A N.I.E. (foreign identity number) is required by all non-residents intending to buy a property in Spain.

Your Spanish lawyer can obtain this number for you. The lawyer may also set up the accounts for utility services such as water and electricity and organise their payment through a local bank. You should discuss these matters with your lawyer when making a purchase.

Obviously, the vendor must be offering the property free of encumbrances, liens or debt that is up to date in the payment of all rates, community fees, electricity, water and any other normal running expenses of the property, up to the date of completion. Your lawyer and agent should ensure this.