2025: The optimum year to buy in Spain
2025 is the perfect time to invest in Spain’s real estate market. Experts confirm that trends are promising and that it will be an ideal period for property investors to buy and make solid potential returns. Without a doubt, Spain is up-and-coming as one of Europe’s key hot spots for potential buyers seeking a permanent move, to
purchase a second home or for profitable rental opportunities.
Spain continues to be a popular choice for international property investors due to the myriad of benefits on offer. From the Mediterranean coastlines to buzzing, cosmopolitan cities like Madrid and Barcelona, there is no shortage of prospects
for savvy buyers from across the continent and further afield. The Costa del Sol, Costa Brava and the Balearic Islands are currently top of the charts for investment where there is a constant flow of tourists all-year-round to guarantee a solid rental income for buyers interested in short term letting.
In 2025, predictions for investment centre around stability, growth and favourable returns, yielding significant capital gains over the next five to 10 years. Where demand for property is high and the Spanish economy stabilising, why miss out on this wide open window of opportunity?
Spain’s property prices 2024-2025: Understanding the trend
PROPERTY prices in Spain are on the rise and are expected to continue increasing into 2025, driven by inflation and a growing demand for housing amidst a tightening supply. Yes, experts would say that housing prices in Spain are fluctuating rapidly, making it challenging to understand the market dynamics amid rising inflation and economic uncertainties. In this unpredictable environment, many are left wondering whether real estate prices will stabilise, rise, or fall in the coming year.
Clearly there are doubts and concerns as interest rates have increased and the prices on the housing market are fluctuating. Whether you are considering investing in a new property or considering the implications for the future of your own property, it is crucial to have an idea of what property experts are forecasting for 2024 -2025.
Economic factors as well as those concerning Spanish demographics mean that the Spanish real estate market is growing exponentially. BBVA Research group have stated that in 2024, Spain’s GDP grew by 2.5 per cent due to reduced interest rates and economic activity in the Eurozone. This has consequently increased housing demand. The current GDP is expected to increase by a further 2.1 per cent by 2025 and experts say that the post-pandemic recovery period and boom in consumerism
BUYING property in Spain can be an exciting step toward living the Mediterranean dream, but it’s essential to understand the full range of costs involved. Many first-time buyers, especially expats, may overlook certain unexpected costs, which can add up quickly and impact your overall budget.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs you may face and tips to help you manage them.
Banker’s draft fees
One surprising expense for many is the cost of raising a banker’s draft - a payment method banks use to secure property transactions by setting aside funds for the purchase. This service often incurs a fee of around 0.5 per cent, which could add thousands to your total cost. An easy way to bypass this fee is by using Currencies Direct’s PropertyPay service. It allows you to send money directly to the seller without additional charges.
Transfer fees
Expats may also face unexpected
has been tantamount to these improvements.
A significant effect of these economic fluctuations are increased house prices, particularly in important cities as well as coastal areas - notably Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol. Malaga, for example, is currently in the top 10 places for most expensive property. In Costa Blanca, prices are said to have risen by 4.3 per cent in 2024 and in the Costa del Sol, the cost of buying a house has risen by 8.3 per cent in 2024, making it the area of the country with one of the fastest growth in cost. These trends are expected to continue into 2025 due to heightened demand for housing and to the fact that new construction projects are few and far between. According to property specialists, this is due to limited land being considered for housing development projects and a reduction in skilled labour to carry out construction. Whilst demand increases and supply weakens, prices will continue to grow, especially in areas where there is a population boom or change in demographics. Advice for investors is to investigate areas with high demand and with few properties on the mar-
ket so that results will be more profitable. It is also crucial to be aware of environmental factors and how this can impact on saleability of properties in areas at risk of natural disaster including flooding or forest fires.
Avoiding hidden costs when buying a property in Spain
banking fees when moving funds between countries. Banks in the UK and Spain typically charge for international transfers, with Spanish banks often adding extra fees for processing large transactions.
Currencies Direct doesn’t charge transfers fees and also provide access to a digital wallet that lets you manage funds without opening a Spanish bank account. Saving you money and simplifying the process of paying for your new home.
