Buying a home on the Costa Brava is an important decision, whether you’re looking for a primary residence, a second home, or an investment. At Finques Jordi Tané, a real estate agency in Palafrugell, we guide our clients through the entire buying process, explaining all associated taxes and expenses with complete transparency to avoid surprises.
If you’re thinking of buying in Palafrugell, L’Escala, or the surrounding area, this guide will help you understand the main costs you should consider.
1. Taxes when buying a home in Catalonia
The main cost when buying a second-hand home in Palafrugell or L’Escala is the Property Transfer Tax (ITP).
✔ Second-hand home
In Catalonia, the general ITP is 10% of the purchase price. This tax is paid by the buyer and must be paid within a maximum of 30 business days from the signing before a notary.
There are some reduced rates in specific cases (young people, large families, people with disabilities), but it is always advisable to analyze each specific case with professional advice.
✔ New construction property
If you buy a new property directly from the developer:
You pay 10% VAT
Plus 1.5% Stamp Duty (AJD)
At our real estate agency in In Palafrugell, we help you calculate these amounts accurately before signing any contract.
2. Notary Fees
The public deed of sale must be formalized before a notary. Notary fees are regulated by law and depend on the value of the property, but as a reference they can range between approximately €600 and €1,200.
This cost is usually the responsibility of the buyer.
3. Registration in the Land Registry
After signing, it is necessary to register the property in the Land Registry. This process also involves a cost, usually between €400 and €800, depending on the value of the transaction.
As a real estate agency in Palafrugell, we coordinate these procedures to ensure everything is properly registered.
4. Management Fees (if there is a mortgage)
If the purchase is financed with a mortgage, the bank usually requires the involvement of a management company to process the registration and tax payments. Although many mortgage expenses are now covered by the bank following legislative changes, there may be additional administrative costs.
5. Property Appraisal
If you are applying for a mortgage, the bank will require an official appraisal. The cost is usually between €300 and €600.
6. Other possible costs
Energy performance certificate (if not provided by the seller)
Land Registry Extract
Possible outstanding assessments in homeowners’ associations
Proportional property tax (IBI) for the current year
At Finques Jordi Tané, we review all documentation before signing to ensure there are no hidden charges or unexpected expenses.
How much should you budget in total?
As a general guideline, when buying a second-hand property in Palafrugell or L’Escala, you should budget between 10% and an additional 13% on the purchase price to cover taxes and expenses.
Trust local professionals
Buying a home on the Costa Brava means understanding Catalan regulations and associated costs. At Finques Jordi Tané, your real estate agency in Palafrugell, we provide clear and personalized advice at every step of the process.
If you are considering buying a home in Palafrugell, L’Escala, or the Baix Empordà, contact us. We will help you find the right property and properly plan all expenses so that your investment is secure and transparent from the start.
