We considered the best way to try and sell it was to contact estate agents, rather than try to sell it ourselves, which, although unusual in England is more common here. We know that agents can vary and some are far better than others; they may be keen to have your house on their books, but then do no more with it. An efficient agent, though, will promote the house and ensure viewings, then supply feedback to the seller. Nevertheless, as time passes and if the house isn't sold quickly, it can fall to the bottom of their list as they concentrate on new signings. It's really needs to be a two-way contract with the seller keeping in touch with the agent, too. They'll try and earn a commission via the easiest option and that may not be your house, so need reminding that you want a result. Forming a relationship helps. In my past life I worked in an estate agency for a few months and saw how the staff worked especially hard for those who they liked. Actually, they also tried to sell a house if the owner was difficult, if only to placate them, but I know who I preferred to satisfy.
So, I contacted four agents who I believe are good and, with their guidance, agreed a selling price. As I hope for a quick sale, I chose a competitive price and told the agents that I wouldn't pay more than 3%. In England that would appear to be high - I used to haggle over 1.5% there, even trying to squeeze another 1/4% off, but in Spain 3% is the minimum and I must accept that. One of the agents had originally found my tenants and was aware that they were leaving and that I intended to sell. They had the details of my house in their window before the tenants had left and arranged the first viewing the day after. As soon as the tenants gave me their keys, I was in there decorating and sprucing up the garden; all rather cosmetic but important for first impressions. In the first week, that agent has had three viewings and one offer, albeit too low. The other three agents have yet to bring viewers, but what an encouraging start!