10 Things You Need to Know Before Selling Your Golf Resort Property in Murcia

Ensuring a Secure, Successful Sale in Spain’s Premier Golf Communities

Beautiful, sun-drenched and impeccably positioned, the golf resorts of Murcia represent some of the most desirable property locations in Spain. From the historic elegance of Hacienda Riquelme to the grandeur of Mar Menor and the impressive amenities of La Torre, these exclusive communities offer an exceptional lifestyle that continues to attract buyers from across Europe and beyond.

If you’re considering selling your property within these prestigious resorts, understanding the unique aspects of the Spanish property market – particularly within these specialist communities – is essential for achieving the best possible outcome. This guide outlines the ten critical factors you need to consider before putting your golf resort property on the market.

Sun rising over apartments and pool on a golf course in Murcia

1. The Spanish Property Sale Process Differs Significantly from the UK

Selling residential property in Spain involves a complex, multi-stage process with specific legal and documentation requirements that differ substantially from those in the UK. The journey typically progresses through distinct phases:

  • Valuation & Market Analysis: Establishing an accurate asking price based on property characteristics, location, and current market trends specific to golf resort properties
  • Marketing: Creating compelling advertisements with high-quality photographs, descriptions, and potentially floor plans
  • Finding a Buyer & Negotiation: Handling viewings, enquiries, and negotiations
  • Preliminary Contract (Contrato de Arras): A legally binding agreement, typically involving a 10% deposit
  • Due Diligence: Verification of all legal aspects of the property
  • Notary Involvement: The public Notary plays a central, impartial role in the completion stage
  • Completion (Signing the Escritura): Formal transfer of ownership
  • Post-Sale Administration: Handling taxes, utility transfers, and community notifications
Each step carries specific requirements and potential pitfalls, making professional guidance invaluable throughout the process.

2. Documentation is Non-Negotiable for a Legal and Transparent Sale

Assembling the correct documentation is essential for a legal and transparent property sale in Spain. As the seller, you are responsible for providing the following core documents:

  • Title Deed (Escritura de la propiedad): The original deed proving your ownership
  • Nota Simple Informativa: An official extract from the Land Registry confirming the property’s legal status
  • Energy Performance Certificate (Certificado Energético): A mandatory certificate indicating the property’s energy efficiency
  • Latest IBI Receipt: Proof that annual local property tax is paid up to date
  • Community of Owners Certificate: If applicable, confirming all community fees are paid
  • Licencia de Primera Ocupación/Cédula de Habitabilidad: Documents confirming the property meets habitability standards
  • Recent Utility Bills: Copies of recent bills for essential services
  • Seller’s Identification: Valid ID (Passport) and Spanish Tax Identification Number (NIE)
Professional agents understand the nuances of these requirements and can guide you through the process of obtaining and presenting these documents correctly.
A photo of a seller's contract with the buyer and the name of the real estate agent

3. Tax Implications Can Be Significant, Particularly for Non-Residents

Sellers in Spain face various tax liabilities that must be carefully navigated:

Capital Gains Tax (CGT): Applied to the profit realised from the sale, with rates typically at 24% for non-EU residents (including UK citizens post-Brexit) or 19% for EU/EEA residents.

3% Withholding Tax: For non-resident sellers, the buyer must withhold 3% of the total sale price and pay this directly to the Spanish Tax Agency. This serves as an advance payment towards the seller’s CGT liability.

Plusvalía Municipal: A local tax levied by the Town Hall on the increase in the value of the land during the period of ownership.

Understanding these tax obligations is crucial for accurate financial planning. Miscalculations or misunderstandings can lead to unexpected costs, penalties, or delays in receiving your proceeds.

4. Choosing the Right Agent is the Most Critical Decision You'll Make

The agent you select to represent your property can significantly impact the entire selling experience. In Spain, the regulatory environment for estate agents is evolving, with regional initiatives implementing registration requirements and professional standards.

