
Frequently asked questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the practical questions that arise across the property process on the Costa Blanca North — from choosing an area and understanding the full cost of ownership to legal checks, NIE and mortgages, new-build and resale, rental regulations and aftercare.
Buying property in Spain
What should you know before buying a house in Spain as a Dutch buyer?
That the price is only part of the cost — add roughly 10–13% in taxes and fees — and that Spanish purchases run through a notary, with a foreigner's tax ID (NIE), a Spanish bank account and an independent legal check. Knowing this before you start avoids the surprises that catch buyers who view first and ask later. See the buyer's guide →
How does buying a house in Spain work, from orientation to the notary?
Orientation and area choice, then property shortlist and viewings, legal and title checks plus NIE, reservation and private contract (arras), signing the deed (escritura) at the notary, taxes paid and title registered, then utilities and aftercare. We run it as a defined 18-step process so you always know what's next. See how we work →
What is the difference between buying on your own and buying with a Dutch buyer's agent?
On your own you source the notary, lawyer, bank and gestor and carry the language and legal risk yourself. With us you keep one Dutch-speaking point of contact and we coordinate those professionals, pre-check every property, and tell you when to walk away.
Which documents do you need to buy a house in Spain?
A valid passport, a Spanish NIE (foreigner's tax ID), a Spanish bank account, proof of funds, and a power of attorney if you can't sign in person.
Costa Blanca orientation
Why is the northern Costa Blanca interesting for Dutch buyers?
It's under an hour from Alicante airport, has a milder microclimate than the southern coast, and mixes lively towns like Benidorm and Calpe with quieter, authentic ones like Altea, Moraira and Benissa — so most lifestyles and budgets fit within a short drive.
How do you choose between Altea, Calpe, Benidorm, Benissa, Moraira and the rest?
Match the town to how you'll really use it: lively and resort-like in Benidorm, balanced in Calpe and Villajoyosa, calm and picturesque in Altea, Moraira and Benissa, family and marina life in Javea and Denia, or value and inland space in Polop and La Nucía.
Why is choosing the location often more important than the property itself?
Because the same villa feels completely different in a busy high-rise stretch versus a quiet cove — and resale value, rental potential and your day-to-day happiness all depend on location. We always settle the area before the property.
Costs, taxes & ownership
What does buying a house on the Costa Blanca really cost?
The price plus about 10–13% on top: ITP (8–10%) on a resale or IVA (10%) plus stamp duty (~1.5%) on a new-build, plus notary, registry, gestor and legal fees.
What ongoing costs come with owning property in Spain?
IBI (annual council tax), community fees if it's in an urbanisation, utilities, insurance, and income tax on rental income if you rent it out. We map these before you buy so the running cost is never a surprise.
ITP or IVA — which purchase tax applies to me?
ITP (transfer tax) applies to resale homes; IVA (VAT) applies to new-builds, plus a smaller stamp duty (AJD). They're the single biggest cost difference between a resale and a new-build.
Legal checks & risk
What legal checks should happen before I commit?
Title ownership, outstanding debts and mortgages, planning status and licences (habitation, energy certificate), and for new-build the builder's permits and guarantees. We run all of this before the reservation, not after.
Do I really need an independent lawyer if I have an agent?
Yes. Our lawyer works for you, not the seller — their job is to find the problem that stops a bad deal. That independence is exactly the honesty we promise.
Will you tell me if a property is a bad buy?
Yes — we'll say no. If the legal status, the area fit or the numbers don't work, we tell you before you spend anything. Walking away from the wrong deal is part of the service.
New-build vs resale
New-build or resale — which is better?
It depends. New-build costs a bit more up front (IVA + AJD, ~13%) but gives you a warranty, modern efficiency and choice of finishes, often with a wait. Resale is cheaper up front (~10%), available now, but needs a survey.
Are there legal risks specific to new-build or off-plan?
Yes — builder solvency, bank guarantees on deposits, completion dates and the first-occupation licence. We only work with developers whose paperwork and guarantees check out.
Mortgage, budget & financing
Can I get a Spanish mortgage as a non-resident Dutch buyer?
Yes. Spanish banks lend to non-residents, typically up to 60–70% of the purchase price (not the full cost), based on income and the bank's valuation. We connect you to lenders who know the Dutch buyer profile.
How much deposit do I need?
Generally 30–40% of the price plus the purchase costs, in cash — the mortgage covers the rest of the price. We confirm your real budget, costs included, before you view.
Rental, holiday home & investment
Can I rent out my Costa Blanca property?
Often yes, but it depends on the town and the licence — tourist-let rules vary sharply along the coast, and some urbanisations forbid it. We explain where you can and can't rent before you buy.
Is Costa Blanca property better for personal use, rental or investment?
All three work, but they pull in different directions — the best holiday rental isn't always the best place to live. Tell us your priority and we'll match area and property to the real plan.
Process, aftercare & trust
What is the 18-step process?
Our end-to-end service in four phases — orientation & selection, checks & financing, contract, and closing & aftercare — each with concrete steps.
What happens after I get the keys?
Aftercare: utilities and insurance set up, a local contact, key-holding and maintenance options, and help with your ongoing obligations in Spain. Handing over the keys is not the end.
Why choose Dutch guidance specifically?
Because the hardest parts of a Spanish purchase — legal, tax and notary — are toughest in a second language. You get the whole process explained in Dutch by one team that stays accountable to the end.
Still have questions?
For your specific situation — your budget, an area, or a property you're eyeing — book an intake and we'll answer it directly, no obligation.
