Buying Safely in Mallorca

A Property Lawyer’s Guide to Buying Safely in Mallorca

(Mallorca Insider Podcast – Episode 4)

Thinking about buying a home in Mallorca? Whether it’s a holiday apartment, a rental investment, or a full-time residence, the process is exciting — but the legal side is where things can go right or very wrong. That’s why thinking and researching about Buying Safely in Mallorca should always be your starting point.

In Episode 4 of our Mallorca Insider Podcast, Alby sits down with Peter, a local property lawyer, to break down the most common mistakes people make and how to protect yourself before signing.

About Peter – Frank de la Fuente Lawyers

Peter is a property lawyer at Frank de la Fuente, a long-standing legal firm in Mallorca that specialises in real estate, urban law, and international clients.

His day-to-day work focuses on helping foreign buyers navigate the Spanish system — reviewing contracts, checking property legality, clearing debts, and ensuring titles are properly registered. His goal is simple: to make sure buyers are protected before, during, and after a purchase.

Franke De La Fuente – Boutique property law firm in Spain, focused on clarity and transparency for international buyers. Visit their website here.

Signing Isn’t the End — It’s the Beginning

Many foreign buyers assume that once a contract is signed and the payment is made, they officially own the property.

However, the legal transfer isn’t complete until the title is registered in the buyer’s name. Between signing at the notary and appearing in the registry, debts or legal issues can still attach to the property. This is one of the biggest misunderstandings in Mallorca real estate.

Due Diligence Protects You from Hidden Surprises

Before closing, Peter highlights the importance of checking:

Existing debts or mortgages
Unpaid utility bills
Community fees
Building legality and permits
Urban planning status
That the seller is the real title holder

If these issues exist, they do not disappear after completion — they transfer with the property.

As Peter explains in the podcast, buyers can inherit everything linked to a property, including unpaid bills and outstanding obligations. That’s why his legal team checks utilities, community fees, and any existing financial or legal burden before anyone signs. He makes it clear that a fast purchase is still possible — it just needs to be protected.

Budget for the Real Cost of Buying Safely in Mallorca

Along with the price of the property, buyers should budget for:

Notary fees
Registry fees
Legal fees
Taxes

Most purchases end up with an additional 10–13% in costs on top of the sale price. Being aware of this from the beginning avoids last-minute financial surprises.

Move Quickly, But Never Blindly

Mallorca’s property market moves fast, and good homes don’t stay available for long. Sellers may push for quick signing, and acting quickly can be an advantage — as long as the property is legally checked at the same time. The goal isn’t to slow down the process, but when buying safely in Mallorca you need to move decisively with proper legal protection.

With a lawyer reviewing contracts, checking debts, and verifying the title, buyers can secure a property fast without exposing themselves to risk.

A Clean Purchase Makes Future Resale Easier

If you choose to sell later, banks, agents, and new buyers will request the same documents and legality checks.

A properly registered, debt-free property with clear paperwork sells faster and holds its value better.
Doing things correctly at the beginning prevents expensive complications years later.

Final Thoughts

Mallorca is one of the most beautiful places in the world to own a home — but the legal foundation matters just as much as the view.

With the right lawyer, proper registration, and full due diligence, buying here can be smooth, secure, and enjoyable.

Listen to audio on Podcast channels: