Navigating the Property Purchase Journey in Manilva: What to Expect

Buying a home in beautiful Manilva is an exciting step – whether you’re searching for your holiday escape, a permanent move or a smart investment along the Costa del Sol. At Primrose Real Estate, we understand that while the lifestyle rewards are clear, the process can feel unfamiliar. That’s why we’re here to guide you through each stage, ensuring your purchase is as smooth, secure and enjoyable as possible.

1. Getting Clear on Your Priorities

Before you dive into viewings, take a moment to define what you’re truly looking for. Is your future property going to be:

• A retreat for weekends or holidays?
• A full-time residence by the sea?
• An investment to rent out when you’re not using it?
  And what lifestyle matters most to you: walking distance to the beach, proximity to local restaurants and shops, a quiet hillside terrace, or access to golf clubs and yacht marinas? Knowing this early helps our team tailor recommendations that genuinely match your goals.

2. Understanding the Local Market & Area

Manilva has its own rhythm and character — distinct from larger neighbours such as Marbella or Estepona. The Costa del Sol market can vary significantly from one municipality to another: pricing, architectural style, community amenities and even the pace of legal procedures. We encourage you to spend time exploring Manilva’s charming villages, its coastline and hillside communities so you feel confident your choice of location truly reflects your lifestyle.

3. Paperwork & Preparation

Here’s a quick checklist of items you’ll typically need before moving forward:

• A Spanish bank account (essential for property transfers and utilities).
• A Spanish tax identification number (NIE) if you’re a non-resident buyer.
• A trusted Spanish lawyer (or firm) working in English (or your preferred language) to guide you through due diligence, contract review and closing formalities.
• If you plan to finance your purchase via a mortgage, obtaining pre-approval helps everything run more smoothly.
  By getting these in place early, you reduce the risk of delays and increase your confidence in the process.

4. Viewings & Making an Offer

Once we’ve narrowed down the right properties for you, we’ll arrange viewings and you’ll get a real feel for what each home offers. When one stands out, the next step is to submit your offer. Negotiation is common in Spain and an experienced local agent adds real value here — ensuring you’re informed and supported every step of the way.

5. Reservation Agreement & Private Contract

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll sign a reservation agreement (and typically pay a small deposit, often between €6,000-€10,000) to take the property off the market. Then, after due diligence and legal checks, you’ll move to the private purchase contract stage — usually accompanied by a larger deposit (commonly ~10% of the purchase price). At this point the process becomes more formal and binding, hence professional guidance is crucial.

6. Completion at the Notary & Beyond

The final step is the deed signing (“escritura”) at the notary's office. At this meeting:

• The balance of the purchase price is paid.
• Legal ownership transfers to you.
  Following this, your lawyer will register your ownership at the Land Registry, ensure utilities are transferred into your name and help with any other practical matters (taxes, community fees, etc.).
  And just like that—you’re officially a homeowner in Manilva!

In Summary

Purchasing property in Spain may involve several distinct steps, but with the right direction it’s entirely manageable — and truly rewarding. At Primrose Real Estate we pride ourselves on offering personalised support from initial inquiry through to handing over the keys. Our mission: to make your Spanish property journey smooth, secure and ultimately enjoyable.

Ready to explore property opportunities in Manilva? Contact our team today, and let us help you find your perfect home under the Costa del Sol sun.