Philip Properties
Infinity pool and sun terrace with panoramic views — Casa Orquídea, La Quinta, Benahavís

Buy & Sell

Buying or selling in Spain, step by step.

Every Spanish property transaction has two sides. Here is exactly how a purchase unfolds — from the first search to the keys in your hand, with Philip beside you throughout.

The buying process

Ten steps to your new home

Details vary from purchase to purchase, but this is the normal path — and Philip guides you through every one of them.

  1. 01

    Find your home

    Define what you are looking for — area, lifestyle, budget. Philip curates a shortlist, including homes that never reach the portals, and arranges viewings at your pace.

  2. 02

    Negotiate the price

    When you find the right home, Philip negotiates on your behalf. His knowledge of what is actually selling — on and off market — keeps the price honest.

  3. 03

    Reservation agreement

    Once the price is agreed, a reservation agreement is signed and a deposit (usually €6,000–10,000) takes the property off the market while checks are carried out.

  4. 04

    Due diligence

    A specialist lawyer verifies the property's legal status, any outstanding debts and that all permits are in order. Philip introduces you to lawyers he trusts.

  5. 05

    Private purchase contract

    With due diligence complete, both parties sign the private purchase contract and a deposit of around 10% is paid. If the seller withdraws, they typically refund double.

  6. 06

    Notary public

    The final deed (escritura) is signed before a Spanish notary, who verifies the identities of both parties and the legality of the transaction.

  7. 07

    Payment and transfer

    The remaining balance is paid at the notary's office, ownership is officially transferred and you receive the keys to your new home.

  8. 08

    Registration of the deed

    The notary sends the deed to the Land Registry for registration. Your lawyer follows up until the property is registered in your name.

  9. 09

    Costs and taxes

    Budget an additional 10–12% on top of the purchase price: transfer tax (ITP) or VAT, notary fees, registration fees and legal fees. Philip helps you plan this from the start.

  10. 10

    Settle in

    Once registered, the purchase is complete — but Philip remains a call away, whether you need renovation crews, interior designers or simply a good restaurant tip.

With Philip

A safe transaction, personally guided

Legal advice from day one

Every transaction is guided by an independent lawyer specialising in Spanish real estate — introduced through Philip's network, working for you alone.

Numbers with no surprises

Buyers see the 10–12% in taxes and fees before making an offer; sellers know their net proceeds before they list.

One advisor, start to finish

He trained at the leading and largest brokerage firms on the Costa del Sol — today that experience works for you, not for a brand.

Philip Gustafsson, personal property advisor in Marbella

Your personal advisor

Philip Gustafsson

One contact for public listings, private opportunities and trusted local expertise across the entire market.

Private consultation

Let’s begin with a conversation.