Selling made easy

As established estate agents in Andalucia we can take care of most of the worries when selling your property.

Firstly we will help you reach a conclusion as to a proper valuation and a correct asking price for your property. Be warned, we may not tell you what you want to hear: many agents purposely overvalue homes to get a listing and these overpriced properties sit there with no viewings. However we will market your property at its best market price.

Our commision is included in the sales price, we do not add additional fees on top of the price or surprise any potential buyers with hidden charges. Unlike many of the Costas where commision rates are normally over 5% and up to 15% in some cases, the standard commision here is 5%. This commission can be negotiated in some cases, especially if you are willing to enter into an exclusive arrangement.

When selling your home we prefer when possible to hold a copy of the keys in our office, this enables us to work most effectively especially with the many last minute viewings. We recommend that the property itself is kept clean and tidy, with any minor repairs completed where possible.

If you are likely to be out of the country or away for any periods of time, it often helps to give 'power of attorney' to your solicitor who can then act on your behalf in matters such as signing the initial private contract. This can certainly speed up the selling process.

With regards to taxes payable, from 1st January 2007 capital gains tax laws have changed in Spain. Whereas a non-resident used to pay 35% and a resident 15%, this charge has now been levelled to 18% for both residents and non-residents. It is possible to offset some costs, including any fees paid (solicitor, commisions, registry etc) as well as money spent on improvements done to the property (not general maitenance). In all cases we recommend asking for clear advice from your solicitor as to your tax obligations.

One thing to note is that for a non-resident seller, the purchaser is required by law to hold 3% (reduced from 5% for 2007) of the declared purchase price on the sellers behalf. This was introduced to guarantee tax payable by non-residents and wil be restituted by the tax authorities after the seller has declared and paid the tax. If a buyer fails to keep this 3%, the amount may be levied on the property.

Another charge is known as Plusvalía and is the municipal charge for the increase of the value of the land from the time of purchase to selling. Plusvalía is calculated on the ratable value of the property and the number of years of ownership (the sales price does not have an effect on this tax), this fee can easily be sought from the local council.

Finally, the seller is also obliged to pay the notary fees for the execuation of the title deed. This again depends on the property, with an average property costing in the region 300€.