Professional, established agents offer numerous advantages:

  • Market Expertise: Deep understanding of local property values, trends, and buyer preferences
  • Procedural Knowledge: Familiarity with Spanish property law, documentation, and transaction procedures
  • Marketing Reach: Access to international buyer networks and sophisticated marketing platforms
  • Negotiation Skills: Experience in achieving optimal sales prices and managing complex negotiations
  • Financial Security: Professional Indemnity Insurance and client money protection provide essential safeguards

Consider these factors when selecting your agent:

  • Specialisation: Agents focused specifically on golf resorts have deeper knowledge of these unique markets
  • Track Record: Evidence of successful sales in your specific resort
  • Verification: Registration with relevant authorities or membership in professional bodies
  • Client Testimonials: Feedback from previous sellers in similar situations

“We sold our apartment at Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort with Lonrah’s help. Perfect service, clear price agreements, quick communication and no question too much. Not a moment of regret, all agreements were kept and the sale was also completed in an incredible short period.” – Paul & Christine Beckers-Baert

5. Accurate Valuation is Essential in the Specialised Golf Resort Market

Pricing your property correctly from the outset is crucial for attracting serious buyers and achieving a timely sale. Golf resort properties have unique value factors that distinguish them from standard residential properties:

  • Location within the resort: Frontline golf properties typically command premium prices
  • Views: Golf course, pool, or mountain views significantly impact valuation
  • Property type: Different villa models (like the ‘Baron’ at Mar Menor or ‘Sabina’ at La Torre) have varying demand levels
  • Resort amenities: Security, maintenance, and community facilities contribute to overall value
  • Seasonal factors: Market activity in Murcia’s golf resorts often follows distinct seasonal patterns

Professional agents with specific resort expertise can provide valuations that accurately reflect these nuances, avoiding both undervaluation (leaving money on the table) and overvaluation (leading to extended marketing periods and potential price reductions).

“All of the local agents in the region charge a minimum selling fee as do Lonrah, but Lonrah will do their utmost to sell your apartment at a true value, instead of selling it cheap to make a fast buck.” – Ria Hurley

golf property overlooking pool

6. Effective Marketing Requires Both Global Reach and Resort-Specific Focus

Marketing a golf resort property requires a specialised approach that highlights both the property’s unique features and the lifestyle benefits of the specific resort. Effective strategies include:

  • Professional Photography: High-quality images that showcase both the property and its setting
  • Virtual Tours: Especially valuable for international buyers who may initially view remotely
  • Feature Highlighting: Emphasising unique selling points like golf course views, proximity to amenities, or special features
  • Resort Context: Providing comprehensive information about the resort’s facilities, community, and advantages
  • Multi-Channel Exposure: Utilising websites, social media, email campaigns, and print materials
  • International Targeting: Reaching potential buyers across key markets including the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia, Germany, and the Netherlands
An agent with established marketing systems specifically designed for golf resort properties can significantly enhance your property’s visibility among qualified buyers.

7. International Buyers Have Unique Considerations and Expectations

The buyer pool for Murcia’s golf resort properties is predominantly international, with each nationality having distinct preferences, priorities, and purchasing processes. Understanding these nuances is key to effective negotiation and successful sales.

Common considerations for international buyers include:

  • Currency Exchange: Fluctuations between the Euro and other currencies impact perceived value
  • Tax Implications: Non-resident buyers face specific tax requirements
  • Usage Patterns: Whether the property will be a holiday home, permanent residence, or rental investment
  • Post-Brexit Factors: UK buyers now face different residency restrictions and considerations
  • Financing Options: Many international buyers require specialised mortgage arrangements
Working with an agent experienced in international transactions ensures these factors are addressed proactively, facilitating smoother negotiations and completions.

