Selling a Property in Spain – Guide for Foreign Owners | R E C

Selling a Property in Spain – Complete Guide for Foreign Owners

If you're a foreign owner looking to sell your property in Spain, you're in the right place. At R E C, we guide you through the legal, tax, and practical steps — clearly and professionally — to ensure a smooth and profitable sale.

1. Can Foreigners Sell Property in Spain?

Yes — as a non-resident or foreign resident, you have the same legal rights as Spanish citizens to sell property. However, there are some specific tax obligations and documentation you must prepare in advance.

2. What to Prepare Before Listing

✔️ Nota Simple (property registry extract)
✔️ Energy Efficiency Certificate (CEE)
✔️ Last IBI and utility bills paid
✔️ NIE number and passport
✔️ Certificate from community of owners (if in a complex)

We recommend solving any legal issues (e.g., missing documentation or old debts) before going public with your listing.

3. Step-by-Step Sales Process

Valuation and pricing strategy
Sign listing agreement with R E C
Home preparation and professional photography
We market the property internationally
Receive offers and negotiate terms
Sign reservation contract
Legal due diligence and buyer's checks
Final sale at the notary

4. Taxes When Selling Property in Spain

Capital Gains Tax (CGT): 19% for EU residents, 24% for non-EU (based on profit made)
3% Retención (Withholding): If you're a non-resident, the buyer must pay 3% of the sale price directly to the tax office
Plusvalía Municipal: Local tax based on increase in land value during ownership

Note: The 3% withholding can be refunded if you made no profit or overpaid — we help manage this process.

5. Selling Costs and Typical Fees

Agency fees: Typically 5% + VAT (only if sale is completed)
Legal fees: From €1,000 to €2,500 depending on complexity
Plusvalía tax: Varies by municipality and time of ownership
Mortgage cancellation: Notary & registration costs if loan is still active

6. Resident vs Non-Resident Sellers

📌 Residents may have CGT exemptions (e.g., reinvesting in primary residence). 📌 Non-residents must deal with automatic 3% withholding, and are taxed as non-EU or EU depending on country.

7. Marketing Your Property with R E C

We don’t just list your property. At R E C, we build a strategy to reach qualified buyers:

Professional valuation and market analysis
Staging advice to boost appeal
Premium photography and video tours
International exposure across multiple platforms
Pre-qualified buyers and guided visits

8. After-Sale Support

Assistance with tax declarations and refunds
Mortgage cancellation and notary process
Currency transfer coordination
Help with post-sale responsibilities (IBI, utilities, etc.)

📘 Related Guides

📞 Ready to Sell Your Property?

R E C helps foreign owners sell their property in Spain with peace of mind — and no surprises.

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