Property Supplement CBN 18 – 24 September 2025 Issue 2098
Costa Blanca: Buy Now
IF you’re keeping an eye on Spain’s real estate scene, all signs point to the Costa Blanca as one of the country’s hottest regions for buyers right now – and not just for holiday homes.
With new developments springing up from Murcia to Javea, international interest is rising fast, driven by affordability, lifestyle, and long-term investment potential.
This summer, developers like AEDAS Homes are pushing forward with major
launches. In Murcia’s increasingly popular North Zone, the new Satia project offers nearly 200 stylish, affordable flats ideal for first-time buyers, with community features like rooftop pools and coworking spaces. Over in El Verger, just inland from Denia, the Edenia development combines eco-conscious design with modern comforts, aimed at Northern and Eastern European buyers seeking a second home near the sea. Meanwhile, Benidorm is reinventing itself. New figures from Taylor Wimpey
España show it’s attracting Dutch, Polish, and Belgian buyers aged 45–59 looking to settle year-round, not just soak up summer sun. Developments like Breeze focus on sustainability, natural light, and access to healthcare, safety, and quality transport – key priorities for today’s expat buyer.
Tourism growth is also fuelling the market. A €1.3 million regional investment aims to boost Costa Blanca’s global visibility, which could drive demand in lesser-known coastal towns.
Add in record property tax revenue in Alicante and incentives for young buyers, and the region’s appeal only grows stronger.
High-end areas like Denia and Javea are now firmly on the luxury map, with foreign buyers making up 80 per cent of sales and villas selling within 100 days. Whether you’re after beachfront elegance, rural charm, or a smart investment, the Costa Blanca continues to prove it’s more than just a destination – it’s a lifestyle worth buying into.
Elevate your living space with solar pergolas
OUTDOOR living is more than a trend - it’s a lifestyle. Today’s homeowners and developers are looking for ways to make every square metre count, and roof terraces are quickly becoming the most desirable extension of the modern home. But what if your terrace could be more than just a place to relax?
With solar pergolas and awnings, your outdoor space becomes both a sanctuary and a source of clean energy. These elegant structures provide shade on even the sunniest days, while integrated solar panels generate renewable electricity to power lighting, charge electric vehicles, or supply energy to shared spaces.
At SolarNRG, we believe style and sustainability should go hand in hand. That’s why, in collaboration with Bioclima Group, we design solar awnings
that not only look stunning but also reduce energy costs for homeowners. Our advanced technology means panels are lightweight, durable, and suitable for both roof terraces and gardens.
Enjoy the comfort of a shaded retreat while knowing your pergola is working for you - producing energy, lowering bills, and making your home more eco-friendly.
Because the future of outdoor living isn’t just about comfort - it’s about smart, sustainable design.
Design meets energy: solar pergolas for modern living
For architects and developers, every project is a chance to combine form and function in new ways. The roof terrace has already emerged as a
must-have feature in contemporary buildings - an outdoor extension that adds value, beauty, and lifestyle appeal. But now, terraces can do even more.
Solar pergolas and awnings redefine outdoor spaces by offering both comfort and clean energy. With sleek designs and integrated solar panels, they deliver shade on the sunniest days while generating renewable electricity to power common areas, outdoor lighting, or even electric vehicles.
Thanks to advancements in lightweight solar technology, these structures integrate seamlessly with a wide varie-
ty of building types without compromising on structural integrity or design vision.
At SolarNRG, in collaboration with Bioclima Group, we help developers and homeowners turn rooftops and gardens into sustainable, energy-producing assets. Beyond comfort, a solar pergola adds lasting value to properties, reducing long-term energy costs and appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
Smart design doesn’t just look good - it powers the future.
If you would like to receive personalised advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us as follows:SolarNRG: Contact: Bart Raats Mob: +34 695 094 379 • WhatsApp: +34
THE homes along the Costas are a perfect example of how colour can bring life and warmth to interiors.
Inspired by the stunning Mediterranean landscape, many homeowners choose colour palettes that reflect the sea, sky, and surrounding nature. If you want your home to feel bright, welcoming, and connected to the coast, this is a simple way to achieve that.
One of the most popular choices is using blues in various shades. From deep navy to soft sky blue, these tones mimic the nearby sea and clear skies. Blue is known to create a calming effect, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or even kitchens. Pairing blue with white walls is a classic combo that instantly brightens a room and gives it a fresh, airy feel.
well in dining areas or kitchens where a cheerful atmosphere is welcome.
