When someone decides to sell their home, the first thing they think about is the price. But what usually delays a sale the most isn't the price, but the paperwork: a missing document appears just when the buyer is ready to sign. Having everything prepared from the start provides peace of mind and conveys professionalism.
This is the documentation we request from our landlords in Barcelona.
To put the property up for sale
- Property deed. Provide proof that the property is yours and how you acquired it.
- Simple note from the Property Registry. Confirm who the owner is and if there are any encumbrances (a mortgage, a lien). Request it online in just a few minutes.
- Energy efficiency certificate. It is mandatory from the moment the property is advertised, and the label must appear in the listing. It is issued by a technician after visiting the property.
- Certificate of occupancy. In Catalonia, this certificate is required to sell a property. If it has expired, it's advisable to renew it as soon as possible, because it requires a visit from a technician and the process takes time.
To sign before a notary
- Latest IBI receipt. It certifies that the tax has been paid and serves to identify the cadastral reference.
- Certificate from the homeowners' association. It is issued by the property manager and confirms that you are up to date with your payments. The buyer has the right to request it.
- Certificate of outstanding mortgage debt, If there is one, the bank will indicate how much is still owed to cancel it on the same day as the signing.
- Supply receipts (electricity, water, gas), useful for the change of ownership.
After the sale
The sale generates the municipal capital gains, which is generally paid by the seller, and the profit is declared in the rent of the following year. We recommend consulting your tax advisor before setting the price, to find out what portion of the amount you will actually keep.
Our advice
Request the property registry extract and energy performance certificate as soon as you decide to sell, and check the date on the occupancy certificate. These are the three documents we most often find missing and the ones that can be resolved most quickly.
At Victoria Properties, we guide you through the entire process, from valuation to signing. If you're thinking of selling, contact us and we'll review your documentation together.