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Benidorm prices break records – how are property prices moving in Alicante province?

Ulvi Helin — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:25:33 +0000

The first half of the year has brought significant price increases in the real estate market, especially in Alicante province. Recent data shows that Benidorm has become the most expensive area, with the price per square metre already reaching €2,214 – that’s a full 19.6% higher than a year ago!

The city of Alicante and Torrevieja are also holding high positions, with €1,837 and €1,691 per square metre respectively, both seeing prices rise by over 10% compared to last year. Buying property now requires a bit more financial effort – for example, in Benidorm and Torrevieja the effort rate already exceeds 60%. This means buyers should be prepared for higher financial commitments.

Why are prices increasing?

Limited supply and strong demand, especially for new developments, are keeping prices high. In addition, Alicante province leads the way in Spain for property transactions and new construction projects.

If you’re planning to buy or sell property in our area soon, it’s important to understand market trends and plan your purchase or sale wisely.
Do you know what your property is worth today? Ask me for a free market valuation and let’s find the best possible deal together!

https://alicanteplaza.es/alicanteplaza/plaza-inmobiliaria-alicante/benidorm-se-dispara-alicante-y-torrevieja-cierran-el-top-3-los-municipios-con-precios-de-vivienda-mas-caros

The post Benidorm prices break records – how are property prices moving in Alicante province? first appeared on Remax.

Looking for something exciting to explore nearby? Cartagena is waiting!

Ulvi Helin — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:44:47 +0000

Guests who’ve rented our holiday apartments often ask: “What else is there to see and do in this area?” One of our top recommendations is the historic city of Cartagena – a fascinating destination just a short drive away.

Cartagena is a true treasure trove for history lovers – a city over 2,000 years old where every era has left its mark.

A brief glimpse into Cartagena’s rich past

Founded in 227 BC by Carthaginian general Asdrúbal the Fair, Cartagena began as an important naval and military base. In 209 BC, Roman general Scipio Africanus conquered the city, renaming it Carthago Nova. Under Roman rule, it became one of the Mediterranean’s most important ports.

In the centuries that followed, Cartagena was ruled by various powers – Visigoths, Byzantines, and Muslims. In 1245, Christian forces reclaimed the city, and by the 18th century it had become a key naval base for Spain.

Today, Cartagena is known for its Roman theater, beautiful port, historic festivals, and vibrant mix of cultures. You’ll also be charmed by the lace-like wrought iron balconies of old town apartments and period architecture that give every walk through the city a special atmosphere.

Why visit Cartagena?

If you love history, appreciate architecture, and enjoy strolling through streets filled with stories, Cartagena is the perfect day trip. It’s an experience you won’t forget – Roman columns, ancient fortresses, a sunny harbor, and authentic Spanish character.

Need tips on where to begin your visit? Just ask – we’re happy to share our favorite spots!

The post Looking for something exciting to explore nearby? Cartagena is waiting! first appeared on Remax.

New Rules for Short-Term Rentals in Spain: What Property Owners Need to Know

Ulvi Helin — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 06:54:34 +0000

Important legal changes are coming in 2025 If you own a property in Spain and rent it out for tourism or seasonal stays. These new regulations will affect how and where you can advertise and operate your rental property.

Homeowners association approval becomes mandatory

Starting April 3, 2025, property owners who wish to rent out their homes for tourist purposes must obtain explicit approval from their homeowners association.

Approval requires a three-fifths majority vote—both in terms of property owners and participation quotas.
Important: If a property already has a valid tourist license before this law takes effect, the new approval requirement does not apply.

Without approval, the homeowners association can demand the immediate cessation of the rental activity.

Unique Registration Number Required – Even for Seasonal Rentals

From July 1, 2025, all tourist and seasonal rentals in Spain must have a national unique registration number in order to be listed on digital platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Rentalia. This applies to all listings, regardless of when the license was issued.

Note:

If you rent your property both for tourist and seasonal stays, you will need two separate registration numbers.

What Is a Seasonal Rental?

Seasonal rentals are not permanent residences. They’re intended for temporary stays, such as:

Students
Temporary work assignments
Medical treatments
Winter stays in Spain

Seasonal rentals fall under Spain’s Urban Leasing Law (Law 29/1994), and do not require additional approval from regional or local governments to obtain a registration number.

