Buying Property in Costa Blanca (2026): Best Areas, New Builds, Costs & Steps
Buying property on the Costa Blanca comes with a lot of practical decisions — where to buy, what it really costs, and how the process works in Spain. This page brings the essentials together in one place, so you can compare areas and property types, understand the key steps, and avoid common mistakes before committing.
In this guide:
What Is the Costa Blanca — and Who It Suits
The Costa Blanca is one of Spain’s best-known Mediterranean coastlines, located in Alicante province (Valencian Community) in south-eastern Spain. It stretches roughly from Dénia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south — more than 200 km of beaches, marinas, cliffs, promenades and coastal towns, with inland villages just a short drive from the sea.
Costa Blanca North vs Costa Blanca South (in simple terms):
Costa Blanca North is generally hillier and known for coves, sea views and villa areas. Costa Blanca South is flatter, with long sandy beaches and many established residential communities.
The region includes well-known locations such as Alicante city, Benidorm, Altea, Jávea, Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura and Orihuela Costa, alongside smaller coastal towns and quieter inland areas.
Who is it for?
This region suits a wide range of buyers:
- Holiday-home buyers
A lock-and-leave apartment or townhouse close to the beach, restaurants and transport. - Families & remote workers (all-year living)
Buyers who prioritise daily convenience: schools, healthcare, supermarkets, good internet, parking and a normal routine beyond holiday season. - Retirees
A comfortable, easy lifestyle with mild winters, good services and communities where settling in is straightforward. - Investors & long-term potential
Options for holiday or long-term rentals, plus areas where new development and improving infrastructure can support future value growth.
Many buyers fit more than one category — the key is choosing an area that matches your main priority first.
Alicante leads Spain for foreign buyers
In 2025, Alicante (Costa Blanca) stood out as Spain’s top province for international demand. In one quarter (Q2 2025), around 4 in 10 home purchases in Alicante were made by foreigners — the highest share in the country.
Why Buy Property in Costa Blanca in 2026?
For many international buyers, the Costa Blanca offers a rare mix: Mediterranean lifestyle, strong infrastructure, and a wide range of property options — from coastal apartments to golf communities and inland homes. Below are the main reasons people choose to buy here.
Climate and Lifestyle
The Costa Blanca is known for one of Spain’s most comfortable Mediterranean climates — with mild winters, warm summers, and enough sunshine to make outdoor life feel easy for much of the year.
Costa Blanca Climate at a Glance:
- Winter (Dec–Feb): daytime ~16–18°C, nights ~6–8°C (AEMET)
- Summer (Jun–Aug): daytime ~29–31°C, nights ~20–23°C (AEMET)
- Sea temperature: ~15°C in winter, ~25–26°C in summer (SeaTemperature.info)
International Community
The region has a strong international population alongside Spanish residents, which often means:
- Multilingual services
- International schools
- Diverse restaurants and shops
- Established communities where newcomers often settle in quickly
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The Costa Blanca is well connected, with:
- Alicante–Elche Airport and frequent international flights
- Motorways and national roads along the coast
- Train and tram links between key cities
- Ferries from Dénia to the Balearic Islands
- Modern shopping centres, marinas and sports facilities
This makes travel easy — whether you’re visiting regularly, staying longer periods, or planning to rent out the property.
Practical Services and Everyday Convenience
Because more people now live here permanently, there are:
- Schools and international schools
- Public and private healthcare
- Supermarkets and shopping centres open all year
- Sports clubs, gyms and wellness centres
- Coworking spaces, language schools and social clubs
You are not limited to a “summer only” lifestyle. You can live a comfortable, normal life twelve months a year.
A Market That Works for Different Buyer Goals
The Costa Blanca attracts different types of buyers:
- Holiday homes close to the sea
- Homes with more space and storage for longer stays
- New builds with modern design and energy efficiency
Many buyers want a combination — a home they can enjoy personally, with the option to rent when they’re not using it.
A Buyer-Friendly Legal Framework (With the Right Checks)
Spain has a well-established legal and banking system for property purchases. When the process is handled properly, buyers benefit from several layers of protection that are designed to create clarity and peace of mind:
Clear ownership records: properties are recorded in the Land Registry, which helps confirm who owns what and whether there are registered charges.
