Property Supplement CBS 17 – 23 April 2025 Issue 2076
IN the past, the vast majority of tourism was centred around the peak summer months of July and August, but in more recent years, Easter has seen accelerated growth, with 2025 set to hit new records for travellers. To put this into perspective, almost 94 million international tourists visited Spain sometime in 2024. Easter appears to have significantly impacted these figures, with 24 million attributable to the first four months alone. This is welcome news for estate
agents, as Easter, when the weather typically starts to warm up, is the ideal time for potential buyers to secure a coastal holiday home. As Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey Spain, explains: “We have found that many buyers take advantage of the holidays not only to discover new areas, but also to make purchasing decisions that they have been considering for months.
The in-person visit, in a holiday environment, is decisive.”
Egg
Easter has also become an opportunity for Spaniards to travel within the country and enjoy a getaway. According to the Observatory of the Madrid Federation of Travel Agencies (Femav), just over 91 per cent of Madrid residents opted to take a trip at Easter in 2024. Of those, 77.7 per cent chose a domestic destination, with around 39 per cent staying at their second home or family home.
Interestingly, in 2025, the eBooking platform is seeing a growing trend towards
getaways in small coastal towns in Andalucia, Murcia and Valencia, compared to previous years. As with the international market, this opens up a big opportunity to increase the number of coastal holiday homes sold to the domestic market.
With Easter becoming the new summer, bringing an increase in both national and international visitors potentially in the market for a future holiday home, coastal estate agents may just have found their very own golden egg.
Spring surge:
Why Easter is the best time to sell with Vistacasas!
SPRING has arrived, and with it comes a fresh wave of eager buyers looking for their dream home in Spain! At Vistacasas, we’re seeing an influx of interest from European buyers ready to secure their place in the sun in time for summer. With properties selling in record time - sometimes before even going live on the market - now is the perfect moment to list your Spanish property.
Why is April a prime time to sell? The property market in Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas remains incredibly strong, with prices continuing to rise. As demand outstrips supply, wellpresented homes in desirable locations are commanding top prices. With spring and summer fast approaching, buyers are making swift decisions to ensure they can enjoy the best months of the year in Spain. Sell for free with our exclusive ‘OLD FOR NEW OFFER’ Thinking of upgrading to a new build? Vistacasas makes it easier than ever with our exclusive ‘OLD FOR NEW OFFER’. When you purchase a new
build property through us, we’ll sell your existing Spanish home for FREE*! Plus, enjoy special extras with your new homeonly available through Vistacasas.
Seamless selling - Wherever you are our expert team ensures a smooth and stress-free selling experience, whether you’re in Spain or selling remotely. We use the latest digital marketing, virtual tours, and targeted advertising to connect your property with the right buyers instantly. Many of our clients sell without even setting foot in Spain - our cutting-edge approach does all the work for you.
Don’t miss this window of opportunity With demand soaring and homes selling at lightning speed, waiting could mean missing out on achieving the best price for your property. If you’ve been considering selling, now is the time to act!
Request your FREE valuation on www.sellwithvistacasas.com
*T&Cs apply - Consult us for full details.
Power smart
IMPROVING your home’s energy effi ciency helps reduce energy use, lower electricity bills, and support a more sustainable environment. By understanding what energy effi ciency means, you can take the right steps to make your home more effi cient.
Energy effi ciency means using less energy to perform the same tasks. A well-insulated home with efficient heating, cooling, and electrical systems minimises energy waste, leading to lower bills and a smaller environmental impact.
One way to improve energy effi ciency is by ensuring your home is properly insulated. Good insulation keeps heat in during winter and out during summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling.
Replacing outdated appliances with modern, energy-effi cient models also helps. Newer fridges, washing machines, and water heaters consume less energy, making a noticeable difference in overall consumption.
Switching to LED lighting is another simple and effective step. LED bulbs use far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing electricity costs over time. Smart thermostats can also help by adjusting your home’s temperature based on your schedule, preventing unnecessary energy use.
Installing motion-sensing lights ensures that lights are only on when needed, and making the most of natural daylight by opening blinds during the day reduces the need for artifi cial lighting.
ENERGY
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 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 depending on position, orientation and architecture. 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 systems. We also do an awning made from solar panels.”
Nick and his team work quickly and thoroughly: “For a normal house we would expect installations to take about two days. The first day we 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. NP Solar is fully qualified and accredited to certify and legalise installations
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 energy installations. A well dimensioned system should pay for itself in four or five years, and can be less. The good news is that NP Solar are offering a 10 per cent discount on any residential installation until May 31! NP Solar can handle all your system
Keeping it
COLOUR plays a key role in design, and in 2025, warmer, more natural tones are expected to dominate. Twenty years ago, cool and metallic shades like grey, silver, and bright white were popular. Now, people are embracing colours inspired by nature, such as terracotta, mustard, deep green, warm brown, and soft blue. These tones create a calming atmosphere and strengthen the connection with the outdoors, which has become more important than ever for well-being and relaxation.
