Costs of Selling Property in Spain: Taxes, Fees and Expenses

If you are selling a property in Mojácar, Vera Playa or elsewhere in Almería, the asking price is only part of the financial picture. Estate agency fees, municipal taxes, legal expenses and capital gains tax can all affect the amount you receive when the sale completes.

For example, a villa sold for €350,000 does not necessarily leave the owner with €350,000 available to spend. A seller may need to settle an outstanding mortgage, pay the agreed agency commission, account for local taxes and calculate any taxable profit. Non resident owners must also allow for a 3% withholding from the sale price.

New One Stop operates from 273 Paseo del Mediterráneo in Mojácar and markets properties across the surrounding Almería area. Whether you own a coastal apartment in Mojácar Playa, a villa in Vera Playa or a traditional home in Turre, understanding the likely costs before accepting an offer can help you make a more informed selling decision.

This guide explains the main costs of selling property in Spain in 2026, with examples relevant to Almería homeowners, links to official Spanish tax guidance and practical ways to estimate your net proceeds.

Understanding the Costs of Selling Property in Almería

There is no single percentage that accurately represents the total cost of every Spanish property sale. Two owners selling homes for the same price could face significantly different expenses depending on when they purchased, how much they originally paid, their tax residency and the municipality in which the property is located.

A seller in Mojácar Playa might have substantial capital gains after owning an apartment for many years. Another owner selling a recently purchased villa in Vera Playa might have little taxable profit but still need to pay agency commission, legal fees and certain administrative expenses.

The distinction matters because some costs relate to the selling price, while others depend on the owner's individual circumstances.

New One Stop's complete guide to selling property in Mojácar explains the wider sales process, including preparing the property, setting an asking price and completing the legal paperwork.

Typical Property Selling Costs in Spain

The following table provides a practical overview of the expenses that sellers should investigate. Professional fees are illustrative budgeting allowances rather than confirmed New One Stop charges. Actual amounts should be obtained in writing from the relevant service provider.

Notary and Land Registry charges associated with the buyer's acquisition are not automatically seller expenses. The allocation of costs depends on Spanish law, the transaction and the sale agreement. Sellers should primarily budget for the expenses they have agreed to pay, together with any costs required to clear their existing title.

Capital Gains Tax When Selling Property in Spain

Capital gains tax is one of the most important expenses to understand before selling. It generally applies to the taxable profit made when a property is sold for more than its allowable acquisition cost.

The taxable gain is not simply the difference between the original purchase price and the final selling price. Certain acquisition expenses, qualifying improvements and allowable selling costs may affect the calculation.

For example, a property purchased in Mojácar for €200,000 and subsequently sold for €350,000 does not automatically generate a taxable gain of €150,000. The seller may be entitled to account for qualifying purchase expenses and documented capital improvements, as well as allowable selling expenses.

Capital Gains Tax for Spanish Residents

Spanish tax residents generally include taxable property gains within their savings income for personal income tax purposes.

For 2026, the general combined savings income tax scale applicable to most Spanish residents is:

These rates apply progressively, and the owner's other savings income may affect the final calculation. Certain exemptions may also apply, including qualifying disposals of a main residence by owners aged 65 or over and qualifying reinvestment in another main residence.

Homeowners should obtain individual advice before assuming that an exemption applies, particularly where a property has been used as a holiday home, rental investment or second residence.

Capital Gains Tax for Non Resident Sellers

For individuals who are not Spanish tax residents, gains arising from selling Spanish property are generally taxed at 19%. This includes UK resident sellers as well as residents of other countries outside the European Union.

The 24% general income tax rate sometimes mentioned in property guides should not be confused with the rate applicable to capital gains from property sales.

Non resident sellers must declare the disposal through the relevant Spanish tax procedure, normally using Modelo 210.

The Spanish Tax Agency provides official guidance on capital gains arising from the transfer of Spanish property.

Worked Capital Gains Example: Selling a Villa in Vera Playa

Consider an illustrative example of an owner selling a villa in Vera Playa in 2026. The figures below demonstrate the calculation method and are not presented as an actual New One Stop transaction.

In this example, the taxable gain is calculated by deducting the allowable acquisition costs, qualifying improvements and allowable disposal expenses from the selling price.

The calculation assumes that the full amounts shown qualify for tax purposes. In practice, invoices, the legal character of improvement works and the applicable treatment of each expense must be checked.

The seller would also have €10,500 withheld at completion, representing 3% of the €350,000 selling price. This amount would be credited against the calculated tax liability rather than added to it.

The remaining tax liability in this illustration would be €7,361.90 after accounting for the withholding.

