Frequently asked questions

Here we have summarized some of the questions that may occur during the process of buying / selling a property

Seller FAQ

Buyer FAQ

How long will it take to sell my property?

It is difficult to predict exactly how long it will take to sell your property in Spain, as the duration depends on various factors, including location, price, property condition, market demand, and the current state of the real estate market.

 

Generally, the average time to sell a property in Spain can range from several months to a year. However, certain factors can expedite the sale process, such as an attractive and realistic price, appealing property presentation, an effective marketing and sales strategy, and the support of an experienced real estate agent with in-depth knowledge of the local market.

 

If you are considering selling your property, do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to provide you with professional advice.

What are the steps to buy a house in Spain and how long does it take?

Purchasing a house in Spain can be an exciting process, but it can also be complicated and confusing if you are not familiar with the correct procedures. Below are the general steps to buy a house in Spain:

 

Search and Select Properties: First, you need to search for properties that meet your needs and budget. Once you find a property you like, it is important to visit it.

 

Obtain the Foreigners' Identification Number (NIE): The NIE-number (Número de Identificación Extranjero) is an identification number required for any financial transactions in Spain. If you are not a Spanish citizen, you need to apply for an NIE before purchasing a property. It is advisable to start this process as soon as possible, even before you find your dream house, as it can take some time.

 

Reservation and private purchase contract: If you like a house, you should reserve it as soon as possible. To do this, a clear, short document is drawn up in which the general purchase conditions are set out and a fee of 1-2% of the purchase price is paid. This secures the house for you for one to two weeks while the actual purchase contract is drawn up and the house's documents are checked. This purchase contract is private but completely binding for both parties. It is sealed with a 10% deposit and defines, among other things, when the notarial transfer date, and thus the remaining payment, is to take place.

 

Sign the Purchase Deeds: The purchase deed is the legal document signed in the presence of a notary. This document stipulates the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer and sets out all the terms and conditions of the sale.

 

Pay Taxes and Additional Costs: In addition to the purchase price, the buyer must pay taxes (between 10% and 11% in the Valencian Community) and associated costs such as notary and legal fees.

 

This process can be very quick or take several months, depending on the circumstances of both the buyer and the seller and the agreed-upon terms.

How should I prepare my house before selling it?

Preparing your home before selling can significantly impact the sales process and the price you can achieve. Here are some professional tips to prepare your home for sale:

 

Thorough Cleaning: Clean your home from top to bottom, including windows, walls, carpets, and furniture. Declutter and ensure each room is inviting and ready for viewing by potential buyers.

 

Repair Damages: Fix visible damages such as cracks in the walls, squeaky doors, and leaking faucets. Buyers might interpret these issues as signs of poor maintenance.

 

Paint Walls: Freshly painted walls can make a home look clean and inviting. Consider using soft, neutral colors that appeal to a wide range of buyers.

 

Check Lighting: Ensure all lights are functioning properly and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Proper lighting can make your home feel warm and welcoming.

 

Maintain Exterior: Ensure the exterior of the house is well-maintained. Paint the facade, tend to the landscaping, and make sure the entrance is attractive and clean.

 

Organize Closets and Storage Spaces: Buyers will want to inspect storage spaces. Make sure closets and storage areas are tidy and clean.

 

Prepare Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents for the sale are ready and in order. We are happy to assist you with this process.

 

By following these tips and seeking advice from an experienced real estate agent, you can effectively prepare your home to maximize its value on the real estate market.

How much do I have to pay as a deposit in Spain?

Once you have decided to buy a specific home, your real estate agent will prepare the buying and selling process. If you want to reserve the property, a reservation fee is required upon signing the reservation contract. The amount of this deposit can vary between €10,000 and €15,000, but there is no fixed rule. This deposit is credited to the sales price and is non-refundable unless legal problems arise with the property that cannot be resolved.

 

Upon signing the private written sales contract, 10% of the total price is usually transferred to the seller's account. This deposit is non-refundable unless insoluble legal problems arise with the property.

How can I find out the best selling price?

