Selling your property on the Costa Blanca requires proper preparation, including gathering all necessary documents. Buyers, lawyers, and notaries will request these documents to ensure a smooth and legal sale. Having them ready in advance will help you avoid delays and complications. Below is a list of the essential paperwork you’ll need.

1. Title Deeds (Escritura Pública de Compraventa)

The title deed is the most important document, proving your legal ownership of the property. This notarial document is registered in the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad). If you don’t have a copy, you can request one from the notary who handled your original purchase.

2. Nota Simple (Property Registry Extract)

A Nota Simple is an official document from the Land Registry that provides updated information about your property. It confirms: 

✅ Ownership details
✅ Mortgages or debts attached to the property
✅ Legal restrictions or encumbrances

Buyers usually request this document to ensure the property is free from legal issues before proceeding with the purchase.

3. Energy Performance Certificate (Certificado de Eficiencia Energética - CEE)

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is mandatory when selling a property in Spain. It assigns an energy rating (from A to G) and must be issued by a certified technician. Without this certificate, the sale cannot be completed.

4. Occupancy Certificate (Cédula de Habitabilidad / Licencia de Ocupación)

This document certifies that the property meets the required habitability standards. While not always obligatory, some buyers—especially those applying for a mortgage—may request it. If your property doesn’t have one, you can apply for it at the local town hall.

5. Certificate of No Urban Infractions (Certificado de No Infracción Urbanística)

This certificate proves that there are no illegal extensions, renovations, or modifications made to the property without approval. Many buyers and lawyers request this document to ensure that all construction work complies with local regulations. If any unauthorized structures exist, they may need to be legalized before selling.

You can obtain this certificate from the local Town Hall’s Urban Planning Department.

6. Proof of Payment for Municipal Property Tax (IBI Receipt)

The IBI tax (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles) is an annual property tax paid to the town hall. Sellers must provide the latest IBI receipt as proof of payment. Buyers may also request receipts from the past few years to confirm there are no outstanding debts.

7. Utility Bills (Water, Electricity, Gas, Internet)

To show that essential services are active and paid, sellers must provide recent utility bills for: 

✅ Electricity
✅ Water
✅ Gas
✅ Internet

Any unpaid bills should be settled before the sale to prevent transfer issues for the new owner.

8. Community Fees (If Applicable)

If your property is part of a residential complex or urbanization, you must provide proof that your community fees are up to date. The Certificado de Comunidad, issued by the administrator, confirms that there are no outstanding debts with the community. Buyers need this to ensure they won’t inherit unpaid fees.

Final Thoughts

Ensuring all necessary documents are in order is key to a smooth and stress-free property sale. By preparing in advance, you can avoid legal complications and speed up the sales process.

Need professional assistance? AP Properties Spain is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today for expert advice!