Fuerteventura is more than just a beautiful island, it’s a dream for many. Whether you’re looking after an investment, a holiday home, or a permanent residency; buying a property can be an amazing experience, but it’s essential to do things the right legal way.

1. First Things First: Plan Smart

People fall in love with the island for many reasons, its sunshine, its space and its peace. Some of our clients plan their purchase over years and others decide after one vacation.

Regardless, the key to a successful purchase is to get trusted legal advice from a local expert solicitor.

2. Purchasing a piece of land

Are you buying land to build your dream home? Great idea, here is some important advice.

• Request an urban planning certificate (Calificación Urbanística) with the local Town Hall. This certificate will clarify the urban planning regulations affecting your specific piece of land.
• Make sure the land has georeferenced measurements officially inscribed. This process ensures that the surface and boundaries of your plot are clearly defined and protected.

Avoid trusting vague claims like “I know someone at the Town Hall.” Always stick to legal facts and verified documents.

3. The Buying Process

Make sure to surround yourself from the start with experienced professionals!

• Start with a clear budget including legal fees, tax obligations and other administrative costs.
• Conduct due diligence before signing any contract.
• Once you agree on a purchase, a private contract is signed, and a deposit fee is paid (typically 5–10% of the purchase price).
• After some weeks/months the public deed is signed before a notary.

Although the process doesn’t stop there, you’ll still need to pay taxes and inscribe your deed with the land registry office.

4. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Some misleading advice to completely ignore:

• “The property is not registered, but it’s legal.”
• “You can start building before obtaining the building permit.”
• “You don’t need a sollicitor.”

Buying property isn’t gambling, follow the law, not hearsay.

5. Budgeting: How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Besides the purchase price, expect to pay the following amount on top: 

• 8–10% (includes taxes, legal fees, notary, and registry fees)
• 12–14% if you’re purchasing with a Spanish mortgage

Key tax obligations:

• 6.5% Property Transfer Tax for second-hand homes
• 1% Stamp Duty for new build.

6. Is Fuerteventura worth investing in?

Absolutely. Thanks to year-round tourism, Fuerteventura offers a 12-month rental season, unlike other regions in Spain. This means more income and faster returns on your investment—plus, you get to enjoy the sun, sea, and relaxed lifestyle.

7. Where is the best area to buy?

The whole island has its charm, but here’s a quick guide:

• North: Vibrant, sporty, and international (especially loved by expats)
• Center: Calm, with golf courses and peaceful beaches
• South: Nature lovers’ paradise with dramatic landscapes

We recommend you to visit the island to find out for yourself which area best suits your expectations.

8. Non-EU buyer?

There are no restrictions for non-EU citizens purchasing a property. Although you may need a military permit if the property is considered as rural land and this process can take 3–6 months.

Everything else, taxes, fees and legal rights are exactly the same as for EU citizens

9. What to Check Before Buying?

Ask your solicitor to include the following elements in the due diligence:

• Who legally owns the property?
• Are there any debts on the property or court claims against it?
• Are there tenants, occupants or legal restrictions affecting the property?
• Is the surface area registered correctly?
  

A full legal check protects and secures your investment.

Without any doubts, Fuerteventura is a fantastic place to invest or to settle down, but legal clarity and expert guidance are essential. Purchase with the right legal assistance and your Spanish dream will come true, safely and securely.