Costa Blanca Property
Area Guide
The Area
The Costa Blanca is so called because of its remarkably luminous skies and the long, white sandy beaches which extend over most of its coastline. It is also reputed to enjoy the healthiest climate in Europe with lots of sunshine, mild temperatures and low humidity.
Costa Blanca has produced a few 'concrete jungles', although much of the coastline is still relatively underdeveloped. You can choose from the multitude of beaches, or discover one of the many little bays and inlets hidden behind the rocky outcrops which give the coastline its distinctive texture and character. To the north, the scenery is at its most dramatic, forming cliffs which rise steeply from the sea and dotted with offshore islands. A drive inland from the coast reveals the varied cultural history of this area, in particular its series of medieval hilltop castles.
Javea, probably the most select area of the Costa Blanca, is an interesting little town dominated by Mount Montgo and situated between two dramatic headlands. The old town of Javea retains its Spanish atmosphere with narrow streets, whitewashed houses and wrought iron balconies, whereas the coastal area is more modern but with a good selection of restaurants and bars.
Moraira is a little seaside town reached by country road which winds its way through vineyards and fields of almonds and olives. It enjoys an easy-going atmosphere and gentle pace of life. Narrow streets lead down to the port where a good range of seafront bars and restaurants can be found.
Activities
The provincial capitals of Alicante and Valencia, both historic cities with fine shopping, castles and cathedrals are well worth a day's visit. Valencia is also the home of the famous Lladró Porcelain - and visits are usually possible to its factory and seconds shops.
An abundance of watersports are available including windsurfing, diving etc. Other activities include tennis, horse riding, mountain biking and golf. La Manga Club is considered one of the world's finest golfing resorts with 3 championship courses which have hosted 5 Spanish Opens.
Buying a Property in Spain
1. Putting down a Holding Deposit
On finding a property you wish to purchase you will need to negotiate the terms, price and conditions of the sale with the owner. This part of the process is not binding. We would recommend using an independent English speaking legal advisor. Once a purchase price has been agreed, normally a holding or reserve deposit will be required to ensure the property is removed from the market. The sum required will vary between properties and will be based on the purchase price. A time limit for the preagreement to be signed will be arranged and there will also be legal checks to be made.
2. Setting up a Pre-agreement (Contrato privado de compraventa)
The pre-agreement will set out the conditions under which the Buyer and Seller agree to complete the purchase of the property and the price they have agreed upon. Relevant details will generally be included for example the property details, purchase price and the date for completion. A deposit will be required at this point, this will vary, but will generally be 10% of the agreed price. This agreement will include a penal clause if the sale does not go through. If the seller pulls out of the sale your compensation will be double the deposit you have paid, but if you decide not to go through with the sale then your deposit will be lost. Certain checks will need to be made before signing the contract, checks should be made against the title of the property, mortgage status and if the property has any debts held against it. The planning status should also be looked into. These conditions can be varied by the seller and the buyer and other types of agreement can be made.
3. The Contract (Escritura de compraventa)
Before a non-Spanish purchaser can buy a Spanish property they will need to have set up a Spanish bank account and obtained a Spanish tax number (NIE). The completion will take place in the presence of a Notary Public. This is a Spanish public official, by law the deed of sale must be witnessed by a Notary Public. You will also need your own independent, expert legal advisor to act on your behalf. On Completion the buyer must pay the balance, that is the price agreed after the deposit has been deducted, plus any other fees on the completion date. Both buyer and seller must sign the Escritura de compraventa contract, (this is the Spanish equivalent of the title deeds). The title deeds (escritura) will be given to the buyer, this will be done in the presence of a Notary Public, they will certify that the transfer has taken place. The tax office will be sent a copy and the property registry will be informed of the transfer.