The Spanish property market has a commission structure that is often opaque to international buyers. Understanding who pays what, and why, is essential before you engage any agent.
In Spain, most agents are paid by the seller. That means the person showing you properties has a financial incentive to close the sale, not to find the right property for you. Knowing this changes how you engage with the market.
Paid by the seller. Usually split between listing and selling side in a co-brokering arrangement.
In the vast majority of Spanish transactions, the commission is paid by the seller, not the buyer.
We always disclose any commission we receive from a developer or seller before any commitment is made.
When a seller lists a property, they agree a commission with their agent, typically 3 to 6% of the sale price. This is paid by the seller at completion. Because the seller pays, the selling agent’s primary obligation is to the seller. They are not working for you, even if they seem helpful.
Spanish property is frequently marketed through co-brokering arrangements. If a buyer is introduced by a different agent than the listing agent, the commission is split. This creates an incentive for agents to show buyers properties where they have a co-brokering arrangement, rather than all properties that might suit the buyer’s needs.
Developers pay commissions to agents who introduce buyers. These commissions are typically higher than resale commissions, sometimes reaching 5 to 7% or more. The commission is included in the developer’s pricing and does not appear as a separate line item.
Aluma’s approach: We are registered as an intermediary partner with several developers, including Higuerón Developments and DAR Global. When we introduce a buyer to one of these projects, we may receive a commission from the developer. We disclose this before any viewing. Our advisory fee to you is agreed separately and does not change based on which property you choose.
An independent buyer’s advisor charges a fee directly to the buyer. This fee is agreed upfront, is transparent, and is not contingent on which property the buyer ultimately purchases. Aluma operates three advisory packages at fixed fees, paid upfront and exclusive of IVA.
Our fee structure and any commission arrangements are explained in full at your first call. No surprises, ever.