If you need a tourism license for your property, please contact us.

In Summary:

April 3, 2025: Homeowners association approval is required for new tourist rentals
July 1, 2025: All short-term and seasonal rentals must have a unique registration number
Two numbers needed if offering both rental types
No registration number = No advertising on online platforms

If you currently rent or plan to invest in Spanish property, now is the time to prepare. Staying compliant will help you avoid legal issues.

The post New Rules for Short-Term Rentals in Spain: What Property Owners Need to Know first appeared on Remax.

Discover Spain’s Pink Lake: A Natural Wonder in Torrevieja

Ulvi Helin — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:17:27 +0000

Laguna Salada de Torrevieja, commonly known as the Pink Lake, is a striking saltwater lagoon located near the town of Torrevieja on Spain’s Costa Blanca. This natural wonder is renowned for its vibrant pink hue, a result of the high salinity and the presence of microorganisms such as Halobacterium and Dunaliella salina algae.

Key Features

Color Variations: The lake’s color can range from intense pink to magenta, fuchsia, and even purple, depending on factors like sunlight and time of day.
Salt Production: Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the lake has been a source of salt extraction since the 19th century, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Healing Properties: The mud and salt at the lake’s bottom are believed to have therapeutic benefits, potentially aiding in the relief of certain skin and respiratory ailments.

Visitor Information

Access: While the lake is fenced, there are several openings, particularly near Calle Venus and Calle Sol, allowing visitors to approach the water’s edge.
Swimming Restrictions: Swimming is prohibited to preserve the ecosystem and due to ongoing salt extraction activities. Violating this rule can result in fines of up to €6,000.
Best Visiting Times: The optimal period to experience the lake’s vibrant colors is from June to October, especially on sunny, windless days. Morning visits are recommended for the most vivid hues.
Nearby Attractions: Adjacent to the Pink Lake is Laguna Salada de La Mata, a smaller green-tinted salt lake. Together, they form the Las Salinas de Torrevieja Natural Park, which spans approximately 3,700 hectares.

Visitor Center

For more information on the area’s ecology and history, visitors can stop by the Centro de Interpretación Parque Natural La Mata Torrevieja.

Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9:30 am – 2:00 pm
Weekends: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Closed: January 1 & 6, December 24, 25 & 31

Travel Tips

Photography: The lake’s unique colors provide excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Footwear: The shores are covered with salt crusts, so wearing appropriate footwear is advisable.
Environmental Respect: Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment by avoiding littering and adhering to all protective guidelines.

A visit to Laguna Salada de Torrevieja offers a memorable experience, combining natural beauty with cultural and historical significance.

The post Discover Spain’s Pink Lake: A Natural Wonder in Torrevieja first appeared on Remax.

Would You Like to Buy Property in Spain? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision!

Ulvi Helin — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 10:10:28 +0000

Spain has long attracted investors and those looking for the perfect holiday home. Beautiful beaches, sunshine almost all year round, and a wonderful atmosphere make properties on the Iberian Peninsula highly sought after. However, before making a purchase, it is essential to be well-prepared—especially financially. Determine Your Budget – It’s Crucial!

Before viewing properties, the first step is to establish how much you are willing to spend. Remember that beyond the purchase price, there are additional costs that can amount to up to 10% of the property’s value!

For the secondary market, you must pay a transfer tax (ITP), which varies by region from 6% to 10%. If you are interested in the primary market, you will need to pay VAT (IVA) at 10%, plus a stamp duty (AJD) ranging from 1.2% to 1.5%. Additionally, notary fees, land registry fees, and other charges can add another 0.3% to 0.75% of the property’s value.

2. Define Your Purpose – Permanent Residence or Investment?

Before choosing a specific property, ask yourself a few key questions:

Am I buying a home to spend the winter months escaping the cold and gray skies in Poland?
Or is my main goal an investment, such as short-term rentals that generate income while I only use it for a few weeks per year?
What return on investment (ROI) do I expect, and are my expectations realistic?

Answering these questions will help define your expectations and determine the best type of property for your needs.

