Completion Day When Buying Property in Marbella: What to Expect
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Completion day is the moment you have been working toward. Here is exactly what happens on the day you complete your Marbella property purchase - and what to do immediately afterwards.
What happens on completion day
Completion of a Spanish property purchase takes place at the notario's office. If you have set up a power of attorney, your lawyer attends on your behalf. If you are attending in person, bring your passport and NIE document.
At the notario meeting, the full title deed (escritura) is read aloud in Spanish. Both buyer and seller (or their representatives) sign it in front of the notario. The balance of the purchase price is transferred (usually by bank transfer or banker's draft on the day). The notario authenticates the deed. Keys are handed over.
The financial transfers
The balance payment is the largest transfer you make - the difference between the deposit already paid and the full purchase price. This needs to be in your Spanish bank account, ready to transfer to the seller. Additionally, the applicable taxes (ITP or VAT plus stamp duty) are paid - usually on the same day or within days of completion via your Spanish account. Your lawyer coordinates all of this.
How long does the notario meeting take?
Typically 30 minutes to an hour for a straightforward transaction. The notario reads the full deed (which can be lengthy) and both parties have the opportunity to raise questions. If you are attending without Spanish and want an interpreter, arrange this with your lawyer in advance.
What happens immediately after completion
Your lawyer takes the signed escritura and registers it at the Land Registry - this is what formally records your ownership. Registration typically takes several weeks. In the meantime, the notarised deed is sufficient proof of purchase for utility transfers and other purposes.
Your next steps: transfer utilities into your name, set up direct debits for IBI and community fees from your Spanish bank account, arrange building insurance if not already in place, and get the keys properly handed over with all relevant documents (community meeting minutes, instruction manuals, alarm codes, etc.).
What it feels like
Honestly - anticlimactic in the best way. After months of preparation, due diligence, and paperwork, the actual completion meeting is calm and procedural. Then you walk out with keys in your hand and the whole thing is done. We celebrated with a late lunch in Marbella town and spent the first evening in the apartment.
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Check if it's still free - PlanMarbella.comFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be physically present at completion in Spain?
Not if you have set up a power of attorney in favour of your lawyer. They can sign on your behalf and you can receive keys and updates remotely. Many international buyers complete this way without travelling to Spain for the completion meeting.
How do I transfer the purchase funds to Spain for completion?
Funds should be in your Spanish bank account before completion day. Transfer from your home country bank account or through a currency specialist (recommended for the exchange rate). Your lawyer will confirm the exact amount needed, including taxes, in advance.
How long after completion does property registration take?
Land Registry registration typically takes 4-8 weeks in the Marbella area. You will receive a copy of the registered deed once complete. The notarised escritura you receive on completion day is valid proof of ownership in the meantime.