As the real estate market continues to evolve, buying off-plan has become one of the most attractive options for both investors and buyers. It allows purchasers to acquire property at a competitive price, with the possibility of customization, adaptation to their needs, and the potential to benefit from value appreciation even before delivery.
It is estimated that in 2024, 35% of new homes in Spain were sold under this modality, often at prices up to 20% lower than completed properties. However, this type of transaction also carries certain risks and legal particularities, which every buyer should be fully informed about.
En esta artículo encontrarás toda la información que necesitas saber acerca de la compra sobre plano, en una guía completa en la que estaremos explorando desde qué es la compra sobre plano, cuáles son sus ventajas, sus riesgos y hasta revisaremos los aspectos legales clave y cómo se puede invertir de forma segura con esta modalidad.
An off-plan purchase consists of acquiring a residential or commercial property before it has been built, with the decision based on architectural plans, scale models, and design specifications. In this type of purchase, the buyer signs a contract with the developer and makes staged payments throughout the construction period.
The main characteristics of off-plan purchases include the possibility of obtaining a lower purchase price than for a completed property, as well as the opportunity to customize the home by selecting finishes, materials, or even the layout during the early stages. The delivery period is usually between 1 and 3 years, depending on the project, and financing options may include special off-plan mortgage products offered by certain banks.
You might be interested in: fixed, variable or mixed mortgage.
Developers often offer discounts of between 10% and 20% compared to the final sale price. For example, an apartment valued at €300,000 once completed could cost as little as €240,000 during the initial off-plan purchase stage.
Buyers can choose elements such as flooring, sanitary fixtures, kitchens, and other types of finishes without incurring additional costs in most cases.
If the real estate market rises, buyers can benefit from immediate capital appreciation. For example, if a property increases in value by 5% annually, in just two years it could be worth between 10% and 15% more.
Payments are not made in a single lump sum; instead, they are divided into installments linked to the progress of construction.
In some autonomous communities, buyers may qualify for reduced Property Transfer Tax (ITP) or Value Added Tax (VAT) rates when purchasing new-build properties.
For completed properties, the purchase price reflects the current market value, whereas off-plan homes can be purchased at up to 20% below market price. In the early stages of an off-plan project, greater customization is possible. With a completed home, however, customization options are generally limited to post-purchase renovations.
On the other hand, the risk of buying off-plan is slightly higher, as it may involve delays or non-compliance, whereas with a completed property, “what you see is what you get.” In terms of financing, buyers must obtain an off-plan mortgage with phased disbursements, which not all banks offer. By contrast, a completed home can typically be financed with a standard mortgage.
Finally, while a completed home can be purchased and occupied immediately, an off-plan property typically has a delivery period of approximately 1 to 3 years.
Buying off-plan can be advantageous if you are looking for an initial saving, making it ideal for those who can wait and want to pay slightly less. It is also a good option for investors if the area is expected to appreciate in value before delivery. Additionally, it is particularly appealing for buyers who want customization, as it allows them to choose certain details from the outset without the need for costly renovations.
However, it is not a recommended option for those who need housing urgently, as delays are quite common.
Verify the developer’s track record, including whether past projects were delivered on time and whether there are any claims against them. Consult public records, such as the Developers’ Register held by the College of Registrars.
Consider whether the area is under development, its proximity to services (transport, schools), and review building permits and municipal authorizations.
Some banks offer off-plan mortgages with phased disbursements — for example, BBVA and CaixaBank have specific products for this type of purchase.
Make sure the contract includes an exact delivery date, penalty clauses for delays, a detailed specification of finishes, and protection clauses in case the developer becomes insolvent.
You must visit the property before signing the public deed in order to verify that everything matches what was agreed.
The sale contract must include binding delivery deadlines, exact square-metre measurements and layout, and the agreed finishes and quality levels.
A 3-year warranty is provided for construction defects and a 10-year warranty for structural damage.
If the developer goes bankrupt, the buyer can seek recourse via a bank guarantee or a surety insurance / performance bond.
This law applies once the property has been delivered, for matters related to the homeowners’ association.
Payment typically follows this structure: a reservation deposit of €5,000–€10,000 to secure the unit; upon signing the contract, a 10–20% down payment; staged payments during construction (typically 30–40% as work progresses); and the final settlement paid upon delivery.
Penalty clauses should be required, for example, 1% of the property value per month of delay.
The contract should require the inclusion of material samples.
It must be verified that the project has a bank guarantee and surety insurance.
A specialized professional can review the contract and its clauses.
So that it covers advance payments made by the buyer.
Construction progress should be monitored to verify ongoing development.
You might be interested in: ICO-backed guarantee.
Yes, as long as the developer is financially solvent and the contract includes guarantees.
It must include deadlines, a description of the property, penalties, and guarantees.
Yes, through a contract assignment, which may involve additional costs.
It is estimated to range between €10,000 and €50,000, depending on the value of the property.
The building permit, the final plans, and the developer’s guarantees.
A legal claim may be filed, or compensation can be negotiated.
Can you imagine investing in real estate without large sums of money or legal complications? With Domoblock, that scenario is already a reality. This innovative digital real estate investment platform allows you to get started with as little as €200, opening the door to carefully selected real estate projects known for their high profitability.
Thanks to blockchain technology, every transaction is recorded in a secure, transparent, and verifiable way, eliminating unnecessary intermediaries and reducing the typical risks of the sector. Everything is designed to provide maximum confidence and efficiency, regardless of your level of financial experience.
But Domoblock goes far beyond a simple platform—it is a strategic ally on your path to financial freedom. Its team of specialists guides you in creating a solid, diversified investment portfolio tailored to your short-, medium-, and long-term objectives.
It’s time to take the step toward a new way of investing. Digital, secure, and accessible to everyone. Start today with Domoblock and be part of the future of the real estate market!
Buying off-plan can be an excellent opportunity to save money, personalize a home, and take advantage of real estate appreciation, but it requires caution and legal advice.
En el 2026 esta modalidad seguirá siendo una opción atractiva para inversores y compradores dispuestos a esperar. Si decides que la compra sobre plano es para ti, sigue nuestras recomendaciones para así minimizar riesgos y asegurar una inversión rentable.
.png)
Funded:
100%
616.679,01 €
Objective:
616.679,01 €
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.jpeg)
.png)
