Asturias is becoming increasingly popular among foreign buyers looking for peaceful countryside homes, charming coastal towns, or investment opportunities. But buying property in a foreign country can be challenging — especially if you don’t speak the language or understand the local legal system.
As a real estate interpreter in Asturias, I can help you finding the dreamed property, avoiding mistakes and unexpected costs, in your language.
Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to buying property in Asturias as a foreigner.
Step 1: Get your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
Before you can buy any property in Spain, you will need a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). This number is required for all legal and financial transactions, including:
- Signing the purchase contract,
- Paying taxes,
- Opening a Spanish bank account.
You can apply for it at a Spanish consulate in your home country or in-person in Spain (usually at the police station or immigration office). A local gestoría (administrative office) or interpreter can help you handle this step.
Step 2: Open a Spanish Bank Account
You will need a local bank account to transfer money for the purchase, pay property taxes, and set up utilities. Most banks require your NIE and passport.
A tip for you: You should rather choose a bank that offers online services in English or that is known for working with international clients.
Step 3: Find the Right Property
Whether you are looking for a country house (casa rural), a flat in Gijón or Oviedo, or a coastal property in Llanes, it is essential to:
- Work with a trustworthy real estate agent
- Visit the property in person or via video call
- Ask for the Nota Simple (a document showing ownership, debts, and legal status)
If you don’t speak Spanish, having an interpreter present during visits and negotiations is vital to avoid misunderstandings.
Step 4: Legal Checks and Pre-Contract
Before making any payment, ensure:
- The property is free of debts, charges, or illegal extensions
- The seller has all documents: deed, energy certificate, IBI tax receipts, etc.
- You understand every clause of the arras contract (reservation deposit contract)
Hiring a lawyer specialized in Spanish real estate law is strongly recommended, and having a bilingual interpreter ensures you know what you’re signing.
Step 5: Sign the Purchase Deed at the Notary
This is the final legal step, where:
- Buyer and seller meet at the notary’s office
- The Escritura Pública (official title deed) is signed
- Full payment is made via bank transfer or cheque
- Taxes are explained
A real estate interpreter is essential here if you don’t understand legal Spanish — the notary’s role is to witness the act, not to translate it.
Step 6: Register the Property and Pay Taxes
After signing, the purchase must be registered at the Registro de la Propiedad. You’ll also pay:
- Property Transfer Tax (ITP): around 8–10% of the purchase price (varies by region and property type)
- Notary and registry fees
- Plusvalía tax (municipal tax paid by the seller, but sometimes negotiated)
A gestoría or lawyer can handle this paperwork for you.
Why Work with a Real Estate Interpreter?
Buying a property in Spain involves not just translation, but cultural understanding and legal awareness. A professional interpreter:
- Helps you understand legal documents and contracts
- Ensures smooth communication with real estate agents, notaries, lawyers, Banks
- Protects you from costly mistakes or miscommunications
- Gives you peace of mind in a complex process
You need help buying property in Asturias?
If you’re planning to buy property in Asturias and want support in English, I can help you:
- Navigate the legal process
- Assist during notary appointments and visits
- Communicate clearly with real estate professionals
- Translate and explain all the fine print
Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and make your property purchase safe and smooth.
Don’t go through the searching and buying process of your propery alone. A bilingual interpreter makes the difference between confusion and confidence. I am here to help you every step of the way.
Let’s make your Spanish property dream come true — without the stress.