Insights
Analysis from the firm.
Commentary and independent case studies on the law and events shaping Canary Islands real estate. General information, not legal advice.
Legal due diligence before acquiring land in the Canary Islands
Title, planning status, easements, charges and permits: the core review an investor should complete before committing to buy land.
Read analysisUrban planning classification and development rights
Urban, developable and rustic land: how classification determines what an investor can build, and why it is the first question in any land deal.
Read analysisCoastal law and setback restrictions in the Canary Islands
How the Coastal Law zones work, why a sea view can carry legal constraints, and what to check before buying or developing coastal property.
Read analysisEnvironmental assessments for real estate development
When projects and plans need environmental assessment, what the process involves, and why it is a key source of timing and legal risk.
Read analysisBuilding permits and municipal approval risk
Licences, prior communications and occupancy: how municipal approvals work, and how investors can assess the risk that a project stalls.
Read analysisOff-plan purchases and buyer guarantees
Special accounts, individual guarantees and statutory interest: the safeguards for money paid before a home is built.
Read analysisStructuring cross-border real estate investments
Direct ownership, Spanish companies or foreign vehicles: the legal and practical factors that shape how international investors hold Canary Islands property.
Read analysisJoint ventures between investors and developers
Capital, control and exit: the provisions that matter most when an investor partners with a developer on a Canary Islands project.
Read analysisTitle, Land Registry and Cadastre discrepancies
Why the Registry, the Cadastre and reality do not always agree, and how discrepancies can be identified and resolved before a purchase.
Read analysisConstruction contracts and contractor risk
Price, programme, defects and insolvency: how construction contracts allocate risk, and what owners and investors should negotiate.
Read analysisAdministrative appeals and investor rights
How decisions by public authorities can be challenged, the deadlines that apply, and what investors can realistically expect from the process.
Read analysisLegal considerations for tourism and holiday rental projects
Tourist use, registration, community rules and planning compatibility: the issues that determine whether a property can lawfully be let to tourists.
Read analysisDistressed development acquisitions
Stalled projects, insolvency sales and debt purchases: opportunities and legal risks when acquiring unfinished or troubled developments.
Read analysisProperty tax and transaction cost overview
An outline of the taxes and costs typically involved in buying, holding and selling property in the Canary Islands. Verification with a tax adviser is essential.
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