6 Steps to a Successful Sale
Thinking of selling your home in Spain’s beautiful Costa Blanca region? Whether it’s a lifestyle change or a financial decision, selling a property takes more than just listing it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting the most from your sale.
1. Set the Right Price
Pricing your property correctly from day one is crucial:
- Consider condition, age, location, market demand, and price of similar listings.
- The first month on the market is when most serious interest happens. A realistic price helps generate offers early.
- Overpricing leads to longer sale times and may force price reductions later, which can harm your negotiating power.
Ask a qualified real estate agent for a comparative market analysis (CMA)—this is your best starting point.
2. Hire a Professional Agent
A licensed real estate agent offers real advantages:
- Local Market Insight: They know what sells and what doesn’t in Costa Blanca’s micro-markets.
- Marketing & MLS: Agents advertise your property across professional channels, reaching more potential buyers.
- Legal Know-how: They guide you through Spain’s regulations, avoiding pitfalls.
- Security: Agents vet buyers, reducing your risk of time wasters or fraud.
- Negotiation Skills: They handle emotional discussions with objectivity and professionalism.
3. Boost Your Property’s Appeal
Buyers judge a property within minutes. Improve your home’s first impression:
- Clean thoroughly and declutter.
- Use light colors on walls to make rooms feel larger.
- Maximize lighting—natural light is a big plus.
- Depersonalize—remove family photos and bold decor so buyers can imagine themselves in the space.
- Fix minor repairs, freshen up paint, and ensure the garden or outdoor spaces are tidy.
- Eliminate odors—especially from pets or smoking. Fresh coffee or baked goods help.
A little investment in staging and presentation can lead to a much better price.
4. Buying and Selling at the Same Time?
If you’re planning to buy another property after selling:
- Let your agent know up front so they can align timing.
- Be clear on your financials after taxes and expenses.
- If you find a new home before selling, you can make your purchase offer conditional on selling your current one.
- Need extra time to move out after the sale? Include that in the negotiation.
A well-coordinated plan ensures you’re never left without a home—or a buyer.
5. The Selling Process Step-by-Step
Here’s a quick overview of what happens:
- Buyer Makes an Offer: Usually with a small deposit.
- You Accept: The agent prepares the private sale agreement, and all terms are confirmed (finance conditions, timelines, etc.).
- Prepare for Notary: Your agent helps collect the required documents:
- Proof of no debt with the community (HOA)
- Energy certificate
- Mortgage balance statement (if applicable)
- Last paid property tax receipt
- Title deed
- Second occupancy license
- Sign the Sale at the Notary: Both parties finalize the transaction in person.
6. Real Estate Fees: Who Pays What?
Typically in Spain, the seller pays the real estate agent commission (3–6% of the sale price).
However, in regions like the Valencian Community, both buyer and seller may pay a 1–3% fee each.
If the buyer uses a personal property shopper, they’ll pay that service fee separately.
Your agent will explain exactly what to expect based on your location and agreement
Ready to Sell?
Costa Blanca continues to attract foreign and national buyers year-round thanks to its weather, lifestyle, and property value. With expert guidance, you can sell quickly and profitably.
neil.collins@expglobalspain.com | +34 648 02 28 74