Want to understand how much you could retain from your own Almería property sale? Contact New One Stop on +34 950 473 040 or request a property valuation. The team can discuss the property and selling arrangements, while your solicitor or tax adviser can confirm your individual tax liability.

Plusvalía Municipal in Mojácar, Turre and Other Almería Towns

Plusvalía municipal is a local tax formally known as the Impuesto sobre el Incremento de Valor de los Terrenos de Naturaleza Urbana.

It concerns the increase in value of urban land during the relevant ownership period. It is separate from national capital gains tax and is administered by the municipality in which the property is located.

This is particularly relevant for owners selling property around Mojácar, Vera, Turre, Albox or Cuevas del Almanzora because the local calculation must be based on the relevant municipal rules and the property's own cadastral information.

How Plusvalía Is Calculated

Following the reforms introduced in 2021, the calculation must account for the applicable statutory methods and the individual circumstances of the sale.

The objective method uses the cadastral land value and the relevant coefficient for the ownership period, subject to legal limits and municipal rules. An alternative approach considers the actual increase in land value where that produces a lower taxable amount.

Where there has been no taxable increase in the land value, the seller may be able to establish that no plusvalía is due.

It is therefore misleading to state that every property sold in Almería will incur a fixed plusvalía amount.

Why Local Property Details Matter

Consider two hypothetical homes that have each been sold for €250,000. One is an apartment in Mojácar Playa with a relatively modest cadastral land value. The other is a detached property in Turre with a different land valuation and ownership history.

Although their selling prices are identical, their potential plusvalía liabilities may differ.

Likewise, an owner who purchased a property in Albox three years ago may face a different calculation from someone who has owned a home in Cuevas del Almanzora for twenty years.

To obtain a reliable figure, the relevant professional should review the acquisition and sale dates, purchase and sale documentation, cadastral land value and the municipality's current ordinance.

For sellers unfamiliar with the local area, New One Stop's guide to property and everyday life in Turre provides useful background on the village and its residential market.

When Is Plusvalía Payable?

For an ordinary property sale, the statutory declaration period is generally 30 working days, although the precise procedure should be confirmed with the relevant town hall.

Owners should ask their solicitor to check whether the municipality uses self assessment or a declaration followed by an assessment.

Obtaining an estimate before completion is preferable to relying on a generic national cost guide or assuming the liability will be similar to a previous property sale.

Understanding the 3% Withholding for Non Resident Property Sellers

If you are a non resident selling Spanish property, the buyer is generally required to withhold 3% of the agreed purchase price and pay that amount to the Spanish Tax Agency.

This rule applies to the total selling price, not the profit made by the seller.

For a property sold for €350,000, the withholding would therefore be €10,500.

The buyer normally submits the amount using Modelo 211 within one month of the sale. The seller subsequently uses Modelo 210 to calculate the actual capital gains tax due and account for the withholding already paid.

According to the Spanish Tax Agency's Modelo 210 instructions, the return for a property disposal is generally submitted within three months after the initial one month period following the transfer.

Can Non Resident Sellers Recover the Withheld Amount?

Yes, where the 3% withholding exceeds the final Spanish tax liability, the seller can request the appropriate refund through the tax return.

For example, consider an illustrative apartment sale in Villaricos:

If the final tax liability were €2,300, the seller could potentially recover €4,300 of the €6,600 withholding.

This is a hypothetical calculation, not a documented client refund. Actual eligibility and processing times depend on the taxpayer's return, supporting records and the Spanish Tax Agency's assessment.

Sellers should retain the Modelo 211 documentation, acquisition deed, sale deed, allowable expense invoices and any other evidence requested by their tax adviser.

If you live in the United Kingdom or another country and own property in Mojácar, Vera Playa or the surrounding area, it is worth discussing the withholding procedure with your solicitor before the completion date.

Estate Agency Fees When Selling in Almería

Estate agency commission is another significant cost for many property sellers. The amount depends on the agency agreement, marketing services, property type and agreed commission structure.

There is no single commission percentage that applies to every property transaction in Almería.

Before appointing an agent, check the quoted fee, whether the amount includes IVA, when payment becomes due and which marketing services are included.

Agency Fee Example: A €350,000 Villa in Vera Playa

If the agreed agency commission were 5% plus IVA, the following calculation would apply to a €350,000 sale.

This calculation demonstrates how IVA affects the total expense. It does not establish that New One Stop charges 5% on every property.

The actual commission should always be confirmed directly with the agency and recorded in the signed agreement.

What Does the Agency Do for Sellers?

New One Stop's published selling guidance describes property marketing through its multilingual website, property portals, social media, print advertising and its Mojácar office.

The agency also provides a dedicated valuation service, making it possible for homeowners to discuss asking prices and marketing plans before deciding to sell.

