Buying Property in Costa Blanca (2026): Best Areas, New Builds, Costs & Steps

Buying Property in Costa Blanca: The Complete 2026 Guide by LA BELLA VITA Real Estate

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.

Illustrated map of Costa Blanca

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)

Luxury New Build Villa with Sea Views for Sale in Moraira, Costa Blanca North

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.


Explore Property Selection in Pilar de la Horadada

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 RomeroVistabella 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
These resorts are ideal if you want a green, quiet environment with high-quality facilities.

View new build properties in Vistabella Golf

La Zenia Beach, Orihuela Costa, Alicante

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.


See Properties for sale in Orihuela Costa

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
San Miguel is interesting for buyers who want modern housing in a quieter, more authentic setting, while staying close to the coast.

Discover new build opportunities in San Miguel de Salinas

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:

  • A full city-level range of services (shops, public transport, leisure, everyday convenience)

  • Healthcare options, including the Hospital Universitario de Torrevieja (public) and private providers in the area.

  • Major retail like Centro Comercial Habaneras and plenty of dining and entertainment options.

  • 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.

Explore Property Listings in Torrevieja

La Finca Golf, Algorfa, Alicante

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:

  • A mature golf resort environment with wide fairways, palm trees and a “green oasis” feel

  • A strong choice of high-quality villas and golf apartments in well-kept communities

  • A quiet, low-stress lifestyle with a more exclusive, residential vibe

  • 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.

Find your property in Algorfa, La Finca Golf

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:

  • Approximately 11 km of beaches with wide sand and clear, open coastline

  • Protected dune landscapes and green areas that give the town a natural, relaxed feel

  • A practical town layout with services, restaurants and promenade life without feeling overcrowded

  • 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.

See Properties available for sale in Guardamar del Segura

Ciudad Quesada, Benijófar & Los Montesinos

Just inland from the coast — around 10 minutes from Guardamar’s beachesCiudad 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.


See Properties for sale in Ciudad Quesada

Explore New Builds in Benijofar

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.


Explore Properties for Sale in La Marina Urbanisation

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:

  • A lively coastline with beaches, promenades and a marina feel

  • 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

Grape fields, Hondon de las Nieves, Alicante, Spain
Grape fields, Hondon de las Nieves, Alicante

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:

  • A strong feeling of Spanish village life, with local markets, cafés, fiestas and traditions

  • Beautiful natural surroundings: vineyards, almond trees, olive groves and citrus fields

  • More space, privacy and land, often with better value per square metre than coastal zones

  • 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.

Explore country houses near Alicante

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.


See New Developments for Sale in Bonalba Golf

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
It’s a great option if you want character, sea views and a more traditional town atmosphere combined with modern housing.

View new build properties in Villajoyosa

Balcon de Finestrat, Benidorm, Alicante, Spain
Balcon de Finestrat, Benidorm, Alicante

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:

  • Benidorm’s famous wide sandy beaches and long promenades, with a lively year-round atmosphere

  • A complete lifestyle setup: shopping centres, restaurants, cafés, gyms, medical services, and a huge range of leisure options

  • Excellent family and everyday convenience, with schools and colleges in the wider area and easy access to services

  • Major attractions and entertainment nearby, including well-known theme parks and water parks (great for families and visiting guests)

  • 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:

  • Modern high-rise apartments in Benidorm, many with sea views and walkable access to the beach

  • 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

View Modern Apartments in Benidrom

Explore new build opportunities in Finestrat

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:

  • Quiet neighbourhoods with a more local, residential atmosphere

  • Mountain backdrops and, in many zones, sea views

  • A strong choice of villas and semi-detached homes, often on larger plots than typical coastal areas

  • 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.

Explore Properties for sale in Polop

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

View new build properties in Altea

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.


Explore new builds in Benissa

See properties for sale in Javea

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
Dénia combines Mediterranean charm, year-round life and good transport links, making it an interesting option for both lifestyle and investment.

Discover new build properties in Denia

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:

  • Low- to mid-rise residential blocks in suburban or coastal neighbourhoods

  • High-rise buildings in more urban or seafront zones (for example, parts of Benidorm)

Typical features include:

  • Communal swimming pool and shared gardens

  • Children’s play areas and landscaped community spaces

  • In some developments: gym, spa, coworking room or social lounge

Best for:

  • Lock-and-leave use (holiday or part-time stays)

  • Seasonal or long-term rentals

  • 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.