Structured contracts and notary completion: the final purchase is signed before a notary, with formal documentation and registration procedures.
Protection of payments (especially for new builds): in many cases, stage payments must be handled with formal guarantees or protected mechanisms, which your lawyer verifies.
Professional standards in the sector: agents and agencies need to meet registration requirements and carry professional insurance, which adds another layer of accountability.
The system is designed to protect buyers — your goal is simply to make sure the correct checks are done and the paperwork matches the reality. An independent lawyer helps confirm this before you commit significant funds.
Taken together — lifestyle, connectivity, practical services and a buyer-friendly process — the Costa Blanca remains one of Spain’s most attractive regions for international buyers in 2026. And as the market has matured, you can also see a clear shift in what people look for: not just a small summer base, but a more complete home with space, storage, parking, and layouts that work beyond occasional visits.
👉 Read more: Costa Blanca Property Market Trends (2026)
Now that you understand why buyers choose the Costa Blanca, the next step is deciding where to focus your search. Different areas suit different priorities — beach access, golf, schools, walkability, views, or budget — and this decision usually matters more than the property itself. Below is a practical overview of the best areas to consider, from south to north.
Best Areas to Buy Property in Costa Blanca (From South to North)
Below is a practical tour of the key areas buyers focus on when looking for property on the Costa Blanca — starting at the southern end and moving north toward Dénia. Each area has a different “feel”, different property types, and a different price logic, so it’s worth narrowing your shortlist by lifestyle first.
In broad terms, Costa Blanca South tends to offer:
- Slightly milder winters and a drier feel
- Flatter landscapes with long sandy beaches and promenades
- Many golf resorts and planned residential communities
While Costa Blanca North is often known for:
- More dramatic coastline with coves and cliff views
- Hillier terrain and more “scenic” residential zones
- Some of the coast’s most exclusive villa areas
Tip: there are excellent choices in both — the best area is the one that matches your priorities: beach walkability, views, golf, schools, or budget.
Pilar de la Horadada & Torre de la Horadada
At the southern end of the Costa Blanca, on the border with Murcia, Pilar de la Horadada and Torre de la Horadada are closely connected and often discussed together — but they offer slightly different vibes.
Pilar de la Horadada is the main town, where you’ll find more of the everyday infrastructure: supermarkets, schools, local services and a year-round community. Torre de la Horadada is the coastal part — focused around the beach, promenade and marina atmosphere.
What buyers like here:
- Easy access to long sandy beaches and coastal promenades
- Excellent walking and cycling routes
- A relaxed, residential feel with essential services close by
- A strong choice of new-build bungalows and apartments in the surrounding area
One of the highlights is the charm and care of Torre de la Horadada itself — well-maintained streets, small green parks and a very pleasant coastal atmosphere that people often fall in love with quickly. Because it’s an established and highly desired coastal pocket, prime homes near the sea (especially villas) are limited and priced accordingly.
Golf Resorts: Lo Romero, Vistabella Golf, Las Colinas & Others
If you love golf and nature, the area just inland from the southern coast offers several attractive resorts, such as Lo Romero, Vistabella Golf and the exclusive Las Colinas Golf & Country Club:- Gated communities surrounded by countryside
- Modern villas and apartments with golf views
- Peaceful atmosphere but still only a short drive to the coast
- Strong rental demand for golfers and holidaymakers
Orihuela Costa (Campoamor, Villamartín, La Zenia…)
Orihuela Costa is one of the best-known coastal zones in Costa Blanca South, made up of several popular areas such as Campoamor, Villamartín and La Zenia. It’s a practical choice for many international buyers because it combines beach life, golf, and strong infrastructure in one place.
What makes Orihuela Costa attractive:
- A wide choice of beaches and coastal walks, with established residential neighbourhoods
- Close to multiple golf courses (Villamartín, Campoamor, Las Ramblas)
- One of the region’s best shopping and leisure hubs: La Zenia Boulevard
- A strong international community and plenty of services and restaurants throughout the year
- A broad property mix — from apartments and bungalows to townhouses and villas
Orihuela Costa also includes areas with mature, built-up neighbourhoods, while other zones continue to expand with newer residential projects — which gives buyers a choice between “move-in-ready surroundings” and more modern developments.
