Property Supplement CBN 20 - 26 February 2025 Issue 2068
Real Estate Boom
Why the Costa Blanca is the perfect place to invest in 2025
SPAIN has risen to become the second most attractive country for real estate investment in Europe in 2025, according to the European Investor Intentions Survey 2025 by CBRE.
This marks a steady climb from seventh place in 2022 and fourth in 2024, with only the United Kingdom ranking higher. Other notable
countries in the rankings include Poland, Germany, and France in third, fourth, and fifth positions respectively, while Portugal holds steady at sixth, underscoring the growing appeal of the Iberian Peninsula for investors.
Spain’s position in the rankings can be attributed to factors such as tourism growth, rising population
numbers, and positive GDP figures, along with a favourable outlook for the national real estate market.
Real estate investment in Spain is expected to grow by 15 per cent in 2025, reaching an estimated €16 billion, up from €14 billion in 2024. This growth could be further fuelled if the strong momentum in corporate transactions continues in the
Rental rises
THE rental market on the Costa Blanca continues its upward trend, with prices increasing by 11.7 per cent year-on-year in January. Alicante, one of the region’s key cities, has also seen significant growth, registering a 10 per cent increase in rental prices over the past year.
Alicante’s rental market follows the general trend observed across Spain, where 47 provincial capitals have experienced price hikes. Valencia, the region’s capital, saw rental prices rise by 11.8 per cent, making it one of the cities with
the most notable increases, alongside Madrid (15.2 per cent) and Barcelona (13.5 per cent).
Meanwhile, Alicante’s growth rate positions it among the most dynamic rental markets in the country, reflecting the region’s increasing demand for housing.
Despite these increases, Valencia remains relatively affordable compared to Spain’s most expensive cities. Currently, rental prices in Valencia average €15 per square metre, making it one of the more accessible major urban cen-
tres compared to Barcelona (€23.6/m2) and Madrid (€21/ m2).
Meanwhile, Alicante’s rental market, though growing, still offers competitive rates, attracting both locals and newcomers seeking housing along the Costa Blanca. Across the provinces, the Costa Blanca has followed the national trend of rising rental prices and with its attractive coastline, thriving tourism sector, and growing expatriate community, demand for rental properties in the area remains strong.
coming months.
With this in mind, where better to buy your dream home than the Costa Blanca? From the bustling beach resorts of Alicante and Benidorm to quaint coastal villages such as Javea and Moraira, or inland towns such as Sax and Castalla, the Costa Blanca is a diverse region brimming with potential.
Your new happy life starts here... Find
happiness in Spain with us!
WELCOME to Alicante Dream Homes, your local, fully legal estate agent specialising in helping you find your dream home in Alicante and Murcia. With over 15 years of experience and three offices strategically located in the Alicante-Murcia area, we are committed to providing you with the best service possible.
Our extensive portfolio of properties showcases the diversity and charm of the local area, and as residents ourselves, we have personal knowledge of each and every property. This allows us to confidently address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring that you are well-informed throughout the entire process.
At Alicante Dream Homes, your satisfaction is our top priority. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, tailoring our services to exceed your expectations. Whether you are buying or selling a property, we are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the journey, providing expert advice and support along the way.
Don’t just take our word for it - check out our glowing reviews on Facebook and Google from satisfied clients who have experienced firsthand the exceptional service we provide. These testimonials attest to our unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and customer satisfaction.
Alicante Dream Homes is more than just a business - it’s a family legacy. Founded by two British brothers, Gary and Mike, over a decade ago, our agency has since been passed down to the next generation. Today, it is proudly operated by father and son team Gary and Josh, who continue to uphold the values of honesty, reliability, and dedication instilled by their predecessors.
Whether you’re searching for your dream home in the sun-drenched landscapes of Alicante or the picturesque surroundings of Murcia, Alicante Dream Homes is here to make your real estate dreams a reality. Contact us today to discover how we can help you find the perfect property or assist you in selling your current one. With Alicante Dream Homes, your journey to homeownership begins here.
THE bedroom trends for 2025 focus on multifunctional spaces, personalisation, and comfort. Bedrooms are no longer just for sleeping but are now private retreats where people re
like plants, connects the space to nature and promotes calmness.
The Scandinavian style continues to be a favourite for bedrooms. Its simplicity, functio
Currency caution
BUYING property in Spain is an exciting investment, but if you’re using a currency other than the euro, such as the British pound or Swiss franc, exchange rate fluctuations can significantly affect the overall cost and future payments.
The exchange rate determines the value of one currency against another, and for buyers from countries like the UK or Switzerland, changes in the rate can alter the price of the property, taxes, notary fees, and mortgage payments.
