New build Costa Blanca

For years, the Costa Blanca has been one of the most popular regions for Northern Europeans looking to buy a second home in Spain. New-build apartments attract the most attention: modern design, good insulation, often with a pool and parking space. But you only really know whether a neighbourhood suits you once you have lived there for a season. That is why more and more future buyers choose to rent first.

Why is the Costa Blanca so popular for new builds?

The combination of climate, infrastructure and price makes the Costa Blanca unique in Europe. More than 300 days of sunshine a year, Alicante international airport no more than 90 kilometres away, extensive healthcare and a large international community, particularly around Torrevieja and Calpe, make it a logical choice for buyers from Northern Europe.

The quality of new builds in Spain has risen sharply in recent years. Modern developments are energy efficient, wheelchair accessible and come as standard with home automation, sustainable materials and outdoor spaces that combine Spanish building tradition with contemporary comfort.

Demand for new builds exceeds supply, especially in Calpe, Altea and the immediate area around Torrevieja. This has led to average price rises of 8 to 12% per year over the period 2022–2025.

Popular locations for new builds

Advantages of a new build over a resale property

Costs of buying a new build in Spain

When you buy a new build in Spain, you do not pay transfer tax (ITP) but VAT (IVA): 10% of the purchase price. On top of that come notary, registration and legal fees. As a rule of thumb, allow 13 to 15% on top of the purchase price for total buying costs.

For a €200,000 apartment, that means €26,000 to €30,000 extra. You will find a detailed breakdown of all costs in our guide Buying costs in Spain.

For a new build that is still under construction (buying off-plan), you usually pay in stages: 20–30% on signing, several instalments during construction, and the balance on handover of the keys.

Rent first: why experienced buyers recommend it

Buying a second home in Spain is a big decision. What looks attractive in photos can be disappointing in reality, or exceed your expectations. Inexperienced buyers who buy straight away sometimes only discover after the purchase that the area is too busy in summer, that the beach is further away than expected, or that they prefer the Calpe side of the coast to Torrevieja after all (or the other way round).

Renting gives you the chance to get to know an area in the season you actually plan to live there. You discover the local market and the everyday conveniences, such as the supermarket, pharmacy and restaurant around the corner, and you build a network of people who already live where you want to buy.

Our apartments in Calpe (La Terraza, El Jardín, Rincón, Villa Coco de Luxe) and Torrevieja (Palmeras Puerto, Costa Azul) are ideal as a base for exploring. One week, two weeks or a whole winter season: you decide.