Question 1

Where do the seized apartments put up for auction come from?

Accepted Answer

Seized [apartments](/en/subastas-publicas-viviendas) (pisos embargados) come mainly from mortgage foreclosures — individuals or companies that could not pay their bank mortgage — or from seizures by the [Tax Agency](/en/subastas-hacienda-aeat) and [Social Security](/en/subastas-seguridad-social) for unpaid debts. This section filters the [BOE](/en/subastas-boe) to show exclusively residential assets: apartments, flats, penthouses and duplexes.

Question 2

How much money can I save by buying a seized apartment?

Accepted Answer

Buying a house or apartment at [public auction](/en/subastas-publicas) is one of the most effective ways to acquire property well below market value, with discounts typically ranging from 30% to 50%. With no estate agents involved, the base price is very low. However, to calculate your real saving you must add Transfer Tax (ITP), any refurbishment costs and prior debts to your winning bid.

Question 3

What happens if I buy a bank apartment that has debts or arrears?

Accepted Answer

The biggest risk of acquiring seized apartments is registered liens. When you win the flat, the law obliges you to assume all "prior or preferential charges" (such as existing mortgages) and you must settle any outstanding property tax (IBI) or unpaid building community fees. subastAI's AI analyses the property registry entry for each apartment and breaks down these [hidden debts](/en/glossary) before you risk your money.

Question 4

How do I know if the seized apartment is vacant, tenanted or squatted?

Accepted Answer

Occupancy status is a critical factor. A seized apartment can be vacant, occupied by the debtor, have legally contracted tenants or be subject to illegal occupation (squatters). Reading court files to find out is complex; subastAI's smart engine processes the official auction notice and visually indicates the occupancy situation so you avoid subsequent legal problems.

Question 5

Can I get a mortgage to finance the purchase of the apartment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is legally possible to apply for a mortgage to buy a seized apartment, but timing is a high-risk factor. To bid you need liquid funds to pay the initial deposit (usually 5% of the auction value). If you win, the court or administration will give you a very short deadline (generally 20 or 40 working days) to pay the balance. If the bank delays approval and you miss the deadline, you will forfeit the deposit paid.

Preguntas Frecuentes — Seized Apartments

Where do the seized apartments put up for auction come from?

How much money can I save by buying a seized apartment?

What happens if I buy a bank apartment that has debts or arrears?

How do I know if the seized apartment is vacant, tenanted or squatted?

Can I get a mortgage to finance the purchase of the apartment?