SELLING A PROPERTY IN SPAIN

In Spain, property sales are completed at the notary, who oversees the legal transfer of ownership. Having the right agent will connect you with potential buyers, simplify the process, and ensure your interests are protected. At SVEA HOMES we make sure you’re informed at every step, providing guidance all the way through to signing at the notary.

Timeline of the Selling Process

1. Preparations

Property Information
We begin by gathering all the details about your property. Every home has unique selling points, and we use these to build the foundation for a successful sale.

Market Valuation
We prepare a valuation using data from recent sales, current listings, and our own on-the-ground expertise. With full access to industry databases, we provide an accurate and up to date picture of your property’s value. Valuation is free of charge.

Agency Agreement
Before marketing begins, we establish an agreement. This may be non-exclusive (you can list with other agents) or exclusive (we act as your sole agent).

Financial Overview
We’ll review your property’s running costs, upcoming repairs, and community fees if relevant (comunidad). This helps buyers make informed decisions and avoids surprises during negotiations.

Energy Certificate
An Energy Performance Certificate is required by law. We’ll help arrange this quickly through trusted partners.

Required Documents
To market your property, you’ll need:

  • Nota Simple (land registry extract)

  • Escritura (title deed)

  • Recent utility bills

  • IBI receipt (property tax)

  • Basura receipt (waste collection)

  • Comunidad fee statement

2. Marketing

Preparing the Property
Presentation matters. We’ll suggest simple improvements, from de-personalising spaces to light staging, to create a welcoming and neutral setting for buyers.

Professional Photography
Our photographer highlights your home’s best features; light, space and lifestyle potential.

Marketing Exposure
Your property will be listed in three languages on our website, shared across international portals, social media, our weekly newsletter, and promoted through our partner network to ensure maximum visibility.

3. Viewings & Offers

Viewings
We prepare carefully for every viewing, ensuring buyers receive all the information they need in a relaxed and professional environment.

Offers
In Spain, auctions are rare. Typically, the first buyer willing to pay the asking price secures the home. Offers are negotiated directly between buyer and seller, with our full support.

4. Contracts & Completion

Reservation Agreement
Once an offer is accepted, the buyer pays a reservation fee (usually €6,000) and the property is removed from the market.

Private Purchase Contract (Contrato de Arras)
Once legal checks are complete, this contract is signed. The buyer pays 10% of the purchase price (less the reservation fee).

Completion at the Notary
On completion day, both parties (or their representatives) meet at the notary. The ownership deed (Escritura Pública de Compraventa) is signed, and the notary oversees payment and transfer of ownership.

Payment & Withholding
If you are not a Spanish tax resident, 3% of the sale price is withheld by law and paid to the Spanish tax office. This can later be reclaimed if all obligations are met.

Key Handover
The property must be vacant and in the agreed condition at handover. Keys are given to the buyer at the notary.

Taxes & Costs for Sellers

We’ve outlined all the costs of selling your property, so there are no unexpected surprises, see below:


Capital Gains Tax

Non-residents: 19% on net profit

Residents: 19–23%, depending on gain
Renovation and sales-related costs may be deductible with proper invoices.

Plusvalía

A municipal tax on the increase in land value since your purchase.

Other Costs

Lawyer’s fee

Agent’s commission (as agreed) Normally 4-6% of final sales price.

Mortgage redemption fee (if applicable)

Corporate Sales

Selling through a Spanish company may qualify for reduced transfer tax under specific conditions. Always consult your agent or lawyer for the latest rules.

Selling with Confidence

At SVEA HOMES, we aim to make selling your home in Spain simple, transparent, and stress-free. From valuation and marketing to negotiation and completion, we’re committed to your success every step of the way.