Question 1

How long does it take to buy a property in Mallorca?

Accepted Answer

The full process typically takes 2 to 4 months from finding the property to signing at the notary. The key steps are: offer and acceptance (1–2 weeks), due diligence and reservation contract (2–4 weeks), obtaining financing if applicable (4–8 weeks) and signing the public deed.

Question 2

What documentation do I need to buy as a foreigner in Spain?

Accepted Answer

You need a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), a valid passport and a bank account in Spain. If you are financing the purchase, you will also need income documentation. We help you obtain the NIE and guide you through every step of the process.

Question 3

What are the additional costs on top of the purchase price?

Accepted Answer

In Mallorca, purchase costs range from 10% to 13% of the price. These include: ITP (Property Transfer Tax, 8–11% depending on the price), notary and registry fees, and the IBI for the current year. For new builds, VAT (10%) plus AJD (1.5%) applies.

Question 4

Do I need to hire a lawyer to buy a property?

Accepted Answer

It is not legally required, but it is highly recommended, especially for foreign buyers. A lawyer reviews the property's encumbrances, contracts and legal compliance. At Amelia we work with trusted lawyers we can introduce you to if needed.

Question 5

Can I get a mortgage as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Spanish banks grant mortgages to non-residents, although the conditions tend to differ slightly: they finance up to 60–70% of the appraised value (compared to 80% for residents) and may require more solvency documentation.

Question 6

What is a reservation contract and what is it for?

Accepted Answer

It is a preliminary purchase contract in which the buyer pays a deposit (normally 10% of the price) to reserve the property. If the buyer withdraws, the deposit is forfeited. If the seller withdraws, they return double the amount. It sets the price, timeframe and conditions of the transaction.

Question 7

What should I consider when buying to let in Mallorca?

Accepted Answer

Check whether the property has a tourist rental licence or the possibility of obtaining one, as the Balearic regulations are strict. For residential rental no special licence is required. Consider the gross yield, community fees, IBI and management. We advise you on the investment evaluation.

Question 8

How does the agency collaboration work in your transactions?

Accepted Answer

Amelia works in multi-agency exclusivity through the ABSI network and collaborates with more than 12 agencies in Mallorca. This means that although you sign with us, your property reaches buyers from all partner agents, multiplying exposure at no additional cost to the buyer.

Question 9

What happens if the property has debts or encumbrances?

Accepted Answer

Before signing any contract we request a land registry extract that shows all encumbrances (mortgages, liens, easements). Encumbrances must be cleared before or at the time of notarial signing. We accompany you through the entire verification process.

Question 10

How much does Amelia charge to sell my property?

Accepted Answer

Our fees are 5% + VAT on the sale price for the Base and Integral plans, and 6% + VAT for the Selecta plan. Fees are only paid when the sale is formalised at the notary — if we don't sell, we don't charge.

Question 11

What is multi-agency exclusivity and why is it better?

Accepted Answer

Multi-agency exclusivity means you sign with Amelia as the lead agent, but your property is shared with the entire ABSI network (more than 12 agencies in Mallorca). You have a single point of contact who coordinates everything, but the reach of a full network. Statistically it sells faster and at a better price than open multi-agency listings.

Question 12

How long does it take to sell a property?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of property, the location and the price. In Mallorca the market average is 4 to 9 months. With our right-price-from-the-start strategy and intensive marketing, we aim to reduce that timeframe. We provide a regular activity report so you always know how the process is going.

Question 13

How do you value the price of my property?

Accepted Answer

We carry out a free valuation based on comparative market analysis (CMA): recent sales in the area, active competing properties, price trends and the specific characteristics of your property. We don't inflate the price to win the mandate — we give you a realistic sale value.

Question 14

What does Amelia's marketing service include?

Accepted Answer

Professional photography, video or virtual 360° tour, publication on all major portals (Idealista, Fotocasa, Habitaclia, Milanuncios), targeted social media campaign, distribution to our database of active buyers and to the entire ABSI network, and a for-sale sign at the property if appropriate.

Question 15

Do I need to be present at viewings?

Accepted Answer

It is not necessary. We coordinate all viewings with you. We pre-screen interested parties to ensure they are serious buyers, saving you time and hassle. After each viewing we inform you of the buyer's impression.

Question 16

What documentation do I need to sell?

Accepted Answer

The basic documents are: title deed, ID/NIE, energy certificate (mandatory), up-to-date land registry extract, last IBI receipt, and in the case of a community property, a certificate of no debt. If there is an outstanding mortgage, we will need the bank's debt certificate. We help you gather all the documentation.

Question 17

What taxes does the seller pay?

Accepted Answer

The seller mainly pays: income tax on the capital gain (the difference between the purchase price and the sale price, on a scale of 19 to 28%), municipal capital gains tax and, if non-resident, a 3% withholding on the sale price. We recommend consulting a tax advisor for your specific situation.

Question 18

Can I sell if I still have a mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Typically the mortgage is cancelled with the sale proceeds at the notarial signing. The seller's bank cancels the mortgage in the land registry and the outstanding amount is deducted from the price the seller receives. It is a standard process we handle regularly.

Question 19

What happens if the property does not sell?

Accepted Answer

If we have not sold within the agreed timeframe, we analyse together what has happened: price, presentation, market. We can adjust the strategy or, if you prefer, end the mandate without penalty. We do not charge fees until the sale is signed at the notary.

Everything you need to know.