Selling a home from abroad can be complex, but it can be done with the correct information and preparation.
The most important thing is to know the local laws – each country has its own regulations on selling property, so understanding the specific legal and fiscal requirements of the country where the house is located – in this case, Spain – is essential.
Find out about the real estate market
Knowing the real estate market in the area where your property is located is very important when selling a house from abroad, as it allows you to set a competitive price, attract potential buyers and negotiate with confidence. You can compare your property with similar ones that sold recently and calculate how much your home is worth.
Moreover, you will be able to adapt your listing to buyers' characteristics and demands, highlighting the most attractive aspects of your property and the area while avoiding mistakes that could waste time or money, such as setting the price too high or too low, accepting an offer without verifying the buyer's solvency or not having all the necessary documentation.
Get help from a real estate agent
An agent with market experience can be invaluable. They know the market and the area where you want to sell your home best, so they can advise you on price, demand and competition.
Selling your home with a real estate agency from abroad offers all the advantages: they will take care of the whole bureaucratic, financial and legal process and help you obtain and review all the necessary documentation.
They will save you time and money as they promote the property, find buyers, arrange viewings, negotiate and close the deal. This will make you feel safer and more confident, avoiding fraud and scams and protecting your interests and assets.
Set a competitive selling price
Setting a competitive price when selling a house from abroad can have several advantages, such as increasing the chances of finding a buyer interested and willing to pay the value of your home or avoiding your offer being left out of the market because it is over- or undervalued.
By doing this, you'll adapt to the country's conditions and demands by considering factors such as competition or taxes. You'll also stand out from other sellers who do not consider these aspects and offer unattractive or unprofitable prices.
When setting a competitive selling price, you should analyse the market beforehand, get to know the profile of potential buyers, use international real estate portals and get help from professionals or experts in the sector.
Prepare your home for sale
Getting your property ready for sale is an important step in making a good impression on potential buyers and increasing your chances of selling it for the best price:
- Repaint the walls with neutral colours that give a feeling of spaciousness and brightness.
- Fix minor flaws that may detract from your home's value, such as dripping taps, squeaky doors or wobbly furniture.
- Thoroughly clean all surfaces, windows, carpets, bathrooms, etc.
- Decorate with simple and discreet elements that do not distract buyers' attention.
- Tidy up and clear the spaces, leaving only the essential furniture and storing away personal objects, such as photos, handicrafts, etc.
- Get the necessary documents for the sale, such as the certificate of habitability, the energy certificate, proof of paying the property tax (IBI), etc.
Post your listing online
Listing your home on idealista can be an effective strategy for selling a home from abroad, as you'll reach a wider, more diverse audience.
You can adapt the listing to each language and market, highlighting the most attractive aspects of your home for each buyer and take advantage of digital tools such as photographs, videos, floor plans and virtual tours to show your home more realistically and attractively.
Be patient when selling your home from overseas
Selling property from abroad can take longer. Keep calm and be patient while you wait for the right offer.
This will give you access to a broader, more diverse market of potential buyers who may be willing to pay a higher price for your property.
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