Buying Occupied Properties: Everything You Need to Know (2026)

June 30, 2026

In today's real estate market, one of the options that has generated the most controversy but also the most opportunities is the purchase of occupied properties. These properties, whether illegally occupied or used by tenants with a valid contract, are often sold at prices well below their current market value, which can make them a very attractive alternative for individuals such as high-risk investors.

However, acquiring an occupied property also entails legal, economic, and logistical challenges that must be carefully evaluated. In this article, we will thoroughly analyze everything involved in buying an occupied property, including the risks and benefits, the eviction process, and the key considerations for making an informed decision when purchasing an occupied property.

Nueva llamada a la acción

What does buying an occupied property mean?

Buying an occupied property refers to acquiring a dwelling where someone already resides without the owner's consent (known as illegal occupation or 'okupación ilegal') or where tenants have a still-valid rental contract. These types of situations can affect the property's purchase price, legal procedures, and the subsequent recovery process.

Types of Occupancy

Tenant with a contract

In this type of occupancy, the occupant has a legal and fully valid rental contract, which the owner must respect until its expiration date. This can even be an opportunity for continuous income if the tenant consistently pays on time.

Illegal Occupation (Okupación)

In this type of occupation (distinguished by the 'k' spelling, 'okupación'), the occupants residing in the property do not have the owner's permission to live there, thus requiring a judicial process to carry out the eviction, which can involve legal costs and delays.

Why are occupied properties sold?

Difficulty of eviction

Many owners are unable to evict the occupants from their homes, preferring to sell rather than face the lengthy legal processes involved.

Investment opportunity

Due to the challenges posed by occupied properties, many banks and investment funds sell these properties at very significant discounts.

Lack of resources

Some owners cannot afford the legal and maintenance costs, so they prefer to sell their property.

Is it legal to invest in an occupied or squatted apartment?

Yes, it is legal to buy an occupied apartment. However, the new owner must also assume the legal status of the property. If there are illegal occupants, then an eviction process must be initiated. And if the property has legal tenants, the current contract must continue to be respected.

You may also be interested in: what an eviction is.

Buying an occupied bank-owned apartment: How is it done?

Finding opportunities

First, you should look for an investment opportunity in occupied properties; banks usually sell these properties at auctions through their asset departments.

Due diligence

In this case, the legal status of the property and the situation of the occupants must be verified.

Price negotiation

Occupied apartments can be sold with discounts of 30% or even up to 50%.

Purchase and sale process

Finally, the deed must be signed, but the buyer is responsible for the eviction.

You may also be interested in: warranty against eviction.

How much does it really cost to buy a squatted apartment?

The purchase price can be between 30% and 60% less than for an unoccupied apartment. However, legal costs such as lawyers' fees or evictions can range from 3,000 to 10,000 euros. Additionally, necessary renovations, depending on the property's condition, can entail between 10,000 and 30,000 euros.

What happens after the purchase?

If there are legal tenants, you must wait for their residency contract to be fully completed. On the other hand, if there are illegal squatters, an eviction process must be initiated, which can last between 6 months and up to 2 years.

Once the property has been recovered, it can be rented, sold, or renovated, depending on what the new owner prefers to do.

Nueva llamada a la acción

What to check before investing in an occupied apartment?

Legal status

You should check if there is a rental agreement or if it is an illegal occupation.

Property condition

You should consider if significant renovations are required for the property.

Hidden costs

You may need to incur legal expenses, maintenance costs, or potential unpaid debts associated with the property.

Location

If the property is in a good area, this will greatly facilitate its appreciation.

Practical tips for investing 

Legal advice

It is recommended to hire a lawyer specializing in evictions if the property is under illegal occupation.

Extra budget

You should consider having a reserve of financial funds that may be needed to cover unforeseen legal issues that may arise along the way or renovations that need to be carried out on the property once it can be vacated.

Patience

Evictions can take months or even years, so if this type of purchase is chosen, these timelines must be taken into account.

Bank offers

For this type of purchase, banks often offer better conditions that are worth considering when making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it profitable to buy squatted properties in 2026?

Yes, this can be a much more profitable option, as occupied properties can be sold at a value between 30% and 50% lower than unoccupied ones. However, the property's location for its revaluation and the legal costs associated with the property must be considered.

How long can a squatter stay in a property?

This period can last from a few months to a couple of years, all depending on the speed at which the legal process unfolds, which can vary based on the required procedures, the willingness of the occupants, among other factors.

Can I evict squatters after buying the property?

Yes, squatters residing illegally on the property can be evicted. However, this action requires a legal process involving a trial and obtaining an eviction order. Therefore, one must be prepared to face this entire process, which can be very lengthy.

What happens if squatters don't leave?

In this case, legal channels must be followed; squatters cannot be removed by force, even if they are there illegally. However, once a court order has been obtained, the police can act and remove the squatters.

Are there mortgages for buying occupied properties?

Some banks may grant specific mortgages for this type of purchase of already occupied properties. However, these types of mortgages usually have much stricter conditions than a normal mortgage, as they involve a much higher financial risk, making them more difficult to obtain.

Take the first step towards real estate investment with Domoblock

Would you like to generate income from real estate by investing little money? With Domoblock, that possibility is closer than you imagine. Starting from just €200, you can begin investing in real assets digitally and without barriers.

Through an innovative system based on blockchain, with extensive experience in real estate tokenization and real estate crowdfunding, we transform physical properties into digital assets that you can easily acquire, manage, and monitor. Each fraction you acquire connects you to a property that generates returns and appreciates over time.

And don't worry if it's your first time investing; our team is with you every step of the way, offering personalized advice and strategies tailored to your goals. We want you to invest with confidence and build a solid portfolio at your own pace.

With Domoblock, real estate investment is no longer exclusive. Start today and take control of your financial future intelligently and accessibly!

Nueva llamada a la acción

Conclusion 

Buying an occupied property can be a great investment opportunity, but it comes with very significant and important risks. The success of this type of investment will depend on thorough legal research, having a realistic budget, and being armed with a lot of patience. If you believe you are willing to take on this challenge, you could seize a great opportunity, as these types of operations can offer high returns in the developing real estate market this year.

If you're considering investing in an occupied property, you should carefully evaluate all available options to seize the best opportunities and invest intelligently with an eye on the future.

Sergio Navarro

Expert in blockchain, investments, and personal finance

Share on your social media

Do you like what you're reading?

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Do you like what you're reading?

Subscribe to our newsletter!

En estudio

Valencia | Bétera

Calle Pilar Mateo

DOMO-VLC-36 Fase 1
Obra nueva

Funded

-

-

Target

1.167.964,69€

Rentabilidad estimada:
13%
Duración estimada:
11
Chat with other investors and ask your questions in our Telegram group

Related articles