Mistakes International Buyers Make in Mallorca (and How to Avoid Them)

Congratulations! You’ve found what look like your dream home in Mallorca. But before celebrating, there are a few important details to consider that could affect your experience. From unexpected costs such as notary fees to penalties for failing to comply with local taxes, or even discovering that the property is not in the condition you were promised.

The good news is that avoiding these issues is relatively straightforward. You simply need to understand the most common mistakes international buyers make and seek the support of a professional.

1. Not understanding local tax and property laws

Spain has a number of legal requirements and procedures that may not exist in other countries. This makes it more likely for buyers to overlook them due to a lack of familiarity, often relying on unreliable sources or not hiring a specialised lawyer, which can lead to unexpected costs.

To avoid delays in the purchase process, it is essential to obtain an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), a mandatory requirement for buying property in Spain.

The best way to avoid these issues is to work with a trusted estate agency that can guide you through the entire process and ensure a smooth purchase.

2. Not carrying out a legal check on the property

It’s natural to be drawn to a property based on its appearance, but it is crucial to understand both its legal and technical status. In some cases, properties may have been built without the necessary permits or may have planning irregularities, which in the worst-case scenario could lead to demolition.

A proper legal check will identify any outstanding debts or liabilities associated with the property, ensuring they are not transferred to the buyer.

In Mallorca, there are also properties with restrictions on use or development, particularly in rural areas or those with heritage value. Being aware of these limitations is essential.

3. Not assessing the property’s technical condition

Beyond legal checks, it is equally important to assess the technical condition of the property. Some issues are not visible to the untrained eye and require professional inspection.

Over time, properties can develop problems such as cracks in walls, weakened foundations or structural issues. Homes located near the coast may also suffer accelerated wear due to salt in the air, especially if unsuitable materials have been used.

Damp and mould can also occur if the property lacks proper ventilation. Additionally, electrical and plumbing systems should always be checked to avoid costly repairs later on.

4. Buying a property without seeing its true condition

Since the pandemic, it has become more common to purchase properties without visiting them in person, relying solely on images from property portals. However, these photos can sometimes hide imperfections or be edited to enhance the property’s appearance.

To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is advisable to work with a reliable estate agency that has inspected the property, can arrange a guided viewing, or provide a comprehensive video tour if an in-person visit is not possible.

5. Overlooking additional costs and ongoing expenses

One of the most common mistakes is failing to account for additional purchase costs, such as property transfer tax, notary fees and land registry costs. These can represent a significant unexpected expense if not planned for.

Ongoing costs are also often underestimated. These may include maintenance fees, community charges, pool upkeep, gardening and general property maintenance.

With nearly 40 years of experience in the sector, we understand the challenges many international buyers face.

Our team of legal and property experts will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you can purchase with complete peace of mind.

Get in touch with us today—we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.