Sell Your Property in Spain Fast: Our Expert Tips

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Spain remains a sought-after destination for real estate, attracting numerous foreign buyers drawn to its climate, culture, and lifestyle. However, selling a property quickly in this dynamic market requires a well-thought-out strategy. Here are expert tips to optimize your chances of closing a fast and advantageous sale in Spain.

Prepare Your Property to Attract Buyers

First impressions are crucial in real estate sales. A well-prepared property will stand out and more easily capture the attention of potential buyers.

Highlight Your Property’s Assets

Start with a thorough deep cleaning of the entire property. Organize and declutter rooms to make them appear more spacious. Repair minor visible defects like cracks or peeling paint. These details can make all the difference in how visitors perceive the property.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Ventilate regularly to eliminate odors. Add touches of simple yet warm decoration, such as green plants or colorful cushions. The goal is to help buyers easily envision themselves in the space.

Optimize Outdoor Areas

In Spain, outdoor spaces are highly valued. Carefully maintain the garden, terrace, or balcony. A well-designed outdoor area can be a real selling point.

Good to Know:

A study shows that well-prepared properties sell on average 15% faster than those left as-is.

Adopt an Impactful Marketing Strategy

To sell quickly, you need to stand out in Spain’s highly competitive real estate market. An effective marketing strategy is essential to attract potential buyers’ attention.

Invest in Professional Photos

Invest in professional-quality photos that highlight the best aspects of your property. Bright, well-framed shots will make buyers want to visit your property.

Write an Attractive Description

Highlight your property’s strengths in a detailed and engaging description. Mention unique features, proximity to amenities, and the benefits of the location.

Use the Right Distribution Channels

List your property on major Spanish real estate portals like Idealista or Fotocasa. Don’t forget social media, which is widely used by foreign buyers. A presence on specialized international real estate websites can also be wise.

Adapt to the Local Market

Consider the specifics of the Spanish real estate market. For example, highlight the presence of a pool or sea view if your property has them, as these features are highly sought after in Spain.

Good to Know:

According to a recent study, 90% of buyers start their search online. An optimized digital presence is therefore crucial for a quick sale.

Choose the Right Real Estate Partner

The choice of real estate agent can make all the difference in the speed and success of your sale in Spain.

Opt for a Specialized Agency

Prefer a real estate agency with solid experience in the local Spanish market. Ideally, choose a bilingual or multilingual agency capable of effectively communicating with international buyers.

Check Reputation and Results

Research the agency’s reputation. Check online reviews and ask for references from previous clients. A high-performing agency should be able to provide concrete examples of recent quick sales.

Ensure Personalized Follow-Up

Your real estate agent should be responsive and available. They should keep you regularly informed about the progress of the sale and feedback from viewings. Good follow-up allows for quick strategy adjustments if needed.

Compare Services Offered

Some agencies offer valuable complementary services like legal or tax assistance, which is particularly helpful for navigating the specifics of the Spanish system.

Good to Know:

In Spain, real estate agencies typically charge a commission between 3% and 5% of the sale price. Make sure you fully understand the terms before signing a contract.

Set the Right Price

A well-calibrated price is key to a quick sale in Spain as elsewhere.

Get an Accurate Valuation

Get multiple valuations from professionals who know the local market well. Compare with prices of similar properties recently sold in your neighborhood.

Stay Competitive

The Spanish real estate market can be very dynamic in certain regions. Ensure your price remains competitive compared to similar listings. A price slightly below market value can significantly speed up the sale.

Anticipate Negotiations

Include a negotiation margin in your initial price. In Spain, it’s common for buyers to try to negotiate the price downward.

Good to Know:

According to data from INE (Spain’s National Statistics Institute), the average price per square meter in Spain increased by 3.2% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Consider these trends in your pricing strategy.

Streamline Administrative Procedures

In Spain, buyers are particularly sensitive to transparency and simplicity in administrative procedures.

Prepare All Necessary Documents

Gather all required documents for the sale in advance: property title, energy certificate, proof of payment for local taxes, etc. This preparation reassures buyers and speeds up the sales process.

Clarify the Tax Situation

Ensure you are up to date with your local tax payments, particularly the IBI (Property Tax). Be prepared to provide proof of payment.

Verify Urban Planning Compliance

In Spain, urban planning compliance is a crucial point. Ensure all constructions and modifications to your property are legal and have the necessary permits.

Good to Know:

In Spain, the seller is required to provide a valid energy certificate for the property. This document has been mandatory for all real estate transactions since 2013.

Be Flexible and Responsive

Flexibility can make the difference in closing a quick sale in Spain.

Facilitate Viewings

Be available to schedule viewings at various times, including weekends if necessary. The easier you make access to your property, the more you increase your chances of quickly finding a buyer.

Respond Quickly to Offers

When you receive an offer, respond as soon as possible. A quick reaction shows your seriousness and can encourage the buyer to close quickly.

Consider Creative Options

Be open to original solutions to facilitate the sale. For example, you could propose a rent-to-own arrangement, a formula that might appeal to some hesitant buyers.

Good to Know:

According to a study by the Association of Real Estate Agents of Spain, properties whose owners are flexible about viewings sell on average 20% faster.

Selling a property quickly in Spain requires a strategic and well-prepared approach. By following these tips, you maximize your chances of closing a fast and satisfactory sale. Remember that each local market has its specificities, hence the importance of surrounding yourself with experienced professionals who know the terrain well.

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About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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