Common questions about selling a property in Spain
Safe sale – get answers to your questions
Selling a property in Spain often raises many questions – especially if you are not here all year round. Here we have gathered clear answers about taxes, documentation, timeline, digital viewings and the notary process. With our support, the sale becomes smooth, secure and entirely on your terms.
What does it cost to sell a property in Spain?
The most common costs for sellers are the estate agent’s fee, capital gains tax (declared via Modelo 210 for non-residents), municipal “plusvalía” tax and the energy certificate (CEE). If you have a mortgage, there will also be bank and notary fees when the loan is redeemed. Nordic Home Spain always prepares a net proceeds calculation before publishing your property on the Costa Blanca/Costa Cálida.
What is the 3% withholding tax (retención) and when is it deducted?
If you are a non-resident, the buyer withholds 3% of the purchase price (Modelo 211) as an advance payment towards your capital gains tax. Your final tax is calculated in Modelo 210; if the final amount is lower, you can get a refund of part or all of the withheld amount.
What documents do I need to sell?
Usually: the title deed (Escritura), NIE + ID, the latest IBI receipt, a certificate from the community of owners confirming that all fees are paid, recent electricity/water bills, the energy certificate (CEE) and, where applicable, a habitation certificate. If you have a mortgage, the bank’s cancellation letter / outstanding balance statement is also required.
Do I need an energy certificate (CEE) to sell?
Yes. The CEE is required for marketing and selling the property. If you don’t have one, we arrange a fast assessment through a certified technician before the listing goes live.
How do digital viewings work for sellers?
We carry out live-streamed viewings (SE/EN/ES) for qualified buyers who cannot travel immediately. This increases international reach, reduces unnecessary physical viewings and can speed up the path to a reservation. Read more on our page about digital viewings for sellers.
Can I sell entirely remotely with power of attorney?
Yes. With a power of attorney (POA) you can complete the entire sale without travelling. We coordinate the lawyer, bank and notary, including deregistration/discharge of the mortgage if there is an existing loan.
I have a mortgage on the property – how is it settled when I sell?
The mortgage is settled at the notary on the day of completion. The bank sends a representative or acts via power of attorney; the charge is cancelled and all costs and interest are settled in the final payment.
How do I set the right price before selling?
We combine comparable sales, demand in the micro-area on the Costa Blanca/Cálida, the condition of your property and your time frame. You receive a valuation and sales plan before we start.
Who pays the fees and utilities up until completion?
The seller is responsible for costs up to the day of completion at the notary. At the notary, community fees and electricity/water are settled proportionally between the parties.
What happens on the day at the notary?
We check the documentation, payment is made (bank cheque/transfer), any mortgage is redeemed, the charge is removed, the new escritura is signed and the keys are handed over to the buyer.
At Nordic Home Spain, we have been helping foreign property owners sell their homes in Spain for over 10 years.
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Inspiration & tips
Read guides, tips and articles for those who want to buy a property in Spain.