For example, a villa in La Parata may require different marketing information from a small apartment in Mojácar Pueblo. Outdoor space, parking, access, views and property condition can all influence how the home is presented to prospective buyers.

New One Stop's Vera and Vera Playa area comparison illustrates why buyers distinguish between the traditional town and coastal residential developments.

An agent who understands these local distinctions can explain how a property's setting may affect marketing and valuation, rather than relying on broad averages for the entire province.

Real Property Examples from New One Stop

One way to evaluate an estate agency's local experience is to examine actual properties it has marketed.

New One Stop publishes identifiable property listings, including homes marked as sold. These provide useful local context because they show the types of properties the agency has handled.

Four Bedroom Villa in La Parata, Mojácar Playa

New One Stop's La Parata villa, reference 1387, is a four bedroom property advertised at €575,000 and marked sold on the agency website.

The listing describes a heated swimming pool, private garage, additional accommodation and Mediterranean views.

These features are relevant when comparing the property with other villas in Mojácar Playa. They may influence buyer interest and valuation, although the advertised price does not establish the final amount achieved.

For an owner considering selling a similar villa, the appropriate next step would be to obtain relevant comparable evidence and an individual assessment of likely selling expenses.

Different Costs for Apartments and Villas

An apartment in a residential community may involve annual community fees and documentation confirming that the owner's payments are up to date.

A detached villa may have different maintenance obligations, mortgage arrangements or expenses associated with its land and buildings.

These differences matter when planning a sale because two properties advertised for the same amount can require different preparations before completion.

New One Stop's Mojácar property valuation guide explains why location, condition, outdoor space and genuine comparable properties should be considered when establishing an asking price.

Property listings demonstrate local agency activity, but they should not be used as proof of actual completed sale prices unless those figures have been independently confirmed.

Legal Fees When Selling Property in Spain

Many property sellers appoint an independent Spanish solicitor to oversee legal documentation, review agreements and coordinate completion.

Although the exact services depend on the engagement, legal assistance may include checking ownership documentation, reviewing the private sale contract, coordinating with the buyer's solicitor and assisting with the notarial process.

For non resident owners, the solicitor or a qualified tax adviser may also assist with the required tax documentation.

Professional charges vary according to the property and complexity of the transaction. A straightforward apartment sale may involve different work from a villa with outstanding mortgage issues, inheritance documentation or discrepancies between registered and physical property details.

When comparing legal quotations, ask whether IVA, document preparation, tax filings and any additional administrative services are included.

Legal Preparation for Overseas Sellers

Owners who live outside Spain should discuss completion arrangements early in the process.

A properly prepared power of attorney may allow an authorised representative to complete specified legal formalities on the seller's behalf.

The documentation may need notarisation, an apostille and an appropriate translation, depending on where it is executed and the receiving notary's requirements.

These costs should be confirmed before the transaction is close to completion, particularly if the seller cannot easily travel to Almería.

Notary and Land Registry Expenses

The Spanish notary plays an important role in the property transfer. The notary prepares or authorises the public deed and performs the legal checks required within the notarial process.

However, the notary should not be treated as a substitute for independent legal representation.

In many transactions, the buyer pays the principal expenses associated with acquiring and registering the property, subject to the applicable rules and contractual agreement.

The seller may still need to pay for certain documents, powers of attorney or formal cancellation of an existing mortgage.

Mortgage Cancellation Costs

If there is an outstanding mortgage secured against a property in Mojácar or Vera Playa, the seller should obtain a redemption statement from the lender.

Paying off the outstanding loan and cancelling the mortgage entry at the Land Registry are separate matters.

Depending on the mortgage and lender, the process may involve a redemption charge, notarial documentation, registry expenses or professional administration fees.

Sellers should request written figures rather than assuming the only expense will be the outstanding mortgage balance.

Energy Performance Certificate and Property Documentation

Most Spanish properties require a valid energy performance certificate when being marketed for sale, subject to the relevant legal exceptions.

The certificate provides information about energy efficiency and must be issued by a suitably qualified professional.

The cost varies according to property size, service provider and the work required. It should be checked with an assessor rather than assumed to be a standard national fee.

An energy certificate is generally valid for ten years, although certificates with a G rating have a shorter maximum validity period of five years under the current regulatory framework.

Other documentation may also be required before completion.

Community Fees and Outstanding Payments

If you are selling an apartment within a community in Mojácar Playa, Marina de la Torre or Vera Playa, your lawyer will normally check the position regarding community charges.

The buyer may require a certificate confirming the community payment status.

Outstanding amounts should be identified early so that any necessary settlement can be arranged.