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 footprint. The good thing as well is it reduces your dependence on the energy mar-
ket. So, if there were further problems with energy prices, your house would be more independent and self-sufficient - and that would be reflected in your bill.”
Home decoration, both inside and out, has changed significantly over the past two decades.
green or dark blue, which pair well with organic materials.
Bedrooms often feature soft, welcoming shades like beige, warm grey, and terracotta on the walls. Living rooms benefit from earthy colours that promote a sense of tranquillity and harmony. Kitchens and bathrooms still lean towards neutral palettes but now include bolder accents, such as olive
The preference for natural materials remains strong in 2025, with an even wider variety being used indoors and outdoors. Unlike 20 years ago, when synthetic finishes and bulky furniture were common, today’s designs highlight the raw beauty of materials. Oak, walnut, and bamboo are widely used in flooring, furniture, and decorative pieces. Natural stone is also gaining popularity, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, where it complements rustic and organic finishes.
Textiles have also shifted towards sustainability. Linen and organic cotton are now favoured over synthetic fabrics, offering both eco-friendliness and superior texture.
Your trusted partner for property in Spain
COSTA BLANCA EIENDOM is a fully licensed real estate agency, specialising in property sales and investment opportunities across Spain - particularly along the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida. We are authorised by the Association of Real Estate Agents in the Valencian region (RAiCV 2611), and all our agents are certified professionals with solid expertise and local knowledge.
We operate from six offices - four in Spain (Alicante, Gran Alacant, Torrevieja, and Playa Flamenca) and two in Norway (Halden and Jessheim). While our main focus is on the Spanish real estate market, our strong roots in Norway mean many of our clients are Scandinavian. However, we work with buyers and sellers from across Europe and are proud to offer a truly international service.
Our multilingual team speaks Norwegian, English, Spanish, Dutch, German, French, and Polish, ensu-
ring clear and efficient communication throughout the process. We also recognise and respect the cultural differences that come with international transactions and tailor our approach accordingly.
We help international clients buy and sell property throughout the Cos-
ta Blanca and Costa Calida regions. Our services cover the entire buying journey - from property selection and guided viewings to legal assistance and after-sales support. For serious buyers, we offer tailored viewing trips, including airport pickup, hotel booking, and a personal guided tour
of properties and local areas, all based on the client’s preferences, and without any obligation to buy.
Our team has extensive knowledge of local neighbourhoods, market trends, and legal requirements, and we’re committed to providing honest, personalised advice. With offices spread throughout the region, we cover everything from Valencia in the north to Murcia in the south, including key areas like Alicante, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, and Gran Alacant.
We offer a wide range of quality resale properties, particularly in popular southern areas like Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa. In addition, we are expanding our presence in the Costa Blanca North, with a growing portfolio in Calpe - a coastal town known for its beaches and strong investment potential. We also provide access to selected new developments in desirable locations.
Interested clients can reach us via phone on +34 865 888 888, or our website at www.cbeiendom.com/contact. We’re also active on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, where we regularly share property videos, area guides, and market updates. You’re welcome to visit us at one of our offices in Spain or Norway – we’d be happy to assist you.
The perfect pergola
A PERGOLA is a stylish outdoor structure made of vertical posts or pillars supporting cross-beams and an open lattice roof. Unlike gazebos, which are fully enclosed, pergolas typically have an open top. They can be decorated with climbing plants or fitted with covers for extra shade and protection.
When choosing a pergola, it’s important to consider the different styles and materials available. Wooden pergolas have a natural charm but need regular maintenance to prevent weather damage. Metal pergolas, made from aluminium or steel, offer high durability. Vinyl pergolas are low-maintenance, easy to clean, and resistant to rot, rust, and insect damage. Bioclimatic pergolas have adjustable louvres that allow you to control light and airflow, providing ideal comfort in all weather conditions.
A pergola serves as an eye-catching focal point in a garden, offering a stylish yet practical shady area. Pergolas provide shelter from the sun and light rain, making outdoor areas more usable. Their versatility makes them a great addition to patios, gardens, and poolside areas.
When choosing the right pergola, consider the material and
maintenance needs. Wood requires upkeep, while metal and vinyl offer durability with minimal maintenance.
The size of the pergola should suit the available space, ensuring it complements the outdoor area without overwhelming it. Budget is also important, as both installation and long-term maintenance costs should be considered.
Vinyl vibes
VINYL flooring is a popular and practical choice for homes and businesses. It is durable, easy to care for, and comes in a wide variety of styles, making it a great option for any renovation. Unlike ceramic tiles, which can crack when heavy objects fall on them, vinyl flooring is more resistant to damage. Laminate flooring, which is less dense, may sag over time. Vinyl is easy to install with options like glue-down, drop-lock, and click-lock systems, and it doesn’t need grout, making it comfortable to walk on.
