Una mujer firma un documento en una mesa de oficina mientras una persona de bata o uniforme le señala. Hay tres personas en la mesa con enfoque en la firma y el documento.

🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ What is “conveyancing” ?

Conveyancing is the legal process that ensures a property purchase or sale is carried out safely and in accordance with Spanish law. It includes checking property titles, verifying debts or charges, drafting the purchase contract, and coordinating the signing before a notary. At MLH we manage the entire process to protect your investment and avoid legal risks.

❓ Why do I need a property lawyer?

In Spain, the buyer assumes most of the legal risk. A specialized lawyer safeguards your interests by reviewing every document, negotiating contract terms, and confirming that the property is free of encumbrances before signing. Our service also includes legal, tax, and urban-planning reports.

❓ Do you work with international clients?

Yes. We assist both residents and non-residents and handle the entire process 100 % digitally — including power of attorney, NIE applications, opening a Spanish bank account, and coordination with agents or developers. We also provide post-purchase tax advice for non-residents.

❓ How much does conveyancing cost in Spain?

Fees depend on the property type, location, and complexity. At MLH we offer transparent, fixed-fee quotes before starting any work. Our professional fees are a small fraction of the property value but can prevent costly mistakes during the transaction.

❓ What does “Real-Estate Compliance” mean?

Our Real-Estate Compliance service ensures your real-estate agency or company complies with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Spanish regulatory requirements. It includes:

  • Registration with SEPBLAC (the Spanish Financial Intelligence Unit)

  • Internal AML manuals and procedures

  • Staff training

  • Client identification and verification (KYC)

  • Periodic compliance audits

❓ Do you provide AML compliance services for estate agencies?

Yes. We help estate agents and developers meet their AML and data-protection (GDPR) obligations. We design tailored policies for each business and issue compliance certificates to avoid penalties and reputational risks.

❓ How long does the buying or selling process take?

If documentation is in order, the average completion time is 4 to 8 weeks. If the property involves a mortgage, inheritance, or construction works, the process may take a bit longer.

❓ Can I sign documents without being physically in Spain?

Yes. We can prepare a Power of Attorney so we can sign on your behalf, or coordinate a digital or notary signature in Spain or in your home country. Many of our international clients choose this option.

❓ What taxes apply when buying property in Spain?

Taxes depend on whether the property is new or second-hand:

  • New property → VAT (10 %) + Stamp Duty (1–1.5 %)

  • Resale property → Transfer Tax (ITP, 6–10 %)
    Non-residents must also file an annual modelo 210 tax return. Our team can handle all tax filings and declarations on your behalf.

❓ Which areas do you cover?

We mainly work in Sotogrande, Marbella, Estepona, Manilva and throughout the Costa del Sol, as well as with international transactions involving foreign buyers or sellers investing in Spain.

❓ What makes MLH different?

We combine legal and compliance expertise under one roof. Our boutique approach offers direct access to qualified lawyers, bilingual communication, and fully digital processes with secure document handling. Every client receives transparent updates at each stage of the transaction