Notary fees and additional charges
In Spain, notaries are required to validate property transactions. However, many buyers are unaware of extra fees for document preparation, deed copies, and registrations, which can amount to 0.1 per cent - 0.5 per cent of the property’s value. Notaries may also add fees for translation services or complex legal issues.
To reduce costs, request a detailed fee breakdown from your notary and consider sourcing your own lawyer or translator if needed.
Valuation fees
If you’re financing your purchase with a mortgage, the bank will require a valuation to verify the property’s worth. These appraisals, which typically cost between €300 and €800, are generally the buyer’s responsibility. To help mitigate this cost, consider exploring banks that offer preferential rates on valuations as part of their mortgage services.
Exchange rates and currency fluctuations
Exchange rates can significantly affect the cost of your Spanish property. Even a small fluctuation in rates could cost thousands on a large transfer.
Currencies Direct offers competitive rates with no transfer fees, so you know exactly what to expect. Our services include options like forward contracts and rate alerts, which help you secure the best deal for your transfer.
Simplify your Spanish property purchase with Currencies Direct
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Navigating the Spanish property market doesn’t have to be costly or complex. By partnering with Currencies Direct, you can reduce unnecessary fees and make the most of your currency transfers. Our PropertyPay service offers a convenient, cost-free alternative to banker’s drafts, while our competitive rates help maximise your purchasing power.
Ready to save on your Spanish property purchase? Open a free account or get expert guidance by contacting Currencies Direct at pro pertypay@currenciesdirect.com or calling +34 910 786 109.
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We Have Everything You Need To Dress Your Home ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
THE Yorkshire Linen Company in Javea and Altea opened their doors over 16 years ago. Whether it’s a complete transformation of your home, your rental(s) or just some finishing touches needed, there is a huge range of fabrics and textiles in a wide variety of colours and patterns to choose from. Bed linen, mattress and pillow protectors, bath and beach towels, cushions and pillows are just some of the products that we always have in stock.
Bamboo Linen and Towels
Our bamboo Belledrom range of fitted sheets, flat sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases are soft, silky and hypoallergenic. Bamboo is an eco-friendly and sustainable fibre that grows very quickly and often requires no pesticides. Naturally breathable by regulating your body temperature, bamboo linen will keep you cool in summer and warm in the winter.
Sofa Beds and Mattresses
Apart from quality mattresses and bases we also sell sofa beds which are ideal for guests and rentals therefore optimising your living space. These include an Italian opening system with five years
warranty, recycled and stain-resistant fabric and two multipurpose soft, pillowy cushions for both sitting and sleeping.
Mattress Protectors
A mattress protector is a worthwhile investment for keeping your mattresses clean and in good condition. We can highly recommend our waterproof and breathable protectors. The same goes for pillow protectors, protecting pillows from stains.
We also stock mattress toppers which is a great way to transform an older bed or break in a new mattress that may be a bit too firm for now. They can also have a cooling effect depending on which brand you purchase.
Curtain Power
All curtains are very useful for all sorts of reasons and we have a huge selection of UK curtains to choose from. We also have an in-house seamstress service available to make sure your curtains hang perfectly. Black out curtains have proven to be excellent on energy saving and keeping your
house cool during the warm months.
From Outdoors to Indoors
For bedrooms, kitchens, livingrooms, bathrooms, studies and terraces our prices will please all home loving bargain hunters as well as those looking for a more luxurious finish. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff in both our shops are will always assist you in every way they can.
Our Winter | Autumn Collections are arriving weekly.
Come and get inspired!
Centro Comercial Montgó Cap de la Nao Plá 68, Jávea T 966 462 275 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00 | Saturday 10.00 – 18.00
Partida Planet 177 | Altea T 965 841 399 Mon to Fri 10.00 – 19.00 | Saturday 10.00 – 14.00 yorkshirelinencostablanca.com
Quiet Luxury
THE ‘Quiet Luxury’ aesthetic is redefining home interiors, merging simplicity with sophistication to create serene, timeless spaces. This trend emphasises quality, craftsmanship, and subtle elegance over bold statements or transient fads, making it a favourite for those seeking understated refinement in their homes.
