Property Supplement CBS 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
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 home sold in 48 hours? It’s happening with Vistacasas!
FEBRUARY is here, and the Spanish property market is hotter than ever! At Vistacasas, we’ve been selling homes within 48 hours, often to buyers purchasing remotely from across Europe. With demand surging, now is the perfect time to sell your Spanish property for the best possible price.
The market remains strong, with property values in the Orihuela Costa area rising by approximately 5.6 per cent over the past year. High demand and limited supply mean sellers are in a prime position to achieve excellent returns. Buyers from across Europe are eager to secure properties in time for them to enjoy spring and summer in Spain - especially well-presented homes in desirable locations.
Vistacasas is also making selling easier than ever with our exclusive ‘OLD FOR NEW OFFER’. If you’re considering upgrading to a new build, we’ll sell your
current Spanish property for FREE* when you purchase through us. Plus, you’ll enjoy exclusive extras with your new home - only available with Vistacasas.
Our expert team ensures a seamless selling experience, whether you’re in Spain or abroad. With many buyers purchasing remotely, we use cutting-edge virtual tours and digital marketing to showcase your home to the right audience, instantly.
The market is moving fast, and opportunities like this don’t last forever. If you’re thinking of selling, now is the time to act! Let Vistacasas handle everything while you maximise your property’s value in record time.
Request your FREE valuation on www.sellwithvistacasas.com
*T&Cs apply - Consult with us for full details.
Bedroom bliss
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-
An exciting new opening
NATALIE and the team at Lilypadproperties.es have some exciting news to share. There will be a grand opening of their new premises on Urbanisation Los Altos on February 22 at 1pm.
Natalie has been in the Costa Blanca for 25 years. She says she got into the business “when I bought my first house here, I made friends with the estate agent and started doing videos for them and then it picked up. I’d basically been training up with other estate agents and seeing how they worked.
“I started my business during Covid selling properties online and sold at least 53 in the first year.” When we were allowed back out again, I set up my own office in Playa Flamenca, more and more customers arrived and that’s how I was able to add people to the office there. We’ve got a great team.”
The estate agency focuses on resale properties. “Most people come from Europe and the UK via our website and social media and when they arrive in Spain, they are handed over to the experienced team.”
Natalie said they sell homes to about 75 per cent of those that come out to Spain. And “people are not just from the UK, but Ireland, Belgium, Norway, Iceland, America, Australia, everywhere, because everyone wants to find a place in the sun.”
The key to providing a high-quality service is giving clients: “As much information as possible, we put them in touch with lawyers and offer a personal touch nobody ese does. They’re not just a number to us. We know it’s a scary and exciting leap buying a home abroad, we want to find people their
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.
best fit. We tour with clients, show them areas and ask them to decide where best matches their lifestyle.
“Taking care of all their wants and needs to specification.”
They said “Take a leap of faith with us and let us guide you smoothly through the buying process.”
Their expansion into the new offices at Los Altos means that they can offer a better quality of service and expand into new areas. “We’re moving in to areas like Los Balcones and San Miguel, there are even new builds we can sell.”
They love their incredible new location: “The friendliness in the area has been amazing, it’s a
great commercial area and very busy.” Go along to their opening day on Saturday February 22, enjoy the DJ, charity market stalls and Fat Frog Cocktails and meet a capable team who will find you your dream home in the Costa Blanca. Visit Natalie and the team in person at their new premises.
Lilypad Properties, Via Park 3 Los Altos, Costa Blanca. Visit their website: www.lilypadpropertiesspain.es And contact Natalie for more information on 0034 602 638 985
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.
I GOT to have a natter with NP Solar’s Nick Parr to find out more about his company and their personalised installation process.
“I’ve only recently changed my company to focus on solar energy, although I’ve been working in this field for about 10 years. I am fully qualified and accredited to certify and legalise installations.
“I like the residential side of the solar business because every house has its own story.” The dynamics of each place affects how Nick installs the system: “We do an individual study for every house; we look at electricity patterns for monthly and daily usage. That way we can decide what the optimum number of panels and the best installation options are for each home. Really the higher the better, we fit roof mounted panels to about 70 per cent or 80 per cent of the properties where we install sys-
ENERGY
tems. We also do an awning made from solar panels.”
Nick works quickly and thoroughly:
“For a normal house we would expect installations to take about two days. The first day I spend installing the structure and cabling and then the second day would be finishing the cabling, installing an inverter and connecting up to the fuse box.”
NP Solar Energy take care of everything for the customer from the first meeting and house study through to the installation process and legalisation of the system, so that getting solar installed is a simple job to tick off your list. They can also help with finding financing for your home’s solar system.
Customers should know that there are grants and tax benefits on offer for anyone adding solar to their homes. Nick says town halls also offer a discount on IBI (Rates) for solar ener-
gy installations.
NP Solar can handle all your system needs, Nick mentioned it is “Obligatory to do maintenance at least once every three years, when we do an installation the first three years of maintenance is included in the price.”
NP Solar are able to maintain the system onsite but they also “monitor the system from afar, customers get an app that they can monitor but I have more information, I can see their production and consumption and the performance of the inverter.” The homeowner doesn’t have to lift a finger.
“I’ve always been interested in renewable energy; I’ve done courses on climate change and renewable energies; I donate money for every solar panel sold to a charity who plant trees. Solar energy, has so many benefits, like the CO2 that you’re not producing, reducing your carbon
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.
footprint. The good thing as well is it reduces your dependence on the energy market. So, if there were further problems with energy prices, your house would be independent and self-sufficient.”
NP Solar Website: www.npsolar.es
Phone number: 0034 604 485 386
Contact Email: ventas@npsolar.es
Shed savvy
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
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,
Green kitchen
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 longer 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.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
JENSEN STORE is a well-established store chain that has specialised in selling Jensen beds for over 20 years.
The company has five stores strategically located along the Spanish and Portuguese sun coasts, making them a leading player in the region for premium beds. Through its long-term involvement in the industry, Jensen Store has built a strong reputation by offering first-class service with the customer’s interest in focus.
One of the company’s unique strengths is its multicultural orientation. With customers and staff from different parts of the world, Jensen Store has developed a business that not only caters to the local markets, but also to the international clientele on the sunshine coast. The staff’s multilingual skills and understanding of different cultures contribute to a high level of service that makes every customer feel well taken care of, regardless of where they come from.
The Jensen Store focuses on providing its customers with a holistic experience in terms of sleep comfort, with a range that combines Jensen’s premium mattresses with associated bed frames and bedding. The company also offers tailor-made solutions for both private homes and hotels, and has thus positioned itself as a reliable partner for property owners and decorators on the Spanish coast.
With two decades of experience and five successful stores, Jensen Store continues to grow and develop, with a clear vision to always deliver world-class quality and service. Visit jensenstore.com today for a tailor made quote on your new Jensen bed.
