Steps to Sell a Property in Barcelona: A Clear, Elegant Guide

Steps to sell

Selling a home requires understanding the essential steps to sell a property in Barcelona with order and clarity. When the process is well-structured, the experience becomes smoother and the results more reliable.

Whether you are selling your main home or an investment property, having a clear roadmap helps avoid delays and supports confident decision-making.

Steps to Sell a Property in Barcelona: Essential Documentation

Before publishing your listing or accepting viewings, it is important to prepare all required documentation. This prevents setbacks during negotiations or at the notary.

Key documents needed from the seller:

• Title deed

• Recent land registry extract

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), required to advertise the property

• Habitability Certificate (Catalonia requirement)

• Latest IBI (property tax) receipt

• Certificate confirming no outstanding community fees

• Mortgage debt certificate (if applicable)

• ID or passport of the owner

Request a professional valuation before moving forward

A precise valuation is essential to define the right asking price and ensure a strong sale strategy.

→ Property Valuation

You may also find this helpful: How to calculate the ideal sale price of your property.

Setting the right asking price

The asking price directly affects interest, time on the market, and the quality of offers. To determine it correctly:

• Review recent comparable sales

• Consider condition, floor level, orientation, and renovation quality

• Monitor interest during the first weeks

• Adjust price or presentation if activity is low

A well-positioned price increases demand and strengthens your negotiating position.

Signing the deposit agreement (arras)

Once you accept an offer, the next step is the deposit agreement, known in Spain as arras. This document:

• Commits both parties to completing the sale

• Usually includes a 10% deposit

• Defines deadlines, conditions, and penalties for withdrawal

Although not legally mandatory, it provides structure, clarity, and security.

More details: What is a deposit agreement (arras) and how does it work?

Signing the public deed at the notary

The sale is formalised at the notary’s office through the public deed (escritura). At this moment:

• The buyer pays the remaining amount

• The seller hands over the keys

• The notary verifies the documentation and validates the transaction

Typical seller costs include:

• Municipal capital gains tax (Plusvalía)

• Agency fees (if applicable)

• Mortgage cancellation at the registry (if needed)

• Possible bank-related administrative costs

Notifying the change of ownership

After the sale, you must update ownership details with:

• Utility providers (water, electricity, gas)

• The community of owners

• The local council (IBI, waste tax)

Keeping recent bills at hand helps speed up the process.

Preparing the property to maximise its value

Presentation plays a key role in the buyer’s perception. A clean, bright, well-organised home generates more interest and stronger offers.

Before listing, consider:

• Decluttering and depersonalising

• Small repairs

• Professional cleaning

• High-quality photography

• Basic home staging

• Ensuring natural light and ventilation

Good presentation conveys care, quality, and a sense of possibility for the buyer.

Ready to sell with confidence?

Charlie’s Properties supports you throughout the entire process:

• Accurate, data-driven valuation

• Elegant presentation (photo, video, drone)

• Clear, effective marketing

• Buyer qualification

• Skilled negotiation

• Guidance through to the notary

→ Property Valuation

→ Contact us to begin your sale

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