Selling a property in Spain is a big decision. Whether you are selling a villa in Altea, an apartment in Calpe, a townhouse in Moraira or a property elsewhere on the Costa Blanca or Costa Cálida, choosing the right estate agent can make a real difference to the selling process.

But what should you ask an estate agent before putting your property on the market? What should you expect from them, and how long does it normally take to sell a property?

In this guide, we explain some of the most important things to consider before and during the sale of your property.

Is Your Property Ready to Go on the Market?

Before your property is advertised, it is important to make sure that the necessary paperwork is in order.

Depending on the property and your personal circumstances, this can include the escritura, nota simple, cadastral information, energy certificate, IBI documentation, community information and any relevant licences or permits.

It is also worth checking whether there are any outstanding payments connected to the property, such as community fees, IBI, mortgage or utilities.

Sorting these matters out before finding a buyer can help prevent unnecessary delays later in the sales process. Your estate agent should be able to advise you on which documents need to be checked or updated.

How Will the Value of Your Property Be Determined?

One of the most important conversations with your estate agent will be about the asking price.

You may already have an amount in mind that you would like to achieve, but the asking price should also reflect the current market.

At Select Estates Spain, we prepare a valuation report for your property. This gives you a clear starting point and allows us to discuss the factors that influence the recommended market price.

Location, property type, condition, size, views, outdoor space and comparable properties can all play a role.

The asking price can also be reviewed over time. If there are fewer enquiries or viewings than expected, or buyers consistently provide feedback that the property is not positioned at the right price point, we can compare this feedback with the current market.

This is not about automatically reducing the price. It is about using real market feedback to make an informed decision.

How Long Does It Take to Sell a Property on the Costa Blanca or Costa Cálida?

There is no fixed answer. Some properties sell within a few weeks, while others take several months or longer.

The selling time depends on factors such as location, property type and condition, asking price and current demand.

As a general indication, a correctly positioned property can often take several months to sell. The first few months can also provide valuable information through enquiries, viewings, offers and feedback from potential buyers.

What Marketing Will the Estate Agent Provide?

Before choosing an estate agent, ask how your property will be marketed.

Find out which property portals they use, whether they promote properties through social media and their own database, and what type of content will be created.

For suitable properties, professional video and drone footage can also help showcase the property, its surroundings, views, gardens and outdoor areas.

The important thing is to understand the overall marketing strategy and how the agent plans to reach potential buyers.

How Often Will You Receive Updates?

Communication is an important part of selling a property, particularly if you live abroad or cannot attend viewings yourself.

Ask your estate agent how they will keep you informed about enquiries, viewings and feedback. Find out whether you will have a dedicated contact person and how often you can expect updates.

Your agent should also be willing to discuss feedback with you and explain how the property is performing in the current market.

What Commission Does the Estate Agent Charge?

Estate agent commission in Spain varies depending on the agency, location and agreement. Around 4–5% plus VAT is common in many areas, but it is important to ask exactly what is included.

Rather than comparing agencies only by percentage, ask what services are included in the fee. This may cover the valuation, marketing, property portals, viewings, negotiations and support throughout the sales process.

The important question is not only “What is your commission?” but also “What do I receive in return?”

Do You Need to Sign an Exclusive Agreement?

Some estate agents work with non-exclusive listings, while others offer or require an exclusive agreement.

If you are considering exclusivity, ask how long the agreement lasts, what the terms are, what marketing will be provided and whether the agent cooperates with other agencies.

Make sure you understand the agreement before signing.

What Happens When a Buyer Makes an Offer?

When an offer is received, your estate agent should explain the next steps clearly.

The process can involve negotiations, a reservation agreement, legal checks, the arras contract and eventually completion before the notary.

Having your paperwork prepared in advance can help make this stage much smoother.

How Can You Prepare Your Property for Sale?

You do not necessarily need to renovate your property before selling it. However, simple improvements can make a difference.

Decluttering, carrying out small repairs, cleaning the property, preparing the garden and pool, improving lighting and creating a welcoming atmosphere can all help potential buyers see the property's strengths.

Your estate agent should be able to give you practical advice about what is worth doing before photography, marketing and viewings begin.

What If Your Property Takes Longer to Sell?

A property taking longer to sell does not automatically mean there is no demand.

It is important to look at the complete picture. If there are enquiries and viewings but no offers, buyer feedback can provide useful information. If there are very few enquiries from the beginning, the marketing, positioning or asking price may need to be reviewed.

After a few months, you and your estate agent can analyse the response and compare it with current market conditions and competing properties. This allows you to make decisions based on real information rather than guesswork.

Choosing the Right Estate Agent

Selling a property is about much more than putting it online.

Before choosing your estate agent, ask about their valuation process, marketing strategy, commission, communication, exclusivity, cooperation with other agencies and how they monitor the response to your property.

Most importantly, make sure you feel that your estate agent understands your property, your expectations and the current market.

A successful sale requires realistic pricing, good preparation, effective marketing, communication and the ability to adapt when the market provides new information.

Thinking of Selling Your Property on the Costa Blanca or Costa Cálida?

If you are considering selling a property in Altea, Albir, Calpe, Benissa, Moraira, Jávea, Dénia or elsewhere on the Costa Blanca or Costa Cálida, the first step is to understand your property's current position in the market.

At Select Estates Spain, we can prepare a valuation report for your property and discuss the selling process with you, including pricing, marketing and what you can expect once your property goes on the market.

Contact Select Estates Spain to discuss your property and find out how we can help you prepare for your sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long does it take to sell a property on the Costa Blanca or Costa Cálida?
There is no fixed timeframe. Selling time depends on factors including location, price, condition and current demand.

- How much do estate agents charge in Spain?
Around 4–5% plus VAT is common in many areas, but commission varies. Always ask what is included in the fee before signing an agreement.

- Should I sign an exclusive agreement?
This depends on your individual situation and the agreement offered. Check the duration, terms, cancellation conditions and services included.

- Can the asking price be changed after the property is listed?
Yes. The asking price can be reviewed based on enquiries, viewings, buyer feedback and current market conditions.