Frequently Asked Questions from Spanish Home Sellers

So, you’ve decided it’s time to sell your Spanish home in the sun. Whether you want to move to a different property in the Costa del Sol or you’re hoping to return home to the UK, the home selling process can seem confusing.
Buying a new house is frequently listed as one of the most stressful things you can do, alongside getting married and starting a family, and selling a home is no different. To help you understand the process, and make it run a little more smoothly for you, here are some of the most frequently asked questions from Spanish home sellers and our expert answers:

How should I prepare my home before it is listed for sale?

If you want to ensure that your home makes a good first impression then there are several things you can do before you start showing it to potential buyers, and they don’t have to cost you a fortune.  Firstly, take time to declutter your home: it will instantly make the rooms look bigger and lighter. It will also make it easier to move into your new property if you’ve gotten rid of all the superfluous things you don’t need. Next, ensure that everything is clean and tidy, particularly your front yard: many potential buyers will decide whether they like your home or not before they walk into the front door. Do everything you can to make a good first impression. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of a lick of paint. If your interiors are looking tired then a coat of white paint will instantly refresh them and make them an appealing blank canvas for the next owners.

When is the best time to sell my home?

Spring is often cited as the most popular time to list a property for sale, because people often favour the warmer weather for moving house and enjoying their first months in their new home. But because the weather is great in Spain all year round, there’s almost never a bad time to list your property on the Costa del Sol! Don’t worry about waiting for the right time of year: if you're ready to sell then get your property listed asap.

What paperwork do I need to sell my Spanish home?

There are several documents that you are legally required to give copies of to your legal representative in order to sell your home in Spain. Getting these together before you list the property will save you time and heartache in the long run. You’ll need:

• A copy of the deed for your property (known in Spanish as  “Escritura”)
•A copy of the NIE number and passport of all owners of the property
• Copy of the community fees receipts for the property
• A Land registry document that is no more than three months old– “Nota Simple”
• Tax and garbage receipts – IBI & BASURA
• The first occupation license – Licencia de primera ocupación
• An energy performance certificate for the property

How Much is My Costa del Sol Home Worth?

One of the most common questions most homeowners have is how much their house is worth. Whilst there are online tools you can use to get a ballpark figure of your home’s value, the best way to work out exactly what your home is worth is to invite a property specialist to give you an accurate valuation.  We will work with you to ascertain your home’s market value, and to ensure you receive the best possible price if you decide to sell.

We’ve found a buyer! What happens next?

Once you’ve found a buyer for your Spanish home, you might be tempted to think that the hard work is over. But that isn’t the end of the selling process. The next stages include ensuring that a reservation contract is signed by both yourself and the buyer, then contracts are exchanged with agreed terms and dates included within. At this point the buyer will also pay their deposit. From here, payment will be completed by the notary where everything is reviewed and legally stamped. Finally, the payment of remaining taxes and a tax rebate where possible will be made, and then your home is sold!

How much will it cost to sell my home?

Finally, it’s important to consider the closing expenses involved in selling your home before you choose to list it. You will need to ensure you have adequate funds to cover searches, surveys, any relevant commissions and taxes.

If you’re ready to sell your property on the Costa Del Sol then why not get in touch with our property experts today? We can reach a huge audience and bring the right buyers to you, fast. What are you waiting for?