Laura Leyshon, Las Palmas property expert
I’m Laura Leyshon, a Las Palmas estate agent with 15 years of experience in the city’s property market. I’ve helped hundreds of people to sell their homes here. If you’re thinking of doing the same, you’re probably asking yourself most of the questions in my Las Palmas property sale checklist below. Let’s go through them one by one…
1. How much is your property worth?
Your price depends on location, size, views, condition, and nearby sales. Properties on Las Canteras beach sell for €5,000–€8,000/m². Homes in Ciudad Jardín or Triana range from €2,500–€3,500/m². In less central areas, prices range from €1,500–€2,200/m². Exact valuations vary considerably and it is easy to get the sale price wrong: I look at every detail and give you a solid estimate based on real data and detailed, local knowledge.
2. Is now a good time to sell?
Yes! Las Palmas property prices, not adjusted for inflation, have reached record highs. Demand is strong. Supply is tight. The city and island authorities may well introduce rules to limit price increases in the future (there are plans to limit holiday lets, cap residential rates, and even to limit non-resident property ownership). Selling now means you could benefit from the current high prices.
That said, property has been a solid long-term investment for many years. The decision is yours!
3. What taxes will you pay when you sell a Las Palmas property?
If you’re not a resident, expect to pay:
- Capital Gains Tax on the profits of your sale:
Residents: Up to 6,000 Euros: 19%, 6,000 – 50,000 Euros: 21%, 50,000 – 200,000 Euros: 23%, 200,000+ Euros: 26%
Non-residents (EU): 19%
Non-Residents (Non-EU): 24%
- Plusvalía Municipal (a local land value tax paid by the seller)
- 3% Retention Tax (withheld from the sale to cover taxes; any excess can be reclaimed)
Tax rates can vary depending on your status so speak to a tax expert to make sure you understand what applies to your case. For further tax information, I recommend Spanish Property Insights.
4. What documents do you need to sell in Gran Canaria?
You’ll need:
- Your title deed (escritura)
- An up-to-date Nota Simple
- An Energy Certificate
- Proof that you have paid property tax and community fees
- You last utility bill plus payment receipts
Get these ready early as it speeds things up later.
5. How long does a property sale take?
Sales usually take 3–6 months. If you price low, you’ll sell fast. If you want a higher price, expect to wait longer. I help sellers find the right balance with pricing advice based on current demand, local trends, and how fast homes like yours sell. I also advise my clients on whether they need to invest on refurbishments before selling (it is rarely worth spending big before you sell).
6. Should you use an estate agent to sell a Las Palmas property?
Yes. Selling privately might sound tempting, but most private sales run into problems. In my experience, many private sales fall through because nobody is there to oversee the process and solve any significant problems in advance; in Spain, one missing bit of paper can delay a sale.
As an experienced local estate agent I handle the marketing, calls, viewings, and negotiations. I also spot issues before they cause delays. I know the local rules, taxes, and how to protect your interests. That knowledge saves you time and often a lot of money.
See here for recent examples of how my local knowledge has saved my clients thousands of euros.
7. What will it cost you to sell your Las Palmas property?
Here’s what most sellers pay:
- 5% + IGIC in estate agent commission
- Legal fees if you use a lawyer (I recommend you do, especially if you are non-resident, or don’t speak fluent Spanish)
- Energy certificate fee (about 100 euros)
- Mortgage cancellation fees if needed
You’ll also pay taxes on the sale.
8. Do you need to be in Spain to sell?
No. Many sellers sign a Power of Attorney. A lawyer or gestor can then handle the sale. I always recommend using a lawyer or gestor rather than the estate agent as it limits risk and increases transparency. You can also use limited powers of attorney to prepare the sale, then fly in to sign at the notary.
9. How do you prepare your home for sale?
Clean it. Declutter it. Fix small things. Add a few touches. Then get great photos and a quality video tour because a well-staged and presented home attracts more viewings and better offers.
Before you start major renovations, speak to a local property expert. Big upgrades rarely bring a good return. Most buyers prefer clean and functional over expensive and personal, and most plan their own renovations after the purchase.
10. Will your home country tax the sale?
Maybe. Many countries ask you to declare income from abroad. However, Spain has tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation.
I hope my Las Palmas property sale checklist helps you: If you want further support from someone who knows the Las Palmas property market inside out, call me for a free consultation and valuation. I’m always happy to explain the process, and guide you through it from start to finish.