Before you start viewing homes in Calafell or Cunit, work out how much cash you can actually commit to a purchase. The asking price is only part of the picture: you must also plan for taxes, legal and completion costs, the amount not covered by a mortgage and the savings you need to keep after completion.
This guide describes general rules applicable in Catalonia in November 2026. Tax treatment and lending conditions depend on each transaction. Make sure the figures are checked against current official information before paying a reservation deposit.
1. Your deposit depends on the mortgage offer
A lender does not have to finance a fixed proportion of the purchase price. Your circumstances, the valuation, the property and the lender's policies all matter. Imagine, as an illustration only, a €200,000 purchase funded by a €160,000 mortgage. You would need €40,000 from your own resources towards the price. This is not a financing offer or a universal lending rule.
2. Transfer tax can be a major cost
For an ordinary resale purchase in Catalonia, the general property transfer tax (ITP) uses progressive rates. The first €600,000 is charged at 10%, with higher bands applying above that amount. Reduced or special rates may apply if specific legal conditions are met; never assume you qualify merely because of your age or intended use.
The taxable base is not always the price agreed with the seller. Where the property has an official cadastral reference value, tax is calculated using the highest of that value, the declared value and the agreed price. This is worth checking before you commit.
3. A €200,000 property: an illustrative calculation
Assume that both the price and the taxable base are €200,000, the property is a resale home, the general ITP rate of 10% applies and the mortgage is €160,000. The figures would be €40,000 towards the price and €20,000 in transfer tax: €60,000 in total before purchase deed fees, registration, valuation and other applicable costs. A higher taxable base or smaller loan would increase your required cash.
4. Mortgage expenses are not the same as purchase expenses
Under Spain's Mortgage Credit Act 5/2019, a lender generally pays the notary, registration, administration and applicable tax costs associated with formalising the mortgage loan itself. The borrower normally pays the valuation and any lawfully agreed fees. This does not mean the bank pays the costs of the separate purchase deed or the taxes on buying the property.
5. New-build homes and resale homes differ
Do not apply resale tax calculations automatically to a new-build property. First supplies of new homes are generally subject to VAT and, where applicable, stamp duty (AJD) rather than resale ITP. Check the applicable tax rates and the precise circumstances of the transaction.
6. Reservation payments, arras and cash reserves
A reservation payment or an arras deposit may count towards the price, but involves paying money before completion and the agreement may set consequences if either party does not proceed. Before paying, examine financing terms, deadlines, property documents and proof of funds. Keep a buffer for moving, repairs and ordinary expenses after completion.
7. The most useful budgeting question
Instead of asking only 'What price can I afford?', work with three figures: your contribution to the purchase price, taxes and transaction expenses, and the savings you intend to retain. This makes it easier to compare homes and negotiate without unnecessary pressure.
If you are considering a home in Calafell or Cunit, check both the finances and the paperwork before committing to a listing. The examples in this guide are illustrative and are not a substitute for individual banking, tax or legal advice.