Buying a home is an important decision that entails evaluating different factors. One of the crucial aspects is determining whether to purchase a second-hand property or a new build. Both options have their advantages and challenges and it’s vital to consider the various financial and legal aspects associated with each of them.
In today’s article, we’re going to focus on second-hand housing and specifically on the transfer tax in the Balearic Islands.
What is Transfer Tax?
Transfer Tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales, ITP) is a tax levied throughout Spain on the transfer of assets or rights of a proprietary nature.
This is generally a tax levied on the purchase and sale of property, such as houses, land, vehicles, and shares, among other assets.
In more specific terms, the ITP is a tax that is paid when goods or rights are transferred for valuable consideration. This means that when a good or right is acquired in exchange for a price, whether by sale, donation or any other type of transaction, this tax must be paid. The amount to be paid varies according to the value of the property, and varies depending on the Autonomous Region, so it is not the same everywhere.
Who pays the ITP in the Balearic Islands?
The purchaser of the property is responsible for paying this tax. Form 600 must be filed and this can be done online via the electronic branch or in person at the Central Services, collection offices of the Tax Agency of the Balearic Islands or at the Island Delegations.
The deadline for submitting the self-assessment is 30 working days from the day after the deed of purchase is signed. In addition to completing the form, a true copy and a simple copy of the deed must be attached.
General tax rate
The purchase of a second-hand property is subject to this tax. As of January 2023, the ITP fluctuates between 8% and 13% of the taxable base, depending on the value of the property purchased. The percentages vary according to different value brackets, as detailed below:
- Total value of the property up to 400,000 €: Full tax of 0 € at a rate of 8%.
- Total value of the property from 400,000.01 € to 600,000 €: Full tax of 32,000 € at a rate of 9%.
- Total value of the property from 600,000.01 € to 1,000,000 €: Full tax of 50,000 € at a rate of 10%.
- Total value of the property from 1,000,000.01 € to 2,000,000 €: Full tax of 90,000 € at a rate of 12%.
- Total value of the property from 2,000,000.01 € upwards: Full tax of 210.000 € at a rate of 13%.
It’s important to note that if the accrual date is before 1 January 2023, the ITP rates are slightly different.