San Miguel de Salinas
Just inland from Orihuela Costa lies San Miguel de Salinas, a developing and upcoming area:- Many new build projects under construction and planned
- Natural surroundings, open views and a more traditional Spanish feel
- Good road connections towards Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja and inland towns
- Views towards salt lakes and countryside, plus the historic Castillo de la Conesa area
Torrevieja
Torrevieja is one of the main coastal cities in Costa Blanca South — known for its year-round infrastructure, large international community, and a property market that ranges from established neighbourhoods to newer residential projects.
Why buyers choose Torrevieja:
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A full city-level range of services (shops, public transport, leisure, everyday convenience)
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Healthcare options, including the Hospital Universitario de Torrevieja (public) and private providers in the area.
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Major retail like Centro Comercial Habaneras and plenty of dining and entertainment options.
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A lively seafront and marina area, with port/waterfront redevelopment works aimed at improving the connection between the city and the harbour zone.
Torrevieja has also been growing quickly in recent years — the town hall reported 106,350 registered residents at the start of 2025 and 110,500 at the start of 2026, reflecting strong demand and expansion.
Overall, it’s a strong option if you want a place where everything is within easy reach — supermarkets, healthcare, shopping, activities — with a broad range of property types from apartments and bungalows to larger homes depending on the neighbourhood.
La Finca Golf, Algorfa
Just inland from the southern coast — beyond the salt lakes and surrounded by countryside — La Finca Golf in Algorfa feels noticeably different from the busier coastal zones. It’s a more private, landscaped, resort-style setting, known for its green scenery and calm, premium atmosphere.
What makes La Finca special:
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A mature golf resort environment with wide fairways, palm trees and a “green oasis” feel
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A strong choice of high-quality villas and golf apartments in well-kept communities
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A quiet, low-stress lifestyle with a more exclusive, residential vibe
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Easy access by car to coastal beaches, shopping and services when you want them
La Finca is ideal if you want nature + privacy + quality, but still prefer to be within reach of the coast rather than fully rural.
Guardamar del Segura
Guardamar del Segura is a peaceful coastal town in Costa Blanca South, best known for its long stretch of white sandy beaches backed by protected dunes, pine forest and natural park areas. It’s a place many buyers choose for the feeling of space and nature right next to the sea.
What buyers like about Guardamar:
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Approximately 11 km of beaches with wide sand and clear, open coastline
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Protected dune landscapes and green areas that give the town a natural, relaxed feel
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A practical town layout with services, restaurants and promenade life without feeling overcrowded
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A growing choice of modern apartment projects in newer residential zones, often within walking distance or a short drive to the sea
Overall, Guardamar is a strong option if your priority is beach + nature + a calmer coastal atmosphere, with interesting opportunities in both established and newer developments.
Ciudad Quesada, Benijófar & Los Montesinos
Just inland from the coast — around 10 minutes from Guardamar’s beaches — Ciudad Quesada, Benijófar and Los Montesinos are well-established residential areas with a strong international community and a very practical day-to-day setup.
What buyers like about these towns:
A wide range of services: supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, and medical centres
International schools and family-friendly facilities in the wider area
Weekly local markets (mercadillos) and an active social scene
A broad choice of homes, including new-build villas, townhouses, bungalows and apartments
These areas are ideal for buyers who want a community atmosphere and everyday convenience close to the coast — especially families, long-stay residents and retirees.
La Marina Urbanisation
La Marina Urbanisation (next to the coastal village of La Marina / San Fulgencio area) is one of the best-known residential zones in Costa Blanca South. It’s close to the coast and beaches, but with a more community-style feel — established streets, services, and a strong international presence.
