Seller’s Guide

Be Prepared for Every Step of the Selling Process

Selling a property in Spain is generally straightforward. However, many homeowners are not fully aware of the steps involved or the associated costs. NewHome Calahonda will guide you through the entire process to ensure your transaction is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

We work closely with a wide network of professional estate agents across the Costa del Sol, giving your property maximum visibility and the best chance of finding the right buyer quickly.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Agent

The first step in selling your home is finding an agent who truly represents your interests. The experienced team at NewHome Calahonda offers friendly, professional advice and full support throughout the sale.

If you are considering selling your property, contact us today for a FREE VALUATION!

Your Solicitor

We strongly recommend that every seller appoints a local solicitor — ideally one who specializes in property conveyancing.

Once your sale has been agreed upon, your solicitor will need the following documents to proceed efficiently:

• Original Escritura Pública (Title Deeds)
• Copies of your most recent IBI/BASURA receipts (Council Tax and Rubbish Tax)
• Copies of your last utility bills (water, gas, electricity)
• Copy of your community statutes, including the name and address of the community administrator
• Copy of your last community fee receipt
• Inventory list of any furniture included in the sale

Taxes and Withholdings

If you are a non-resident of Spain, you are required to retain and pay 3% of the declared sale price to the Spanish tax authorities at the time of completion. This acts as an advance payment against any Capital Gains Tax (CGT) or other taxes you may owe.

If your final CGT liability is less than the 3% retained, you may apply for a refund of the difference within four months of completion. Refunds are typically processed within six months, though they can take longer — especially if the sale price is below the rateable value of the property.

Please note: refunds are unlikely to be approved if you are not up to date with your annual wealth and income tax obligations in Spain.

If your actual Capital Gains Tax liability is higher than the 3% withheld, you must submit tax form 212 and pay the difference within four months of the sale.

Our partners at Greenfields can assist you with both refund claims and additional tax payments for a fee of €300 + VAT (currently 16%, rising to 18% from 1st July 2010).

Plusvalía Tax

Please refer to the section titled “Costs, Fees and Taxes” for more details. This municipal tax is typically paid by the seller and usually amounts to only a few hundred euros.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

You are liable to pay Capital Gains Tax on the net profit from the sale of your Spanish property. Your net profit is calculated by deducting the following from your sale price:

1. The costs of selling
2. The original purchase price
3. Any purchase and sale expenses (legal fees, notary, agent, etc.)
4. The official inflation adjustment

For non-residents of Spain who are EU citizens, the CGT rate is a flat 19%.

CGT Exemptions for Spanish Residents

If you are a resident of Spain, you may be exempt from paying Capital Gains Tax on your net profit if you meet the following conditions:

• The property sold is your main or only residence, and you have lived in it for at least three years before the sale.
• You reinvest the full sale price into another property that becomes your main residence, either within two years before or after the sale.
• The new property must remain your main residence for at least three years.
• Residents aged 65 or older who have owned and lived in their property as their main residence for at least three years are also exempt from Capital Gains Tax.

Need Help or Ready to Sell?

If you have any questions about selling your property, or if you would like to list your home for sale, please contact NewHome Calahonda today — we’ll be happy to help you every step of the way.