Exchange rates can fluctuate due to factors like central bank decisions, political events, and global financial market shifts, including stock market changes or economic crises. To minimise the impact, foreign buyers can take several steps.
It’s important to plan ahead by creating a budget that accounts for potential fluctuations and building in a buffer for possible cost increases. A useful strategy is using a forward contract, which locks in an exchange rate for a future transaction, protecting you from future rate changes.
Opening a euro account in Spain allows for easier payments and enables you to transfer funds when the exchange rate is favourable, simplifying property-related costs.
Consulting with financial experts or currency brokers can also help, as they can offer tailored advice and assist with timing your transfers to maximise savings. Additionally, using local financing options, like a Spanish mortgage, can help, as it allows you to make euro-denominated payments, reducing the need for large currency transfers.
Seamless spaces
OPEN-plan kitchens have become increasingly popular in modern homes.
Removing walls between the kitchen and living areas makes these spaces feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. Even smaller kitchens can appear more expansive and open with this design. Using consistent flooring, such as large-format tiles, helps create a seamless flow that enhances the sense of spaciousness.
One of the most appealing aspects of openplan kitchens is how they foster connection. Without barriers, you can easily interact with family members or guests while cooking, making the
kitchen a central part of the home’s social activities.
Natural light flows more freely in an open-plan layout, brightening both the kitchen and living areas. Adding glass elements like partitions or windows can further boost light flow while maintaining some degree of privacy when needed.
The versatility of an open-plan kitchen is another key advantage. It’s not just a place for preparing meals, it can serve as a dining area, workspace, or gathering spot for the family. Kitchen islands offer valuable surfaces for everything from meal prep to informal dining or working.
Sparkle for spring
SPRING will soon be with us, so it’s the perfect time to freshen up your home. Start by washing your windows on a cloudy day. If it’s too sunny, the cleaning solution will dry too quickly, leaving streaks. You can use water and a microfibre cloth for a simple clean, or mix rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and distilled water for a DIY solution.
Take the time to clean under your furniture and appliances. Move things around to sweep or hoover and sponge any dust and dirt you can’t usually reach.
Don’t forget to freshen up your furniture. Leather pieces can be cleaned and conditioned with an upholstery cleaner. If you have wooden furniture, mix olive oil and vinegar to clean and
It’s also a good time to organise your wardrobe. Swap out winter clothes for lighter spring attire and store offseason items in labelled boxes for easy access next year. In the kitchen, clean your cabinets, and make space by donating or discarding anything you no use. Don’t forget to clean the fridge and freezer.
Spring cleaning is also a reminder to check your safety devices. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, change the batteries, and make sure everything is working.
If you have outdoor furniture or gardening tools, take the time to clean and prepare them for the warmer months ahead.
Efficient balconies
IN warm climates such as Spain, there is a definite bonus in having a balcony or terrace and many houses and apartments offer this attractive option of bringing the inside outside.
There are however downsides as when it is very hot, winds are blowing strongly or when it rains, then those external additions can’t be used and end up wasted space.
Canopies are popular and often work well when the sun is very strong, but they have a limited life as they are vulnerable to the prevailing weather.
Having said that however, canopies are a relatively inexpensive option and can normally be fixed to a wall or overhead balcony quickly and with little disruption.
An ever more popular option (if the layout of your balcony or terrace
allows) is to consider glass curtains which turn an exterior area into an interior space, similar in many ways to the British concept of adding a conservatory to a house, but in this case you keep the advantage of transforming the outside space back again.
Slowly spreading from Germany is a new concept of adding solar panels to balconies which allows you to benefit from the savings made in the cost of heating water for example and there is the added bonus of being part of the circular economy, benefitting all.
There are a number of very efficient and cost effective suppliers of both canopies and glass curtains advertising in Euro Weekly News who would be pleased to advise you of the various options available.
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
ADVERTISING FEATURE
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
Top tips for selling your Spanish property in 2025
Selling a home can be stressful, particularly with an overseas property. To help anyone who may be considering putting their Spanish property on the market this year, we have put together some tips to help you maximise your returns and avoid common pitfalls.
Price competitively
Setting the right asking price is critical. Overpricing can deter buyers, while pricing too low risks minimising your returns. Research local market trends using platforms and consult a trusted real estate agent to gauge comparable property values in your area.
Consider seasonal demand - coastal properties often attract higher interest in spring and summer - and be prepared to adjust your price if the market shifts.
Present your property in the best light
First impressions matter. Declutter, clean thoroughly, and consider minor renovations (eg, fresh paint, updated fixtures) to enhance appeal. Professional staging and high-quality photography can significantly boost buyer interest.
