Map each payment before moving funds
Create a payment schedule covering the reservation, further deposits, balance, taxes and professional invoices. For each item, record the recipient, purpose, contractual basis and expected date. A deposit paid to an agent raises different questions from a payment directly to the seller: confirm authority to receive it and the release or refund conditions. Ask for receipts that identify the property and the agreement to which the money relates.
Explain the origin of funds early
Banks and professionals may need information about the origin of money under their legal compliance obligations. Gather the documents that explain your particular funds, such as accumulated savings, earnings, an inheritance or a sale. If a relative contributes money, clarify whether it is a gift, loan or ownership contribution and obtain advice on its documentation and taxation. Do not wait until the last transfer to identify missing evidence.
Coordinate currency, limits and timing
Ask your bank or payment provider about transfer limits, cut-off times, fees, exchange rates and any checks that could delay availability. Obtain the notary's and seller's agreed completion payment arrangements in advance. Check whether an international transfer, domestic transfer or bank cheque is expected and what evidence will be required. An instruction to transfer does not necessarily mean cleared funds have arrived, so leave a practical margin for settlement.
Verify changes through a separate channel
Treat an unexpected change of bank details as something to verify, especially close to completion. Contact the known recipient using a telephone number or channel you obtained independently, rather than relying on the same message that requests the change. Match the beneficiary and transaction details before approving payment. Preserve receipts and confirmations in your purchase folder, and reconcile deposits with the final balance so the deed accurately records the payment history.
Sources & further reading
Consejo General del Notariado · Viviendas e inmuebles ↗BOE · Ley de prevención del blanqueo de capitales ↗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.