Cleaning vinyl is simple, just a damp mop and standard cleaner will do. It’s waterproof, making it perfect for areas like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Water won’t damage it, making it a dependable choice for these areas.
In kitchens, where spills and temperature changes are common, vinyl is hygienic. Its non-porous surface keeps dirt and bacteria from building up. It can also mimic wood or stone, fitting in with any home style. In bathrooms, vinyl’s water and humidity resistance prevent warping or leaks, and its non-slip surface reduces the risk of falls. Its seamless installation gives bathrooms a clean, modern look.
For living rooms, vinyl flooring combines style and durability. It resists stains and scratches, making it a great choice for homes with pets or children. Vinyl’s tough construction stands up to heavy foot traffic in hallways, and its flexible design helps reduce noise, creating a quieter atmosphere.
Big enough to matter, but small enough to care!
THE PROPERTY SHOP are a family owned independent real estate business that have been making people’s dreams comes true for over 20 years. Based in Ciudad Quesada with an additional Hub in Cabo Roig they have an excellent reputation that is built on their firm philosophy of traditional good quality service.
They understand the importance of building solid relationships with their clients. Their sense of achievement comes not from selling any old property but from matching the right property to the right buyer.
The team offer you a comprehensive choice of properties along Spain’s wonderful sandy coastlines including a selection of inland properties. They pride themselves on providing top-class personal services where the client is always put first regarding viewing properties that fit their criteria whether its new or resale and always within their budget.
Sue and Nina are also there dealing with the rental and property manage-
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ment services that you may require for your home purchase and can advise or help with recommendations with any services you may require for your property such as air-con, pools and garden maintenance.
For anyone that is selling their property then The Property Shop is a must. They do not just list your property and wait for someone to make an inquiry, they offer a personal touch and showcase your property with innovative strategies using all the major property portals and real estate collaborations.
So whether you looking to purchase your dream home or are planning a new chapter in your life, The Property Shop is the place to go!
SAY goodbye to bland, flat walls2025 is the year of texture. From ceilings to floors, surfaces are getting a bold makeover, bringing depth, warmth, and personality into every corner of the home.
One of the standout trends is wallpapered ceilings, turning often-overlooked spaces into dramatic design statements. Whether it’s a subtle pattern or a bold print, adding wallpaper overhead draws the eye upward and creates an unexpected focal point. Wood panelling is also making a strong comeback, adding natural charm and a touch of retro elegance to modern interiors. From sleek slatted designs to traditional wainscoting, panelling introduces visual inte-
rest and tactile appeal.
Meanwhile, decorative plaster finishes - think limewash, Venetian plaster, or textured paint - are replacing the smooth, minimal walls of previous years. These finishes bring a handcrafted, artisanal feel that makes each room feel layered and lived-in.
This year, it’s all about embracing imperfections and exploring surface detail. The shift towards textured interiors reflects a desire for more sensory, expressive spaces that feel grounded and authentic. So if you’re ready to break free from flat and featureless, 2025 is the perfect time to let your walls - and ceilings - do the talking.
MEET Juan Moreno, Juan has been dedicated to service with a smile, understanding his client’s needs and providing an excellent experience throughout the process. The company has been running for over 30 years with 650,000 customers throughout Europe covering eight countries. With its own certified alarm receiving centre and all inclusive package. There are NO hidden costs!
Relax and feel at ease!
Juan will come and visit personally to find out your specific needs and answer any questions you may have about the award-winning state of the art technology. He will make sure your system meets all your needs and expectations.
The devices use Triple connection options, 4G/ Wi-Fi/ Ethernet making sure you are always connected and ready for any situation. There is also back up power if for any reason your power is disconnected. With a full product guarantee, you can be assured that you will be looked after fully, professionally and quickly. You can
be confident that the alarm system is fully tamper proof and can only be accessed by people authorised. The SOS alarm is a fantastic feature that allows you to call for assistance in the case of an accident or emergency. Not only at home but if you are out and about too! Easily ac-
cessed via the APP making it perfect for family days out or while you are working. There is a 24/7 surveillance service with immediate response, also coordinated with 112 and a free call out service to inspect the exterior of the property for your peace of mind. A member of the security team
will come and check for intruders and remove them from your property! (Great right?)
Worried about people entering your property while you’re away? No problem, with the Anti-intrusion and anti-squatting protection Juan’s service gives you, you have everything under control. You can control your devices using the intuitive and easy to use App available to download. Making it easy to ensure your property is safe and secure from anywhere! Whether it’s a day at the beach or a weekend trip away, you can relax and feel at ease!