8. The Completion Process Has Distinct Spanish Characteristics

The final stages of a Spanish property transaction have unique features that sellers should understand:

  • Notary’s Central Role: The Spanish Notary (Notario) oversees the signing of the final deed, verifies identities, checks documentation, and ensures legal compliance
  • Power of Attorney: Non-resident sellers often grant power of attorney to their legal representative to facilitate completion
  • Deposit Structure: The typical 10% deposit paid at the preliminary contract stage has specific forfeit conditions
  • Completion Timing: The period between preliminary contract and completion typically spans 60-90 days
  • Payment Methods: Bank-certified checks or bank transfers are the standard payment methods
A professional agent coordinates these elements, working alongside your legal representative to ensure the process progresses smoothly to completion.
A photo of a lawyer holding a legal contract for a seller to sign

9. After-Sales Support is Essential for a Smooth Transition

The journey doesn’t end once contracts are signed. Post-sale procedures require careful attention:

  • Utility Transfers: Arranging the transfer of electricity, water, and other services
  • Community Notifications: Informing the community administrator of the ownership change
  • Tax Declarations: Filing necessary tax returns related to the sale
  • Banking Considerations: Managing proceeds, especially when transferring to international accounts
  • Mortgage Cancellations: If applicable, ensuring mortgages are properly cleared

Quality agents provide dedicated after-sales support to manage these details, preventing complications that could arise from overlooked administrative tasks.

“First class service – London and Sarah have provided an exceptional service that we believe you will find very hard to even match let alone beat. They took care of the whole process of selling our villa on La Torre Golf Resort in Roldan. From the marketing of our villa, through to securing a buyer and completing the sale, their response time and keenness to provide the answer to any question, however small, was instant every time.” – Justin Elvins

10. Working with Specialists Delivers Measurable Advantages

The golf resorts of Murcia represent a distinct property niche that benefits from specialised expertise. Agents who focus exclusively on these communities offer significant advantages:

  • Resort-Specific Knowledge: Intimate familiarity with each resort’s unique characteristics, property types, and market dynamics
  • Targeted Buyer Networks: Established connections with qualified buyers specifically interested in golf resort properties
  • Resort Community Relationships: Strong working relationships with resort management, community administrators, and service providers
  • Comparable Sales Insight: Detailed understanding of recent transaction values within specific resorts
  • Lifestyle Understanding: The ability to effectively communicate the unique benefits of resort living to potential buyers

This specialisation translates into tangible benefits: more accurate pricing, more effective marketing, qualified viewings, and ultimately, better sales outcomes.

“I wanted to thank London and Sarah for the fantastic service in handling the sale of our Spanish apartment in Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort. Thank you so much for all your outstanding work and help.” – AF Alam

What our Clients Say

Our clients’ experiences reflect our commitment to excellence. Here’s what they have to say about working with us.

John
London is a well-practised and skilled negotiator. On selling our property, he managed to get us the sales price that we were very happy with.

I did not feel that I was being lent on to accept a lesser price in order that London could walk away with his commission.

I think that the buyers were happy too.

London understands the importance of ensuring that all parties come away thinking that they have a fair price for the property – he understands that there is no point in getting a verbal agreement one day, just for one party to pull out the next day because they felt that did not get a good deal.
Vaghan Cooper
There are Estate Agents, brilliant Estate Agents and now there is Lonrah. London and Sarah are 'truly exceptional' in what they do.

Lonrah take the time to get to know the client, what your needs and expectations are and then they deliver exactly to the brief. London's knowledge of the property market in the area cannot be surpassed and Sarah provides all the care and attention to detail during the after sales process that you would normally only hope for. Going the extra mile by helping you achieve your dream of owning your Spanish home has been so impressive.

Virtual viewings and return visits have made the process seamless and you really feel as though you have been in the home you have viewed. Keep up the great work Lonrah.
Paul Beckers
We sold our apartment at Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort with Lonrah's help. Perfect service, clear price agreements, quick communication and no question too much.

We used to buy this flat with the help of London Eldridge and Sarah Day before they started Lonrah together. That purchase went very smoothly. London with the visits, always professional but never pushy and next Sarah with the excellent administrative handling. For all these reasons, we decided to let Lonrah guide us through this sale.

