Buying property in Spain can be an exciting experience, but the process works quite differently compared with the UK.

Over the years we've helped many clients buy along the Costa Blanca, and we often see the same mistakes made during the early stages of the search.

Understanding how the Spanish property market works can save you a lot of time, confusion and unnecessary stress.

Mistake 1: Contacting Multiple Estate Agents

Many buyers assume they need to contact several agents to see different properties.

In Spain, most agencies collaborate and share access to the same listings. This means buyers often receive the same properties from multiple agents, which can quickly become confusing and unorganised.

How RB Casas helps:

• One contact with access to the full property market
• View any property through a single point of contact
• Clear and organised viewing schedules
• No duplicated listings or competing agents

Mistake 2: Paying a Buyer’s Fee or Finder’s Fee

Some buyers are surprised to be asked to pay a buyer’s fee or finder’s fee simply to view properties.

In the Spanish property market this is generally not standard practice, as the seller normally pays the estate agent’s commission.

How RB Casas helps:

• No buyer’s fees for viewing or finding properties
• Access to the full market without additional charges
• Transparent advice throughout the buying process

Mistake 3: Using a Solicitor Connected to the Estate Agent

Some agencies promote an “in-house legal team” as a way to save money or simplify the process.

However, many buyers prefer to use an independent solicitor who represents only their interests.

How RB Casas helps:

• We recommend independent, experienced solicitors
• Your lawyer works for you, not the estate agent
• Proper legal checks are carried out before any purchase

Mistake 4: Choosing Properties Before Understanding the Right Areas

Locations along the Costa Blanca can vary greatly — from lively coastal towns to quieter residential communities.

Many buyers choose properties online before they truly understand the areas they are considering.

How RB Casas helps:

• Free area tours to explore and compare locations
• Guidance on which areas best match your lifestyle
• Focus viewings on properties in the right areas

Mistake 5: Not Checking Legal Status or Planning Properly

When buying property abroad, it’s important to ensure the property is legally sound and that all documentation has been properly checked.

How RB Casas helps:

• Independent solicitors carry out full legal checks
• Guidance throughout the buying process
• Support from reservation through to completion

Mistake 6: Falling for “Too Good to Be True” Listings

Online adverts and social media posts can sometimes make properties appear cheaper or better than they really are.

This may include:

• Prices that are “from” and only apply to a limited unit
• Photos that don’t fully represent the property
• Unclear location descriptions
• Pressure to move quickly without proper information

How RB Casas helps:

• Clear and honest property information
• Advice on realistic options within your budget
• Viewing properties that genuinely match your criteria

Mistake 7: Not Getting a Real Feel for the Area

Photos and maps can only tell you so much about a location.

Some areas feel completely different in person compared with how they appear online.

How RB Casas helps:

• Explore different areas before committing to viewings
• See what each location is really like
• Make confident decisions based on first-hand experience

Questions You Should Always Ask an Estate Agent in Spain

If you're speaking with estate agents while researching property in Spain, asking a few simple questions can help you understand how the process works and who you feel comfortable working with.

Are you a registered and licensed estate agent?

Estate agents operating in the Valencian Community should be properly registered and licensed.

Two important registrations buyers often look for are:

• RAICV – the official Register of Real Estate Agents in the Valencian Community
• API membership – a recognised professional association for qualified property agents

These registrations help ensure the agent operates professionally, follows regulations and carries the appropriate protections for clients.

How RB Casas helps:

• Registered and compliant with local regulations
• Professional industry membership
• Transparent and accountable service

Do you charge buyers a fee?

In most cases in Spain the seller pays the estate agent's commission. Established agents normally do not charge buyers additional fees simply for viewing properties.

Do you recommend independent solicitors?

Many buyers prefer to work with an independent solicitor who represents only their interests during the purchase.

Can you show me properties from other agents?

Because the Spanish property market is collaborative, many agents can show listings from across the market.

How to Verify an Estate Agent in Spain in 30 Seconds

If you want extra peace of mind, it only takes a moment to verify whether an estate agent is properly registered.

Simply ask the agent for:

• Their RAICV registration number
• Their API membership number

Professional agents should be able to provide these details quickly and transparently.

If an agent cannot provide registration details, it may be worth asking why.

A Simpler Way to Buy Property in Spain

Once you understand how the Spanish property market works, buying property becomes far more straightforward.

• One contact for the full property market
• Free area tours to help you choose the right location
• Organised property viewings
• Independent legal guidance
• Support throughout the buying process

If you'd like to start receiving properties that match what you're looking for, you can create your personalised property profile here:

Create your personalised property profile