The estate agent's role
An estate agent introduces properties, arranges viewings and often coordinates negotiations and documents. Establish whom the agent represents and whether you have agreed to pay a fee. Read any viewing sheet or reservation form before signing: a short document can contain financial commitments. Ask for the scope of the service in writing, including what information has been verified and what has simply been supplied by the seller.
Your lawyer's agreed assignment
A buyer's lawyer can review ownership, charges, contracts and legal issues relevant to the intended purchase. The actual work depends on the engagement, so ask whether planning enquiries, tax calculations, negotiation, completion and post-purchase filings are included. Identify conflicts of interest and who will report to you. A useful report should distinguish documents reviewed, unanswered questions, proposed solutions and matters requiring a technical specialist.
What the notary contributes
The notary is a public official who provides impartial legal guidance and authorises the public deed after the relevant checks. Contact the office early enough to discuss the transaction and receive explanations you understand. The deed records the legal act; it is not a building survey or a comprehensive assessment of whether the home suits your project. Raise concerns before the appointment and request the draft in advance.
Bring in technical and financial specialists
An architect or other appropriate technician can inspect defects, compare plans and examine proposed works within their professional remit. A valuation serves its stated purpose and should not be treated as a substitute for a condition survey. A gestor or tax adviser may handle filings under a separate engagement. Create a simple responsibility list so that checks do not fall between professionals who each assume somebody else is handling them.
Sources & further reading
Consejo General del Notariado · Viviendas e inmuebles ↗BOE · Información al comprador de vivienda (RD 515/1989) ↗Editorial preview: professional legal review is pending. This guide provides general information and does not determine the legal position of a particular property.
Have a property in mind?
Start by organising its documents and the questions still to resolve.