Selling an apartment in Madrid: steps, documents and taxes

Three-bedroom apartment in a classic building in Chamberí, Madrid

To sell an apartment in Madrid well, it is not enough to publish a listing: the asking price, the paperwork and the way the property is presented all shape both the timescale and the final figure. This guide summarises the steps of a sale, the documents worth preparing and the taxes an owner should bear in mind.

If you already know you want to sell, you can learn about our service for selling a property in Madrid or start with a confidential property valuation, which is the recommended first step.

Step 1: valuation and pricing strategy

Everything starts with knowing what the property is really worth in today’s market. A professional valuation compares similar properties sold and on the market in the same area, and takes into account factors such as the exact location, floor, light, condition and extras (terrace, parking, storage).

Setting the asking price is a strategic decision: a price above the market lengthens the timescale and usually ends in reductions; a well-judged price generates more viewings and better offers. You can request a valuation of your property with BARNES Madrid without obligation.

Step 2: the documents you need to prepare

Having the paperwork ready avoids delays when an offer arrives. As a minimum, gather:

Title deeds and an up-to-date simple extract (nota simple) from the Land Registry, to confirm ownership and charges.
Energy performance certificate, needed to put the property on the market.
The latest IBI (property tax) bill and proof that it has been paid.
A certificate from the owners’ association on any outstanding debts and, where relevant, minutes concerning special levies.
Mortgage details, if there is one, to prepare for its cancellation.

If the property has several owners, it helps to clarify beforehand how decisions are made; our guide to what “proindiviso” (co-ownership) is and how it is dissolved may be useful.

Step 3: preparing and presenting the property

Presentation shapes the perception of value. A tidy home, well lit, with small repairs done and professional photography sells better than an equivalent one that is poorly presented. In the prime segment, confidentiality also matters: many owners prefer a discreet campaign aimed at qualified buyers rather than mass publication.

BARNES Madrid markets properties to Spanish and international buyers; you can see how we present our selection in the luxury properties for sale in Madrid.

Step 4: offers, deposit contract and deed

When an offer arrives, the usual process is to negotiate terms, sign a deposit contract (contrato de arras) that sets out the price, timescales and each party’s commitments, and complete the sale before a notary by public deed. At that point any outstanding mortgage is cancelled and the property is handed over free of charges, unless otherwise agreed.

It is wise to have the terms of the deposit contract reviewed with legal advice, especially the consequences of a possible breach and the handover date.

Step 5: taxes to bear in mind

Selling a property can create tax obligations. The main ones are:

Personal income tax (capital gain): the difference between the transfer value and the acquisition value, adjusted for allowable costs and taxes, is taxed in the savings base. According to the Spanish Tax Agency’s 2025 income tax practical manual, the scale is 19% up to €6,000, 21% up to €50,000, 23% up to €200,000, 27% up to €300,000 and 30% above that.
Municipal capital gains tax (plusvalía): a municipal tax on the increase in land value; we explain it in what the municipal plusvalía tax in Madrid is and how it affects a sale.
Reinvestment in a main residence: if you sell your main home, an exemption for reinvestment may apply; see how reinvestment in a main residence works.
Non-residents: if you do not live in Spain, the tax treatment is different; we set it out in non-resident income tax in Madrid: what a non-resident pays when selling.

These figures and exemptions can change and depend on each case; please confirm your situation with a tax adviser before selling.

Frequently asked questions

What is the first step in selling an apartment in Madrid?
Find out its real value through a professional valuation and define a pricing strategy. From there you prepare the paperwork and plan how to market the property.

What documents do I need to sell my apartment?
Title deeds, a simple extract from the Land Registry, an energy performance certificate, the IBI bill, a certificate from the owners’ association and mortgage details if there is one.

What taxes do you pay when selling an apartment in Madrid?
Mainly income tax on the capital gain and the municipal plusvalía tax; there are exemptions, such as reinvestment in a main residence, and a different regime for non-residents.

Can I sell my home confidentially?
Yes. In the luxury segment a discreet campaign aimed at qualified buyers is common; you can discuss it with BARNES Madrid.

How much does it cost to sell through an agency?
It depends on the agreement. We recommend requesting a valuation and a detailed service proposal before deciding.

BARNES Madrid properties for sale

How BARNES Madrid can help

At BARNES Madrid we support owners and families who wish to value, sell or pass on a property in Madrid, as well as Spanish and international buyers throughout the process. To discuss your situation discreetly, contact BARNES Madrid; if you would like to know the value of your home, you can request a property valuation.

At BARNES Madrid we support domestic and international buyers throughout the process, from selecting the home to signing. To receive a personalised selection, contact BARNES Madrid; if you are an owner, you can request a property valuation.

The information in this article is indicative and based on that published by the Community of Madrid (comunidad.madrid) and Madrid City Council (agenciatributaria.madrid.es), consulted on 3 November 2026. Catalogue references correspond to the properties listed by BARNES Madrid as at 13 October 2026. It does not replace professional tax or legal advice.