Getting your paperwork ready before listing your property saves time, avoids penalties and gives buyers confidence. Here is everything you need to have in order to sell a home in Spain in 2026.
Before listing
Selling a property in Spain requires presenting several documents to the notary, the buyer and, in most cases, the estate agent. Some are mandatory by law (energy certificate); others are essential in practice (updated nota simple). Having them ready from day one speeds up the sale and inspires confidence.
The full checklist
- Registered energy performance certificate (EPC).
- Second occupancy licence (cédula de habitabilidad).
- Updated nota simple from the Property Registry.
- Title deed (escritura).
- ITE / IEEV.CV (if the building is over 50 years old).
- Latest IBI receipt (council tax).
- Certificate of no outstanding community fees.
- Zero-debt certificate from the bank (if there is a mortgage).
- DNI/NIE of all sellers.
Energy performance certificate (EPC)
Mandatory by law (Royal Decree 390/2021). You must hold a registered certificate to list the property — the energy rating must appear in the advert — and to sign at the notary. Penalties range from €300 to €6,000. I issue it from €135 + VAT, registration fee included, usually in 48–72 h. View energy certificate →
Habitability certificate
In the Comunitat Valenciana this is called the declaración responsable de segunda ocupación. Not always required by the notary, but the buyer will need it to change utility contracts to their name. Better to have it ready. From €150 + VAT. View habitability certificate →
Nota simple and title deed
The nota simple is a registry extract showing ownership, charges and mortgages. Available online at registradores.org for about €10. It should be recent (less than 3 months). The title deed (escritura) proves how you acquired the property.
ITE / IEEV.CV
If your building is over 50 years old, it must have passed the Technical Building Inspection (ITE) or its Valencian equivalent (IEEV.CV). Responsibility lies with the community of owners, but if it is not up to date it can block your sale.
Other documents
- Latest IBI receipt — proves you are up to date with council tax. The notary requires it.
- Community certificate — confirms no outstanding fees. Issued by the property manager.
- Zero-debt certificate — if there is a mortgage, the bank issues a document to cancel it at the notary.
- Floor plans — not mandatory, but a measured plan adds transparency and can speed up the sale.
If the buyer is foreign
In the Costa Blanca, many transactions involve buyers from the UK, Netherlands, Germany or Belgium. They are accustomed to thorough due diligence and appreciate clear, complete documentation — ideally with an English summary. Offering a pre-purchase survey proactively builds trust and can help close the deal faster. View building survey →
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell without an energy certificate?
No. It is mandatory to list, sell or rent. Without it you risk fines of €300 to €6,000.
Who pays for the second occupancy licence?
Usually the seller, since it certifies the condition of their property. But it is negotiable.
Do I need all these documents if selling to a foreigner?
Yes, and the buyer may request additional documentation such as a pre-purchase survey.