IBI and Utility Accounts

IBI is the annual municipal property tax. The seller should check whether any outstanding amounts remain payable and how the current year's liability will be allocated under the agreement.

Electricity, water and other utility accounts should also be reviewed to avoid unresolved bills or difficulties transferring services after completion.

Property owners should not assume that these expenses disappear automatically when the sale deed is signed.

How Much Will You Receive After Selling Your Property?

Understanding net proceeds is often more useful than simply adding together selling costs.

The following illustration uses the same €350,000 Vera Playa villa introduced earlier. It assumes an individual non resident seller, no outstanding mortgage, a 19% tax rate on the illustrative taxable gain and the specific cost allowances shown.

This is a simplified financial illustration rather than a quotation or a completed client transaction.

Importantly, the 3% withholding is not deducted again from the final net proceeds because it has already been credited against the capital gains tax liability.

Cash received on completion would be different from the eventual net amount because of the timing of tax payments, withholding and other settlement arrangements.

The example also assumes there is no mortgage balance to repay. An outstanding loan would further reduce the funds available to the seller.

When Do Property Selling Costs Become Payable?

Not every expense arises on completion day. Understanding the stages of the sale makes financial planning easier.

Before Marketing

Owners may need to pay for an energy certificate, initial legal advice, repairs or preparation work.

A valuation can help establish an appropriate asking price before committing to unnecessary expenditure.

New One Stop offers an online property valuation request form where owners can provide their address and property information.

During Marketing and Negotiations

The seller should check the agency agreement, commission structure and any fees that may arise if the property is withdrawn from the market.

Once an offer is accepted, legal representatives should review any reservation or private sale agreement, including the conditions governing deposits and completion.

At Completion

The completion statement should clearly identify the amount paid by the buyer, mortgage redemption amounts, agreed professional expenses and any statutory withholding.

For non resident sellers, the 3% withholding is normally deducted from the amount released directly to the seller.

After Completion

The seller may still need to settle plusvalía, submit the relevant capital gains tax return or arrange further administrative documentation.

These obligations should be planned before the sale takes place, not discovered after leaving Spain.

What Should Sellers Check Before Accepting an Offer?

A financially attractive offer is not always the one with the highest headline price.

For example, a buyer offering €350,000 who can demonstrate financing and meet an agreed completion schedule may present different practical considerations from a buyer offering slightly more but requiring extensive conditions.

Sellers should consider the buyer's financial position, proposed deposit arrangements, requested completion date and the legal obligations contained in the contract.

They should also confirm their own financial position, including any mortgage repayment, outstanding community liabilities and expected tax costs.

For owners of apartments in Mojácar Playa or traditional homes in Mojácar Pueblo, relevant market comparisons matter as much as the initial asking price.

New One Stop's local seller's guide provides further information about preparing a property, handling viewings and progressing towards completion.

How New One Stop Can Help Almería Property Sellers

New One Stop is based in Mojácar and provides property sales and valuation services in the local market.

Its website includes active property listings, properties marked sold, area guides and published customer feedback, giving prospective sellers information they can examine before making contact.

For example, the agency's published testimonial from Karen Sedgwick describes a property sold within two hours and a smooth selling experience.

This is an individual customer's experience rather than a guaranteed selling period or evidence of an average market result.

The agency's property listings also demonstrate activity in areas such as La Parata, Mojácar Playa and surrounding residential locations.

Those examples provide more meaningful evidence of local involvement than unsupported claims about the number of sellers assisted or the average amount of tax saved.

Owners can use the agency's valuation service to discuss property features, local competition, marketing plans and expected selling arrangements.

For a precise breakdown of legal and tax liabilities, the figures should then be reviewed with a qualified solicitor or tax adviser using the property's actual documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Property Costs in Spain

Find Out What You Could Receive from Selling Your Almería Property

Whether you are selling an apartment in Mojácar Playa, a villa in Vera Playa or a traditional property in the surrounding Almería villages, understanding your selling costs is an important part of planning the transaction.

Capital gains tax, plusvalía, agency commission and legal expenses can all influence the amount you ultimately retain. The precise costs depend on your property and individual circumstances, so a financial estimate should be supported by current documentation rather than broad national averages.

New One Stop provides local property valuation and sales services from its Mojácar office, with published listings and area information that homeowners can review when considering a sale.

To discuss your property's potential selling price and the next steps involved, request a property valuation from New One Stop or contact the Mojácar team.

Telephone: +34 950 473 040

Email: info@newonestop.com

Office: 273 Paseo del Mediterráneo, Mojácar, Almería, Spain.

For the most accurate financial picture, combine a current property valuation with written professional fee quotations and individual advice from a qualified Spanish tax adviser or solicitor.