Your Complete
Selling Guide
Everything you need to know about selling your Costa del Sol property — from valuation to completion. Maximise your sale price with guidance from your local experts since 2012.
Selling Your Property
on the Costa del Sol
Selling a property on the Costa del Sol is a straightforward process when you have the right team behind you. Whether you are selling to upsize, downsize, or release capital, understanding the process and costs in advance will help you achieve the best possible result.
The Costa del Sol remains one of Europe's most desirable property markets, with strong demand from international buyers across all price points. Well-presented, correctly priced properties continue to sell quickly.
At Star La Cala, we have been selling properties on the Costa del Sol since 2012. Our local knowledge, international buyer network, and professional marketing ensure your property reaches the right buyers at the right price.
Key Facts
Agent Commission
Typical agent commission in Spain. Our fee covers full marketing, photography, and viewings.
Plus Valia Tax
Local land value tax paid by the seller. Amount depends on years of ownership and cadastral value.
Capital Gains Tax (Non-Residents)
Tax on profit from the sale. Non-residents pay 19% (EU) or 24% (non-EU). Residents pay 19–26%.
Months Average Sale Time
Well-priced, well-presented properties in Mijas sell in 4–6 months on average.
Star La Cala Est.
Your trusted local property experts in La Cala de Mijas.
The Selling Process
Get a Valuation
Contact Star La Cala for a free, no-obligation valuation. We will assess your property based on comparable sales, current market conditions, and buyer demand in your area.
Prepare Your Property
First impressions matter. We advise on presentation, decluttering, minor repairs, and staging. Professional photography, floor plans, and video tours are arranged by our team.
Appoint a Lawyer
Appoint an independent Spanish lawyer to handle the legal aspects of your sale. They will prepare the necessary documentation, review contracts, and ensure the transaction is watertight.
List and Market
Your property is listed on our website, major portals (Idealista, Rightmove Overseas, Kyero), and marketed to our international buyer database. We handle all enquiries and arrange viewings.
Receive and Negotiate Offers
We present all offers to you and negotiate on your behalf to achieve the best price. Once agreed, the buyer pays a reservation deposit and the property is taken off the market.
Sign the Arras Contract
The Contrato de Arras (private purchase contract) is signed by both parties with a 10% deposit. Your lawyer reviews all terms. At this stage the sale is legally binding.
Completion at Notary
Completion takes place before a Spanish Notary. The Escritura is signed, the balance received, and the keys handed over. You can attend in person or grant Power of Attorney to your lawyer.
Tax & Post-Sale
Your lawyer handles the Plus Valia tax payment and capital gains tax declaration. If non-resident, 3% of the sale price is withheld by the buyer as a tax retention — your lawyer reclaims any overpayment.
Selling Costs & Taxes
Agent Commission
Our commission covers professional photography, floor plans, video tour, portal listings, and full buyer management. Paid only on successful completion.
Plus Valia Tax
Municipal land value tax paid by the seller. Calculated on the cadastral value and years of ownership. Your lawyer will calculate the exact amount.
Capital Gains Tax
Tax on the profit from your sale. Non-residents: 19% (EU citizens) or 24% (non-EU). Spanish residents pay 19–26% on a sliding scale. Exemptions may apply.
Non-Resident Retention
If you are non-resident, the buyer withholds 3% of the purchase price and pays it to the Spanish tax authority (AEAT) on your behalf as a CGT deposit. Your lawyer reclaims any excess.
Legal Fees
Your independent Spanish lawyer's fee for managing the sale, reviewing contracts, and ensuring all taxes are correctly handled. Essential protection.
Mortgage Cancellation
If you have an outstanding mortgage, there will be a cancellation fee and notary costs to discharge it from the title. Your lawyer will handle this at completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what my property is worth?
Contact us for a free, no-obligation valuation. We will provide a realistic market appraisal based on comparable recent sales in your area and current buyer demand.
Do I need to be in Spain to sell?
No. Many sellers manage the entire process remotely. You can grant Power of Attorney to your Spanish lawyer to sign all documents on your behalf at the notary.
How long will it take to sell?
Well-priced, well-presented properties in Mijas typically sell in 4–6 months. Pricing correctly from the start is the single most important factor in achieving a quick sale at the best price.
What is Plus Valia and who pays it?
Plus Valia (Impuesto sobre el Incremento de Valor de los Terrenos de Naturaleza Urbana) is a municipal tax on the increase in land value. It is legally the seller's responsibility. Your lawyer calculates and pays it at completion.
Do I pay capital gains tax?
If you sell for more than you paid, capital gains tax applies to the profit. Non-EU non-residents pay 24%, EU residents and non-residents pay 19%. Spanish tax residents pay 19–26%. Various exemptions and deductions may apply — your lawyer will advise.
What documents do I need to sell?
You will need: Escritura (title deed), NIE, passport, IBI receipts, community fee certificates, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and mortgage details if applicable. Your lawyer will compile the full list.
What is the 3% retention?
If you are non-resident, Spanish law requires the buyer to withhold 3% of the sale price and pay it to the tax authority as a capital gains tax deposit. Your lawyer reclaims any overpayment after filing your tax return.
Do I need an Energy Performance Certificate?
Yes. An Energy Performance Certificate (Certificado de Eficiencia Energética) is legally required to sell a property in Spain. Star La Cala can arrange this for you quickly and cost-effectively.