Real Estate Law · European Union
Selling Property Abroad?
Get the Legal Side of the Sale Right
A sale can stall on a missing certificate, an unpaid community charge or an unexpected tax bill that lands after completion. We match you, free of charge, with a property lawyer who handles sales in your country every day, from the first offer through the final deed.
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- Lawyers across the EU & EEA
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Tell us about your situation and receive a free, confidential case review.
Who this is for
Selling a home or investment abroad is a legal process, not just a price negotiation
Selling property in a European country involves far more than accepting an offer. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may need an energy performance certificate, proof that community fees and local taxes are settled, updated land registry records, and a notarised deed of sale — and you may owe capital gains or transfer taxes on the proceeds. Sellers who live abroad face extra steps: arranging a tax representative, handling non-resident tax obligations, and getting documents legalised or translated. A mistake at any stage can delay completion, reduce your net proceeds, or leave you liable after the sale has closed. We match you with a property lawyer who handles sales in your country regularly, so the legal and tax side is handled correctly before you commit to a buyer.
Why sales fall through
Sellers often lose time and money on the details
they never knew they needed to prepare.
Missing certificates, unpaid charges and surprise tax bills are the most common reasons a sale stalls or closes for less than expected.
Surprise capital gains and tax bills
Selling abroad can trigger local capital gains tax, plus liability for non-resident tax. If these are not calculated and set aside before completion, you may be left owing more than you planned after the money changes hands.
Missing certificates and paperwork
Energy certificates, habitability documents and proof that community charges are paid are often required before a sale can complete. Discovering them missing late in the process can delay the deal or scare the buyer off.
Tax and legal steps after the sale
Non-resident sellers frequently need a tax representative or must file returns after completion. Overlooking these post-sale obligations can create fines and legal exposure long after you thought the matter was closed.
What you get
A lawyer who keeps your sale on track and protects your proceeds
We only match you with property lawyers who handle sales in your country on a regular basis.
Pre-sale document check
Your lawyer confirms exactly which certificates, debts and registry updates you need to gather before listing, so nothing emerges to delay the sale or give the buyer grounds to renegotiate.
Tax planning on the proceeds
You get a clear picture of any capital gains or non-resident tax due on the sale, and advice on how it is calculated and when it must be settled in your country.
Contract & deposit protection
Your lawyer reviews the sale agreement and handles the deposit or reservation terms, so your position is protected if the buyer stalls or the deal falls through.
Completion & post-sale steps
From the notarial deed to de-registering your name and filing any required returns, your lawyer manages the final stages so the sale closes cleanly and you are left with no loose ends.
Coverage
Property sale lawyers across Europe
Selling rules, taxes and notarial requirements are set nationally, so the right lawyer is one who works with your country’s registry and tax office routinely. We match cases across the following countries and beyond:
Frequently asked
Selling property — common questions
What documents do I need to sell my property abroad?
Requirements vary by country, but you will typically need proof of ownership, an energy performance certificate, confirmation that local taxes and community charges are settled, and identification documents. A local lawyer will confirm the exact, current list for your case.
Will I owe capital gains tax when I sell?
Most European countries tax the gain on a property sale, though rules, exemptions and rates vary widely — often depending on how long you owned it and whether it was your main home. A lawyer or tax adviser in that country can calculate your actual liability.
Do I need to be present in the country to complete the sale?
Not necessarily. In most cases you can grant a power of attorney to a lawyer or notary to sign on your behalf, which is especially useful if you live abroad. Your lawyer can arrange this and confirm what your country requires.
What are the typical steps in a property sale?
The process usually moves from the reservation or deposit agreement, through due diligence and the settling of outstanding debts, to the notarial deed and registration of the new owner. The exact order and terminology differ from country to country.
What happens if the buyer pulls out after paying a deposit?
This depends on the terms of the reservation or purchase agreement and local law. In many countries you may retain all or part of the deposit, but the specifics vary — a lawyer can advise on your position and enforce your rights.
What tax obligations do I have after the sale completes?
Non-resident sellers often still need to file a return or appoint a tax representative after completion, and in some countries a portion of the price may be withheld until taxes are settled. A lawyer can ensure you comply and avoid penalties.
Free case review
Sell with the paperwork and taxes handled properly
Tell us about the property you’re selling and we’ll connect you with a lawyer who handles sales in your country every day — free of charge, with no obligation to instruct them.