1. Define your goal and real budget
Buying to live in, to holiday in or to invest are not the same: the area, the property type and your priorities all change. Be clear on the use before browsing listings.
Your real budget is not just the price: add the purchase costs. As a rule of thumb, set aside roughly an extra 10–12% on top of the price for taxes and fees.
2. Purchase taxes and costs in the Canaries
On resale homes you pay the Transfer Tax (ITP). On new-builds, instead of ITP you pay IGIC (the Canary Islands VAT) plus Stamp Duty (AJD). On top come notary, registry and, usually, a 'gestoría' (paperwork agency).
Rates and possible reliefs (for a main home, young buyers or large families, for example) depend on current Canary Islands law and your situation. We help you calculate the real figure for your purchase before you take any step.
3. Financing: arrive with your homework done
If you're using a mortgage, get it pre-approved before searching seriously. Buying while knowing your limit gives you negotiating strength and avoids falling for what doesn't fit.
Banks usually finance up to a percentage of the value (typically around 80% for a main home), so it's wise to have the deposit plus costs saved. Non-residents can buy and finance; they just need an NIE (foreigner's tax number) and a little extra paperwork.
4. Choose the area with judgement, not by photo
Each area has its own rhythm. Las Canteras and Guanarteme are city and beach; Tafira is calm and green; Meloneras and Puerto Rico are sun and southern lifestyle. Living year-round doesn't ask the same as a second home or a holiday investment.
We prepare an honest profile of each area —who it's for, lifestyle, property type and potential— so you choose with data, not on impulse.
5. Search with criteria, not endless scrolling
Viewing a hundred listings exhausts and confuses. It's more effective to define clearly what you want and let an agent filter and propose only what fits, including stock not yet advertised.
At each viewing, look beyond the décor: orientation and light, real condition, noise, community and fees, and the potential if renovation is needed.
6. Check before you commit
Before signing anything, review the 'nota simple' (ownership and charges), that there are no debts or seizures, the planning and licensing status, and the state of the community (pending special levies, the ITE building inspection).
These checks avoid the expensive shocks. They're part of our job: we accompany you so you buy on solid ground.
7. From offer to signing
When it fits, you make an offer and, if accepted, sign an 'arras' contract (earnest-money deposit) that reserves the property. If you depend on financing, it's wise to state it.
The deed is then signed before a notary. We coordinate deadlines, documentation and formalities so you reach the signing with everything clear.