What buyers like about La Marina:
Excellent beach access, with wide sandy coastline nearby (and easy access toward Guardamar)
A very practical setup for day-to-day life: shops, cafés, restaurants and services within the urbanisation
A mature, built-up environment — which means the property supply can be more limited, especially in the most desirable pockets
A location with ongoing interest, including nearby zones that may see future development over time
Overall, La Marina works well if you want a coastal lifestyle with convenience, and you prefer a ready-made residential community rather than a fully “tourist” setting.
Santa Pola
Santa Pola is a charming coastal town with a strong local identity and a very practical location — especially for buyers who want to be close to Alicante city and the airport while still living by the sea. It’s well known for its long waterfront, beaches, marina atmosphere, and a lifestyle that feels genuinely “coastal town” rather than resort-only.
What makes Santa Pola attractive:
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A lively coastline with beaches, promenades and a marina feel
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Strong everyday infrastructure: shops, services, restaurants, and year-round activity
Santa Pola is a great option if you want a coastal base with easy logistics (airport access) and a town that feels established and easy to enjoy from day one.
Discover Coastal New Build Properties for sale in Santa Pola ›
Alicante Inland: Pinoso, La Romana & Hondón de las Nieves
If you want to experience a more authentic side of Alicante province, the inland countryside around Pinoso, La Romana and Hondón de las Nieves offers a completely different rhythm from the coast. This is a region of traditional villages, mountain backdrops and wide open landscapes — with vineyards in particular playing a big role in the local character.
What draws buyers inland:
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A strong feeling of Spanish village life, with local markets, cafés, fiestas and traditions
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Beautiful natural surroundings: vineyards, almond trees, olive groves and citrus fields
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More space, privacy and land, often with better value per square metre than coastal zones
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A very different property style — rustic homes, country houses and fincas on rural or semi-rural plots
If you’re looking for something that feels genuinely “Spain” — quiet, scenic and spacious — inland Alicante can be a wonderful fit. We also have a strong selection of country and rustic properties in this area, offering a lifestyle that’s hard to replicate on the coast.
Bonalba & Font del Llop
For those who like the combination of golf and proximity to the city and sea, Bonalba and Font del Llop are excellent locations:
- Golf course settings with green surroundings
- New build villas and apartments
- Convenient access to Alicante city, beaches and the airport
These areas offer a good balance between tranquillity, sport and urban convenience.
Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is a colourful coastal town between Alicante and Benidorm:- Famous for its multi-colour houses and charming old town
- Beautiful beaches and a growing number of seafront new builds
- A nice mix of holiday tourism and all-year residents
Finestrat & Benidorm
The Finestrat–Benidorm area is one of the most established and high-demand parts of the Costa Blanca North, combining city-level infrastructure with a classic Mediterranean coastline — and some of the most active new-build development on the coast.
What makes this area stand out:
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Benidorm’s famous wide sandy beaches and long promenades, with a lively year-round atmosphere
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A complete lifestyle setup: shopping centres, restaurants, cafés, gyms, medical services, and a huge range of leisure options
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Excellent family and everyday convenience, with schools and colleges in the wider area and easy access to services
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Major attractions and entertainment nearby, including well-known theme parks and water parks (great for families and visiting guests)
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Strong road connections and straightforward travel logistics, including quick access to the motorway and Alicante Airport (roughly 40–50 minutes by car, depending on traffic)
In terms of property, you’ll typically find:
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Modern high-rise apartments in Benidorm, many with sea views and walkable access to the beach
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Contemporary villas and residential communities in Finestrat, often set on the hills with panoramic views over Benidorm’s skyline and the Mediterranean
This area is especially attractive if you want a combination of:
- Modern lifestyle + convenience
- Sea and city views
- High rental demand in peak seasons, plus strong year-round appeal thanks to the full infrastructure
Polop & La Nucía
Just inland from Benidorm and Altea, Polop and La Nucía offer a calmer residential feel while keeping you within easy reach of the coast. They’re popular with buyers who want more space and views without being far from beaches, shopping and schools.
What buyers like here:
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Quiet neighbourhoods with a more local, residential atmosphere
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Mountain backdrops and, in many zones, sea views
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A strong choice of villas and semi-detached homes, often on larger plots than typical coastal areas
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Excellent sports and family facilities — La Nucía is widely known as a “town of sports”
These areas are a strong fit for families and long-stay residents who want peace and room to breathe, while staying close to coastal towns and main services.
