What legal contracts are necessary for a Costa del Sol property purchase?

When purchasing an investment property on the Costa del Sol, several essential legal contracts and documents are involved to ensure a secure transaction. Initially, a Reservation Contract (Contrato de Reserva) is often used to take the property off the market while initial due diligence is performed. This contract typically involves a small deposit. Following this, the Private Purchase Agreement (Contrato Privado de Compraventa) is drafted and signed by both parties. This is a crucial document that outlines all the terms and conditions of the sale, including the purchase price, payment schedule, completion date, and any specific conditions or clauses agreed upon. It legally binds both the buyer and the seller. Before signing, your lawyer will conduct extensive checks to ensure the property is free of debts, encumbrances, and has all necessary licenses and permits, such as the Habitation License (Licencia de Primera Ocupación). Finally, the Public Deed of Sale (Escritura Pública de Compraventa) is signed before a Notary Public. This document formally transfers ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer. The Notary's role is to ensure the legality of the transaction and that all parties understand the terms. After notarization, this deed is then submitted to the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad) for official registration, making the buyer the legal owner. It's also vital to ensure all agreements regarding rental management or property upkeep are covered by separate, watertight contracts, especially for investment properties.