The Essential Documentation You Need to Sell A Property

Selling a property in Spain is a straightforward process when you have the correct documentation prepared. However, many sellers experience delays — and even lose buyers — because important paperwork is missing or out of date.

This guide explains all the documents you need to legally and safely sell your property, why they matter, and how to obtain them if you don’t already have them. Whether you are selling a villa, apartment, or townhouse, this checklist will help you get ready for a smooth transaction.

1. Title Deeds (Escritura de Compraventa)

This is the official proof of ownership. The notary will request it to verify that you are the legal owner and have the right to sell the property.

Where to get it

If you don’t have the original, you can obtain a copy from the Notary who handled your purchase or request a “nota simple” from the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad).

2. Nota Simple (Land Registry Extract)

A recent nota simple is essential. It shows:

• Ownership details
• Outstanding debts or mortgages
• Embargos or legal issues
• Property description

Buyers and lawyers use it to confirm the property is free of problems before signing.

Tip

Always provide a document issued within the last 3 months.

3. Identification Documents (Your ID or Passport + NIE)

All sellers must present:

• Valid passport or national ID
• NIE number (Foreign Identification Number)

If there are multiple owners, each must provide their details.

4. Energy Performance Certificate (Certificado de Eficiencia Energética – CEE)

This certificate is legally required to list the property for sale.
It grades the property’s energy efficiency from A to G.

Good to know

It must be issued by an approved architect or technician. Without it, you cannot complete the sale.

5. Proof of Payment of Local Property Taxes (IBI Receipts)

You must provide the last IBI receipt (property tax).
Buyers want confirmation that the yearly tax obligations are up to date.

Tip

Having the past 3–5 years’ receipts is even better.

6. Utility Bills (Water, Electricity, Gas)

Recent bills help the buyer:

• Confirm services connected
• Understand monthly running costs
• Ensure no unpaid balances exist

Provide the most recent invoices for each utility.

7. Community of Owners Certificate (Certificado de Comunidad)

Relevant for apartments, townhouses, or villas with shared facilities.

This certificate confirms:

• You are up to date with community fees
• No outstanding payments exist
• Any major works (derrama) planned in the building

You can request it from the Community Administrator or President.

8. Certificate of Habitability (Cédula de Habitabilidad) – Depending on Region

In some regions, especially Cataluña and the Balearics, this is mandatory.

In Alicante (Costa Blanca), this is usually equivalent to:

• Licencia de Primera Ocupación (First Occupancy Licence) for newer homes
• Or Licencia de Segunda Ocupación for older homes

This certificate ensures the property meets basic living conditions.

9. Building Plans or Extensions Documentation (if applicable)

If you added a pool, terrace, extension, or roof conversion, you must show:

• Architect’s project
• Building licence
• Completion certificate

Unofficial extensions can cause major legal and mortgage delays.

10. Mortgage Cancellation Documents (If You Have a Mortgage)

Before selling, you must arrange:

• Cancellation of the mortgage at the notary
• A certificate from the bank confirming zero balance

Your lawyer or agent can coordinate this.

11. Copies of Warranties or Manuals (Optional but Helpful)

These aren’t legally required, but buyers appreciate them:

• Air conditioning warranties
• Home appliance manuals
• Pool pump or solar panel documentation
• Guarantees on renovations

It adds confidence and boosts buyer perception.

Summary: Seller Checklist

Here’s a quick overview of everything you need:

Mandatory

✔ Title deeds
✔ Nota simple
✔ Passport/ID + NIE
✔ Energy certificate (CEE)
✔ IBI tax receipts
✔ Community certificate (if applicable)
✔ Utility bills
✔ Habitation licence / occupancy licence

Conditional

✔ Mortgage cancellation documents (if you have a mortgage)
✔ Building licences for extensions

Optional but recommended

✔ Warranties, manuals, appliance information
✔ Floor plans

Final Advice: Prepare Your Documentation Early

Most delays in property sales come from missing or incorrect paperwork. Preparing everything before you list the property allows:

• Faster sales
• Smoother negotiation
• Stronger buyer confidence
• Easier legal checks

At Marmax Realty, we guide sellers through every step — from preparing documentation to marketing, viewing management, and closing at the notary.