Key elements of quiet luxury include the use of calming neutrals such as sable, ecru, and soft whites, complemented by natural materials like oak, walnut, and unlacquered brass. These hues and textures exude warmth and balance, perfect for creating inviting yet polished interiors. Custom furniture and built-ins, such as bookshelves and seating areas, further highlight the importance of thoughtful, intentional design.
Texture plays a vital role in this aesthetic, with fabrics like bouclé, velvet, and high-quality linens en-
hancing visual and tactile appeal. These elements contribute to a cosy yet luxurious ambiance, ideal for intimate living spaces. The inclusion of bespoke details, antiques, and artisanal accents lends a sense of individuality and heritage, key components of the quiet luxury ethos.
Unlike flashy or trend-driven styles, quiet luxury thrives on timeless appeal, making it a sustainable and enduring choice for home decor. Its focus on elegance and comfort creates spaces that feel both personal and universally inviting, proving that true luxury doesn’t shout - it whispers.
For those looking to adopt this trend, investing in quality over quantity and embracing natural, lasting materials is the first step to achieving a quietly luxurious home.
Simple steps to buying
LOOKING to buy property in Spain? The process can feel daunting, especially given Spain’s complex paperwork. To help, we’ve put together a simple, step-by-step guide to make your home-buying journey a little simpler.
The first step is to calculate your budget and then add 10 per cent to 13 per cent for the additional purchase costs including fees and taxes. If this money isn’t readily available, then consider a financing option. Spanish banks usually provide mortgages, lending from 60 per cent of the total cost. For all financial or legal proceedings, you will need an NIE or TIE (tax ID number).
When you have found your dream property, you will need between €3,000 to €6,000, payable on a credit card or by bank transfer to hold the property and re-
move it from the market. Then, contract a solicitor (notario/notaria in Spanish) who will check the property owner’s documentation. This auditing will check the local land register to rule out any overlying debts, or mortgages/loans taken out for the property.
A contract with the solicitor will outline payment terms. After paying a holding deposit, the rest of the 10 per cent deposit is due within a month. The final payment is due at the notary’s office on signing day, following a final audit to confirm no new loans or mortgages. All parties will sign the title deeds, and remaining costs - such as an 8 per cent transfer tax, land registry, and solicitor fees - must be paid within a month.
Experienced Estate Agents at your service
COASTLINE PROPERTIES is an established, trusted independent estate agent with over 20 years’ experience, based in Denia, covering the northern Costa Blanca.
Founder Philip Westerby says: “With our extensive knowledge of the region, combined with our property portfolio (which includes a wide range of villas, townhouses, bungalows and apartments) and our personalised service, we are confident that we will be able to find your dream property.”
We pride ourselves on our high-quality service and professional advice, which is reflected in the comprehensive recommendations of our many satisfied clients. Our expertise will help you at every step of the buying process, and we also offer a complete service for owners looking to sell their property.
The following services are included
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free of charge when buying a property with us:
• Location identification
• Property search, viewing and showing
• Negotiation of terms, price and contract
• Accompaniment and translation at the notary
• Help with money transfers
• Recommendations to qualified Spanish tax advisors and lawyers
• Help with opening a Spanish bank account
• Assistance with bank mortgages
If you need advice or a free valuation, please contact Philip Westerby. Through our website:www.coastlinepropertiesspain.com WhatsApp: +34 606 798 213 | info@coastlineproperties.es
Silver Fox Removals:
Reliable moving services from the Costa Blanca
RELOCATING to a new home or office can be one of life’s most stressful experiences. Whether it’s a local move, a national transition, or a significant international relocation, the logistics and planning can feel overwhelming. That’s where Silver Fox Removals, based in the picturesque Costa Blanca, steps in to make your moving experience seamless and hassle-free.