Highlight any unique features, such as a private pool, sea views, or proximity to amenities. For holiday homes, emphasise rental potential if applicable.
Ensure everything is compliant Spanish property sales involve strict legal requirements. Confirm that your Escritura (title deed) is up-to-date, all taxes are paid, and the property has a valid Certificado de Eficiencia Energética (energy certificate).
Hire an administrative specialist
Secure in Spain
PURCHASING property in Spain as a foreigner is a significant investment, and securing the right insurance is essential, especially if you don’t live there full-time. Different types of insurance are recommended, such as home insurance, mortgage protection, and vacation rental coverage.
Home Insurance: While not legally required, home insurance is highly recommended to protect your property from risks like fire, flooding, and theft. A typical policy covers the property structure, contents, and liability, which can protect you from damage to neighbouring properties. For part-time owners, additional coverage like remote monitoring or emergency services may be helpful.
Mortgage Protection: If you’ve taken out a mortgage, the bank may require life insurance linked to the loan, ensuring the mortgage is paid off in case of death or disability. Additionally, home insurance is often required by the bank, but it’s worth comparing their options with those from independent insurers for better terms.
Holiday Property Insurance: If you plan to rent out your property, specific insurance options can cover tenantcaused damage or loss of rental income if the property is temporarily uninhabitable. In some regions, liability insurance is also mandatory for holiday home rentals.
When choosing insurance, ensure it meets legal and banking requirements, and tailor it to your needs, whether for personal use or renting. The cost of insurance depends on factors like property value, location, and use. Basic home insurance may cost €150-€300 per year, while holiday property insurance tends to be higher.
or lawyer to verify there are no outstanding debts, liens, or planning permission issues. Resolving these early avoids delays during the notarial signing.
Choose the right estate agent
A reputable local agent can streamline the process. Look for agencies with strong regional expertise, multilingual staff, and a proven sales record. Clarify their commission structure (typically 3-5 per cent) and marketing strategy. Avoid agents who pressure you into exclusivity contracts without clear benefits.
Consider the tax implications
As a seller, you’ll need to account for certain taxes and fees. Sellers in Spain are subject to Plusvalía Municipal (a local capital gains tax) and, for non-residents, a 19 per cent retention on the sale price. Residents may also pay income tax on profits. Consult a
tax adviser to explore deductions, exemptions, or double-taxation treaties if repatriating funds abroad.
Maximise the returns on your sale with Currencies Direct
For international sellers, how you repatriate the proceeds when selling your Spanish property will be key in ultimately determining how much you are able to maximise your returns.
Fortunately, by working with a reliable FX broker like Currencies Direct, you’ll get excellent exchange rates, no transfer fees and expert guidance so you can make the most of your currency transfers.
Ready to maximise the returns on your Spanish property sale?
Open a free account or get expert guidance by contacting Currencies Direct at propertypay@currenciesdirect. com or calling +34 910 786 109.
IF you’re thinking about building a shed or outdoor hut in your garden in Spain, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations, as the need for permits varies across regions. Sheds, often used for tool storage, have become multipurpose spaces, such as play areas, offices, or poolside changing rooms. However, before setting up a shed, you may need permission from your local town hall (ayuntamiento). The rules vary by location, and failing to get the right
Shed savvy Green kitchen
masonry, and is no taller than 1.80 metres. For sheds between 5 m² and 20 m², you’ll need to submit a prior declaration of work to inform the local authorities. If the shed is larger than 20 m², a formal building permit is required, with details about the materials and design.
The rules also depend on where you live. Some regions have stricter regulations, requiring foundations for sheds or limiting where they can be placed. If you live in a protected area,
KITCHEN design is shifting towards sustainability, with appliances playing a key role in reducing environmental impact.
A green kitchen optimises electricity and water use while minimising emissions. Energy-efficient appliances not only improve home efficiency but also contribute to environmental conservation.
Class A++ extractor hoods, for example, cut energy consumption by 85 per cent
Free-standing luxury
FREE-STANDING bathtubs offer a unique mix of elegance and practicality, standing alone to create a striking centrepiece in any bathroom. Unlike built-in tubs, they can be placed anywhere.
One of the main advantages of free-standing bathtubs is their visual appeal. Their bold design enhances the overall bathroom aesthetic, and with various shapes and finishes available, they can be customised to match different styles. Installation is simpler compared to built-in tubs, as they don’t require additional support structures, though their weight must be considered to ensure the floor can handle them.
Comfort is another important benefit. Many freestanding tubs have ergonomic designs that contour to the body. Deeper models allow full immersion. These tubs come in different sizes, making them suitable for both compact and spacious bathrooms.
