What conveyancing covers
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership. For Spanish property purchases by foreign buyers, full conveyancing covers Land Registry verification (Nota Simple), Catastro reference check, urban classification, licence of first occupation, energy efficiency certificate, technical inspection (ITE), community of owners status, debts, mortgages, embargoes, tenancy status, and rental licence status. We also draft or review the private contract (arras) and attend notarial signature.
Why an independent lawyer matters in Spain
Spanish notaries are impartial and verify identity, register the transfer and check certain key items. They are NOT performing full legal due diligence. Real estate agents represent the seller. The only party fully on your side is your independent lawyer.
Our process
1) Engagement letter signed with fixed fee. 2) Nota Simple and Catastro extraction. 3) Municipal urbanism office check (urban classification, infractions, plan general). 4) Community of owners certificate of fee status. 5) Private contract drafted or reviewed. 6) Arras signed and 10% deposit held in escrow. 7) Final legal package prepared for notary. 8) Notary signature attended in person or by power of attorney. 9) Transfer tax (ITP/IVA+AJD) paid. 10) Registry filing.
Fees
Fixed fee disclosed in writing before engagement. Standard residential conveyancing: typically 1% of price with minimum. Complex transactions (commercial, multiple properties, corporate buyer): quoted case-by-case.
Power of attorney
If you cannot attend the notary, we draft a Spanish power of attorney granted at a Spanish consulate abroad or at a Spanish notary. The power is limited to the specific transaction and revocable.