With a reputation built on reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, Silver Fox Removals offers a wide range of services tailored to meet every client’s needs. Their expertise spans local moves within the Costa Blanca, national relocations across Spain, and international removals to destinations across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re moving your family, business, or cherished possessions, the team ensures everything arrives safely and on time.
Spain’s most colourful villages
SPAIN is a land bursting with colour, flavour, and lively energy. Across its diverse landscapes, you’ll find charming stone cottages and chimney-topped houses in the north, the picturesque whitewashed villages of Andalucia, and vibrant, multi-coloured homes lining the streets throughout the country. Wherever you go, Spain offers a feast for the senses.
Amongst all of the most enchanted and beautiful villages of Spain, there are unique secrets to be found. Yet as autumn is upon us and winter draws ever closer, perhaps the colourful villages could be more appealing on darker nights or cloudier days.
Villajoyosa, Alicante
Near Alicante, lovers of colour and vibrancy will appreciate the houses to be found situated in the picturesque village of Villajoyosa. It is in fact known for its iconic seafront with its frill of brightly coloured buildings. The original idea behind this came before technology, when the houses needed to be visible from out at sea; they have stood the test of time, maintaining the same tradition decades on.
The village prides itself on its rustic walls, marine walk, its beach and even boasts hanging houses, a remarkable housing phenomena also found in other Spanish areas like Cuenca. For all chocolate connoisseurs: visit the Chocolate Valor Museum, one of the most prominent and popular chocolate brands in Spain.
One of the hallmarks of Silver Fox Removals is their commitment to personalised service. Understanding that every move is unique, they offer tailored packages to suit varying requirements, including packing services, secure storage solutions, and specialist care for fragile or valuable items. Their fleet of modern, well-equipped vehicles and experienced staff ensure that your belongings are handled with the utmost care.
International moves are often fraught with additional challenges, such as customs regulations and language barriers. Silver Fox Removals alleviates these headaches by managing all the necessary paperwork and logistics, providing clients with peace of mind.
Located in the heart of the Costa Blanca, the company has become a trusted partner for expa-
triates, locals, and businesses alike. With a focus on efficiency, affordability, and a personal touch, Silver Fox Removals is setting the standard for moving services in the region.
When it’s time to move, whether down the street or across the globe, Silver Fox Removals ensures your journey begins on the right foot.
Please visit our website or call / email. www.silverfoxremovals.com
Calle Gremis 33 Teulada 03725 Alicante. 966 495 097 636 609 555 andrew@silverfoxremovals.com
Cudillero, Asturias
Let’s start with the small municipality of Cudillero, declared both a historical and artistic landmark. Its cheerful-coloured houses are complemented by a lighthouse, several viewpoints out to sea and a sign with letters that demarcates the town’s pride and elegance. Asturias boasts stunning coastlines with crystalclear waters, rich rustic traditions at every turn, and mouthwatering local dishes that capture the heart of its culture.
Enchanted Forest, Parauta, Malaga
Located in the Valle del Genal, not far from Ronda in the heights of Malaga, is a small village offering an unusual slant on coloured villages. Located within the Sierra de
las Nieves Natural Park national park, it is a site for nature lovers, chestnut lovers and well… lovers - with its own kissing bench! What makes Parauta unique, however, is not actually the village. Its glistening whitewashed houses are complemented by a colourful enchanted forest bringing the village alive for curious national and international tourists. Close to the blue village or ‘Smurf village’ of Juzcar, the magical, multi-coloured Enchanted Forest is a route of around 3km where you can find wooden, carved sculptures of fairies, tiny houses, dwarfs and other creatures. Perfect for the family and for cheering up a cloudy autumn day.
These are just four of the vibrant villages lighting up Spain’s peninsula. Exploring them - or others like them - promises an experience rich in charm, history, and tradition, all wrapped in a blanket of colour.
Photos: Shutterstock
Let’s get cosy
A fireplace offers several benefits that go beyond just providing warmth
ONE of the most notable advantages is its ability to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere in a room. The soft flicker of flames and the crackling sound of burning wood can make a space feel more intimate and relaxing, enhancing the overall ambiance of a home. This can be especially comforting during colder months when people tend to spend more time indoors.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, a fireplace can be an efficient source of heat. It can help reduce energy costs
by supplementing or even replacing central heating, especially in smaller spaces. The warmth generated by a fire can be distributed naturally throughout a room, creating a comfortable environment without relying on electric or gas-powered systems.
