Planning to sell your property in Marbella, Estepona or elsewhere on the Costa del Sol? Before putting your home on the market, it’s important to understand the costs involved.
Selling a property in Spain comes with several expenses, including estate agent fees, taxes and legal paperwork. Knowing these costs in advance helps you avoid surprises and understand how much money you will actually receive after the sale.
In this guide, Meester Estate explains the main costs of selling a property on the Costa del Sol in 2026.
How Much Does It Cost to Sell a Property on the Costa del Sol?
As a general guide, selling costs on the Costa del Sol can amount to approximately 4% to 7% of the sale price, excluding capital gains tax.
If your property has increased significantly in value, the total cost, including tax on your profit, could reach 10% to 15% or more, depending on your circumstances.
Here is a breakdown of the main expenses:
| Selling expense | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Estate agent commission | 3%–5% + 21% VAT |
| Plusvalía municipal | Depends on municipality and land value |
| Capital gains tax | 19%–30% of taxable profit |
| Energy Performance Certificate | €100–€250 |
| Notary and documentation | Varies |
| Mortgage cancellation | €600–€1,200, if applicable |
These figures are estimates. The final amount depends on the property, your tax residency and the terms of the sale.
1. Estate Agent Fees on the Costa del Sol
One of the main expenses when selling a property in Spain is the estate agent’s commission.
On the Costa del Sol, estate agency fees typically range between 3% and 5% of the selling price, plus 21% VAT.
For example, if you sell your property for €500,000 with a 5% commission:
- Agency commission: €25,000
- VAT (21%): €5,250
- Total agency fee: €30,250
When choosing an estate agent, it’s important to consider more than the commission alone. Professional photography, international marketing, accurate pricing and access to qualified buyers can make a significant difference to your selling experience.
2. Plusvalía Municipal: Local Property Tax
When selling a property in Marbella, Estepona, Benahavís or another municipality on the Costa del Sol, you may need to pay a local tax known as Plusvalía Municipal.
This tax relates to the increase in the value of the land during your ownership.
The amount depends on factors such as:
- How long you have owned the property.
- The cadastral value of the land.
- The municipality where the property is located.
- The increase in value during ownership.
There are two methods for calculating this tax, and the more favourable applicable calculation can be used.
If there has been no increase in the value of the land, no plusvalía tax should be due, although the relevant declaration and supporting evidence may still be required.
3. Capital Gains Tax When Selling Property in Spain
If you sell your property for more than you originally paid, you may need to pay capital gains tax on the profit.
The applicable tax depends on whether you are a Spanish tax resident.
Spanish tax residents: Capital gains are generally taxed at progressive savings-income rates ranging from 19% to 30% in 2026.
Non-residents: A flat rate of 19% generally applies to taxable gains from selling Spanish property.
Importantly, capital gains tax is calculated on the taxable profit, not the full selling price.
Certain purchase expenses, selling costs and qualifying property improvements may reduce the taxable gain, provided they are properly documented.
4. The 3% Withholding Tax for Non-Residents
If you are not a Spanish tax resident, the buyer is generally required to withhold 3% of the property’s selling price and pay it directly to the Spanish tax authorities.
For example, on a €500,000 property sale, €15,000 would be withheld.
This is not an additional tax. It is an advance payment towards your final capital gains tax liability.
If your actual tax liability is lower than the amount withheld, you may be entitled to a refund by submitting the appropriate tax return (Modelo 210).
This is particularly important for international homeowners selling property on the Costa del Sol.
5. Other Costs When Selling Your Property
Besides agency fees and taxes, sellers should budget for a few additional expenses.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Generally required when marketing and selling a property in Spain. This typically costs around €100–€250.
Legal and administrative fees: A lawyer can help prepare documentation, check outstanding debts and coordinate the completion process. Costs depend on the services required.
Mortgage cancellation: If your property has an existing mortgage, it may need to be formally cancelled at the Land Registry. This can involve additional notary and registration expenses.
How to Reduce Your Property Selling Costs
Good preparation can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and maximise your final proceeds.
Keep invoices from your original purchase and qualifying renovations, as these may help reduce your taxable capital gain. Check which plusvalía calculation is more favourable and confirm whether any tax exemptions apply to your circumstances.
It is also important to establish a realistic asking price based on current market conditions.
The most important figure is not simply your selling price, but how much you receive after all costs and taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an estate agent charge in Marbella?
Estate agents on the Costa del Sol commonly charge between 3% and 5% of the sale price plus 21% VAT. The exact fee depends on the agency and the services agreed.
Do non-residents pay tax when selling property in Spain?
Yes. Non-residents generally pay 19% capital gains tax on their taxable profit. The buyer also withholds 3% of the selling price as an advance payment towards that tax.
Can I sell my property in Spain without being there?
Yes. In many cases, international owners can complete a property sale remotely by granting a suitable power of attorney to a legal representative.
Do I pay tax if I sell my property at a loss?
Generally, there is no capital gains tax if there is no taxable gain. However, the sale still needs to be properly declared, and other selling expenses may apply.
Thinking of Selling Your Property on the Costa del Sol?
Whether you own an apartment in Marbella, a villa in Benahavís or a holiday home in Estepona, understanding your selling costs is an important first step.
At Meester Estate, we believe that selling a property should start with a clear understanding of its market value, a realistic pricing strategy and the costs involved.
If you are considering selling your property on the Costa del Sol in 2026, contact Meester Estate to discuss your property and the next steps.
Meester Estate – Your Real Estate Partner on the Costa del Sol
Website: www.meesterestate.com
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about property selling costs in Spain in 2026 and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Tax liabilities and expenses vary depending on individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified Spanish tax adviser or lawyer before selling.