Not a moment of regret, all agreements were kept and the sale was also completed in an incredible short period. We recommend Lonrah and we love London and Sarah.

Thanks a million.

Paul & Christine Beckers-Baert
Andy Lees: (Mar Menor Golf Resort)
After just completing, remotely, on our first Spanish property I have to say I can't recommend London & Sarah at Lonrah highly enough. A remote viewing was arranged within minutes of the property being marketed and after a few phone calls our offer was accepted that day.

From the first minute London & Sarah have been fantastic, answering calls and emails so promptly, and have ensured what could have been a daunting experience as we are UK based was plain sailing.

Always there for us when needed and made us feel so comfortable throughout the whole transaction. Having worked with estate agents in the UK for the last 25 years I can honestly say they could learn a lot from Lonrah.

Highly recommended to say the least.
Justin Elvins: (La Torre Golf Resort)
First class service - London and Sarah have provided an exceptional service that we believe you will find very hard to even match let alone beat.

They took care of the whole process of selling our villa on La Torre Golf Reaort in Roldan. From the marketing of our villa, through to securing a buyer and completing the sale, their response time and keenness to provide the answer to any question, however small, was instant every time.

We would highly recommend them without a single hesitation.
Wesley Griffith (Hacienda Riquelme)
What an amazing team!

Helped us as buyers through the whole process, not just buying a property in Spain, but how to live life in Spain too! would highly recommend!!

Wesley and Claire

Why Choose Lonrah for Your Golf Resort Property Sale?

At Lonrah, we understand that selling your property is about more than a transaction – it’s about securing your investment, respecting your emotional connection to your Spanish home, and ensuring a smooth transition to the next chapter.

As “The Resort Specialist,” we bring unparalleled expertise to the sale of properties within Murcia’s premier golf communities. Our focus is exclusively on the resorts where we live and work – Mar Menor, Hacienda Riquelme, La Torre, Las Terrazas, Roda, and Santa Rosalia – giving us in-depth knowledge that generalist agents simply cannot match.

Our approach combines:

  • Collaborative Valuation: We provide expert market analysis while respecting that you have the ultimate say in your property’s pricing
  • Targeted Marketing: Our innovative marketing strategies and extensive advertising reach places your property in front of qualified international buyers
  • 24/7 Customer Service: We keep you updated, consulted, and in control throughout the selling journey
  • Dedicated After-Sales Support: Our co-founder Sarah Day personally manages the journey from sale agreement to completion
  • No Minimum Contract Period: You’re always free to remove your property without penalty – we believe we must justify our efforts to you continually

With over 100 resort sales annually, our results speak for themselves. But more importantly, our commitment to building lasting relationships with our clients – many of whom become neighbors and friends within our resort communities – drives everything we do.

Ready to explore selling your golf resort property with Murcia’s specialist agency? Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and discover the Lonrah difference for yourself.

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Terms & Conditions

At Lonrah, our aim is to make our terms and conditions as clear and straightforward as possible. If you have any questions or wish to discuss anything, please don’t hesitate to ask, we are always here to help:

Sales@Lonrah.com

All properties at Lonrah are sold under exclusive instruction. This one to one relationship between us and our vendors is at the heart of our business.

1) Lonrah charges a sales commission of 4 percent plus IVA (Spanish VAT charged at 21 percent), with a minimum commission of €6950 plus IVA.

2) Whilst listing with Lonrah, the vendor agrees not to appoint any other estate agent, or to sell or advertise the property privately. Should a sale occur through any other channel, public or private, other than Lonrah, during this period, Lonrah’s commission will be payable. 

3) The applicable commission rate becomes payable on the signing of the reservation/deposit agreement formalising the sale, with payment typically deferred to completion.

4) There is no minimum contract period for listing with Lonrah. We believe your home is yours, and with us you always have the right to withdraw your property from sale, without penalty. 

