Costa del Sol Guide
New-build reservation, staged payments and completion timing
What happens between choosing a unit and receiving the keys.
A clear walkthrough of reservation deposits, private contracts, staged payments, bank guarantees and completion.
Buying a new-build on the Costa del Sol usually starts with a reservation agreement. This takes the chosen unit off the market for a short period while your lawyer checks the basics and you prepare for the private purchase contract.
The reservation amount varies by development. It is often a relatively small deposit compared with the full purchase price, but it still matters because it sets deadlines, identifies the unit and creates the first written record of the commercial terms.
The private purchase contract is the more important step. It normally confirms the payment schedule, specification, delivery expectations, bank guarantee arrangements, cancellation terms and the developer's obligations before completion.
Staged payments are common. A buyer might pay an initial percentage when signing the private contract, further instalments during construction and the balance at completion. The exact structure depends on the development and construction stage.
Completion happens when the home is legally ready to transfer, the buyer pays the balance, the title deed is signed and keys are released. Before that point, your lawyer should confirm the relevant licences, guarantees, tax position and completion statement.
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Domosmar focuses on Marbella and Costa del Sol property for international buyers, including new-build apartments, villas, penthouses and selected resales.