Comprehensive Seller’s Guide

Selling your property in Marbella is easier with the expert help of Grupo Dvos

Selling your property in Marbella can be a profitable venture, but it’s essential to be prepared and aware of the process, costs, and requirements.

Let’s guide you through it.

1

Intake

For the initial assessment, we will visit your property.

We kindly request that you gather as much information as possible about the property, such as a nota simple and floorplans.

During our visit, we will conduct an inventory of your property to prepare a valuation.

We will also discuss our service packages and provide recommendations on which package suits you best.

2

Legal Aspects

To list your property, we require the following documents:
  • Simple note of registration of property.
  • Copy of the passport of all property owners.
  • Overview of community costs, IBI, and basura (waste collection fees).
It’s also important that you start arranging the following documents for the buyer’s due diligence:
  • Licencia de Primera Ocupación (LPO) or Certificate of Non-Infraction of Urban Regulations (CNI) – Your lawyer can assist with this; it’s recommended to initiate the process in advance, as it takes approximately 3 months depending on the town hall.
  • Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Properties without an LPO:

Given the large number of properties lacking LPOs, the non-infraction procedure was introduced to stabilize the property market in Marbella and protect homeowners and potential buyers from legal consequences.

While it doesn’t grant an LPO directly, it prevents legal actions or penalties against properties due to past infractions.

During the property purchase, the buyer’s lawyer may request this document if there’s no LPO.

With this document, the new buyer can also apply for a mortgage or rental permit.

Since this procedure takes some months, we recommend requesting the non-infraction certificate at the town hall in advance.

3

Sales Strategy

When you work with Grupo DVOS, we will devise your optimal sales strategy.

We will create professional marketing materials, including photos, text, and advertisements.

We know how to present your property effectively and where to promote it.

With Grupo DVOS, you’ll have a dedicated agent to assist you throughout the entire process.

4

Costs Involved in Selling

After we complete negotiations with the buyer of your property, it’s important to be aware of the following costs on the seller’s side.

  • Agent’s Commission: The seller pays the real estate agent’s commission, typically 5% of the property’s sales price.
  • Capital Gains Tax: As a seller, you’ll be liable for Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on the profit made from the sale if the property is not your main residence. Some exceptions may apply if you are a resident or over 65. The CGT is 19% of the difference between the property’s acquisition and sale prices. At the time of sale, the buyer is obligated to withhold 3% of the sale price. Three months later, the capital gain will be calculated at 19%, deducting the 3% already withheld.
  • Plusvalía Tax: This municipal tax is based on the increase in the land value on which the property stands since the last transfer. Rates vary from 0.5% to 3% of the sales price, depending on the municipality. It depends on the number of years the property has been owned and the gain between the purchase and sale prices.
  • Legal Fees: If you hire a lawyer to guide you through the process, they will charge 0.7% to 1% of the sales price.

    For non-resident sellers, the buyer must withhold 3% of the sale price and remit it to Spanish tax authorities as an advance on potential capital gains tax. If the final tax owed is less than the withheld amount, you can apply for a refund.

    Having a lawyer in the sale process is advisable, as the buyer likely has their own requirements for property documentation that a lawyer can help you obtain more easily.

    At Grupo DVOS, we collaborate with a reliable lawyer who offers services and supports you throughout the entire procedure until the property is fully registered in the buyer’s name, with a special fee of 0.70% of the sale price.
  • Mortgage Cancellation Costs: If you have a mortgage on the property, there may be costs involved in canceling it. The costs depend on the mortgage amount, and you’ll need to cover notary and registry fees.

4

AFTER SALE:

  • Utility and Community Charges: Ensure you inform all utility providers and community administrators about the change of ownership so that future bills are directed to the new owner.
  • Cancel Direct Debits: Make sure to cancel any direct debits related to the property once the sale is complete.

Need help selling your property? let Grupo Dvos guide you.

Selling a property in Marbella, like anywhere else, requires preparation and understanding of local regulations and market dynamics.

Grupo DVOS will ensure a smooth transaction and help you get the best value from your sale! If you are considering selling your property, do not hesitate to contact us without any further obligation!