Buying a rural property in Mallorca is a dream for many people, whether because of the island's natural beauty, the peace of country living or the appeal of a more self-sufficient life. However, purchasing a rural property is not as straightforward as buying an urban home, as there are specific legal and practical considerations. This guide to buying a rural property in Mallorca will explain them all.
At Inmogestión Balear, we are experts in buying and selling rural properties in Mallorca. That is why we offer everything you need to know for a successful purchase, from the initial valuation of the property to obtaining the necessary documentation.
1. What is a rural property?
A rural property is land primarily intended for agricultural, livestock or forestry activities, although it may also contain buildings such as country homes or agricultural stores. Rural land is regulated differently from urban land, and its permitted uses are therefore more limited.
When buying a rural property, it is important to know what it can be used for and what restrictions apply to buildings and activities on the land. The legislation is clear: rural land is protected to prevent uncontrolled development and preserve the landscape and natural resources.
In Mallorca, rural properties are usually located in the countryside, away from urban areas, giving owners a sense of privacy and connection with nature. However, these features also bring specific challenges, particularly regarding the services and infrastructure available, which leads us to the next point.
2. Important considerations before buying a rural property in Mallorca
Buying a rural property is not like buying a house or flat in town. There are several additional factors to consider to make sure your purchase is informed and trouble-free.
2.1. Location and access
Some rural properties in Mallorca may be located in areas that are difficult to reach, so you will need to ensure that access roads are in good condition and that the property can be reached by vehicle. This is particularly important if you intend to live there full-time or use it as a holiday home. You should also check how close it is to basic services such as shops, hospitals and schools.
2.2. Water and electricity supplies
One feature of rural properties is that they do not always have all basic services, such as running water or electricity. In some cases, you will need water wells or even alternative energy systems such as solar panels or electricity generators. Before buying, make sure these services are available or can be installed without difficulty.
2.3. The property's legal status
One of the most important checks before buying a rural property is ensuring that its legal status is in order. This includes:
- Land Registry extract (nota simple): This will show whether the property has any charges or encumbrances.
- Planning information: The certificate concerning proceedings provides information within its scope. Check it against permissions, planning provisions and a technical report; it does not, by itself, guarantee legality or financing.
- Habitability: If there is a dwelling, check which document is appropriate for its occupancy and situation. The certificate of habitability does not replace planning checks or guarantee a mortgage.
2.4. Building permissions
Construction on rural land is subject to stricter rules than on urban land. Depending on the area and the type of property, it may not be possible to build or extend existing buildings without special permission. In some cases, a declaration of general interest may be required before certain infrastructure or buildings can be constructed.
3. The process of buying a rural property in Mallorca
Once you have checked all the points above and found the property you wish to buy, the purchase process begins. Below are the main steps:
3.1. Negotiating the price
Before formalising any agreement, it is important to negotiate the property's price. Remember that rural property prices can vary according to factors such as location, land area, infrastructure and the potential for agricultural or tourism use.
3.2. Reservation and deposit agreement
Before paying a deposit, it is advisable to agree in writing on the type of arras deposit, the deadlines and the purchase conditions. Forfeiting the deposit or returning twice its amount applies to withdrawal under expressly agreed withdrawal deposits (arras penitenciales); these consequences do not automatically apply to every payment.
3.3. Required documentation
To formalise the purchase, gather the documents required for the transaction and confirm them with the notary's office and the technical professional. Depending on the property's characteristics, these may include:
- The property deed.
- The Land Registry extract (nota simple).
- The planning certificates and reports relevant to the particular case.
- The certificate or habitability documentation applicable to any dwelling, according to its occupancy rules and situation.
At Inmogestión Balear, we help you gather all this documentation and check that it is in order to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.
3.4. Financing
Financing a rural property requires the lender to assess both the transaction and the property. The habitability documentation and planning information help with that assessment, but do not guarantee a mortgage. Confirm with the technical professional and competent authority which documents apply to the property.
At Inmogestión Balear, we advise you on the best financing options for buying rural properties, working with banks that offer mortgages specifically for this type of property.
4. Taxes and costs associated with buying a rural property
A guide to buying a rural property in Mallorca would not be complete without considering the taxes and costs involved in the transaction. The main ones are:
4.1. Property Transfer Tax (ITP)
For transfers subject to ITP in the Balearic Islands, the general property tax scale is progressive, with bands of 8%, 9%, 10%, 12% and 13%. The taxable amount and any tax benefits must be checked according to the transaction and the date the tax becomes due.
4.2. Notary and registration fees
It is advisable to agree in writing how costs will be shared. Under the general rule of the Civil Code, the seller pays for execution of the deed and the buyer pays for the first copy and costs following the sale, unless otherwise agreed.
4.3. Valuation
Before approving the mortgage, the bank will need an official valuation of the property to determine its market value. This cost is borne by the buyer and is usually between 300 and 600 euros, depending on the size and features of the property.
5. Conclusion
Buying a rural property in Mallorca is an exciting process, but a successful purchase requires attention to many details. We hope this guide to buying a rural property in Mallorca has been helpful. At Inmogestión Balear, we support you at every stage of the process, making sure everything is in order and that your investment is safe and profitable.
If you are interested in purchasing a rural property or need more information, please get in touch with us. We will help you find the property of your dreams!
Before committing to a purchase, continue your checks with Planning infringement certificates for rural properties and How much does it cost to buy a home in Mallorca?.