Altea
Altea is famous for its white old town, blue-domed church and artistic atmosphere:- Boutique feel, with galleries, restaurants and charming streets
- High-end apartments and villas, often with sea views
- A peaceful and refined environment, popular with buyers looking for quality and character
Northern Costa Blanca: Calpe, Benissa, Moraira & Jávea
Further north, the coastline becomes more dramatic and scenic. Areas such as Calpe, Benissa, Moraira and Jávea (Xàbia) are known for coves, cliffs and sea-view residential zones, and they sit among the most sought-after premium addresses on the Costa Blanca.
What makes this stretch special:
Cliffside landscapes, hidden coves and clear-water beaches
A strong focus on villas and upscale homes, many with panoramic sea views
A lifestyle that leans toward privacy, views and character rather than large resort-style developments
High-quality amenities, including beach clubs and destination restaurants, plus a more boutique / bohemian feel in certain towns
A well-established international market, with consistent interest from buyers looking for a premium coastal setting
These locations are a great fit if you’re looking for a scenic, prestige-oriented part of the Costa Blanca where the landscape is a major part of the appeal.
Dénia
At the northern end of the Costa Blanca lies Dénia, a vibrant town with:- A historic centre and castle
- A busy marina and ferry connections to the Balearic Islands
- Long beaches and a varied restaurant scene
- A mix of apartments, townhouses and villas
Types of Properties Available on the Costa Blanca
If you’re new to the Costa Blanca market, property terminology can be confusing — especially because some words mean something different here than in other countries. Below are the main property types you’ll see, with quick explanations to help you choose the right fit.
Quick guide: what fits you best?
- Apartment → low maintenance, shared amenities, lock-and-leave
- Bungalow → an apartment with extra private outdoor space (garden/terrace or solarium)
- Townhouse → multi-level home, attached on one or both sides, often within a community
- Linked villa / semi-detached / quad → villa-style living with a shared wall; usually private outdoor space + parking, private pool
- Detached villa → maximum independence; a private, more spacious plot, often private pool + garage/parking
- Country house / rustic → independent home with a large plot/land, more privacy and space for outdoor living or personal projects
Apartments
Apartments are one of the most common property types on the Costa Blanca, especially in new-build communities. You’ll typically find them in:
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Low- to mid-rise residential blocks in suburban or coastal neighbourhoods
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High-rise buildings in more urban or seafront zones (for example, parts of Benidorm)
Typical features include:
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Communal swimming pool and shared gardens
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Children’s play areas and landscaped community spaces
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In some developments: gym, spa, coworking room or social lounge
Best for:
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Lock-and-leave use (holiday or part-time stays)
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Seasonal or long-term rentals
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Buyers who want low maintenance and shared facilities
Good to know: Apartments usually come with community rules and monthly fees, so it’s worth checking what’s included (maintenance, pool, security, lifts, etc.) before you decide.
Bungalows (Ground Floor & Top Floor)
The word “bungalow” on the Costa Blanca can be confusing — it doesn’t mean a single-storey house like in many other countries.
Here, a bungalow usually means a two-level building split into two independent homes:
Ground floor bungalow — private garden or terrace
Top floor bungalow — private solarium (roof terrace)
Legally, they’re typically classed as apartments, but they feel more like a small home because you get your own outdoor space and a more “house-like” layout.
Why buyers love them:
Ground floor bungalows are great for families, pet owners, and anyone who wants step-free outdoor access
Top floor bungalows suit sun lovers who want a large terrace for dining, sunbathing, and entertaining
Townhouses & Linked Homes
Townhouses and linked homes are a popular middle ground between an apartment and a detached villa — often more affordable, but with some of the key advantages of a house: private outdoor space, terraces, and usually parking on the plot (depending on the community). In many developments you’ll find either a communal pool or, in some formats, a private pool.
