When we first started thinking about buying a property in Spain, we had so many questions.
Could foreigners really buy property easily?
Would financing even be possible?
How difficult would the legal process be?
And most importantly: were we making a smart decision?
Fast forward to today, after buying our own apartment on the Costa del Sol, we can honestly say we are so happy we went for it but we do wish someone had explained a few things to us from the beginning.
So if you’re dreaming about buying a home in Southern Spain, here are a few things we wish we had known earlier.
1. Buying in Spain Is More Accessible Than You Think
Before starting the process, we assumed buying abroad would feel overwhelming and complicated.
The reality?
It was much more straightforward than we expected – especially once we had the right people around us.
One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is:
“Do I need to live in Spain to buy there?”
The answer is no.
Many buyers purchase as non-residents, whether for vacations, winter escapes, retirement plans, lifestyle, or investment purposes. The expat community is booming on the Costa del Sol!
2. You Don’t Necessarily Need to Pay Cash
This surprised us too.
Many Spanish banks offer mortgages to non-residents, depending on your financial profile and residency status.
For many people, understanding financing options is what turns the idea of buying in Spain from “maybe one day” into something that actually feels possible.
One thing we always recommend? Exploring pre-approval options early so you understand your budget before falling in love with a property.
3. The Right Area Matters More Than You Think
One thing we quickly learned is that not all areas on the Costa del Sol feel the same.
Some places are lively year-round. Others are quieter.
Some are ideal for families. Others are better for lock-and-leave vacation living.
For us, we fell in love with Mijas Costa – close to the beach, beautiful views, and a perfect balance between calm and accessibility.
But the “right” place really depends on what you want your life in Spain to look like.
4. The Right Network Changes Everything
This is probably the biggest lesson we learned.
A trusted lawyer, mortgage specialist, and real estate professional can completely change your experience.
Honestly, having people you trust on the ground gave us so much peace of mind – especially navigating a process in another country.
And now, after going through it ourselves, we genuinely enjoy helping others make sense of the process too.
Final Thoughts
Buying in Spain felt like a big leap for us at first.
But somewhere between the sunshine, the slower pace of life, and imagining our future here… it slowly stopped feeling impossible.
If you’re considering buying in Southern Spain and simply want to understand how it all works, feel free to reach out. Even if you’re just in the “thinking about it” phase – we’re always happy to share our experience.