The Complete Guide to Selling Property on the Costa del Sol
Everything you need to know about selling your property in Spain's most popular coastal region. From pricing strategies to legal requirements, this guide covers it all.
Selling property on the Costa del Sol can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're a foreign owner looking to sell your holiday home or a local resident moving on, understanding the local market is crucial for a successful sale.
This guide covers everything from market conditions to legal requirements, helping you navigate the selling process with confidence.
Understanding the Costa del Sol Market
The Costa del Sol remains one of Europe's most sought-after property markets. With over 320 days of sunshine per year and excellent infrastructure, it continues to attract buyers from across the globe.
Current Market Trends
The property market on the Costa del Sol has shown remarkable resilience. Key trends include:
- Strong international demand from British, Scandinavian, and German buyers
- Growing interest in sustainable and energy-efficient properties
- Premium prices for properties with sea views and walking distance to amenities
- Increased demand for properties with home office spaces
Popular Areas
Different areas attract different buyer profiles:
- Marbella: Luxury market, high-end buyers
- Estepona: Growing town, excellent value
- Fuengirola: Family-friendly, great rental potential
- Mijas: Mountain and coastal options
- Benalmadena: Popular with tourists and investors
Preparing Your Property for Sale
First impressions matter. Here's how to maximize your property's appeal:
Essential Preparations
- Deep cleaning - Professional cleaning makes a significant difference
- Decluttering - Remove personal items and excess furniture
- Minor repairs - Fix leaky taps, squeaky doors, and chipped paint
- Garden maintenance - Curb appeal is crucial in Spain
- Professional photography - Quality images attract more buyers
Documentation Checklist
Ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Escritura (title deed)
- Nota Simple (property registry extract)
- IBI receipts (local property tax)
- Community fee receipts
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Utility bills
- Floor plans
Pricing Your Property Right
Pricing is perhaps the most critical decision you'll make. Overpricing leads to extended time on market, while underpricing leaves money on the table.
Factors Affecting Price
Consider these elements when setting your price:
- Location and proximity to amenities
- Property size and layout
- Condition and recent renovations
- Views (sea, mountain, golf course)
- Parking and storage
- Community facilities
Pro tip: Properties priced correctly from the start sell faster and often achieve better final prices than those that start high and reduce over time.
Legal Requirements for Sellers
Selling property in Spain involves specific legal requirements that you must understand.
Taxes and Costs
As a seller, you'll typically pay:
| Cost | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Plusvalia (municipal capital gains) | Varies by municipality |
| Capital Gains Tax | 19-23% for non-residents |
| Estate agent fees | 3-5% (negotiable) |
| Legal fees | 1-2% |
Capital Gains Tax
If you're a non-resident, capital gains tax is calculated on the profit from the sale. The rate depends on the amount of gain:
- Up to €6,000: 19%
- €6,000 to €50,000: 21%
- Over €50,000: 23%
Spanish residents may be exempt if reinvesting in a primary residence.
Marketing Your Property
Effective marketing reaches the right buyers at the right time.
Online Presence
In today's market, online visibility is essential:
- Professional listing photos (minimum 15-20 images)
- Virtual tours or video walkthroughs
- Detailed property descriptions in multiple languages
- Accurate floor plans with measurements
Choosing the Right Platform
Consider listing your property on:
- Settli - Direct connection with serious buyers
- International property portals
- Local Spanish property websites
- Social media platforms
The Selling Process Step by Step
Here's what to expect during the selling process:
1. Initial Agreement
Once you accept an offer, a reservation contract is typically signed with a deposit (usually €3,000-€6,000).
2. Private Purchase Contract
Within 2-4 weeks, both parties sign the private purchase contract. The buyer typically pays 10% of the purchase price.
3. Due Diligence
The buyer's lawyer conducts searches and verifies all documentation. This period usually lasts 4-8 weeks.
4. Completion
The final signing takes place at the notary. The remaining balance is paid, and ownership transfers to the buyer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' experiences:
- Overpricing initially - Start with a realistic price
- Poor quality photos - Invest in professional photography
- Incomplete documentation - Prepare all papers in advance
- Ignoring the community - Keep community fees up to date
- Being inflexible with viewings - Accommodate buyer schedules
Conclusion
Selling property on the Costa del Sol can be a smooth process when you're well-prepared. Focus on presentation, pricing, and paperwork, and you'll be well on your way to a successful sale.
Ready to list your property? Create your listing on Settli and connect directly with qualified buyers.