Property Purchase in Palma

Palma, the capital of Mallorca and of the Balearic Islands, attracts buyers to flats in the old town and Santa Catalina, apartments by the sea in Portixol and homes on the edge of the city, while many also look at fincas in the countryside beyond. Buying here follows the route of property purchase in Spain, but the islands have strict rules of their own on tourism and on building in the countryside. This overview is general and does not amount to legal advice.

How it usually works in Palma

First comes the NIE, then the price is agreed and a private contract with a deposit is signed. The lawyer asks the registry office of the district for the nota simple, checks the cadastre, the IBI and the community, and prepares the signing before a notary; deeds in the islands may be drafted in Catalan as well as in Spanish. For a resale home, the Balearic Islands charge their own property transfer tax.

What to watch for in Palma

• Holiday lets. Palma does not allow new holiday lets in apartment buildings. A flat bought here is, in practice, a home or a long-term let, not a tourist rental.
• The old town. Many buildings in the historic centre are protected. Facades, courtyards and layouts may not be changed freely, which shapes any renovation plan.
• Fincas on rural land. Building, extending or adding a pool on rustic land in Mallorca is tightly limited. The legal status of every structure on a finca is checked against the licences.
• Coastal strip. Homes very close to the sea can be affected by the national coastal law, which restricts works near the shore.

How an English-speaking lawyer helps

The lawyer explains the Spanish and Catalan documents in English, checks planning and licences with the town hall when needed, and can sign for a buyer abroad under a power of attorney. Renovations and new structures after completion are covered under building permits and planning permission. The lawyers within reach of the city are on the page for Palma.

Questions and answers

Can I rent my Palma apartment to holidaymakers?

New holiday lets in apartment buildings are not allowed in Palma. Other types of home follow the Balearic tourism rules, which are strict and checked case by case.

Can I build a pool on a finca near Palma?

Only within the limits of the rules for rural land and with a licence. Whether an existing pool or annex is legal is part of the pre-purchase checks.

Is the deed in Spanish or Catalan in Mallorca?

Either is possible. A buyer can ask the notary for Spanish, and the lawyer explains the content in English.