Buyer's guide
Estate agencies in Spain — which types exist and how to choose
As a Swede looking for an estate agency in Spain you will meet three kinds: Swedish chains with offices on the coast, large international networks and small local offices. No type suits everyone. This guide explains the differences, what to ask and how to avoid the most common pitfalls.
How agents work in Spain
In Spain estate agency is not regulated the way it is in Sweden, and there is no mandatory national licence. Andalusia has a voluntary register, but quality varies. The agent normally represents the seller, and the same property can be listed with several agencies at once. The fee is usually paid by the seller and is often around 3–6 per cent.
Swedish chains on the coast
Several Swedish and Scandinavian agencies have offices in places like Marbella and Fuengirola. The upside is Swedish all the way and familiarity with Swedish buyers' questions on tax and finance. The downside can be a narrower selection, since they often show their own listings first.
International networks and local offices
International networks have large property databases and usually English-speaking staff. Small local offices may know individual neighbourhoods inside out and hold listings that never reach the portals. Many cooperate and split the fee, so a good agent can show far more than their own listings.
Five questions to ask the agency
Ask every agency the same questions so they are easy to compare.
- 1. Will I have one Swedish- or English-speaking contact through the whole purchase?
- 2. Do you show only your own listings or the whole market?
- 3. How long have you worked in this particular area?
- 4. Who pays the fee, and how much is it?
- 5. Can you recommend an independent lawyer who is not tied to you?
Common pitfalls
Never sign a reservation contract or pay a deposit before an independent lawyer has checked title, debts, building permits and the community's finances. Be wary of agencies that push for a decision during the viewing trip, and remember the same property can be listed at different prices with different agencies.
How Solria helps
Solria is not an estate agency. We match you free of charge with a vetted, Swedish- or English-speaking partner agent who knows the area that suits your budget and way of life. There is no commitment, and our fee never affects the price of the home.
Areas to read next
Prices, pace and services differ between towns. These are the four we work with — each guide has price levels, neighbourhoods and practical facts.
Marbella
The most agencies on the coast — comparing carefully pays off most here.
Read the area guide
Fuengirola
Strong Nordic presence and several Scandinavian agencies.
Read the area guide
Estepona
Lots of new build — ask whether the agency sells directly for a developer.
Read the area guide
Sotogrande
Many homes are sold discreetly off the portals.
Read the area guideFrequently asked questions
- Which estate agency in Spain is best for Swedes?
- It depends on area and budget. Choose an agency with a Swedish- or English-speaking contact, long experience of your town and access to the whole market, not just its own listings.
- Does the buyer pay an agent's fee in Spain?
- Usually not. The fee is normally paid by the seller and included in the price. Always ask the agency before viewings.
- Can I use several agencies at once?
- Yes, that is common. But a good agent who cooperates with other agencies can often show the same selection and save you duplicated effort.
- Do I need a lawyer if I have an agent?
- Yes. The agent usually represents the seller. An independent lawyer reviews the purchase on your behalf.
Other guides
- Golf & homes
- Marinas & boating
- Buying a house in Spain
- What does buying in Spain cost?
- NIE, bank account and mortgage
- Buying property in Spain as a Norwegian
- Compare the areas
This is general guidance, not legal or tax advice. Always confirm current rules and amounts with your lawyer.
Read on
Take the next step — compare towns, read through the buying process or tell us what you are looking for.
- Buying an apartment in Marbella – area guide
Golden Mile, Puerto Banús and the old town, with prices and an English-speaking partner agent.
- Buying a house in Estepona – area guide
A real Spanish town centre, new builds and more space per euro than Marbella.
- A villa in Nueva Andalucía – golf valley area guide
Golf-side villas and townhouses with La Concha views, five minutes from Puerto Banús.
- An apartment in Fuengirola – area guide
Nordic community, train to the airport and the best value central locations on the coast.
- A home in Benalmádena – area guide
The village, Arroyo de la Miel and the marina, about 20 minutes by train to the airport.
- Buying a house in Mijas – area guide
White-village life in Mijas Pueblo, golf and good-value villas in Mijas Costa.
- A villa in Sotogrande – area guide
Valderrama, polo, a marina and plenty of space and privacy.
- Buyer's guide: how to buy a house in Spain
Step by step from budget and NIE number to notary and keys.
- Estate agents in Marbella – how to compare
Five criteria for choosing the right agent, plus free matching with a partner agent.
- Estate agencies in Spain – how to choose
Swedish chains, international networks or local offices – questions to ask and pitfalls to avoid.
- All guides to buying property on the Costa del Sol
Costs, taxes, NIE, bank account and mortgages in one place.
- Get free area suggestions
Tell us your budget, timing and preferred area — we connect you with a local partner agent.
Free of charge
We suggest areas for you
Marie Segerholm
Founder, Solria · Personal contact
- ✓ Free for you as a buyer – no fees, no obligations
- ✓ Personal contact within hours, every weekday
- ✓ Swedish- or English-speaking partner agent
- ✓ No sales calls – we contact you only the way you choose