The Ultimate Checklist: 5 Essential Tips for a Smooth Property Sale in Costa Blanca

Preparation is the Key to Profit

Selling a property in the Costa Blanca involves specific legal and financial steps. The single biggest mistake a seller can make is waiting until an offer is accepted to start gathering the necessary paperwork. Getting organised early is the key to avoiding last-minute delays, reducing stress, and ultimately ensuring a faster, smoother, and more profitable sale.

Here are 5 essential steps you must complete to prepare your home and finalise your documentation for a stress-free completion.

1. Gather Your Legal Paperwork Early

A swift sale depends on having all your legal documents in order. The buyer’s solicitor will need to conduct due diligence, and any missing document can put the entire process on hold. Ensure you have the following essential documents ready from day one:

• Title Deeds (Escritura): Your proof of ownership. This document is essential for the Notary.

• NIE/Residency Documentation: Your Spanish tax identification number (N.I.E.) is mandatory for all legal transactions.

• Habitation Certificate (Cédula de Habitabilidad): This confirms the property complies with legal requirements for habitation.

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): This is mandatory for marketing the property. You cannot legally advertise your home without it.

• Latest Bills: Have the current receipts for Suma (IBI), water, electricity, and the Community Fees Certificate ready to prove all payments are up to date.

2. Prepare a Detailed Inventory

To avoid any disputes or misunderstandings with buyers at the last minute, you must clearly note which items of furniture, fixtures, and fittings are included in the sale and which are excluded. This should be documented in a clear, written inventory and agreed upon during the negotiation stage. A well-defined inventory prevents arguments over everything from light fittings to white goods, ensuring a much smoother process leading up to the signing.

3. Consider Power of Attorney (POA)

If you won’t be present in Spain for the final signing at the Notary's office, authorising your lawyer or a trusted representative to act on your behalf via a Power of Attorney (Poder Notarial) is a critical step. This official document is signed before a public notary (either in Spain or at a Spanish consulate abroad). Having a POA in place ensures that if you cannot travel, the transaction can proceed without delay, allowing the sale to run smoothly and on schedule.

4. Plan Your Money Repatriation

Once the sale is complete, you will receive the funds in Euros into your Spanish bank account. If you intend to repatriate a significant amount of money to the UK or another country, set up an account with a currency transfer specialist well in advance. These firms usually provide much better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional high-street banks, which can save you thousands of pounds on a large transfer. Planning this early protects your profit from sudden exchange rate fluctuations.

5. Cancel Direct Debits

As completion nears, notify your bank to cancel any ongoing direct debits for utilities, community fees, and local taxes. This prevents unwanted charges slipping through after you have sold the property and transferred ownership. Your lawyer will ensure that the final utility meter readings are taken and that the contracts are ready to be transferred to the new owner, but the final cancellation of your direct debits is your responsibility.

Ready to Start Your Smooth Sale? 

Preparing these five steps early is the foundation of a successful and stress-free property sale in the Costa Blanca. Our experienced team can guide you through every item on this checklist, ensuring your paperwork is perfect and your sale completes without a hitch.

If you're selling in Orihuela Costa or Ciudad Quesada, we have a list of international motivated buyers waiting. Let us make your property sale smooth and profitable!

Contact us today for expert advice and to start your smooth sale process.

📞 Ciudad Quesada Office: +34 966 718 392

📞 Villamartin Office: +34 655 30 17 30

📧 Email: sales@homes4u.es or sales@SellingOrihuelaCosta.com

Buying or Selling In Orihuela Costa? www.SellingOrihuelaCosta.com