The costs of moving to Spain

In the excitement of deciding to emigrate, many people overlook the real costs of making the move.

You need to allow money for the following

When looking for somewhere:

  • Flights from your country to Spain.
  • Car Hire & Fuel to get around the area
  • Accommodation & Meals

When you find somewhere:

  • The initial deposit, varies between 3000 and 6000 €, this is your reservation fee, unless you pay the full amount within an agreed time, the seller can sell the property to another buyer, without returning your fee!
  • The bank survey, usually between 300 and 500 € which needs to be paid to the bank before the survey is carried out.

When you complete:

  • The balance of the purchase price, or the difference between the purchase price and the mortgage.
  • Taxes and Notary fees - about 11% of the purchase price.
  • Your solicitors fees.
  • The cost of transporting your goods, family and animals from your home country to Spain.
  • Your property Insurance - the mortgagee will insist on this, and demand proof if not taken out through them.
  • Your contents insurance.

When you move in.

  • If you have brought your car from another country you have 6 months in which to re-register it, or you have to take it to another country for 6 months. The cost of transferring the details with all the tests is about 300€ if you do it yourself, or about 500-600€ if you pay an agent. (the extra money is to pay for the long waits they have to make at various departments waiting for papers to be signed off)