Buying new-build on the Costa Blanca: what you need to know

Yes, provided the project is properly checked and guided.

That is why we always recommend working with an independent lawyer who checks all the permits, contracts and guarantees before you make any payments. Good preparation is the best protection.

Off-plan means you buy a home before it is fully built. Sometimes construction has already started, sometimes the project is still at an early stage.

The advantage is that you often have more choice in location, views, finishes and sometimes even the layout of the home.

With off-plan you buy during the construction phase and have to wait for the handover. With a key-ready home everything is already finished and you can see exactly what you are buying.

A key-ready home can also often be moved into or let out sooner.

With new-build you usually pay in several stages.

After the reservation, one or more interim payments follow during construction. The remaining balance is paid at the notary when the home is handed over. The exact payment structure varies from project to project.

A bank guarantee or insurance bond protects the amounts you pay during construction.

Should a project not be completed in line with the legal requirements, this guarantee protects the amounts you have already paid. This is an important part of a safe purchase.

Yes. Many steps can be carried out remotely through video meetings, digital communication and a notarial power of attorney.

Even so, we recommend visiting the project and the area in person at least once before you make your final decision.

That depends on the construction phase.

With many projects you can choose between different floors, bathrooms, kitchens or other finishing options. The earlier you come in, the greater the chance that choices are still possible.

That depends entirely on the project.

A key-ready home is available immediately, whereas an off-plan project often needs anywhere from a few months to a few years before handover. We always inform you of the expected handover date before you decide.

Before the notarial transfer, the home is checked for any outstanding finishing points.

Any defects or imperfections are recorded so that the developer can put them right. This process is known as "snagging".

Yes. New-build projects are covered by various statutory guarantees for construction, installations and certain structural elements.

The exact guarantees can vary depending on the type of work and the applicable legislation. Your lawyer will check these documents before the purchase is completed.

In most cases, yes.

Modern new-build homes are built to current energy standards and often have better insulation, more efficient installations and a higher energy rating than older homes. This often means greater comfort and lower energy bills.

With new-build you do not pay transfer tax as you would with an existing home. You do, however, pay 10% VAT (IVA), stamp duty (AJD), notary fees, registration fees and legal support, among others.

The exact costs vary from region to region and from project to project. We always draw up a personal cost calculation so that you know exactly where you stand from the outset.

That depends on the location, the project and your goals.

Many buyers choose new-build for its modern finish, energy efficiency, guarantees and minimal upkeep. On top of that, a home in a good location can be appealing for your own use, for letting or for holding its value over the long term.

New-build combines modern architecture, comfort, energy efficiency and minimal upkeep.

On top of that, many projects offer facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, landscaped gardens and excellent locations close to the sea, golf or nature. That is why new-build remains so popular with international buyers.

Because buying new-build takes more than simply looking at a nice brochure.

With more than 25 years of experience, we guide our clients throughout the entire journey: from selecting the right project to the legal checks, the handover and the aftercare. Personal, transparent and in your own language.