Terracotta and warm, earthy colours are also a big hit in Mediterranean interiors. These tones are inspired by the region’s natural clay soil and traditional roof tiles. Using terracotta in tiles, pots, or accent walls adds warmth and a rustic feel to the home. It’s a great way to introduce texture and keep
Interiors
the space feeling cosy. Yellow and sunny tones are another way to bring the Mediterranean indoors. Soft
yellows or golden shades echo the bright sunshine and orange blossoms, the coast is famous for. These colours work
Green is a subtle but important colour in this region’s interiors, often used to represent the lush gardens, olive trees, and countryside nearby. Olive green cushions, plants, or decorative pieces add a natural touch without overwhelming the space. To balance these bold colours, many homes keep larger pieces like sofas or cabinets in neutral shades such as beige, cream, or light grey. This lets the Mediterranean colours stand out without making the room too busy.
If you’re decorating or renovating a home on the Costas, think about bringing in these Mediterranean colours. They don’t just look beautiful, they help create a connection between your indoor space and the stunning surroundings outside. Simple touches like painted walls, cushions, or ceramics in these hues can completely change the feel of your home.
Mediterranean colours bring warmth.
Spain’s tiny home solution
ACROSS Spain, a quiet housing shift is underway - not through skyscrapers or large developments, but via modest, mobile, and energyefficient dwellings known as tiny homes. These compact spaces, or mini casas, are becoming an appealing solution to rising living costs, environmental concerns, and changing lifestyles.
Spain’s housing market, especially in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, has tightened significantly over the past decade. With soaring rents and property prices, many - particularly younger people - are struggling to find affordable housing.
Tiny homes, typically between 15 and 40 square metres, present a more affordable option. Their smaller size means lower construction costs, reduced utility bills, and a simplified lifestyle. Prices range from €15,000 for basic movable models to €70,000 for larger, fully equipped ones. Stationary homes with foundations and modern amenities generally fall between €40,000 and €70,000 - far below average property prices in many areas.
Flexibility is another draw. Some tiny homes are designed for mobility, allowing owners to relocate easily. Others are fixed but offer modern comforts in a compact space. Interest is growing not only in urban areas but also in rural regions such as Teruel, Soria, and Lugoareas facing depopulation. Some local councils now support tiny home projects through incentives or simplified permit processes, aiming to boost sustainable living and rural revitalisation. Along the
coasts of Andalucia and Catalonia, tiny homes have gained popularity among remote workers, artists, and entrepreneurs who value access to urban services alongside low-impact living. Residents near Tarifa, Cadiz, cite low maintenance, home-grown food, and reduced energy costs as major benefits.
Legal and financial barriers remain. Movable tiny homes are classified like caravans and usually do not require building permits, though they must follow local land-
Tradition meets modern
IN many parts of Spain, especially along the coast, new homes are being built alongside traditional ones. As a result, more homeowners are blending old and new interior styles to create spaces that feel both comfortable and full of character.
This trend works well whether moving into a modern apartment or restoring an older village house. Rather than choosing between rustic charm or sleek modern design, many are now mixing both. When done well, it adds depth and interest to a
home.
A common approach is to retain traditional features such as wooden ceiling beams, terracotta tiles or wrought iron railings, and pair them with simple modern furniture in neutral tones. This contrast creates a relaxed, stylish feel that avoids looking too dated or too stark.
In newer homes, rustic details like wooden dining tables, handmade pottery or textured fabrics can soften clean lines and smooth finishes, making spaces feel more personal. Kitchens and bathrooms often showcase this style, with modern layouts complemented by stone worktops, vintage-style sinks or patterned tiles. Lighting also plays a key role, with traditional lanterns or pendants paired with recessed fixtures to highlight both styles.
The mix is also practical. Older homes gain efficiency and storage, while new builds benefit from added warmth and charm. Whether in a villa or a village house, this blend offers the best of both worlds.
use rules. Fixed homes need full legal approval, including building permits and compliance with Spain’s building code. They must also be built on urban-designated land. Financing options are limited, particularly for movable homes, but some banks are beginning to offer loans for legally approved stationary ones. Despite these challenges, the tiny home movement continues to grow, offering a sustainable, flexible, and more affordable alternative to traditional housing.
An expensive mistake
IT’S a common habit in homes across Spainfrying food, then tipping the leftover oil down the sink. But this everyday gesture is not only illegal under Law 7/2022, it could cost you up to €100,000. While cooking oil isn’t classified as hazardous, improper disposal is treated as a serious environmental offence.
