If you're considering selling your property in Andalucia, then you need to know about a new law (decree 218) operating in this region, which ensures that all documentation for the property is correct and up-to-date. Whilst this may seem excessive to some, in reality the new law actually makes the sale process easier given that there are will be no surprises along the way. Many foreigners who up until now have been intimidated by what can appear to be a casual approach to property paperwork will welcome this new regulation.

So, when any estate agent agrees to take on your property and offer it for sale, they will request copies of the following documents. Once your estate agent has found a buyer for your house you would have needed to supply a copy of all of these documents, so in reality you'll be one step ahead. We, here at Sunset Properties, assure all of our clients that we have a strict privacy policy and therefore will only ever use your personal information to prepare the Private Purchase Contract once we have found a purchaser for your house.

• Escritura (title deed)

•  Copies of Impuestos de Bienes Inmuebles or IBI payments for all the years you have lived in the house (council rates paid once a year in June/July)
(we have an authorisation form that allows us to visit the townhall to collect copies of all payments made, so don't worry if you can't find all of the payment slips)

•  Passports (all owners)

•  NIE certificates (all owners)

•  Residencia card or certificate (if applicable)

•  Details of community payments (if your house is part of a community)

•  Electricity bill (latest)

•  Water bill (latest)

•  Telephone bill (latest – if applicable)

•  Basura tax (rubbish tax) (included in the Cómpeta water bill, other areas have separate bills)

•  Nota Simple (extract from the Land Registry) THIS MUST BE RENEWED EVERY THREE MONTHS

In order to obtain a copy of the Nota Simple, there are a few of options available:

• Ask your Asesoria, tax adviser or lawyer to obtain a copy for you
• Go in person to the Land Registry office in Torrox Pueblo - cost 3.50€
• We can order it for you via the internet for a cost of 15€

Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to give us a call.