Typically, they offer:
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1-3 floors, often with internal stairs
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A private patio/terrace, sometimes a small garden
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In many new builds: a roof solarium, basement/underbuild, and private parking
Quick difference:
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Townhouse = usually attached on both sides (in a row)
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Quad = typically a corner-style home in a block of four (often attached on one side, sometimes two depending on the layout)
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Semi-detached = attached on one side only, usually the most “villa-like” feel
Detached Villas
Detached villas are ideal for buyers who want maximum independence and privacy — no shared walls and typically more outdoor space.
Typical features:
A private garden/terrace and outdoor living areas
Private pool in many homes (or the option to add one, depending on the project)
Parking on the plot or a garage
Sometimes a basement/underbuild, useful for storage, extra bedrooms, a home office, gym, cinema room, etc.
New-build villas are especially attractive for buyers who want more comfort and space — whether for family use, longer stays, or working remotely — and who prefer a modern layout with efficient energy standards.
Good to know: Villas come with more independence, but also more responsibility (garden/pool upkeep), so it’s worth planning for running and maintenance costs.
Country Houses / Rustic Properties (Fincas)
Country and rustic properties (often called fincas) offer a very different lifestyle from coastal apartments and villas — more land, privacy and nature, usually in inland areas rather than directly on the coast.
Typical features:
Homes on larger plots (rustic or semi-rural land)
Views of vineyards, almond and olive groves, and open countryside
A quieter setting and more space for outdoor living (gardens, trees, hobby projects)
These properties suit buyers who want authentic Spanish countryside charm and don’t mind being a drive away from beaches and major coastal towns. They’re most common in inland Alicante province, where you can still reach the coast when you want it, but enjoy a more private environment day to day.
Good to know: Rustic homes can have different legal/land classifications and utility setups, so your lawyer should confirm documentation, boundaries and registrations carefully.
Your Budget on the Costa Blanca: Typical Price Ranges by Area & Property Type
In 2026, Costa Blanca prices are easiest to understand through a South vs North lens — but the real driver is always the micro-location. Depending on the town, proximity to the sea, views and property type, price levels can range from around €1,800/m² to €5,000+/m² in the most premium locations.
What affects pricing most (ranked)
Micro-location: the specific neighbourhood, walkability, services, how built-up the area is, and overall “address quality”.
Sea proximity + views + orientation: walk-to-beach and open sea views can shift pricing dramatically.
Property type + size: apartments vs villas, built size, terrace size, and plot size.
New build vs second-hand: energy efficiency, layouts, insulation, lifts, parking/storage, and renovation needs.
Extras & community quality: pools, gyms, security, landscaping, parking solutions, and amenities.
Costa Blanca South (Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Guardamar…)
Apartments
Second-hand: ~€120,000–€350,000 (condition + sea distance are the biggest variables)
New build: ~€160,000–€460,000 (project level + proximity to the sea push the top end)
Villas
Second-hand: ~€250,000–€650,000+ (plot, renovation level, and address matter most)
New build: typically from €350,000+
Costa Blanca North (Altea, Dénia, Jávea, Moraira…)
Apartments
Second-hand: ~€180,000–€450,000+ (prime sea-view zones go higher)
New build: typically from €240,000+
Villas
Second-hand: ~€450,000–€1,200,000+
New build: typically from €450,000+
Luxury / exclusive: expect €1M+ for high-end sea-view villas in prestige micro-markets (especially North Coast).
Avoid the ‘perfect deal’ trap: ultra-cheap listings often come with trade-offs — location compromises, legal/urban planning issues, or major renovation needs. Compare homes by total cost to own, not just the headline price.
New Build vs Second-Hand Property on the Costa Blanca
Once you’ve chosen an area and set a budget range, the next big decision is whether you want a new build home (modern specs, staged payments, warranties) or a second-hand home (existing home you can assess immediately, sometimes more negotiable). Both can be a good choice — it depends on your timeline and priorities.
Why buyers choose new builds
Modern layouts + outdoor living: open-plan designs, larger terraces, brighter interiors, and practical use of space.
Lower maintenance: everything is new, and many projects include easy-care gardens and features like automatic irrigation.
Better energy performance: newer builds generally offer stronger insulation, modern windows, and more efficient heating/cooling than older stock.