Fines start at €2,001 and can reach €100,000, depending on quantity, repeat offences, or environmental damage. Beyond the legal risk, used oil causes major harm. As it cools, it solidifies, sticking to pipes and sewers. These clogs, which cost European cities an estimated €90 million a year to clear, can paralyse drainage systems.
Environmentally, it’s worse. Just one litre of oil can contaminate 1,000 litres of water. According to the Aquae Foundation, it also suffocates aquatic life by preventing oxygen from dissolving into water.
Spain generates around 350 million litres of used cooking oil annually - about 10 litres per person. While the hospitality sector recycles 72 per cent, only 5 per cent of household oil is collected.
The solution is simple: cool the oil, store it in a sealed plastic bottle, and take it to a local recycling point. In Madrid, more than 450 petrol stations accept used oil and may even offer discounts in return.
Photo credits: Pinterest/Planet Deco
Some tiny homes are designed for mobility.
Shutterstock/ Followtheflow
Old charm, new comfort.
Digital nomad destination
SPAIN’S coast is no longer just for tourists and retirees - it’s fast becoming a hub for digital nomads seeking remote work in the sun. With fast internet, a relaxed lifestyle and an increasing number of co-working cafés, it offers a work-life balance that’s hard to match.
Fibre-optic internet is now widely available, even in smaller towns and villages. Whether staying in a coastal apartment or a bungalow inland, most places provide the speeds needed for video calls, cloud storage and other online work.
Across the country, co-working spaces and laptop-friendly cafés have emerged to meet growing demand, offering reliable Wi-Fi, good coffee and welcoming environments. Many also host events to help remote workers connect and build community.
It’s not only the coast attracting interest. Rural and inland areas are also drawing digital nomads, helped by government schemes offering rent subsidies, tax breaks and grants to revitalise small towns. Disused public buildings, including old schools, have been converted into co-working hubs, offering quiet, affordable alternatives to busier areas.
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.
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Spain’s digital nomad visa, launched in 2023, allows non-EU workers to stay for up to five years, with reduced income tax in the first year.
With warm winters, walkable towns and a slower pace of life, Spain makes remote work genuinely enjoyable.
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
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
Making your pension go further when retiring to Spain
SPAIN continues to be one of the most popular retirement destinations for expats, combining sunshine, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed lifestyle. But before you settle into your new routine, it’s worth making sure your pension is working as hard as possible. Careful planning can make a big difference to your monthly income and long-term financial peace of mind.
Understand your tax position
The first step is getting clarity on how your pension will be taxed. Thanks to the UK-Spain double taxation agreement, you won’t be taxed twice on the same income, but that doesn’t mean your pension is tax-free. UK state, private, and workplace pensions are generally taxable in Spain, where you’ll be considered a fiscal resident after 183 days in the country.
Spanish income tax bands differ from those in the UK, so your net pension income could look very different. Taking time to understand your obligations now will save unwelcome surprises later and help you plan more effectively. Plan how you access your pension
Another decision is how you draw your pension. Some retirees explore transferring their UK pension into a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) or managing it through a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP). These routes can offer advantages such as greater flexibility, broader investment choice, and potential inheritance benefits. However,
Is your property in a protected area?
IF you’re thinking about buying a home on the Spanish coast, it’s important to know whether the property is in a protected area. Spain has specific rules about what can and can’t be built near the sea, and understanding them now can save you a lot of trouble later.
One of the most important laws is called the Ley de Costas (Coastal Law). It protects the public’s right to enjoy the coast and stops people from building too close to the water. In general, there is a 100-metre protection zone from the shoreline where building new properties or extending existing ones can be restricted. In some older urban areas, this limit is reduced to 20 metres.
This means some homes built before the law came in may be grandfathered in, but still not allowed to make major changes. It’s also possible to find homes that technically sit on public land but were given a temporary right to stay, known as a concession. These can expire, so it’s important to check the paperwork.
Another thing to consider is whether the area is part of a natural park or conservation zone. These places have even stricter rules to protect the environment and limit overdevelopment. Zoning laws might also stop you from using a property for tourist rentals or opening a business.
Before buying, ask your estate agent or lawyer to check if the land is affected by the Coastal Law or any other restrictions. It’s a simple step that could prevent legal headaches in the future.
the right option depends on the type of pension you hold and your long-term plans.
Even if you keep your pension in the UK, reviewing how and when you take withdrawals could improve the value you get from it.
