Reyes Castro & AsociadosSanta Cruz de Tenerife
Property lawyer in Tenerife for foreign buyers
Buying in Tenerife from abroad means dealing with Spanish paperwork, a notary, a registry and deadlines you may never have met before.
We check the documents before you sign and accompany you to the deed, in English, German or French.
- Due diligence: land registry extract, charges and urban-planning status
- NIE, powers of attorney and signing from abroad
- Rentals, evictions, communities of owners and mortgage clauses
ConfidentialNo obligation2–3 lines are enough
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- Available 24 hWe reply during business hours
- No obligationTell us your case, no commitment
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What do you need?
Choose the closest option: WhatsApp opens with the message already started.
WhatsApp opens with the message already started: just finish the sentence. No forms, no calls.
Buying step by step
What to check before you sign
The nota simple from the Property Registry shows who owns the property and which charges or mortgages it carries. It is the first document to look at, and it does not replace reviewing the rest of the file.
Also check debts with the community of owners and the IBI property tax, the urban-planning situation and licences, and the energy performance certificate.
Deposits (arras) are usually paid as an advance. Depending on their type, the consequences of not completing differ, so the contract should be reviewed before you sign.
- Nota simple, charges and mortgages
- Debts with the community and local taxes
- Urban-planning status and licences
- Purchase contract, notary deed and registration
Buying from abroad
NIE, powers of attorney and taxes
You will need an NIE (foreigner identification number) to buy property and for tax purposes. It is applied for at the Policía Nacional (foreigners’ offices) or at a Spanish consulate abroad.
If you cannot travel, a power of attorney granted before a notary or a Spanish consulate often allows someone you trust to sign for you. We review it so that it does not expose you to unnecessary risk.
Taxes depend on the operation: for second-hand homes, transfer tax (ITP) usually applies; for new builds, IGIC (the Canary Islands indirect tax that replaces VAT) plus stamp duty (AJD). Rates can change, so we confirm them before you sign. If the seller is not a Spanish resident, the buyer must generally withhold 3% of the price and pay it to the tax authority.
Before you pay anything
Do not hand over money or sign documents before the nota simple, the charges and the contract have been reviewed. It is much easier to avoid a problem before signing than to fix it afterwards. Our advice covers Spanish law only.
How to start
Starting is simple
Tell us your case
Message us on WhatsApp in 2–3 lines: what happened and what worries you. No documents needed yet.
We guide you
We review what you tell us and explain your options, deadlines and risks in plain language.
Clear plan and quote
If you decide to go ahead, you receive a written action plan and fee quote before we start.
Telling us your case commits you to nothing: you sign and pay nothing until you know the plan and the quote, and you can decide calmly. We do not promise results: we tell you honestly what is possible in your case.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner buy property in Tenerife?
In general, yes: you do not need to be a Spanish resident. You will need an NIE to sign the deed and for tax purposes.
What is the NIE and how do I get it?
It is the number that identifies foreigners for tax and administrative purposes in Spain. It is requested at the Policía Nacional (foreigners’ offices) or at Spanish consulates abroad. We explain the documents and steps.
Can I sign without travelling to Tenerife?
Often yes, through a power of attorney granted before a notary or a Spanish consulate. Each case must be assessed, and we review the power before you grant it.
Which taxes do I pay when buying?
It depends on the operation: ITP on most second-hand homes; IGIC and stamp duty (AJD) on new builds. Rates can change, and we confirm them before signing.
Can you help with unpaid rent or an eviction?
Yes. It usually starts with a formal demand for payment and, if not resolved, a court claim. Timelines depend on the court and the circumstances, and we explain them from day one.
First step
Tell us about your property matter
Send us two or three lines on WhatsApp. We will explain the steps, deadlines and fees before you take any decision.
ConfidentialNo obligation2–3 lines are enough
despacho@reyescastroyasociados.comVillalba Hervás, 5, 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
