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Professional Advice for Selling Rural Properties in Spain

Kelly Summerell Selling Property in Spain | Our News
January 2023 9 minute read

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Although it is frequently the key to attracting viewings, pricing your home realistically is not the "be-all and end-all" of selling it. Additionally, it's crucial to ensure your property is well presented, that professional photos are taken, that you are open to viewings, and that we understand the legal status of your home.

The following are our top recommendations for selling your Spanish property on the Costa del Sol quickly and for the most money. Look for a local real estate agent who has previously purchased and sold properties for British owners and read the testimonials from home buyers and vendors that they have received.

Don't just go off the testimonials on their website as these can obviously be biased and have no guarantee that they are genuine. You should also check out their Google and Trustpilot reviews. You can view our Google reviews left by our lovely customers here.

Price and Timeline

Setting the correct price can be one of the most crucial aspects of the selling process. We know you want the best price for your property, and we do, too! However, setting the price too high will deter buyers, while setting it too low will result in money being lost. We recommend that you set your price in line with other comparable properties on the market; after all, these are your competitors. Our valuers at Mediterranean Homes will provide you with recent sales data to help you decide on a reasonable price and make an informed decision. Usually, a property that is priced correctly will sell quickly.

You Never Get a Second Chance to Make a First Impression!

Most of our customers want to invest in "a lifestyle," and Inland Costa del Sol is ideal because of the climate, food, leisure facilities, beaches, and, most importantly, the sun. Keeping this in mind, you can assist us in selling this lifestyle by considering these simple tips to present your home to the best of its' ability.

1. Proper Lighting: Light is king!

The importance of adequately illuminating your home cannot be overstated.

Increasing natural light during the day is straightforward; raise your blinds and open any "rejas" (security grills) and curtains.
Artificial lighting can compensate for rooms that receive less natural light.
Avoiding dark fabrics on beds and sofas is also a great idea.
White or light-coloured walls and furniture are unquestionably safe bets because they add brightness to a room.

2. Repair the Damage

First Impressions Mean Everything! Repair those minor flaws that have been bothering you for a long time - doors that do not close properly, leaky faucets, minor cracks, blown lightbulbs... etc.! Since the seller has lived in or travelled to Spain frequently for a long time, they typically know the country better than the buyer. Therefore, it makes sense for the seller to make the necessary repairs as opposed to a buyer who may overestimate the cost of repairs or even decide not to proceed with the transaction. These are minor investments but details that buyers frequently notice and comment on. Again... You only get one chance to make that first impression, so make sure the entrance to your property is neat and well-kept. If your front door looks a little worn, give it a new coat of paint.

3. De-clutter

Avoid hoarding excessive clutter to create a sense of spaciousness. We understand that this is often easier said than done but having too many items and furniture in your room drains the light and can overwhelm the space, making it appear much smaller.
Fresh flowers in a lovely vase or a bowl of fruit are also simple ways to improve your presentation.
Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the property, paying attention to the kitchen and bathroom areas.
Use good ventilation, candles, or air fresheners to keep odours at bay. If you have pets, please leave them outside during your visits.

4. Use your furnishings as a deal incentive

International buyers are drawn to Spain's real estate market, especially in coastal regions. Thus, you will likely sell your property to an international buyer who will likely consider the presence of furniture in the property to be a significant plus. Likely, you will only need some of your furniture if you're downsizing or moving back to your home country, and you frequently discover after the fact that your old furniture doesn't actually fit in your new home. The cost of shipping furniture abroad adds additional expense and hassle for British ex-pats. And suppose you've ever sold furniture on eBay or Gumtree. In that case, you'll know that used furniture typically only brings in a little money. You might discover that international shipping is more expensive than it is worth!

Consider offering some free furniture as a deal incentive. Using it as a negotiating tool might be more effective than simply dropping the price.

5. Your Spanish Property Documents - Stay Organised

Having the documents ready to go has an unintended consequence. Quick responses keep the sales process moving forward. When it comes to property sales, time is often a silent killer.

The following paperwork and documentation (photocopies) will be required:

Passport and NIE
Escritura (Tittle Deeds) / Nota Simple
Energy Efficiency Certificate
The most recent IBI and Rubbish receipts.
The most recent Community Fees payment receipt
The most recent electric and water bills
We can assist you in obtaining any documents you may not have.

Market your Property to the BEST of its Ability

Here's the reason why marketing your home for sale in Spain to the best of its ability is so important...

Professional Photos and Video Walkthroughs result in more people viewing your property online...

The more people that view your property, the more viewings your property gets...

The more buyers that visit your property, the more offers you will receive...

The more offers you receive on your home, the higher the sale price and the faster the sale!

It is very important that your photos look as good as possible. Our team will take professional photographs, including drone shots, floor plans, and an engaging walkthrough video when we first market your property. We understand that your home is your pride and joy - if you're unhappy with the results or would like anything changing in the video or photos, we are more than happy to come back and try again.

A Prime Example of a GREAT Property Tour

Here's an example of a great property tour of a gorgeous set of cottages we had for sale a couple of years ago in a very rural location in the South of Spain.

Be as Flexible as Possible with your Viewing Conditions

The first step in a sale is encouraging property purchases to make an enquiry about YOUR property. The second step is qualifying them and the third is getting them through your door. We need access, so please be as flexible as possible in accommodating viewings. We promise to do our best in qualifying all our clients to avoid wasting your time and theirs. If you are present during the viewing, potential buyers may feel as if they are imposing on you, so if you can take a short walk around the block while we are showing your property, do so - it helps the buyers relax and take their time. If you are not in Spain or do not live at the property, please leave us a set of keys or let us know where we can pick them up so that we do not have to turn down potential viewings while you are away.

Consult a Currency Broker

Most people who sell property in Spain never consider the exchange rate and aren't aware that there are alternatives to sending money directly from your bank in Spain to your bank abroad. This is a very costly mistake! We can recommend currency exchange companies that are more than likely going to save you a lot of money. They can help you move money to the UK, America, Canada and just about anywhere else in the world.

The exchange rate can greatly impact how much money you get in your bank account. Exchange rates change every few seconds and are impacted by many things such as the economic health of each country in the currency pair (EUR/USD, for example - meaning the value of the Euro against the Dollar). Even small changes in interest rates can significantly impact large sums of money.

If you transfer money from Spain to the UK or America through your bank, you could be up to 5% worse off than if you used a currency broker.

If you would like more information about how to save money when transferring money from Spain, get in touch.

Finally

Making the purchase agreement official

The reservation contract specifies the terms of the contract, payment deadlines, and other pertinent details to protect the interests of both the seller and the buyer.

Sell Your Home with Mediterranean Homes

Request a Free, No Obligation Valuation from Mediterranean Homes.
We are a team of trusted Spanish specialist rural estate agents committed to taking all the hard work and surprises out of buying and selling your inland, rural property on the Costa Del Sol in Spain. If you are thinking of selling your property, fill out the form below to schedule a free, no-obligation valuation and discuss how we can help sell your home with minimal stress and for the best possible price.