The Step by Step Sellers Guide: 

Selling your property in Javea, Benitachell, Moraira, and surrounding towns is a significant decision. With expert guidance, you can ensure the process is smooth and efficient. Here's our comprehensive guide to help you every step of the way:

1. Property Valuation

One of the first steps is determining if selling is the right financial move. An accurate valuation is key, considering several important factors:

Key Valuation Points:

- Market Increase: How much the property market has risen since you purchased your home.

- Renovations: Any updates or improvements made to your property.

- Location and Size: The average price per square metre in your area.

- Recent Sales: The sale prices of similar properties nearby.

- Property Attributes:

• Location: Proximity to local amenities.
• Interior: Renovations, central heating, double glazing, etc.
• Exterior: Plot size, pool condition, and landscaping.
• Views: Scenic or sea views can add significant value.

Once all factors are considered, you’ll receive an accurate valuation to decide whether selling is the best option.

2. Property Paperwork

Before listing your property, ensure all paperwork is in order. Several legal documents/registers are necessary to be correct:

- Escritura (Deeds): The deeds must accurately represent your property and ownership.

- Land Registry: Should be a true representation of the property´s size, location and ownership, as well as confirming there are no debts or encumbrances.

- Catastral: Provides details of property and plot sizes, used for local tax calculations.

It is important to review your paperwork early to avoid delays when an offer is accepted. Any discrepancies between these documents may require an architect’s intervention and depending on the corrections required, considerable time delays.

Additionally, you’ll need an Energy Certificate (Certificado de Eficiencia Energética) and, in most cases a Second Habitation Licence (licencia de segunda ocupación).

3. Costs of Selling

Selling a property comes with certain costs, including:

- Architect’s Fees: For the energy certificate and any necessary paperwork updates.

- Agency Fees: Typically around 4% + IVA of the sale price.

- Lawyer Fees: Budget for 1% + IVA of the sale price.

- Plusvalía Tax: A local tax based on the catastral land value.

- Capital Gains Tax: Depending on your residency, financial status and age, you may be liable for capital gains tax. Download Capital Gains Tax Guide

4. Listing Your Property

Now that you've decided to sell, it's time to prepare your property for listing:

Dressing for Sale:

- Clean & Declutter: Make sure your home is spotless, remove personal items, and declutter kitchens and bathrooms.

- Curb Appeal: The first impression is crucial; buyers often decide within 15 seconds on entering a property.

- Welcoming Atmosphere: Simple touches like fresh flowers or neatly made beds can make your home feel inviting.

Professional Photography & Drone Imagery:

Once your home is prepared, professional photography, drone footage, and videos will showcase your property online, making it stand out.

5. Marketing – Reaching Buyers Locally & Internationally

With a high demand from buyers across Europe and the world, effective marketing is essential.

- Local Marketing: Buyers value professional agents with a strong local presence.

- Property Portals: Your property should be listed on multiple international property portals.

- Social Media: Strong visuals and video marketing on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook are key.

- Google: Many buyers still turn to Google for property searches.

6. Viewings

When it’s time for viewings, ensure your home looks its best:

- Maintain Curb Appeal & Cleanliness: First impressions matter.

- Leave It to the Agent: Allow your trained agent to handle the viewing. Stay out of the way, but be available to answer questions.

Feedback: Post-viewing feedback is invaluable. If you receive consistent comments, you can consider making changes to reflect this.

7. Negotiating a Price

If your property is correctly priced, negotiation should be straightforward. Having an experienced agent can help you secure the best price through professional negotiation strategies.

8. Reservation Contract

Once a price is agreed upon, a reservation contract is signed with a deposit (typically €5k–€10k). This contract outlines key dates, such as the formal deposit contract (Arras) and the completion date.

9. Instructing a Lawyer or Gestor

Although not mandatory, instructing a conveyancer can make the sales process smoother. They ensure all documentation is correct and resolve any issues that arise.

10. Purchase Deposit Contract (Arras)

The buyer’s lawyer usually drafts the Arras contract after verifying the property's documentation. A 10% deposit is paid at this stage, binding both parties to the sale.

- If the seller withdraws, they must return double the deposit to the buyer.

- If the buyer withdraws, they lose the deposit.

The Arras contract will usually be signed between 2-4 weeks from the reservation. The Arras contract will state the completion date, which is usually around a further 4 weeks. The whole process takes around 8 weeks from reservation to signing at a notary. Longer or shorter completions are possible with agreement from all parties.

11. Completion at the Notary

The sale is finalised in front of a notary. Both parties (or their representatives) sign the paperwork, officially transferring the property. The notary’s office is chosen by the buyer, and the process can take a couple of hours.

This guide walks you through the entire process, helping ensure a smooth and stress-free sale. At Javea Home Finders, we’re here to support you at every step, from valuation to completion. Please get in touch if you have any questions or for a free no obligation consultation in regard to selling your property.