Keep an eye on currency fluctuations
For many retirees, the most significant
impact on their spending power is the GBP/EUR exchange rate. If the pound falls against the euro, the same pension income will buy you less in Spain. Conversely, if the pound strengthens, you may find your euros go further.
Over a retirement lasting 20 or 30 years, these ups and downs can add or subtract tens of thousands of euros from your budget. Monitoring the markets and knowing when to move your money can make a meaningful difference to your day-to-day lifestyle.
Consider your transfer options
Using your bank might feel the simplest way to move your money abroad, but transfer fees and uncompetitive exchange rates can quietly eat away at your money each month. Over the course of a year, those costs add up.
With Currencies Direct, you’ll benefit from competitive exchange rates, no transfer fees, and expert guidance from dedicated currency specialists.
Learn more about Currencies Direct by contacting your local branch. Alternatively, pop into one of our branches and speak to our multilingual experts.
Pet-friendly interiors
IN Spain, where tiled floors and sunny balconies are the norm, making your home pet-friendly can be easier than you think, especially if you live in a ground-floor flat or countryside home with outdoor space.
On the Costa Blanca, it’s common for pets to spend time both indoors and out. That means choosing materials that can handle sand, fur, and muddy pawprints. Porcelain tiles or hydraulic cement tiles are popular in older Spanish homes, and they’re ideal for pets, tough, cool underfoot, and easy to clean.
For sofas and cushions, go for durable, tightly woven fabrics like canvas or outdoor upholstery. They can handle daily use and won’t trap fur as easily. In rustic areas like many inland towns, washable throws are a smart addition, great for covering furniture after a long walk through the hills.
If you’ve got a terrace or patio, think about adding shade and non-slip surfaces so your dog can enjoy the outdoors safely. Low-maintenance Mediterranean plants like lavender or rosemary are pet-safe and bring a nice touch of local style.
Built-in storage near entrances can also make life easier, keeping leads, towels, and treats organised, especially if you’re heading out daily for beach or campo walks.
With a few thoughtful choices, it’s easy to create a stylish, pet-friendly interior that suits Spanish living. After all, here in Spain, pets aren’t just animals, they’re part of the family.
with salt and sand
BUYING a home by the Spanish coast means enjoying beautiful sea views and fresh ocean air. But it also means dealing with salt, sand, and humid conditions that can affect your property over time.
Salt in the air is one of the big gest challenges for coastal homes. Salt can cause metal parts, like door handles, railings, and window frames, to rust faster. It can also wear down paint and make wood surfa ces age more quickly. Regular maintenance is important to keep these things in good shape.
Sand can get into small spaces like door tracks, windows, and even inside appliances. It may seem like a small problem, but over time, sand buildup can cause damage or make things harder to use.
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Humidity near the coast can lead to dampness inside the home. This can cause problems like mould or mildew if the property isn’t well ventilated. It’s a good idea to check that windows and doors seal properly and to use a dehumidifier if needed. When buying a coastal property, it helps to look for materials designed to withstand these conditions. For example, aluminium or PVC windows resist rust better than iron. Tiles and stone floors are easier to clean than carpets that trap sand. Living near the sea is wonderful, but it comes with its own care requirements. With some regular upkeep and the right choices, your coastal home can stay beautiful for years to come.
Solar power and sea breezes
ALONG Spain’s sunny coastline, more homeowners are adopting green energy solutions that work with the natural environment. With abundant clear days and rising energy costs, solar panels are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in coastal areas where sun exposure is reliable.
Thanks to Spain’s long hours of sunshine, coastal homes are ideal for solar installations. New builds often come with panels pre-installed, while older homes can usually be adapted. Battery storage is improving, allowing energy to be used in the evening or on cloudy days. However, coastal living brings salty air, storms, and strong winds, particu-
larly in exposed or clifftop properties. Panels must be installed using corrosion-resistant materials and strong mounting systems, with regular maintenance to ensure long-term performance. Some properties also benefit from small wind turbines, though these are more effective in rural or less built-up areas.
An energy efficiency certificate (Certificado de Eficiencia Energética) indicates how well a home retains heat and uses energy. Coastal homes often
need improved insulation and glazing to cope with hot summers and damp winters.
Simple measuressuch as energy-efficient appliances, shading systems, and water-saving fittings - can significantly reduce bills. Some homes use greywater for garden irrigation, and many councils offer grants or tax breaks for renewable upgrades.
Green energy is no longer just a trend - it’s becoming standard.
