Guide to selling
Process of Selling in Spain
- Enlist an estate agent
- Accept an offer
- Decide on a notary
- Complete the sale
The role of your Fine & Country estate agent
Our experienced estate agents value your property based on market conditions, location, and its condition, amongst many other factors.
The presentation of your property is essential in order to achieve the best possible offer. Fine & Country agents aim to perfectly portray the unique details and lifestyle of your home. With the combination of exquisite presentation materials both online and in print. Bespoke property listings on our global website, exquisite brochures, and window cards displayed in prime locations, are just a few examples of the channels our agents use to grab the attention of potential buyers.
Our agents guide you through the sales process, ensuring that it’s as smooth as possible through regular communication and review of your bespoke marketing strategy. We make sure that your offers are valid and that potential purchasers are fully motivated and qualified. All prospective buyers are accompanied on viewings by experienced, knowledgeable team members who are confident in promoting the benefits of your property and the local area.
Accepting a suitable Offer
Once you accepted an offer, a deposit contract is created. The buyer will put down the agreed percentage of the sales price as a deposit.
Decide on a Notary
The notary will complete paperwork, check associated taxes are paid and register the property with the Land Registry.
Complete the Sale
On the day of completion, you will be invited to the notary's office along with the buyer. If you can’t attend then a lawyer with power of attorney can sign all the paperwork on your behalf.
These documents include:
- The properties CEE, or Certificado de Eficiencia Energética
- Your tax identification number
- Proof of the money’s source the buyer has paid
- The property’s IBI receipt
The notary ensures that the buyer has the means to pay for the property and has passed all money laundering checks.
Selling in Spain from abroad
Bank transfer charges vary depending on banks and the amount you are transferring.
You will need to obtain a tax identification number before selling your property.
As a non-resident, it is recommended to appoint a Spanish-speaking legal professional to look over documents. You will also have the opportunity to give them the power of attorney to sign documents on your behalf.
Costs of Selling a Property in Spain
Capital gains tax (CGT)
Capital gains tax is due on the profit you make from the sale of your property:
- 19% for non-residents from EU/EEA countries
- 24% for non-residents from other countries
- 19-23% for Spanish residents –based on how much profit you make
Income tax (Impuesto sobre la Renta)
This is paid to Hacienda, Spain's central tax authority. The taxable money calculated is based on the difference between the purchase and sale price.
Residents have to include this on their income tax declaration. However, non-residents will pay 21% of the taxable base. In order to offset this amount buyers should retain and pay 3% of the sale price to the central tax authority.
Plusvalia Tax
Plusvalia is a local tax paid when selling a property. The cost of this will be based on the increase in property value since the purchase.
You’ll have 30 days after the sale to pay this tax to the Town Hall. Plusvalia tax needs to be paid if the property is gifted or inherited.
Notary
The notary fees will usually be paid by the buyer. However, some regions have different practices.
Certificado de Eficiencia Energética (CEE)
Sellers are legally obliged to provide an energy performance certificate (CEE).
Lawyer
It is not obligatory to instruct a lawyer in Spain. However, a lawyer will be able to advise you on tax laws. If you don’t speak Spanish a lawyer can check over your documents too.