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Costs of selling a property on the Costa del Sol

costs of selling property on the Costa del Sol

Understanding the costs of selling property on the Costa del Sol

Selling your property on the Costa del Sol involves more than just finding the right buyer. As your trusted real estate expert, we will guide you through all the costs associated with the sale, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.

Real estate agent fee


In Spain, you, as the seller typically pay the agent’s fee. This is usually around 5% of the sale price, plus 21% VAT. The exact fee depending on the agent you choose and the value of your property. We’ll ensure you understand this cost upfront, so there are no surprises.

Legal Assistance
fee

We highly recommend that you engage a lawyer to navigate the complexities of the sale. Expect to pay around 1% of the property’s sale value in legal fees. Your lawyer will also assist with your tax return, ensuring everything is in order.

Energy performance certificate

Before selling, you must secure an energy certificate, which provides a detailed overview of your property’s energy efficiency. The responsibility for obtaining this certificate falls on the seller. The costs typically range rom €50 to €150, depending on the property size. This certificate is valid for 10 years. We can arrange for a technical architect to issue this document, making the process hassle-free for you.

Cost for mortgage cancellation

If you have any loans on the property, they must be settled before the sale, and associated fees may apply. Contact your Spanish bank for details. 

Certificate of occupancy (Cédula de habitabilidad)

The Cédula de Habitabilidad is a certificate that confirms a residential building meets the minimum legal standards for habitation, including requirements related to size, sanitary facilities, and technical connections. This document must be obtained from the local town hall, and as the seller, you are responsible for securing it. The cost typically ranges between €200 and €300.

This certificate serves as an essential component in the property sale process, assuring potential buyers that the property complies with local habitability standards. Ensure you acquire this document well in advance of listing your property to avoid any delays in the sale process.

Taxes to pay when selling property on the Costa del Sol

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Value Added Tax – Plusvalía

This municipal tax, known locally as Plusvalía, is based on the increase in land value since you acquired your property. The tax amount can vary significantly from €15 to €15,000, depending on the size of the lot and its value appreciation over time. Remember, this tax is separate from your capital gains tax.

Capital gains tax (IRFP)

Capital gains tax varies based on your residency status:

Residents: You’ll pay 19% on gains up to €6,000, and 21% on any amount above that.

Taxes for non residents

Non-Residents: A flat rate of 19% applies regardless of the gain amount.

If you are a non-resident, your lawyer will withhold 3% of the sale price as an advance payment to the Spanish Tax Authority (Hacienda). This advance adjusts based on your actual capital gains, and you will receive a refund for any overpayment within six months.

Real estate property tax (IBI)

IBI, known as Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles, is a property tax in Spain, charged by your local town hall. It’s paid annually and typically ranges from 0.4% to 1.1% of the property’s cadastral value.

Other costs selling property on the Costa del Sol, Spain

Ensure you are up to date with community fees (Comunidad Propietarios), waste collection fees (Basura), property taxes (IBI).

Maximize your deductions

You can deduct certain costs when selling your property, including transaction costs (state agents’s fees, attorney’s fees, notary fees, Plusvalia tax) and renovation expenses. Ensure you keep original invoices and proof of payment for these deductions.

Learn more in our selling property guide. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us.

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