Do you have any pets? This is always a worry with alarms, will they set it off? This system is pet friendly! Cats, dogs… don’t worry it’s no problem at all!
If you would like a no obligation visit to offer advice and talk through the latest offers available, do not hesitate to contact Juan Moreno via WhatsApp on 609 659 614.
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Navigating the pitfalls of buying property in Spain
Spain is a popular destination for expats, in part due to the largely straightforward process for purchasing a property. However, this isn’t to say you won’t face any challenges during your Spanish property journey. Going into the process aware of the potential pitfalls and how to navigate them could save you future headaches.
Understanding the true costs
Many buyers focus entirely on the property price, only to be caught out by additional expenses. Taxes, notary fees, legal checks, and community charges can add 10-15 per cent to the purchase price. Non-residents may also face higher tax rates. A clear budget that accounts for these extras is essential.
Legal and bureaucratic hurdles
Spanish property laws differ significantly from those in other countries. Issues like illegal builds, unclear land rights, or outstanding debts on a property can lead to costly disputes. Hiring a reputable, independent lawyer to conduct thorough due diligence is non-negotiable.
Currency volatility
For expats transferring money from abroad, fluctuating exchange rates can drastically affect the final cost of a property. A sudden dip in the pound or
dollar could leave you short of funds at a critical moment. Some buyers avoid this by using a currency expert to set rates in advance. This protects their budget from market changes.
Financing challenges
Spanish mortgages for non-residents often come with stricter conditions and higher interest rates. Some buyers rely on overseas financing, but this can in-
Spoon
WOODEN spoons are a must-have in any kitchen, ideal for stirring soups, sauces, or cake batter. However, they can get dirtier than metal or plastic spoons because the wood’s grain can trap dirt over time. This has led to a TikTok trend where users clean their wooden spoons by boiling them. However, boiling wooden spoons can cause issues. The hot water makes the wood expand, which can lead to cracks and warping. This happens because the heat removes the natural oils from the wood, which are essential for keeping it strong and durable. For this reason, it’s also not recommended to clean wooden spoons in the dishwasher. Cleaning wooden spoons doesn’t need to be hard. Tracy Godshall, senior product manager at OXO, suggests the best way to clean them is to wash them by hand with warm, soapy water.
translations are imprecise. Working with bilingual professionals - whether lawyers, agents, or financial adviserscan bridge the gap.
Making the process smoother
While buying in Spain requires careful planning, the right support can make all the difference. Many expats find that partnering with trusted experts - from legal advisers to currency specialistshelps them navigate the market with confidence.
troduce delays and additional costs. Exploring all options - and securing pre-approval where possible - can prevent last-minute scrambles.
The importance of local knowledge
From regional property laws to negotiating customs, local expertise is invaluable. Misunderstandings over contracts, for example, are common when
Once cleaned, dry them immediately. “Avoid soaking them in water as this can cause them to warp and crack,” she advises. If your spoons are especially dirty, mix baking soda and water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the spoons, then rinse them with warm water. A sponge or dish brush can help remove any stubborn dirt.
To keep your wooden spoons in good condition, Godshall also recommends applying mineral oil every month or so. This helps maintain the wood’s natural oils, preventing cracks and splinters. After washing and drying your spoons, coat them with food-safe mineral oil and let them dry overnight. Wipe off any extra oil before putting them away.
With Currencies Direct, buyers can ensure their funds go further, making the overall cost of their Spanish property purchase more manageable. Our tailored services, including Redpin, are also designed to make your property purchase even more straightforward. Pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or call +34 910 786 109 today to see how much you could save on your Spanish property purchase.
Spring to-do list
THUMBTRACK, a home improvement platform, recently shared a report on people’s spring cleaning habits.
While it offers plenty of helpful tips for tackling your spring cleaning, one thing stands out: there’s one task that almost everyone seems to be avoiding.
Thumbtack surveyed over 1,000 adults and the results were interesting.
You might think people are avoiding deep cleaning their bathrooms or reorganising their wardrobes. While wardrobe decluttering is the most postponed task, it usually gets done eventually. However, one cleaning chore that over a quarter of Thumbtack’s users have never done is cleaning their windows.
Spring is the perfect time to tackle this. Clean windows let in more sunlight, which is great for you and your plants, and gives you a better view of the outdoors.
Thumbtack experts suggest cleaning curtains or blinds first to keep dust from settling on your windows. For fabric curtains, you can wash or vacuum them, and for blinds, dust them off with a cloth and wipe them with a damp one. When cleaning windows, you can use a store-bought cleaner or a home-made solution. Wipe the windows with a cloth or paper towel, then dry them with a clean cloth to avoid streaks. Finally, clean the window tracks and edges with a handheld vacuum or vacuum with a crevice tool. Wipe away any dirt with a wet rag and use dish soap or a general cleaning spray for stubborn build-up.
