Property Supplement CBS 18 – 24 September 2025 Issue 2098 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

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.

Why waiting to sell could cost you thousands

THINKING of selling your Costa Blanca property? Here’s the truth: the longer you wait, the more opportunities you risk losing. At Vistacasas, we see it every day, wellpriced, well-marketed homes are attracting international buyers fast, while similar homes that wait on the sidelines miss their moment.

Buyers are here now

Every week, motivated buyers ﬂy in from the UK, Scandinavia, Belgium, and beyond with one goal: to secure a home before the year ends. If your property isn’t on the market, they can’t see it, and they’ll buy the one that is.

The right marketing makes the difference

Most owners underestimate how far professional marketing goes. Our team uses high-impact photography, virtual tours, and targeted digital campaigns to put your property in front of serious buyers,

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.

not window-shoppers. That’s why so many of our listings sell faster, often at stronger prices.

Selling doesn’t have to be stressful From free valuations to marketing, viewings, and negotiations, we take care of everything, even if you’re abroad. For you, it’s simple: list with Vistacasas, let us do the heavy lifting, and relax knowing your property is in expert hands.

Don’t wait until the market slows. Visit www.sellwithvistacasas.com today for your free valuation and take the ﬁrst step toward a successful sale.

Visit us in our Villamartin Plaza (behind BBVA Bank) OR Playa Flamenca ofﬁce (near Sunny Corner Bar) info@vistacasas.com

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.

BUYING a home in Spain is a dream for many - sun-soaked beaches, relaxed Mediterranean living, and the chance to wake up each day to the sound of the sea and the warmth of the sun. But turning that dream into a reality takes more than just good weather and beautiful views - it takes trust, guidance, and the right local expertise.

That’s why having a reliable and experienced real estate agent in Spain is not just helpful - it’s essential. From navigating the legal system and understanding the local property market, to managing paperwork and ensuring nothing is left to chance, your real estate agent is your guide, your advocate, and your support system all in one.

Costa Blanca - a place to call home

This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on what makes our presence on the Costa Blanca so unique. With its

charming towns, a strong international community, excellent services, and that authentic Spanish lifestyle everyone falls in love with, Costa Blanca offers an unmatched blend of tranquility and convenience.

• Expert sales team - Our multilingual agents are not just knowledgeable

about properties; they’re passionate about the area. We’ll show you the homes and also the lifestyle - guiding you through neighbourhoods, services, and hidden gems you won’t always ﬁnd online.

• Full support during the purchase process - From negotiations to notary

here to make sure it does. Call us on +34 865 888 888 Or visit www.costa-blanca-eiendom.com/contact

appointments, we manage every detail to make the process clear and secure.

• Post-sale services - We go beyond the sale. Need help furnishing your home, managing renovations, or even setting up utilities? We have dedicated teams for after-sales care, legal services, and property administration.

• Move in with peace of mind - We make sure your property is not just purchased, but prepared and personalised, so you can start enjoying life in Costa Blanca from day one.

Let’s make your move to Spain simple and memorable

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re ready to buy, our team is here to guide, support, and inspire you at every step. We believe buying property in Spain shouldn’t feel like a risk - it should feel like the best decision of your life.

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-

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.

Photo credits: Pinterest/Planet Deco

Some tiny homes are designed for mobility.

A NAME TO REMEMBER!

Natalie and the multilingual team have some exciting news to share. The business has rebranded and is now Wolf Whelan Homes with the company motto ‘Hunting down your dream home in the sun!’ Their services include buying and selling properties, mortgages, currency exchange, NIE and TIE, financial and legal advice.

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 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.” Whether its resales, new builds, bank repossessions or golf and country properties.

Pop along and visit Natalie and the team in person to assist you in making your next dream come true!

Calle Guapilies, Local 3, Playa Flamenca 03189 natalie@wolfwhelanhomes.es www.wolfwhelenhomes.es Contact Natalie for more information on

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.

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.

charm, new comfort.

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,

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.

BEDLAND SOFALAND

More than just furniture

FOR more than five decades, the Eastman family has been dedicated to improving the comfort and style of homes. Their journey began in the UK in 1972, where they built a reputation for quality and service, before bringing their expertise to Spain’s Costa Blanca over 20 years ago with the creation of Sofaland. Since then, they have enriched the lives of countless families by providing high-quality sofas, beds, and furniture designed to combine function with elegance.

A showroom experience

Located in the Lo Marabu area of Quesada, Sofaland’s showroom is more than just a store - it’s a destination for furniture lovers. Visitors are welcomed by an expansive display that ranges from compact two-seaters to large corner units, each piece carefully chosen to offer both

practicality and style. Every sofa, bed, or suite reflects a philosophy of blending durability with design, ensuring customers can find the perfect match for their homes.

Why Sofaland stands out

What sets Sofaland apart is its commitment to customer

satisfaction. Unlike online retailers where customers cannot physically interact with products, Sofaland encourages visitors to truly experience their furniture. Whether it’s testing the support of a mattress or relaxing into the comfort

Visit Sofaland

of a sofa, buyers have the opportunity to make sure their investment suits their lifestyle.

To make upgrades even easier, Sofaland also offers up to €500 part exchange allowance on old sofas. Service with a personal touch

The showroom is conveniently located at Calle Merida 2, Lo Marabu, Ciudad Quesada, 03170 Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm, and Saturday from 10.00am to 2.00pm. For enquiries, call 966 843 916 or email sofalandinternational@yahoo.co.uk.

The Eastman family’s approach goes beyond selling furniture - it’s about building trust and longlasting relationships. Their knowledgeable team provides personal guidance, helping customers select pieces that not only fit their living spaces but also reflect their individual taste. This combination of attentive service, competitive value, and exceptional choice has earned Sofaland a loyal following across the Costa Blanca.

More than furniture

At its heart, Sofaland is not just about sofas and beds - it’s about helping families create welcoming spaces to live, relax, and enjoy. With a legacy of excellence and a focus on comfort and style, the Eastman family continues to make homes across the Costa Blanca a little more beautiful, one sofa at a time.