Discover our new build apartments for sale

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


Explore new build bungalows for sale

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:

  • 1-3 floors, often with internal stairs

  • A private patio/terrace, sometimes a small garden

  • In many new builds: a roof solarium, basement/underbuild, and private parking

Quick difference:

  • Townhouse = usually attached on both sides (in a row)

  • Quad = typically a corner-style home in a block of four (often attached on one side, sometimes two depending on the layout)

  • Semi-detached = attached on one side only, usually the most “villa-like” feel

Discover new build houses for sale

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.


See modern independent villas for sale

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.


Discover new build country houses

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

1. Choosing the Right Area and Property Type

Start by clarifying:

  • Do you want a permanent home or a holiday property?
  • How important are schools, healthcare and year-round services?
  • Do you prefer to be close to the sea, on a golf course, or in the countryside?
  • What type of property suits your lifestyle: apartment, bungalow, townhouse, villa or rustic home?

Quick takeaway: South usually gives better entry points and more choice in new builds, while North trends more premium (views/terrain/villa zones). Use this as a starting benchmark — then narrow by town and exact lifestyle priorities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a New Build Property in Costa Blanca

1. Choosing the Right Area and Property Type

Start by clarifying:

  • Do you want a permanent home or a holiday property?
  • How important are schools, healthcare and year-round services?
  • Do you prefer to be close to the sea, on a golf course, or in the countryside?
  • What type of property suits your lifestyle: apartment, bungalow, townhouse, villa or rustic home?

Once you know this, it becomes much easier to focus on the right zones and projects.

Internal link later: [How to Choose the Right Area in Costa Blanca]


2. Reservation

When you find the right property:

  • You sign a reservation contract with the developer or agency.
  • You pay a reservation fee (often between €3,000 and €10,000 depending on the project).
  • The property is taken off the market while the detailed contracts are prepared and your lawyer performs legal checks.

This step secures the property for you and is an important part of buying property in Costa Blanca in an organised way.


3. Legal Checks, Lawyer & Agency Registration

Working with a good independent lawyer is essential. Your lawyer will:

  • Check that the developer has all licences and permissions.
  • Confirm that the land and property are correctly registered in the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad).
  • Review the building specifications, guarantees and deadlines.
  • Explain the contracts and make sure your interests are protected.

It is also important to work with a serious real estate agency:

  • In some regions agencies must be formally registered and meet professional requirements.
  • Reputable agencies are transparent about their registration, insurance and memberships in professional associations.

This combination – independent lawyer + professional agency + clear legal framework – is what protects you as a buyer.

Internal link later: [Legal Checks When Buying in Spain]


4. Private Purchase Contract (PPC) & Payment Plan

Once your lawyer is satisfied, you sign the Private Purchase Contract (PPC). This contract sets out:

  • The total purchase price
  • The payment schedule
  • The estimated completion/delivery date
  • Penalties and guarantees

For new builds, a typical payment structure might be:

  • Reservation fee
  • 10–20% at signing of the PPC
  • 10–30% during construction, in stages
  • Balance paid at completion before the notary

At this stage, you should also discuss financing with your bank if you need a mortgage.


5. NIE Number & Spanish Bank Account

To buy property in Costa Blanca (and anywhere in Spain), you need:

  • An NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) – a tax identification number for foreigners.
  • A Spanish bank account is strongly recommended for paying taxes, utilities, community fees and mortgage instalments.

Your lawyer or agency can help you obtain the NIE and open a bank account if needed.

Internal link later: [How to Get an NIE Number for Buying Property]


6. Completion at the Notary

The final step is signing the public deed of sale (escritura) in front of a notary:

  • The last payment is made
  • The deed is signed by buyer and seller (or their representatives with power of attorney)
  • Keys are handed over
  • The deed is then registered in your name in the Land Registry

After this, you are officially the owner of the property.

Internal link later: [Notary & Completion Process in Spain]

Costs & Taxes When Buying New Build Property in Costa Blanca (2026)

When buying a new build property in Costa Blanca, you should consider:

  • VAT (IVA) – usually 10% of the purchase price
  • Stamp Duty (AJD) – varies by region, often around 1–1.5%
  • Notary and Land Registry fees – usually from a few hundred euros to around €1,500 combined
  • Lawyer’s fees – often around 1% of the property price
  • Mortgage costs (if applicable) – bank opening fees, valuation, etc.