Warranties & developer guarantees: new homes come with formal guarantees (structure and installations), adding peace of mind.
Customisation options: in many projects you can choose finishes (tiles, kitchens, colours) if you buy early enough.
Potential uplift during delivery: if you buy early in a project, values can increase as construction progresses and the community becomes established — so for some buyers, waiting can work in their favour (depending on the area and market conditions).
Staged payment structure: off-plan purchases often follow instalment payments during construction, which can make budgeting easier if you’re not in a rush to move immediately.
Why buyers choose second-hand homes
You get what you see: you can judge the real condition, light, noise, neighbours, and views right away, and in some cases move faster.
Established setting (often, but not always): many second-hand homes are in built-up neighbourhoods with mature streets and services already in place — although some new builds are also located in established areas, so this depends on the specific location.
Sometimes more land for the money: especially outside prime front-line coastal pockets, you may find larger plots or older villa formats that are hard to replicate in new developments.
Negotiation potential (sometimes): depending on the seller and condition, there can be more room to negotiate than with fixed-price new developments.
Lower entry price (in many cases): second-hand can look cheaper upfront — but renovations, upgrades and running costs can change the true “all-in” budget.
Important: New builds are usually unfurnished, and AC may be optional. Check the spec sheet for what’s included (appliances, lighting, shower screens, parking/storage, landscaping).
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a New Build Property in Costa Blanca
1. Define your goal + must-haves
Before you search, clarify:
Are you buying for living, holidays, or investment/rental?
What’s your budget range (including extra costs)?
Preferred lifestyle: walk-to-beach, golf, town, or inland
Property type: apartment, bungalow, townhouse/linked home, villa
Non-negotiables: bedrooms, outdoor space, parking, lift, sea views, etc.
2. Property search and choosing the right agency
This is where good guidance saves the most time. A strong agency should:
- Guide you to the right locations based on your lifestyle, budget, and priorities
- Show and compare multiple developers/projects objectively
- Explain developer differences: specs, timelines, payment stages, and after-sales
- Clarify what’s included vs optional (parking/storage, appliances, A/C, lighting, etc.)
- Represent you end-to-end: shortlisting, viewings, developer communication, and the booking process
3. Reservation (hold the unit)
- When you choose the right property:
You sign a reservation document
Pay a reservation fee (often €3,000–€10,000, depending on the project)
The unit is taken off the market while legal checks begin
Good to know: Reservation deposits are often non-refundable, so before you pay, confirm the terms in writing — especially the reservation period and what happens if your lawyer finds a legal issue.
4. Legal checks (independent lawyer + documentation)
Your independent lawyer should:
Verify licences/permissions and developer documentation
Confirm Land Registry status (Registro de la Propiedad)
Check specs, deadlines, guarantees, and contract clauses
Explain everything clearly before you sign the main contract
5. Private Purchase Contract (PPC) + Payment Plan
After your lawyer finishes the checks, you sign the Private Purchase Contract (PPC) with the developer. This is the main contract that locks in the price, the unit, the timeline, and the legal protections.
The PPC should clearly confirm:
The full purchase price and what’s included (parking, storage, appliances/extras)
The exact property details (unit number, floor plan, surface areas, terrace/plot)
The building specification (memoria de calidades) and finishes
The estimated delivery date and what happens if it’s delayed
Guarantees and protections for your payments
Any penalties/conditions for breach by either side
Typical new-build payment structure (example):
Reservation deposit (to hold the unit)
10–20% upon signing the PPC
Stage payments during construction (often 10–30% total, split into milestones)
Final balance at completion, paid at the notary (when you get the keys)
6. NIE Number + Spanish Bank Account
To buy property in Spain, you’ll need an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — a personal identification/tax number for foreigners. It’s required for key steps such as signing at the notary, paying taxes, and registering the property in your name.
A Spanish bank account is also strongly recommended (and often practically necessary) because it makes it much easier to:
Pay the purchase-related taxes and fees
Set up utilities (water, electricity, internet)
Pay community fees and ongoing bills
Manage mortgage payments (if applicable)
Good to know: If you work with an independent lawyer, they usually handle the NIE process and can assist with opening a bank account (or guide you through the easiest option), especially if you’re buying from abroad.