5) If at any point a sale is agreed with a buyer introduced by Lonrah, Lonrah’s commission will be payable.

6) Depending on resort regulations, Lonrah will usually install a For Sale sign at the property. The seller agrees that no other For Sale sign will be erected whilst Lonrah are marketing the property. We understand that some owners will prefer to not have a For Sale board, if this is the case, please let us know.

7) When a sale is agreed, a 10 percent non refundable deposit will typically be paid, usually in two separate instalments, by the purchaser. Should the purchaser withdraw from the sale, Lonrah will retain 50 percent of any deposit, up to the agreed commission amount, for expenses incurred, with any remaining balance paid to the vendor.

8) Should a vendor withdraw from a sale once signing of the reservation/deposit agreement has occurred, in addition to the penalties stated on the agreement under the Spanish Civil Code, Lonrah’s commission will be payable.

9) During the sales process, Lonrah may offer purchasers and vendors financial, mortgage and legal advice, via third parties, including banks and currency exchange companies with the aim of ensuring that both buyer and seller receive the best possible service. In some cases Lonrah may earn a commission from these referrals.

ESPAÑOL

En Lonrah, nuestro objetivo es hacer que nuestros términos y condiciones sean lo más claros y sencillos posible. Si tienes alguna pregunta o deseas comentar algo, no dudes en consultarnos; siempre estamos aquí para ayudarte:

sales@lonrah.com

Todas las propiedades en Lonrah se venden bajo instrucción exclusiva. Esta relación directa entre nosotros y nuestros vendedores es el núcleo de nuestro negocio.

1) Lonrah cobra una comisión de venta del 4 por ciento más IVA (el IVA en España se aplica al 21 por ciento), con una comisión mínima de 6.950 € más IVA.

2) Durante el periodo de contrato con Lonrah, el vendedor acepta no contratar a ningún otro agente inmobiliario, ni vender ni publicitar la propiedad de forma privada. En caso de que se produzca una venta por cualquier otro canal, público o privado, diferente a Lonrah durante este periodo, se deberá abonar la comisión correspondiente a Lonrah.

3) La comisión aplicable será pagadera en el momento de la firma del contrato de reserva o de depósito que formaliza la venta, aunque el pago suele aplazarse hasta la finalización de la transacción.

4) No existe un período mínimo de contrato para listar tu propiedad con Lonrah. Creemos que tu hogar es tuyo, y con nosotros siempre tendrás derecho a retirar tu propiedad de la venta, sin penalización.

5) Si en cualquier momento se acuerda una venta con un comprador presentado por Lonrah, la comisión de Lonrah será pagadera.

6) Dependiendo de las normativas del complejo o resort, Lonrah instalará generalmente un cartel de “Se Vende” en la propiedad. El vendedor acepta que no se colocará ningún otro cartel de “Se Vende” mientras Lonrah esté comercializando la propiedad. Entendemos que algunos propietarios pueden preferir no tener un cartel de venta; si este es tu caso, háznoslo saber.

7) Cuando se acuerda una venta, el comprador suele pagar un depósito no reembolsable del 10 por ciento, generalmente en dos plazos. Si el comprador se retira de la venta, Lonrah retendrá el 50 por ciento del depósito, hasta el monto de la comisión acordada, para cubrir los gastos incurridos, y el saldo restante será pagado al vendedor.

8) Si el vendedor se retira de la venta después de la firma del contrato de reserva o de depósito, además de las penalizaciones estipuladas en dicho contrato bajo el Código Civil español, se deberá abonar la comisión correspondiente a Lonrah.

9) Durante el proceso de venta, Lonrah puede ofrecer a compradores y vendedores asesoramiento financiero, hipotecario y legal a través de terceros, incluidos bancos y empresas de cambio de divisas, con el objetivo de garantizar el mejor servicio posible para ambas partes. En algunos casos, Lonrah puede recibir una comisión por estas referencias.