What expenses and taxes are paid when buying a resale home in Málaga? (Guide 2026)

Buying a property in the capital of the Costa del Sol is one of the smartest investments you can make today. However, the price you see on the real estate portal is not the total outlay you will have to face.

To avoid last-minute surprises, it is vital to calculate the additional costs, which in Andalusia usually range between 9% and 11% of the purchase price. In this detailed guide, we break down each tax and fee according to the regulations in force in 2026.

1. The Transfer Tax (ITP) in Andalusia

For a second-hand (or "used") home, the main tax is the ITP. Unlike a new home, VAT is not paid here.

Since the latest tax reform in Andalusia, the rate has been simplified, but there are important tax benefits you could take advantage of:

• General Rate (7%): Applied to the cadastral reference value (or the sale price if this is higher).

• Reduced Rate (6%): For the purchase of a main residence if the value does not exceed €150,000.

• Super-Reduced Rate (3.5%): Applicable to those under 35, large families, persons with disabilities or victims of gender-based violence, provided it is used as a main residence and the value does not exceed €250,000.

• 2026 Update for Investors: If you are a professional buying to resell, the ITP is reduced to 2%, provided the property does not exceed €500,000 and is sold within a maximum period of 2 years.

2. Notary Fees

Notary fees (tariffs) are regulated by the State, so all notaries in Málaga will charge the same for the same service. The cost varies depending on the price of the property, the number of copies of the deed and the length of the document.

Estimate: For an average home in Málaga, notary costs are usually between €600 and €1,000.

3. Land Registry

Once the public deed is signed, it is essential to register it at the Málaga Land Registry. This guarantees that you are the legal owner vis-à-vis third parties. As with the notary, the cost is set by law and depends on the value of the property.

• Estimated cost: Between €400 and €800.

4. Administrative Agent Fees

Although not legally mandatory, it is highly recommended to hire an administrative agent (gestor) to settle the taxes (Modelo 600) and submit the documents to the Registry. If you buy with a mortgage, the bank will impose its own administrative agent.

• Average fees in Málaga: Between €300 and €600.

Additional costs if you apply for a Mortgage

If you are going to finance your home in Málaga, you must add these items that do not apply to cash purchases:

1. Official Valuation: A bank requirement to determine the guarantee value. The cost in 2026 is around €350 - €550.

2. Nota Simple (Property Extract): To verify prior encumbrances (about €20 - €30).

3. Opening Commission: Depends on your bank (usually between 0% and 1%).

Note: Thanks to the Mortgage Law, the bank now pays the AJD (Stamp Duty), the notary for the loan, the mortgage registration and the mortgage administrative agent.

Summary Table of Costs (Example for a €250,000 property)

How to optimize these costs when buying in Málaga?

At Pineapple Homes, we know every euro counts. Having a local expert not only helps you find the ideal property in neighborhoods like El Limonar, Teatinos or the Historic Centre, but also ensures you correctly apply all the Junta de Andalucía tax deductions to reduce your tax bill.

If you are looking for your next second-hand home in Málaga and want a precise breakdown of costs according to your profile, contact our team today.