It is becoming hugely common to purchase property in Spain, as it is now hugely accessible via cheap flights. After you have found your dream property, you will need to get in touch with an estate agent.
Do some research first, as many estate agents in Spain will try and get as much commission from unwary foreign buyers as possible. Particularly as many Brits do very little research, and allow themselves to be led by the estate agent. If possible, hire an English (or English-speaking) estate agent, as well as a lawyer, to navigate you through the complex Spanish property laws. The lawyer will typically charge 1% of the property value, however it is an excellent investment for peace of mind.
You will have to negotiate terms prior to signing contracts. It is acceptable to make an offer subject to mortgage approval. For properties under construction, a system of stage payments will be made to avoid having to pay the full property value up front.
It is wise to be prepared to act quickly. The property market in Spain is buoyant, and so properties are bought up very quickly. As a result, you should be prepared to make a decision, and back it up with a deposit quite rapidly. The deposit (usually about €3,000) can be paid by cash or credit card. Resist the temptation of paying by cheque, as they can take up to 10 days to clear, giving a rival buyer a chance to jump in and take over the property with a cash deposit.
With the offer accepted, and deposit paid, the next stage is to draw up a contract, a Contrato privado de compraventa. This contract agrees to the sale, the price to pay, and what is included in that price. The process usually starts 2 weeks after the deposit is paid. This is also where the lawyer earns their wages, as they conduct property searches and ensuring no outstanding debts attached to the property. You will be required to a 10% deposit (non-refundable) at this stage.
Completion takes place when the contracts are signed in front of a notary, and the final balance is paid. The signed deed is lodged with the land registry. Your lawyer will take care of any additional formalities such as outstanding transfer taxes.