3. Work with a Professional – Save Time and Reduce Stress

When searching for property in Spain, it is advisable to seek the help of a reputable real estate agent. A professional can find listings that best match your needs while eliminating those that do not meet your criteria. Based on experience, after carefully reviewing clients’ needs, only a handful of really good offers remain. Searching on your own can be time-consuming and frustrating. Many investors who try to browse thousands of listings soon realize that the most interesting offers are either no longer available or do not meet their expectations. With a professional, you save time and avoid unnecessary stress!

4. Plan Your Trip – How to Prepare?

Once you decide to buy, then plan your trip to Spain. Flights, car rental, and accommodation should be arranged in advance to ensure a smooth journey. It is also important to schedule enough time for viewing properties, comparing different offers, and making a well-informed decision.

5. Be Realistic – Not Every Offer Is Worth Considering!

Although Spain still offers attractive property prices, many people fail to realize that real estate prices have risen significantly since 2021. Buyers often have unrealistic expectations regarding property prices in specific regions. Many rely on negotiating a significant discount, which is not always feasible.

6. Property Prices in Spain – How Much Do You Need?

As of October 2024, the average property prices in popular regions of Spain are:

Alicante (Costa Blanca): Average price per m² is €2,388, and the average property price is €251,596.
Malaga (Costa del Sol): Average price per m² is €3,865, and the average property price is €472,618.

To buy property in these regions, you should have at least 40-50% of the property value as a down payment. The rest can be financed with a mortgage based on Polish income, provided the monthly payment does not exceed 30% of your total monthly expenses.

7. Is This a Good Time to Invest?

If, after calculating all costs, you feel ready to buy, now may be a great time to become a property owner on Spain’s sunny coast. Remember, Spain offers not only stunning beaches and a great climate but also a stable real estate market that has attracted investors from around the world for years.

Summary

Buying property in Spain requires careful planning and financial calculations. Finding the right apartment, completing all formalities, and estimating expenses accurately are key elements that will make the buying process smooth and satisfying.

If you are unsure where to start, consult a professional real estate agent who will guide you through every step efficiently and safely.

The post Would You Like to Buy Property in Spain? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision! first appeared on Remax.

The Hidden Risks of Buying Property in Spain: Why Location and Legal Clarity Matter

Ulvi Helin — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 09:00:46 +0000

You’ve surely heard what is most important when choosing real estate in Spain. It doesn’t matter whether you want to buy property for permanent residence, as an investment to rent out, or something in between. In any case, the most important thing is location, location, and once again, location.

When it comes to holiday accommodation and rentals, the top priority is maximum convenience for potential clients, so that everything is within walking distance and one can enjoy beach or pool pleasures during their summer vacation. None of us knows what lies ahead in a year or five years. What I’m referring to here is a smooth and reasonable selling period. No one likes trying to sell their property for a whole year—or never managing to sell it at all.

Your Guide to Safe and Smart Property Investment in Spain

Why do some properties on the market catch the eye with their low price, or why are there entire areas where real estate is cheaper, even though they’re also by the sea, like just 50 km away? It’s worth taking a closer look at what might be the reason behind this.

Orihuela Costa versus Campasol or Mazarrón

Let’s take an example: Orihuela Costa versus Campasol or Mazarrón, which are just a short distance away as the crow flies. The town itself lies on the outskirts of Murcia, far from the airport. In the autumn of 2014, Murcia and Campasol experienced major floods, causing extensive damage. As if that wasn’t enough, even before the floods, Campasol had around 4,000 homes—mostly newly built for British buyers—that had been constructed in violation of laws, with inadequate documentation. You can read more about what happened in the Campasol area in this detailed article. It’s a fascinating but also dramatic read about a British judge and a retired man who bought a property that began a chain of misfortunes.

“You can read the article by clicking this link: Camposol: The British Nightmare in Murcia (El Confidencial)“

Now imagine unknowingly buying a house damaged by floods or a building that doesn’t even officially exist on paper. Or putting your property on sale and having buyers consistently turn it down because of missing documents. You can be sure that such properties are extremely hard to sell.

Location, Location, Location – and Legal Documents!

That’s why it’s crucial to have a competent expert by your side.
We are here to help you on this journey.

The post The Hidden Risks of Buying Property in Spain: Why Location and Legal Clarity Matter first appeared on Remax.