You’ve Found Your Dream Home in Spain... Now What?
Buying a home on the Costa del Sol, whether it’s a sun-kissed penthouse in Estepona, a hillside villa near Sotogrande, or a beachfront apartment in Duquesa, is a dream come true. But once the keys are in your hand, there’s one important step many overseas buyers forget:
Making a Spanish will.
Why Your Will at Home Isn't Enough
Many international buyers assume their existing will from the UK, Ireland, Germany, or elsewhere will cover their Spanish property. While it might eventually be accepted, relying on it alone can cause delays, confusion, and unexpected tax issues during inheritance.
A Spanish will simplifies everything, for your heirs, your solicitor, and even the Spanish authorities. It’s not about bureaucracy; it’s about clarity, control, and peace of mind.
5 Key Reasons You Should Make a Spanish Will
Avoid Complications with Spanish Inheritance Law
Spain has different inheritance laws from many other countries. Without a Spanish will, local rules might override your wishes, especially if you don’t clearly state which country’s laws you want to apply.
Speed Up the Inheritance Process
Without a local will, your loved ones may face long legal delays, additional costs, and stress just to prove their claim. A Spanish will makes the process faster and smoother.
Reduce Legal & Tax Costs
A well-drafted Spanish will can help minimise inheritance tax burdens and ensure you’re not caught out by regional differences or overlooked deductions.
You Stay in Control Reduce Legal and Tax Costs
A well-drafted Spanish will can help minimize inheritance tax burdens and ensure you’re not caught off guard by regional differences or overlooked deductions.
You Stay in Control. A Spanish will allows you to state exactly who inherits what—from the home itself to bank accounts, cars, or even that vintage wine cellar you’ve lovingly stocked.
Protect the Ones You Love
The last thing anyone wants is for surviving family members to navigate a legal maze during a difficult time. A Spanish will protect them from that.
How It Works – Simple and Affordable
Creating a Spanish will is typically quick and inexpensive. Here’s what’s involved:
You'll work with a Spanish lawyer or notary.
The will is drafted and signed in front of a notary (with a translator if needed).
It’s then registered with Spain’s Central Wills Registry.
This can even be done whilst you are at the notary for your purchase or with the POA you give your lawyer (ask for this to be included)
Most wills are written just to cover your Spanish assets (not your worldwide estate), meaning it complements, not replaces, your will back home.
A Final Thought from Kiwii Real Estate
At Kiwii Real Estate, we don’t just help you buy a home, we help you protect it and you. We’ve seen too many situations where families face unnecessary stress because a Spanish will wasn’t put in place.
So while you’re falling in love with your new terrace, garden, or sea view, let’s also make sure your legacy is safe and secure.
Live with clarity. Live with peace of mind. Live Kiwii Real Estate.