A fireplace also offers a degree of independence during power outages. In times when electricity is unavailable, a fireplace can provide not only warmth but also a reliable source of light, helping to maintain
some normalcy in difficult circumstances.
Furthermore, many people find the act of maintaining a fireplace - whether it’s starting a fire or gathering around it with family and friends - to be a deeply satisfying experience. It promotes connection, relaxation, and mindfulness, offering a break from the digital world. In addition to its functional benefits, a fireplace can become a focal point in a home, adding value and charm to a living space.
Retire in Spain
Advantage
WELCOME to the tranquil embrace of retirement in Spain, where the Mediterranean charm meets a life of leisure. Find out some practicalities of making Spain your retirement sanctuary.
Seeking a secure neighbourhood that fosters a sense of community and is close to family is crucial. Living in a vibrant area throughout the year ensures a fulfilling lifestyle, avoiding the desolation of seasonal deadness. Assessing weather patterns, especially during winter months, is vital for comfort. Convenient access to shops within a 10-minute walk and nearby green spaces enhances relaxation.
Evaluate the proximity and quality of public transportation, as well as access to beaches within a 20-minute journey. Prioritise living near excellent healthcare facilities to support ageing gracefully. Consider the city’s cost of living and tax rates to align with financial goals.
Availability of recreational and social activities, along with nearby restaurants, enrich daily life. If golfing is a passion, ensure courses are within a 20-minute drive. Assess tax implications, especially if residing in Spain for over 180 days annually.
Exploring rental options initially allows flexibility before committing to a purchase.
Entering retirement in Spain offers a chance to fully enjoy life’s pleasures. Take the time to unwind, explore new interests, and embrace the joys of this next chapter
Structural Surveys
Covering the entire Costa Blanca North
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Market update winter 2024by Mark Paddon Building Surveyor
2024 has been a busy year for all those involved in property sales. Most estate agents have increased their advertising to vendors as their portfolios of properties have reduced in size. This is a good sign that the Costa Blanca is extremely popular with buyers, and prices have increased accordingly. Despite the high demand, there are still surprisingly some great value property deals to be had, and many properties that are resales actually remain below cost price (when considering what the build and plot would cost at today’s prices). Even newbuilds can offer great value when you compare what you might get in other parts of the world for your money.
During this year the Dutch have made up a majority percentage of
buyers, but the Brits as always still love to buy in Spain and a significant number of buyers from the USA are now discovering the Costa Blanca and the lifestyle opportunities it presents. The French, Belgians, Scandinavians and Germans also retain a keen interest in Spain’s low cost of living and sunny climate. It appears that demand will hence continue into 2025.
If you are investing your money in Spanish property it is wise to use a lawyer for all legal checks and have a structural survey as part of the purchase process.
653 733 066
962 807 247
mrmpaddon@hotmail.com
www.surveyorscostablanca.com
If you are buying property in Spain or have problems with a property you already own, a professional structural survey can help identify and record defects whilst suggesting e ective remedial solutions and cost implications.
Mark Paddon BS Hons. MCIOB. CAAT. is a British Building Surveyor and Spanish registered Arquitecto Tecnico, insured via Lloyd's of London. He has been working on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida for over 20 years carrying out buyers structural surveys and providing general property purchase defects advice, including expert witness reports for court actions and insurance claims.
(Thermal camera inspection is also included).
Whether its an old town house, apartment or luxury villa every property purchase represents a considerable investment and deserves a close inspection for defects such as damp, termites, subsidence etc. Specialist structural assessment of problem retaining walls and swimming pools is also undertaken.
Video survey options are now available (fast feedback).