For resale properties, instead of VAT you pay Transfer Tax (ITP), which depends on the region and property value.

Internal link later: [Full Guide to Property Taxes & Buying Costs in Costa Blanca]

💬 Our service for buyers
Our real estate agency does not charge commission to buyers. Our fees are paid by the developers and property owners we collaborate with. That means you can benefit from local knowledge, property comparison and full support throughout the buying process at no extra cost to you.

New Builds vs Resale: Pros & Cons

Advantages of New Builds

  • Modern design and distribution – built for today’s lifestyle and permanent living, with open plans, large windows and efficient use of space.
  • Possibility to choose materials and finishes – in many projects you can personalise tiles, kitchens, colours and some layout details if you buy early enough.
  • Energy efficiency – better insulation, double-glazing, efficient heating and cooling systems, which can reduce running costs.
  • Prepared for future regulations – energy performance and sustainability requirements are becoming stricter towards 2030. New properties are built with these standards in mind, which is important if in the future certain energy classes are required to rent or sell easily.
  • Warranties and guarantees – developers must provide guarantees on structural aspects and building quality (for example, a 10-year structural guarantee and shorter guarantees for installations and finishes).
  • Lower maintenance – everything is new, so you can expect fewer surprises in the first years.

Possible Drawbacks of New Builds

  • If you buy off-plan, you need to wait until construction is finished.
  • Some new areas are still developing, so they may take a few years to feel “established” (for some buyers this is a positive, for others less so).

Advantages of Resale Properties

  • Established neighbourhoods with a lived-in feeling.
  • You can see exactly what you are buying and often move in more quickly.
  • In some cases there may be more room for negotiation on price.

Drawbacks of Resale Properties

  • Older installations (plumbing, electrics, windows, insulation).
  • Higher risk of maintenance costs and renovation needs.
  • It may be harder for older properties to adapt to future energy efficiency expectations without significant work.

Overall, for many buyers – especially those planning long-term or permanent living – a new build offers:

  • More comfort
  • Lower running costs
  • Better alignment with modern and future standards

Internal link later: [New Build vs Resale – Which is Right for You?]

Living in Costa Blanca All Year Round

Because so many people are now moving here permanently, the Costa Blanca is no longer “just touristy”. It offers:

  • Schools & international schools for families
  • Modern healthcare centres and private clinics
  • Supermarkets, local markets and shopping centres
  • Gyms, sports facilities, golf courses and marinas
  • Coworking spaces and high-speed fibre internet in many areas

You can enjoy:

  • Beach life in summer – long sandy beaches, hidden coves, beach bars and evening walks along the promenades.
  • Mild, sunny winters perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and golf.
  • A relaxed Mediterranean rhythm, with cafés, restaurants and social life all year.

Whether you are a beach lover, a golf enthusiast, a nature fan or simply want a comfortable base in the sun, Costa Blanca offers many different ways to live.

All of this makes the region a place where you can comfortably live 12 months a year, not just enjoy a few weeks of holiday.

Internal link later: [Living in Costa Blanca – Expat & Family Guide]

This guide addresses the most common doubts buyers face when they start exploring the market — helping you understand how the Costa Blanca works, how different areas really compare, and what deserves attention before taking the next steps.

This guide addresses the most common doubts buyers face when they start exploring the market — helping you understand how the Costa Blanca works, how different areas really compare, and what deserves attention before taking the next steps.

In this guide:

Table of Contents

FAQs About Buying Property in Costa Blanca

Is Costa Blanca a good place for permanent living, not just holidays?

Yes. In recent years many families, professionals and retirees have chosen Costa Blanca for full-time living. This has attracted more schools, healthcare options, shops and services that work all year, not only in high season.

Yes. Most nationalities can freely buy property in Spain. You will need an NIE number and to follow the legal process, but there are no general restrictions for foreign buyers.

In many ways, yes. New builds are designed with current and upcoming energy and comfort standards in mind. That means lower energy consumption, better insulation and a home that is more prepared for future regulations and buyer expectations.

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 24 months.

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.