Determining the optimal selling price for your house is a highly individual task. However, there are several actions you can take to obtain an accurate estimate of your property's value:

 

Consult a Real Estate Agent: We can provide you with a precise estimate of your house's value based on local market trends, competitive conditions, and market conditions.

 

Consider Property Improvements: If you have made improvements to your property, such as bathroom or kitchen renovations, ensure these are reflected in the selling price.

 

Reference Value: The cadastral reference value can serve as a guideline for determining the market price.

 

Consider Timing: If you need to sell your house quickly, you may need to lower the price to attract buyers.

 

Remember, the final selling price depends on many factors, such as the property's location, size, condition, age, view, and other aspects specific to your property. Contact us to schedule an appointment, and we will gladly advise you.

How long can the seller take to respond to my offer?

Once your real estate agent has forwarded your offer to the seller, a response is usually provided as quickly as possible. It is in everyone's interest to reach an agreement, but we must also remember that the seller needs to consider their calculations. Depending on the offer, it generally takes no more than a few days to receive a response from the seller.

What documents do I have to provide as a seller?

When selling your house, it is crucial to ensure that all documentation is in order. Due to changes in regulations, not all documents may be readily available. Therefore, we recommend seeking advice from us, your lawyer, or your manager. Your home should meet the following requirements:

 

CEE - Energy Efficiency Certificate: This certificate is valid for 10 years and is necessary to demonstrate the energy efficiency of your property.

 

Registration of all structures in the land registry: All buildings and extensions must be registered in the land registry. Even if you have extended the house or adjoining structures with a permit, you need to visit a notary to create a deed of extension to ensure all square meters are properly registered.

 

Cedula de habitabilidad or first/second occupancy certificate: Although this document is not mandatory, buyers nowadays often expect the property to have it. It is valid for 10 years.

Should I order a home inspection?

In Northern Europe, it is very common to order a home inspection before making a purchase decision. However, in Spain, this practice is not yet widely adopted. Nevertheless, it is certainly possible to hire an appraiser to inspect the house and provide a summary of the property's condition. The cost of this inspection is typically borne by the buyer.

What are the expenses that I must take into account?

Commission Fees: When selling your property through a real estate agency, you should account for a commission of 5% plus VAT for the agency.

 

Capital Gains Tax: This tax is effectively levied on the profits you make from selling the house. There is also an annual allowance calculated by the tax authority. The CGT rate varies depending on the amount of profit, ranging from 19% to 23%.

 

Plusvalía Tax: The plusvalía tax, or tax on the increase in value of urban land, is a local and direct tax imposed at the time of its transfer, whether by sale or gift.

 

Additional Costs: Potential costs for obtaining necessary documents and/or fees for your lawyer should also be considered.

What happens if I decide to give up on the purchase of a home?

If you decide to purchase a house, sign a reservation agreement or a deposit contract, and make a down payment, you will forfeit these amounts if you later withdraw from the purchase. However, there are exceptions, such as unresolved legal issues with the property. Each case is unique and must be handled accordingly.

What important points do I have to pay attention to when choosing my real estate agency?

When choosing your real estate agency, you should consider several key points to ensure a smooth and successful collaboration with your agent:

 

Communication: Effective communication with your agent is crucial. Your agent should understand your needs and intentions, guide you through the sales process, and provide professional advice.

 

Experience: Professional experience is valuable as it can prevent potential problems. An experienced agent has in-depth knowledge of the market and current regulations, ensuring everything is handled correctly.

 

References: Ensure you check references from verifiable clients. Building trust and demonstrating a positive track record is essential.

 

Online Presence and Marketing: Good online marketing is very important today. Many potential buyers are abroad and search for their dream home online. Your agent should utilize modern technologies and have an attractive, professional, and user-friendly online presence.

Do I have to do an inspection just before signing the sale before a notary?

It is usually customary to inspect the house before a notary shortly before signing the sales contract. This is to check the condition of the house and, if it is being sold furnished, for example, to check that all the agreed furniture is present.

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