FREE buyers guide available via website. Initial telephone and email advice is FREE.
ustainableSHomes
AS the world faces increasing environmental challenges, sustainable homes are gaining popularity as a solution for reducing our carbon footprint and promoting energy efficiency. Sustainable homes, also known as eco-homes, are designed with materials and technologies that minimise environmental impact, offering an alternative to conventional, resource-intensive construction.
One key feature of sustainable homes is their use of energy-efficient designs. These homes are typically built to reduce the need for heating and cooling by using passive solar design, which maximises natural light and airflow. Well-insulated walls, windows, and roofs ensure that energy consumption remains low throughout the
year. Many sustainable homes also incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines, further decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
Another important aspect is the use of eco-friendly materials. Sustainable homes often feature recycled, locally sourced, or renewable materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and non-toxic paints, which not only reduce waste but also contribute to healthier indoor environments. The aim is to limit the home’s overall ecological impact from construction to daily living.
Water conservation is also a priority in sustainable homes. Features like rainwater harvesting
systems, low-flow fixtures, and greywater recycling help reduce water consumption, a critical consideration in areas facing water scarcity.
Beyond environmental benefits, sustainable homes offer long-term financial savings. Reduced energy and water costs, combined with the durability of eco-friendly materials, make these homes an investment in both the planet’s future and personal savings.
As technology advances and environmental awareness grows, the demand for sustainable homes continues to rise, offering a promising path toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for generations to come.
Images: Shutterstock
Buying or selling
ONE of the peculiarities of the housing market at the moment is the difference between the high percentage of people who wish to buy a home and the small number of Spaniards who are selling.
Within the overall real estate activity in the first six months of 2024, 78 per cent of enquiries are from buyers or aspiring buyers but, on the other hand, there are only 15 per cent of sellers making contact with agents. In addition, another 6 per cent are participating in both markets (selling and buying at the same time).
This is one of the conclusions of the report ‘Radiography of the housing market in the first half of 2024’ prepared by Fotocasa
Research, which aims to analyse the current situation of the real estate market in Spain.
“The abrupt change in monetary policy with the rise in interest rates has been a turning point for the real estate market.
“Buyers are approaching the market but the supply does not meet their needs. In this context of mismatch, prices are rising in a situation that com -
plicates accessibility to housing,” commented María Matos, Director of Studies and spokesperson for Fotocasa.
The report concludes that the real estate market is in a change of cycle and a process of adaptation after the intense activity generated by the pandemic, at the same time as it is digesting the interest rate rises driven by the European Central Bank.
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The Next Evolution in Outdoor Design: Resin pools and terraces
BUILDING on over 30 years of expertise in crafting exceptional pools and terraces, PTS Pools is proud to announce its expansion into resin aggregate technology. Combining modern aesthetics with advanced functionality, resin pools and terraces are revolutionising outdoor spaces.
Resin technology blends natural aggregates with durable resin to create seamless, hard-wearing surfaces ideal for pool sides and terraces. This innovative material is designed to withstand the test of time, resisting cracks, chips, and UV damage that can diminish traditional surfaces. Its smooth yet slip-resistant finish ensures safety while maintaining an effortlessly elegant look.
One of resin’s standout benefits is its versatility. With customisable colours and patterns, resin surfaces complement any landscape design, offering tailored solutions to suit your vision. Its smooth shapes and contemporary appeal provide an ideal balance of form and function. Additionally, resin surfaces
remain cooler underfoot compared to other materials, ensuring comfort even on the hottest days. Beyond aesthetics, resin technology offers practical advantages. These surfaces are remarkably easy to clean, requiring minimal upkeep to maintain their beauty. Their eco-friendly, permeable design supports efficient drainage, reducing water pooling and environmental impact.
As a trusted name in the industry for decades, PTS Pools applies the same dedication and expertise to resin pool and terrace installations. This cutting-edge solution provides exceptional value, combining durability, custom design, and low maintenance to enhance outdoor living spaces.
Discover the future of outdoor design with resin pools and terraces by PTS Resin Pools & Terraces - where innovation meets trusted craftsmanship.
+34 679 637 623 ptspools.spain@gmail.com www.ptspools-spain.com
