including buying property. This number serves as a tax identification and is required for signing deeds, paying taxes, contracting services or opening a bank account. You can apply for it at a police station in Spain or at the Spanish consulate in your home country.
3. Open a bank account in Spain
While not mandatory, having a Spanish bank account speeds up the buying process and makes it easier to handle payments related to the property, such as utilities, community fees or taxes. Most Spanish banks offer services for international clients and assistance in several languages.

4. Sign the reservation contract
Once you find the ideal property, it’s common to sign a reservation contract, where the agreed price is established and a small amount is paid to secure the deal. This step takes the property off the market while the necessary paperwork is prepared to formalize the sale.
5. Sign before a notary
The process concludes with the signing of the public deed of sale before a notary. At that moment, the property is officially transferred to the buyer. After the signing, the property is registered at the corresponding Land Registry and the applicable taxes are paid: Transfer Tax (ITP) for resale properties or VAT (IVA) for new builds.
6. Make the payments and handle post-sale procedures
In addition to the property price, you should consider costs such as the notary, registration, legal fees, and taxes. A real estate agency can help manage the entire process, so you only need to focus on enjoying your new home in Almería.

DOMO ESTATE: your ally for buying a house in Almería
One of the most important steps when buying a house in Almería is having the support of a real estate agency experienced in working with foreign clients. At DOMO ESTATE, a real estate agency in Almería, we will help you find properties that match your preferences and budget, and guide you throughout the entire legal and administrative process. In addition, we will assist you with paperwork management and contract drafting. We know that buying a house in a foreign country can raise doubts, which is why we offer a personalized, transparent service tailored to your needs. Whether you're looking for a seaside villa, a mountain home, or a profitable investment, at DOMO ESTATE we provide access to the best opportunities on the market. Contact us today and take the first step toward buying a house in Almería with total peace of mind.
- Email: info@domoestateagency.com
- Phones: +34 686 177 622 | +34 722 448 252
- Office: Avda. de Almería, 15 - Turre 04639 (Almería)