BUYING GUIDE
Carlos Lamas Architect
You have decided to buy a home in Marbella?
BUYING
Acquiring a home is both an emotional and strategic decision. While the connection to a property may be immediate, ensuring its long-term value requires careful consideration, insight, and local understanding.
At CASA Moderna, property search is approached with rigour and intent. We continuously view and assess homes across Marbella and its surrounding areas, allowing us to advise based on the realities of the market not just its presentation.
SEARCH & SELECTION
We guide the process from the outset, refining your search through considered criteria, market analysis, and access to both on- and off-market opportunities.
Each property is evaluated not only for its immediate appeal, but for its quality, positioning, and future potential.
FINANCIAL PREPARATION
Clarity begins before the search.
Establishing your financial position early, whether through available funds or mortgage pre-approval creates focus and confidence. A confirmed budget allows for decisive action, ensuring time is spent only on properties that align with your objectives.
Pre-approved buyers are also viewed more favourably, particularly in competitive situations, where readiness can define the outcome.
PROCESS
From initial viewings through to negotiation and completion, the process is managed with structure and discretion.
We work closely with trusted advisors to ensure each step is handled efficiently, allowing you to move forward with confidence and clarity.
APPROACH
Our role is to simplify complexity.
By combining market knowledge with a design-led perspective, we help you secure a property that not only resonates today, but continues to perform as a home and an investment over time.
MAKING AN OFFER
Once the right property has been identified, the process moves from instinct to structure.
In Marbella’s competitive market, a well-prepared offer carries weight. Beyond price, it should clearly define the full terms of purchase bringing clarity and confidence to both parties.
THE OFFER
A considered offer outlines:
Purchase price and cost structure
Inclusions within the sale (furniture, fixtures, inventory)
Proposed payment schedule
Preferred completion timeline
Preparation is key. Having funds, documentation, and timelines in place ensures your position is both credible and competitive.
RESERVATION
Following acceptance, the property is typically secured through a reservation agreement.
A fee usually around 1% of the purchase price is transferred to a client account and the property is withdrawn from the market for a limited period, often around 14 days. This allows time for due diligence and progression toward exchange.
PROCESS
During this period, legal advisors and Casa Moderna oversee each step, ensuring the transaction moves forward with clarity and control.
While the reservation agreement itself is not fully binding, the fee is generally non-refundable. It serves as a commitment to proceed, while protecting the buyer’s position and pausing competing interest.
APPROACH
The objective is simple: to secure the property with confidence and precision.
With the right preparation and guidance, the transition from offer to ownership becomes a considered and seamless process.
DUE DILIGENCE
Due diligence is a critical stage in the buying process, bringing clarity and assurance before commitment.
Commencing after the reservation agreement is in place, this period allows for a detailed legal review of the property ensuring that all aspects are verified prior to exchange.
VERIFICATION
Typically undertaken over approximately 14 days, this process includes confirming legal ownership, verifying the absence of debts or charges, and ensuring all utilities and obligations are fully settled.
Where future works are considered, planning permissions and regulatory compliance are also reviewed.
PROCESS
Each element is examined with precision, ensuring the property is free from encumbrances and that no underlying issues remain undisclosed.
Casa Moderna works in close coordination with your legal advisors, overseeing progress and maintaining clarity throughout.
APPROACH
The objective is simple: to proceed with certainty.
With thorough due diligence in place, the transition to the next stage becomes informed, measured, and secure.
TECHNICAL INSPECTION
A qualified inspector reviews the property’s structure, systems, and installations, helping you make an informed and confident purchase
TITLE DEED + LAND REGISTRY
Final Stage of Purchase
For buyers not requiring financing, the process can move directly to completion once due diligence has been finalised. In this case, there is no requirement to sign a private purchase contract. Instead, you proceed straight to the title deed stage (Escritura), settling the full purchase price minus the reservation deposit already paid.
This is the point at which legal ownership is formally transferred. The signing takes place before a notary, where the remaining balance is paid and the transaction is officially executed. Notary and Land Registry fees are applicable and vary depending on the property value and the complexity of the transaction.
Following completion, you will receive your title deed along with the Nota Simple, confirming you as the legal owner. Your ownership details are then registered with the Land Registry, and utility providers are notified to update the change of ownership.
This final stage marks the successful completion of your purchase. At Casa Moderna, we ensure the entire process is handled with precision, transparency, and expert guidance from start to finish.
We understand that questions are a natural part of the journey. If you are considering buying a home and would like clear, practical advice, we would be delighted to assist you.
Give us a call and let CASA Moderna help you find the right place, with confidence.