How to Sell an Inherited House in 2026: Complete Guide
Can an Inherited House Be Sold?
Yes, but before selling an inherited property, certain legal and tax procedures must be completed. The process involves accepting the inheritance, changing the ownership of the property, and settling the corresponding taxes. In this guide, we explain how to do it step by step.</p>
Step 1: Accept the Inheritance and Obtain the Title Deed
To sell an inherited house, you must first accept the inheritance. This process includes:</p>
- Obtaining the Death Certificate: This is requested at the Civil Registry.</li>
- Certificate of Last Wills: This allows you to know if the deceased left a will.</li>
- Will or Declaration of Heirs: If there is a will, its distribution is followed. If not, the heirs must make a declaration before a notary.</li>
- Deed of Acceptance of Inheritance: Signed before a notary, it allows the legal distribution of assets.</li> </ul>
Step 2: Payment of Inheritance Taxes
Before selling, it is mandatory to settle the taxes related to the inheritance:</p> 1. Inheritance and Donations Tax (ISyD)
This must be paid within six months from the date of death. The amount varies depending on the autonomous community and the degree of kinship with the deceased.</p>
In Madrid, there are discounts of up to 99% for direct heirs (children and spouses). Find more details at the Madrid Tax Agency.</p> 2. Municipal Plusvalía
This tax is levied on the increase in land value from when the deceased acquired the property until the inheritance. It is paid at the Madrid City Council or other local entities.</p>
Step 3: Change of Property Ownership
Once the taxes are paid, the property must be registered in the name of the heirs at the Land Registry.</p>
- Submit the Deed of Acceptance of Inheritance to the Land Registry.</li>
- Settle any possible charges (mortgages, liens) if they exist.</li>
- Request a certificate of ownership to ensure the property is ready for sale.</li> </ul>
Step 4: Put the Property Up for Sale
Once the property is in the name of the heirs, it can be put up for sale. It is recommended to:</p>
- Conduct an appraisal to know its market value. You can appraise your property in Madrid at this link.</a> </li>
- Hire a real estate agency to expedite the sale.</li>
- Prepare the property (cleaning, minor repairs, home staging).</li>
- Review the documentation (deeds, energy certificate, latest ITE, etc.).</li> </ul>
Step 5: Sign the Sale and Pay Taxes
When you find a buyer, the sale process follows these steps:</p>
- 1️⃣ Sign the deposit contract: A deposit of 10% of the property's price is usually requested.</li>
- 2️⃣ Sign the deed before a notary: The sale is formalised with the buyer.</li>
- 3️⃣ Pay taxes: As a seller, you must pay:
1. IRPF for Capital Gains
If the property has increased in value since it was acquired, it is taxed in the IRPF (Spanish income tax):</p>
- Gains up to €6,000: 19%.</li>
- From €6,000 to €50,000: 21%.</li>
- More than €50,000: 23%.</li> </ul>
If the property is sold for less than its original value, no IRPF is paid.</p> 2. Municipal Plusvalía
If the property has appreciated from the inheritance to the sale, this tax must be paid again.</p> </li> </ul>
Tips for Selling an Inherited House Quickly
To expedite the sale of an inherited house, follow these tips:</p>
- ✅ Pay taxes on time to avoid surcharges.</li>
- ✅ Keep the property in good condition to attract buyers.</li>
- ✅ Consider selling to investors if quick liquidity is needed.</li>
- ✅ Consult with a tax advisor to optimise tax payments.</li>
</ul>
Conclusion
Selling an inherited house requires compliance with legal and tax procedures, but with proper planning, it is possible to complete the sale without complications. It is most advisable to consult with an inheritance expert and a real estate agent to expedite the process.</p>
For more information, you can visit the Tax Agency or the Land Registry.</p>
- Conduct an appraisal to know its market value. You can appraise your property in Madrid at this link.</a> </li>
