What Documentation is Needed to Sell a House?
August 14, 2025
If you are thinking of selling your home in Spain, you are probably wondering: “What documentation is needed to sell a house?”. Having all the correct documents is essential for the transaction to be legal, fast and without complications.
At Espígul, your trusted real estate agency, we explain in a clear and complete way all the documents you will need to sell your property in compliance with current regulations.
Documents Needed to Sell a House
For the sale to be carried out effectively, it is essential to have the correct documentation. The main documents are:
Property Deed
The deed proves that you own the property and is essential to formalize any sale.
Energy Certificate
Spanish regulations require the energy certificate, which classifies the house according to its energy consumption. This certificate must be given to the buyer before the sale.
Certificate of Occupancy or First Occupation License
The certificate of occupancy or first occupation license is a document that certifies that the house meets the minimum habitability requirements.
IBI Receipts
Presenting the latest Property Tax receipts proves that the property is up to date with its tax obligations.
Certificate of Community Payments
It is necessary to prove that you are up to date with the payment of the fees of the community of owners.
Earnest Money Contract
Although not mandatory, this contract protects both the buyer and the seller, formalizing the reservation of the property and the conditions of the sale.
Land Registry Filing
The Land Registry filing reflects the registration status of the property, including charges, encumbrances and ownership. It is a key document to guarantee the transparency of the operation.
Documents to Sell a Home Being a Non-Resident in Spain
If you do not reside in Spain, in addition to the above documents, you will need:
- Valid passport
- Certification of tax residence abroad
- Official translation into Spanish and apostille of all documents
Depending on each case, the following may also be required: valid DNI/CIF, marital status, matrimonial property regime, acceptance of inheritance (if applicable), proof of payment of supplies or power of attorney if the sale is made on behalf of the owner.
Why Sell your House with Espígul
At Espígul, we accompany our clients in all phases of the sale, from the preparation of the documents to the final signature before a notary and the change of ownership in the cadastre.
Our approach combines professionalism, closeness and security, ensuring that each procedure is carried out in compliance with current regulations and optimizing the results of our clients throughout Spain.
If you want to sell your home without complications, contact us. We will evaluate your case in a personalized way and offer you tailor-made solutions so that the sale is fast, safe and profitable.
Frequently Asked Questions about What Documentation is Needed to Sell a House
What documents are mandatory to sell a house in Spain?
The essential documents are: property deed, energy certificate, certificate of occupancy or first occupation license, IBI receipts, certificate of community payments and Land Registry filing from the Land Registry.
Is an earnest money contract necessary to sell a house?
It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. The earnest money contract formalizes the reservation of the property and protects both the buyer and the seller during the sale process.
Can I sell my house if I have pending charges or debts?
Yes, but it is essential to reflect any charge or debt in the Land Registry filing from the Land Registry and make sure that they are settled before or during the transaction, so that the sale is legal and safe.