7. Completion at the notary (deed + keys)
The final step is signing the public deed of sale (escritura) in front of a notary. At this appointment:
The final payment is made
The escritura is signed (either in person or via Power of Attorney / POA)
Keys are handed over
The purchase is then registered in your name in the Land Registry
Before signing: we normally arrange a final property check (snagging / walkthrough) to confirm the home matches the specifications and everything is in order. Your agent can coordinate the appointment, assist with communication, and make sure the handover process goes smoothly.
Post-handover check: After you receive the keys, you may spot small finishing issues during the first weeks. We help you document them, report them to the developer, and follow up until they’re addressed.
Costs & Taxes When Buying Property on the Costa Blanca (2026)
When buying property on the Costa Blanca, plan an additional budget on top of the purchase price for taxes and purchase costs. The exact amount depends on whether the property is new build or second-hand, and whether you use a mortgage — but it’s normal to budget roughly 10–13% extra in many cases.
Taxes & purchase costs to consider
VAT (IVA) — new builds (first sale from the developer): usually 10% for residential property.
Transfer Tax (ITP) — second-hand homes: 10% in the Valencian Community until 31 May 2026, then 9% from 1 June 2026 (with higher rates applying in some high-value cases).
Stamp Duty (AJD) — mainly applies to new builds: 1.5% in the Valencian Community until 31 May 2026, then 1.4% from 1 June 2026.
Notary + Land Registry fees: often from a few hundred euros up to around €1,500+ combined, depending on the price and deed complexity.
Lawyer’s fees: commonly around ~1% of the purchase price (depends on scope of service).
Mortgage-related costs (if applicable): valuation, bank conditions/fees, and administrative costs (your bank will outline these before approval).
Good to know: In some cases (age, first home, family status, disability, etc.), reduced rates or deductions may apply — your lawyer can confirm what you qualify for based on your situation and the exact property.
Our service for buyers
We do not charge buyers a commission. Our fees are paid by developers and owners we collaborate with — so you benefit from local guidance, project comparison, and full support throughout the process at no extra cost to you.
Quick example (new build, €300,000)
If you buy a new build for €300,000 in Costa Blanca, a rough budget could look like:
IVA (10%): €30,000
AJD (1.5% until 31 May 2026 / 1.4% from 1 June 2026): €4,500 / €4,200
Notary + Land Registry (approx.): €800–€1,500
Lawyer: €2,000 – €3,000
Estimated total extra costs: roughly €38,300–€40,000 (plus mortgage-related costs if applicable).
This is an illustration only — final costs depend on the property, services used, and whether reduced tax rates apply.
In this guide:
FAQs About Buying Property in Costa Blanca
What are the most common mistakes buyers make?
Common ones include: choosing a home before setting an all-in budget, skipping legal checks, underestimating ongoing costs (community fees/utilities), and assuming every area feels the same year-round.
Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a non-resident?
Often yes, depending on your income, country, and the bank’s criteria. Mortgage approval can take time, so start early if financing matters.
What’s usually included in a new build price (and what often isn’t)?
It varies by developer. Many new builds are delivered unfurnished, and air conditioning may be optional or “pre-installation only.” Always confirm what’s included: appliances, A/C, lighting, shower screens, parking/storage, and landscaping.
How long does it take to buy a new build property?
If the property is already completed and you have financing ready, the process can be relatively quick (a few weeks or a couple of months). If you buy off-plan, the timescale follows the construction schedule – often between 6 and 18 months.
Can I rent out my new build property?
In many municipalities you can, but for short-term tourist rentals you may need a specific rental licence and must follow local regulations. Your lawyer and agency can explain the rules in the area where you are buying.
What ongoing costs should I expect after purchase?
Typical ongoing costs can include community fees, utilities, property tax (IBI), insurance, and maintenance (especially for villas with pools/gardens).
Not sure where to start?
Send us your budget + “must-haves” and we’ll match you with the best new-build options available right now.
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