There are several types of free-standing bathtubs, from modern designs with clean lines perfect for contemporary spaces to oval tubs that offer a balance of style and function. Japanese-style tubs are deep and compact, ideal for smaller spaces, while angled tubs provide better back support.
Free-standing bathtubs are available in a variety of materials. Acrylic is lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain, while natural stone options like marble or granite offer a luxurious look but need careful upkeep. Compact mineral materials provide a soft and uniform appearance, and porcelain tile bathtubs are known for their smooth surface, heat retention, and scratch resistance.
using brushless motors and LED lighting.
Durability is another essential factor. Multi-layer technology and innovative designs ensure that filters in these appliances last up to three years with proper maintenance, such as washing them in a dishwasher every few months.
Investing in energy-efficient appliances leads to noticeable benefits. Lower energy consumption results in reduced electricity bills. Choo-
sing sustainable products helps shrink the carbon footprint, contributing to a greener planet.
High-quality appliances last longer, decreasing the need for frequent replacements.Transitioning to a green kitchen starts with selecting certified appliances with A++ ratings or higher.
Using recyclable materials and reusing resources also play a significant role in making kitchens more environmentally friendly.
Your trusted partner for solar energy
IN an era where sustainability is more important than ever, it’s no wonder that solar energy has become a hot topic in the region with a sun-soaked coastline.
At SolarNRG, located in the town of Altea, they know the benefits which the Mediterranean climate has to offer to solar energy systems.
Founded with a vision to promote renewable energy, SolarNRG has established itself as a trusted name in the solar industry across the Costa Blanca, Costa Calida and even towards the Costa de Almeria.
They understand that each client’s energy needs are unique, and no two homes are the same. By visiting the client on site, they can evaluate the location and gain a better understanding of the client’s energy consumption and wishes. With a specially designed quotation programme, they can make a personalised quotation which matches the needs of the individual client.
After signing the quotation, the administration staff will take the client through the whole installation process and will give updates regularly,
ensuring the client is aware of what’s going on.
After the installation is completed, they make sure that the clients are
Sustainable housing in Spain: future-proof and poised for growth
THE property market in Spain is booming - most notably, the luxury home market. Thanks to exponential foreign investment in key hot spots like Alicante, Costa del Sol, and Mallorca, the demand for property real estate is skyrocketing. Not only this, but housing profiles are changing to accommodate considerably more extras and extravagance.
One of the main benchmarks for choosing luxury property has become ecological and sustainable housing. In the Spanish housing market, this trend towards sustainable luxury is becoming ever more noticeable.
Here’s why and how
In the past, sustainable homes were seen as a compromise. Either you sacrificed style and comfort or you surrendered your green conscience. Spanish eco-properties are changing that mindset. Real estate is now replete with cutting-edge, sustainable technologies, without missing an inch of
elegance. Not only this, but buyers can rest assured that due to the rising demand for sustainable homes, these properties stand out in a competitive market.
So, what are the features that constitute a sustainable home?
1. Solar energy: This form of energy is a reliable source in Spain. It reduces dependence on traditional energy sources, thus lowering the carbon footprint, as well as those dastardly energy bills.
2. Water-saving systems: Rainwater harvesting systems and grey water recycling are becoming more
attractive, especially in areas where water supply can be scarce. They redu ce water consumption and improve the property’s sus tainability rating, meaning that your home should gain value.
3. Smart home technolo gy: includes integrated smart systems which allow homeowners to control features like lighting, heating and cooling. Less energy wastage is guaranteed thanks to installations like smart thermostats, motion sensor lighting and automated blinds.
getting the best electricity and compensation rates and, when available, organise subsidy applications.
Because of the technical support department which offers technical inspections and cleaning appointments, the clients will feel supported every step of the way to a greener future. The many five-star Google Reviews reflect the company’s professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction.
At SolarNRG they are not just selling solar panels; they are educating clients about solar energy, installing and maintaining energy systems and take care of all the necessary paperwork and even have after-sales services, so their clients can even benefit more from their solar energy systems.
Whether you’re looking to reduce your energy bills or contribute to a more sustainable future, SolarNRG is your trusted partner in solar energy installations.
that buyers are looking for.
Not only the house itself but its surroundings are also key. Often eco-homes blend into their environment, making the most of location to maximise on renewable energy sources including large windows to avoid artificial lighting.
From bamboo flooring to recycled steel and natural
Spain is the perfect hub for the development and purcha-
homes, not only for its enviable climate but also for its increasing environmental awareness. Spanish regulations favour sustainable constructions through government incentives, and sustainable tourism is also on the rise, meaning investors can make significant profits from eco-friendly luxury property lets.
