The Buying Process — From First Call to Keys in Hand
Ten steps from first inquiry to signed escritura — including post-purchase utilities and rental setup.
01
Initial Consultation
Define your vision
We run a structured discovery session to map your requirements precisely.
Understanding your goals, lifestyle, budget, and timeline before anything else.
- 30-minute video or phone call
- Lifestyle and investment goal mapping
- Budget and mortgage pre-qualification guidance
- Initial region and property type recommendations
02
NIE Registration
Your legal identity in Spain
We coordinate NIE applications through a trusted local gestor, remotely if needed.
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is mandatory for all property purchases in Spain.
- Required for all property transactions
- Can be obtained remotely via power of attorney
- Processing time: 2–8 weeks
- Zenith coordinates the full application
03
Property Search
Curated, not overwhelmed
We access MLS listings, off-market properties, and developer pipelines not visible online.
A targeted shortlist of 5–10 properties matching your exact criteria.
- On-market and off-market sourcing
- Developer new-build pipeline access
- Detailed property reports
- Preliminary due diligence on each shortlisted property
04
Viewings
On-site or virtual
We accompany every viewing and provide an unfiltered assessment alongside the agent pitch.
In-person or video walkthroughs with expert commentary beyond the brochure.
- Accompanied viewings across all regions
- Virtual video tours with real-time Q&A
- Structural and presentation red flag identification
- Neighbourhood analysis and infrastructure check
05
Offer & Negotiation
Price and terms
We benchmark comparable sales, identify vendor motivation, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
Securing the best price and most favourable terms through strategic negotiation.
- Comparable sales analysis
- Offer strategy and sequencing
- Fixture, furniture, and inclusion negotiation
- Pricing benchmarked against the +71% per-m² premium unguided buyers overpay (CaixaBank)
06
Reservation & Deposit
Securing the property
We review the reservation contract before you sign and verify deposit protection.
A reservation contract and 1% deposit secures the property and removes it from the market.
- Reservation contract review
- Deposit amount: typically 1% of purchase price
- Property removed from market immediately
- 10-day due diligence window begins
07
Legal Due Diligence
No hidden surprises
Our legal partners run a full title, debt, and planning check on every property.
Title search, debt check, planning permission verification, and contract review.
- Land registry title check (Registro de la Propiedad)
- Outstanding mortgage and debt verification
- Urban planning and building permit review
- Community of owners fee check (IBI, community charges)
08
Private Purchase Contract
Binding agreement
We coordinate the bilingual contract review and advise on all clauses before signing.
The Contrato de Arras formalises the sale. Buyer pays 10% deposit; seller is legally bound.
- Bilingual contract review
- 10% deposit paid at signing
- Completion date set (typically 4–8 weeks)
- Penalty clauses protect both parties
09
Mortgage & Finance
For buyers who need financing
We connect you with mortgage brokers who specialise in non-resident purchases.
Non-resident mortgages typically cover 60–70% LTV. Terms vary by nationality and income currency — US and UK buyers face extra documentation. We manage the broker relationship.
- Non-resident mortgage: 60–70% LTV typical
- Term: up to 25 years
- Required: 6 months bank statements, proof of income
- US/UK buyers: extra paperwork (FATCA / third-country) and a slightly higher rate
- Mortgage offer: 3–6 weeks from application
10
Completion (Escritura)
Keys in hand
We attend the notary signing alongside you or via power of attorney, and handle the handover.
Final signing at the notary. Balance paid. Keys received. Title transferred.
- Notary appointment coordinated by Zenith
- Balance payment via bank transfer or certified cheque
- Land registry update (4–8 weeks post-signing)
- Utility transfers and key handover managed