What You Need to Know When Buying a Home in Spain

When purchasing a new-build home in Spain, you might find a pre-installed alarm system already in place. It’s often presented as a “free gift,” but in reality, it’s a commercial tactic designed to lock you into additional costs.

If your home doesn’t have an alarm system or features a different brand than what certain salespeople push, expect a visit soon after moving in. Representatives from well-known providers will likely try to sell you a subscription within weeks.

Why the First Weeks Are Critical

🏠 New-build homes are prime targets
The risk of burglary is highest in the first few weeks after handover. This is not only because your home may still be unoccupied, but also because some companies actively target new homeowners during this vulnerable time.

⚠ Aggressive sales tactics
Almost all providers use high-pressure sales methods, making you feel that your home is unsafe without their system. Numerous cases show fear being weaponized as a sales strategy to rush customers into signing contracts.

💡 Our advice: Don’t let yourself be rushed – take your time to make an informed decision.

The Sales Tricks of Certain Security Companies

All major alarm system providers operate with rental contracts instead of outright sales. This means:

❌ High monthly costs – You’ll keep paying indefinitely, far exceeding the system’s actual value.
❌ Long-term contracts – You’re locked into years of obligations with no easy way out.
❌ No payment, no alarm – Stop paying? The system gets shut off immediately.

💰 Partnerships with banks
Some banks, like Caixabank, offer discounts on mortgage rates if you sign up for a security contract. This might seem appealing, but you’ll end up paying thousands extra for an alarm system you could have owned outright for a fraction of the cost.

How to Spot a Pushy Salesperson

Stay extra vigilant for salespeople who:

⚠ Create fear – They convince you your home is at immediate risk without their system.
⚠ Apply pressure – They push you to sign right away, leaving no time to think.
⚠ Withhold full details – Hidden fees, fine print, and vague contract terms.

📌 Tip: If in doubt, avoid snap decisions and don’t let yourself be pressured.

Smart Choices: Security Without Monthly Fees

Why pay for years when you could own it outright?

✔ Full control – You’re the owner of your system with no monthly fees.
✔ No contractual obligations – You’re not tied down to anything.
✔ Instant savings – A one-time payment means no hidden costs down the line.

💡 A one-time investment in a solid alarm system is always more cost-effective in the long run.

The Hidden Agenda of Home Builders

Does your new home already have an alarm system? Here’s what to watch out for:

🏗 Why builders do this
Many construction companies partner with commercial security firms to pre-install basic alarm systems. This isn’t about your safety – it’s about profit. Builders receive commissions from these security companies for every system installed, incentivizing them to include low-quality alarms in new homes. Their interest lies not with you, the buyer, but with the financial kickbacks they get from these deals.

⚠ What this means for you
These pre-installed systems are typically of poor quality, offering little to no real protection against break-ins. They’re also not tailored to your specific security needs as a new homeowner – they’re generic setups meant to push you toward a subscription. In most cases, you’ll find no access to the system without signing a contract, forcing you to pay ongoing fees just to use what was supposedly a “free” feature.

📌 What you can do
Before accepting a pre-installed system, ask upfront whether it’s freely usable or requires a subscription. Don’t assume it’s a bonus – it’s often a trap to lock you into a costly plan with a commercial provider.

Conclusion: Opt for Real Security

Many security companies aren’t focused on your safety – their goal is long-term contracts and high monthly fees.

📌 Want a reliable alarm system without contracts? Choose a one-time investment for a system that works consistently, with no surprises.

📞 Contact us for free, no-pressure advice.
➡️ Get in touch today