The Impact of the Euro Exchange Rate on the Cost of Purchasing Real Estate in Spain
Learn how the euro exchange rate affects property prices in Spain and how to protect yourself from unfavorable currency fluctuations.
Is it worth monitoring the euro exchange rate when planning to purchase real estate in Spain?
Buying real estate in Spain is a dream for many Poles – sunny weather, beautiful beaches, lifestyle, and a stable real estate market attract investors and those looking for a second home in southern Europe. However, before making a final investment decision, it is worth understanding one of the key factors influencing the total cost of the transaction – the euro exchange rate.
Euro exchange rate and the total investment cost
The value of the euro against the zloty plays a huge role in the final cost calculation of purchasing real estate in Spain. Since all prices are set in euros, even small exchange rate fluctuations can translate into differences of several tens of thousands of zlotys.
Example:
- Average price per square meter of real estate in Spain: 1980 €
- Apartment area: 80 m²
- Total cost: 158,400 €
➡️ At an exchange rate of 4.20 zł/euro: 665,280 zł
➡️ At an exchange rate of 4.50 zł/euro: 712,800 zł
Difference: 47,520 zł – just due to the change in the exchange rate.
What additional costs also depend on the euro exchange rate?
Purchasing real estate is not just the purchase price, but also a number of additional costs that are also converted to zlotys according to the current euro exchange rate:
Purchase tax and administrative fees
- Usually range from 10% to 16% of the property value.
- Include the tax on civil law transactions (ITP), notary fees, and property registry entries.
Legal service costs
- In Spain, using the services of a lawyer (asesor or abogado) is highly recommended.
- Fees for document analysis, assistance in obtaining NIE (foreigner identification number), and finalizing the transaction.
Mortgage costs
- If you finance the purchase with a loan, there are bank fees, commissions, and required insurances.
How to protect yourself from unfavorable changes in the euro exchange rate?
1. Use the services of specialized currency companies
Companies dealing with currency exchange for real estate investors offer, among other things, rate locking, currency advisory, and immediate international transfers at better rates than banks.
2. Buy currency in advance
If you plan to purchase real estate in a few months, you might consider buying euros in advance and storing them in a currency account – this way, you avoid uncertainty regarding future exchange rate fluctuations.
3. Monitor the currency market
Stay updated with economic analyses and predictions regarding the euro exchange rate – some platforms offer SMS and email alerts informing you about favorable exchange rates.
When does the euro exchange rate work in your favor?
A decrease in the euro exchange rate against the zloty is the ideal time to purchase real estate – your zloty budget then has greater purchasing power. For example, if you plan to allocate 700,000 zł for purchasing real estate, at an exchange rate of 4.50 you have 155,555 € at your disposal, while at an exchange rate of 4.20 – as much as 166,666 €, which is almost 11,000 € more!
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Summary
The euro exchange rate has a real impact on the cost of purchasing real estate in Spain and can change your purchasing capabilities. Conscious planning, market monitoring, and using currency services are key elements that will allow you to optimize investment costs and avoid unpleasant surprises.
If you are thinking about buying an apartment, house, or flat in Spain – don't hesitate! Check what offers are waiting for you right now, before the euro exchange rate changes.