EU Property Solutions- Experts in all Spanish property issues

This blog will be providing you with tailored advice on how to avoid these pitfalls when buying or selling property in Spain.

The Spanish property market has been through a turbulent period over the last decade. It's important to work with borrowers assisting them out of difficult situations often not caused by themselves as they fell victim to the Property Crash.

The 2007-2008 crash has led to people looking to sell and get out of the property burden and those looking for a bargain investment.

We have a few pointers if you’re considering buying or selling a property in Spain.

SELLING:

Price the Property to Sell

• The property market in Spain has masses of supply currently, especially in the British/Foreign investor market.
• Your property needs to be priced to sell, or it will sit on the market for a long time.

Will you clear any outstanding mortgage and debts?

• Will your sales proceeds (sales price less costs) clear your outstanding mortgage?
• Do you owe any debts for IBI taxes or Community Fees?
• If you do not clear the mortgage your lender will not release their charge on the property and the sale cannot complete.

 Sales Costs

• 3% Capital Gains tax if you are a non-Spanish Resident.
• Estate Agent fees are 3-6% of the sales price.
• Energy Efficiency Certificate typically €150-€300.
• Plus Valia Tax – this is a local tax on the increase in the value of the rateable value of the land.

BUYING:

Purchase Costs

• Legal conveyancing fees
• Land Registry Fees
• Notary Fees
• Income Tax Provision when purchasing from non-residents.
• Bank fees for money transfers and mortgage fees.

 Future Costs of Ownership

• IBI Taxes
• Community Fees
• Utilities
• Insurance
• Non-resident tax

It all adds up.

 Understand what you are buying.

• Research is essential
• Is your mortgage affordable in the long term? Does the rate change?
• What rental yield can you achieve – be careful if you have been promised a yield. These often don’t materialise.

Brexit and your registrations.

• Have your NIE number ready well before starting the purchase process
• Open a Spanish Bank account well before the purchase process.
• Brexit implications for use of property need to be understood.