The Off-Plan Buying Timeline and Process
From reservation to completion — a step-by-step breakdown of what happens and when during an off-plan property purchase.
All Timeline and Process Questions(10)
How long does the off-plan purchase process take from reservation to completion?
The typical off-plan purchase timeline is 18–36 months from reservation to key handover. Boutique developments can complete in 12–18 months; large coastal developments typically take 24–36 months. The target completion date is set by the developer and stated in your purchase contract.
How Long Does an Off-Plan Purchase Take?
An off-plan purchase in Costa del Sol typically takes 18 to 36 months from reservation to completion, depending on the construction stage at the time of reservation.
What Happens on Completion Day?
On completion day you attend the Spanish notary to sign the title deed, pay the outstanding balance and taxes, and receive the keys. Your lawyer can attend on your behalf with a power of attorney.
When Do I Sign the Reservation Contract?
You sign the reservation contract immediately when you decide to buy, typically on the day of your property viewing or shortly after. It is accompanied by the reservation fee payment.
What happens after I reserve a property in Spain?
After reserving a property in Spain, you typically have 30 to 45 days to sign the private purchase contract and pay the main deposit. During this period your solicitor conducts legal due diligence and the reservation deposit holds the property for you.
What delays are common in off-plan property in Spain?
The most common delays in off-plan property in Spain are construction labour shortages, materials supply issues, and local authority backlogs in issuing the First Occupancy Licence. Delays of 6 to 12 months are frequent; 18-month delays occur in peak construction periods.
Can I cancel after reserving a property in Spain?
Yes, you can cancel after reserving but you will typically lose your reservation deposit. If you cancel after signing the private purchase contract, you lose the full deposit paid at that stage. If the developer breaches contract, they must return double the deposit.
When do I get the keys to my off-plan property?
You receive the keys to your off-plan property on the completion day at the notary, once you have signed the title deed and paid the final balance. The developer will notify you 4 to 8 weeks before this date when they have the First Occupancy Licence.
What happens in the weeks before the notary appointment in Spain?
In the weeks before your notary appointment in Spain, you will complete a snagging inspection, confirm your final payment arrangements, review the draft title deed, and ensure your NIE number, Spanish bank account, and all identification documents are ready.
How can I track construction progress on my off-plan property?
You can track construction progress through regular developer update reports, site visits, communication with your local solicitor, and monitoring the developer's social media and project website. Some developers provide online portals with live progress updates and construction photos.
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