Short answer: you sell a house in Marbella (a townhouse, a semi-detached home or a family house in an urbanisation) well with a price based on recent sales in the same area, paperwork that matches reality (especially for extensions and pools) and a presentation in several languages. Families and year-round residents pay extra attention to the area, the garden and the urbanisation fees.
Not every house in Marbella is a sea-view villa. There are charming townhouses (adosados), semi-detached homes, houses in urbanisations with a communal pool and traditional homes in village centres. They attract different buyers from a luxury villa: families, people who live here year-round, and buyers looking for a second home that's more affordable than a villa. That's why a house needs its own approach. Here's how, step by step.
What do house buyers look for?
House buyers often ask different questions from villa or apartment buyers:
- What's the neighbourhood like? Schools, shops, the route to the beach, peace or liveliness.
- How big is the garden or terrace, and how much maintenance does it need?
- What are the annual costs? Think of IBI, waste tax, the urbanisation fee and pool maintenance.
- Can I live here all year? Insulation, air conditioning or heating, internet and distance to amenities all count.
- Is there scope to extend, such as an extra floor or a solarium?
A listing that already answers these questions builds trust and brings more viewings.
Step 1: the right price
For a house we look at:
- recent sales of comparable houses in the same area, not just asking prices;
- the built area and the size of the garden or plot;
- the condition, kitchen, bathrooms and finish;
- the location: close to the centre, schools or the beach, or quieter and greener;
- the urbanisation fees and what they include.
The average asking price in Marbella in September 2026 was around 5,970 euros per m², over 3 percent higher than a year earlier. For a house in a quiet area the price per m² may be lower than on the coast. Want to know where your house stands? Ask for a free valuation, based on recent sales.
Step 2: paperwork that matches reality
A house often involves more paperwork than an apartment, especially if something has been added over the years. Have this ready:
- the title deed (escritura) and a recent nota simple;
- the energy certificate;
- proof of IBI and waste tax;
- the urbanisation certificate, if there is one, confirming you have no debts;
- the occupancy certificate (licencia de primera ocupación);
- plans and permits, including for the pool, garage, extra floor or extension;
- the cadastre (catastro): does the registered area match reality?
Watch out with extensions. An extension or pool that isn't in the deed or cadastre can delay the sale or put buyers off. Have it checked beforehand by an architect or lawyer and regularise what you can. In Andalusia, an old extension the town hall can no longer act against can often be recognised as asimilado a fuera de ordenación (AFO). That makes the sale and the buyer's mortgage easier.
Step 3: presentation that sells
Buyers come from the UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, France and many other countries. That's why we use:
- professional photos, including the area, the street and the garden;
- a floor plan and a clear list of what's included;
- descriptions in English, Dutch, French and Spanish;
- a light refresh: paintwork, a tidy garden and a decluttered house.
Costs and taxes as a seller
As the seller you pay the agent’s commission, the municipal plusvalía, the energy certificate and, if applicable, the cancellation of your mortgage. If you do not live in Spain, the buyer withholds 3% and you pay 19% tax on your gain. More information here:
House or villa: what's the difference when selling?
Do you have a larger home with a big plot and pool? Then also read our guide on selling a villa in Marbella. Luxury villas are often sold discreetly and internationally, sometimes without public advertising. A house in an urbanisation is usually sold more openly, with a sharp price and strong online presentation. Unsure? We'll tell you honestly which approach suits best.
Three smart tips
- Sort out your paperwork before listing online. An enthusiastic buyer wants to move quickly.
- Show off the neighbourhood. A photo of the street or a short note about the walk to the bakery or beach makes a difference.
- Be realistic about the price. A house that stays online too long becomes less attractive to buyers.
How we help
We guide you from valuation to notary. We speak your language and calculate your net proceeds in advance. We have worked from Marbella and Benahavís since 2018. What is your house worth? Ask for a free valuation or send us a WhatsApp message. No strings attached.
Want to know what your property is worth and what you keep after tax and costs? We calculate it for free. No strings attached.
Free valuationSend us a WhatsAppRead also: selling a villa in Marbella, selling an apartment in Marbella, houses and villas for sale and selling your property on the Costa del Sol.
Frequently asked questions
What is a house in Marbella worth?
It depends on the area, the built area, the garden, the condition and the urbanisation fees. A valuation based on recent sales gives the most reliable picture.
Which documents do I need to sell my house?
The title deed, the nota simple, the energy certificate, proof of IBI, the urbanisation certificate, the occupancy certificate and permits for extensions.
What if there's an unregistered extension?
Have it checked beforehand by an architect or lawyer. Sometimes it can still be legalised, and an old extension can often obtain AFO recognition. That makes the sale easier.
Do I pay tax as a non-resident when selling my house?
Yes. The buyer withholds 3% of the price as an advance and you pay 19% tax on your gain, plus the municipal plusvalía.
How long does it take to sell a house?
It depends on price, location and presentation. A well-priced house with a complete file sells considerably faster.
Can I sell my house if I don't live in Spain?
Yes. With a power of attorney signed before a notary, someone can sign the deed for you. We arrange this together with your lawyer.
Sources
- Agencia Tributaria, modelo 210 instructions
- Notarios y Registradores, deductible costs on property gains
- idealista news, costs and taxes when selling a home 2026
Written by the Imagine Marbella editorial team. Updated October 2026. This is general information, not tax or legal advice: always have your situation checked by a gestor or lawyer.
