Common Questions
The questions most clients ask.
Grouped by stage of the journey. If you can't find what you're after, we're a phone call or a video meeting away.
01
Working with us
- What can you offer me compared to other real estate agents?
- Tobin & Downes offer a far more approachable and personal experience. We build strong bonds with clients through an honest, open way of working — combined with extensive knowledge, this typically turns clients into close friends.
- Will you work individually or as a team on my property search?
- We always work as a team so all angles are covered, but you'll always have one dedicated point of contact for the highest level of communication.
- Where are you based and where can we meet?
- We work across Marbella and the wider Costa del Sol, and are between offices at the moment. We meet clients at the property, over video, or at a location of their choosing — arranged around your schedule, whatever your time zone.
- What languages do you work in?
- English, Spanish, Italian, French, Swedish, German and Dutch — across the team and our trusted partners. You'll always be able to deal in your first language.
02
Buying & areas
- Where is the best place to live in Marbella?
- There isn't a single 'best' place — each area offers different benefits depending on what you need. We take the time to fully understand your priorities so we can advise on the area best suited to you.
- What is the first step in buying a property here on the coast?
- Get in touch so we can understand exactly what you're looking for. A call, a video meeting or a coffee wherever suits you — we'll take it from there.
- Should I sell my current property before buying a new one?
- It depends on your personal situation, but the most important factor is being liquid enough to proceed. Marbella moves fast — if you fall in love with a home, you need to be in a position to reserve it or you'll miss out.
- After I purchase my home, if I wish to sell it, would it be difficult?
- We always focus on buying in the right location, which gives our clients the highest capital growth possible. When the time comes to sell, the area itself is in demand — meaning ease of sale alongside profit.
03
Legal, tax & finance
- Will you guide me through the legal processes if I move from overseas?
- Yes — we collaborate with an exceptional legal team and mortgage brokers to fully educate you on the Spanish process, so you're completely comfortable executing a purchase with us.
- What are the total purchase costs on top of the price?
- As a rule of thumb, budget around 10–12% on top of the price: 7% transfer tax for resales (or 10% IVA + 1.2% Stamp Duty on new builds), 0.5–1% notary & land registry, around 1% + VAT for legal fees, plus mortgage costs if applicable. We always issue a written breakdown before reservation.
- Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?
- Yes. Most Spanish banks lend up to 60–70% LTV to non-residents at competitive fixed and variable rates. Our broker handles the application end-to-end and usually has an offer within two weeks.
- Do I need an NIE number, and how do I get one?
- Yes — the NIE is your Spanish tax ID and is required to purchase. We arrange it for you, either at the Spanish consulate in your home country or via a Power of Attorney granted to our lawyer.
- Will Brexit / visas affect my purchase?
- No — non-EU nationals can freely buy property in Spain. If you want to spend more than 90 days in 180, we'll advise on the Non-Lucrative Visa or Digital Nomad Visa as suitable.
04
After purchase
- Can you help furnish and manage the property afterwards?
- Yes — we work with trusted interior architects, furniture-package suppliers and property managers. From a turnkey set-up to long-term rentals, we'll introduce the right partner for your plans.
- Can I rent the property out short-term?
- Most of the coast permits short-term letting under a VFT tourist licence, but rules vary by municipality and community of owners. We check feasibility before you reserve, so there are no surprises.
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