The process of buying property on the Costa Blanca almost always starts with the same question. A brand-new, sparkling residential complex with a pool and aerothermal system – or an apartment “with history”, just a few steps from the sea, but with its own quirks?

This choice is not about “what’s better”, but about what suits you personally: your lifestyle, budget, plans, and tolerance for details. There are no universal recipes here, but there is logic. Let’s calmly go through it.

New builds: comfort, technology and predictability

In recent years, Spain’s construction sector has changed significantly. Modern Costa Blanca developments are no longer just square metres, but well-designed living environments where many things work “by default”.

What buyers really value in new developments:

Energy efficiency. New homes are built with high-quality thermal and acoustic insulation, aerothermal systems and modern windows. The result is a comfortable indoor climate and electricity bills that are often 2–3 times lower than in older buildings.

Legal guarantees. Spanish law obliges the developer to provide a ten-year structural guarantee for the building (“Seguro Decenal”). For the buyer, this is a rare level of protection.

Modern layouts. Open-plan spaces, large terraces, panoramic windows, master bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms – all the things often missing in apartments from the 1990s.

Infrastructure. Heated pools, gyms, co-working spaces, underground parking and sometimes concierge services. For rentals and comfortable living, this is a serious advantage.

What you should keep in mind

The price per square metre is higher than on the resale market. Plus 10% VAT (IVA) and stamp duty (AJD) – on average around 1.5%. You need to factor these figures in from the very beginning to avoid any surprises.

Resale market: location, character and potential

Resale properties on the Costa Blanca often win not by numbers, but by atmosphere. The best plots by the sea and in the city centre were built up decades ago – and that is exactly where the most interesting properties are found today.

Why buyers choose resale:

Location without compromise. First line, unobstructed sea views, walking distance to the promenade or historic centre – all this is more often found on the resale apartment market.

Price and taxes. The price per square metre is often lower. Instead of VAT you pay the ITP transfer tax (10% in the province of Alicante) with no additional AJD.

Ready to move in immediately. Sign at the notary – and the keys are in your hands. No need to wait for construction to be completed.

Room for individuality. Older villas and apartments often come with plots, mature trees and non-standard layouts. A well-planned renovation can significantly increase the property’s value.

But there is another side:

Hidden defects, outdated utilities, poor insulation, lack of heating. Renovation may turn out to be not cosmetic but strategic – and this needs to be built into the budget from the very start.

Finances: you need to consider more than just the purchase price

New builds are more expensive at the beginning, but usually do not require major investment for the next 8–10 years.

Resale property is more affordable “at the point of purchase”, but may require unforeseen expenses: from replacing pipes to roof repairs – and running costs can also be higher.

For investors focused on rental income, new complexes often prove more practical: tourists prefer modern accommodation, and rental prices for such properties tend to be higher and more stable.

So, before buying a property you should decide.

A new build is right for you if:

You value modern technology and minimalist design;

You do not want to deal with renovation;

You plan to rent through a management company;

Predictable expenses are important to you.

Resale property is your choice if:

Location plays the main role;

You are looking for a home with a garden, character and history;

You are ready to invest in renovation;

You want to create a truly individual space.

The EspanaTour team works daily with both new developments and carefully selected resale properties. We know the real advantages and hidden nuances of every area on the Costa Blanca – not from brochures, but from hands-on experience. That is why we help clients not only successfully purchase real estate, but also make a well-considered decision they will not regret in the future.