How to inherit a property in Spain (for non‑residents)

Core documents (build the file once, use it many times)

Collect the death certificate (with apostille/translation if issued abroad), the Last Will Certificate, the will itself or the notarial declaration of heirs, NIEs for all heirs, the property deed and cadastral references, the community of owners’ certificate stating fee status, the latest IBI (local tax) receipt, and bank certificates if the estate includes accounts. Request multiple certified copies so banks, notaries, and registries can process in parallel.

Notarial acceptance and registrations (from deed to registry)

The heirs sign the inheritance deed before a Spanish notary; this instrument details the assets, liabilities, and their distribution. After signature, file inheritance tax within the legal deadline and municipal plusvalía where applicable; then register the new ownership at the Land Registry. Advance coordination with the registrar on names and IDs avoids rejections; bring translations and apostilles ready to file.

Taxes and deadlines (no last‑minute surprises)

Inheritance tax varies by region and by relationship to the deceased; exemptions and reductions can be significant but must be claimed within the deadline. Municipal plusvalía (on land value increase) may also apply. Missing deadlines triggers surcharges and interest; if timing is tight, request extensions in time and pay on account to limit costs. Knowing how to inherit a property in Spain includes planning taxes alongside the notarial deed rather than after it.

Managing the asset (keep value while you process)

Open an estate account to pay utilities, insurance, and community fees transparently. Inspect the property, note any repairs, and keep receipts if they are necessary for preservation; some costs can be relevant for later tax calculations. If you plan to rent, check local tourist licensing rules before accepting bookings.

Selling the inherited property (prepare the buyer’s checklist)

Register title first, settle taxes, and compile a seller’s pack: deed, registry notes, community certificate, IBI receipt, energy certificate, and, if applicable, habitability/occupancy documents. Buyers and their notaries will ask for these items; having them ready prevents price chips and delays at closing.

Common pitfalls (learn from others)

Name mismatches across documents, expired translations, ignoring community arrears that surface at closing, under‑estimating tax deadlines, and trying to sell before the registry shows the heirs as owners. Addressing these early is the simplest way to protect value.

Clear call to action

If you need to know how to inherit a property in Spain—and actually complete it—we can manage the entire process. Start here: our contact page • Email: taxlegalspain@gmail.com • Tel: +34 ‪644121802‬ . Use the contact form at our contact page for a same‑day strategy call.