Guillermo CostablancaBuying a home on the Costa Blanca, made simple for international buyers
If you're a foreign buyer dreaming of a place in the sun, this is your starting point. I'm Guillermo Costablanca, an English-speaking estate agent on the Costa Blanca, and I guide you personally from your first search to the keys in your hand — new-build or resale, in the best areas of south Alicante.
Why buy through Guillermo
Buying abroad shouldn't feel like a leap into the unknown. The biggest difference I make is being one real person who answers personally, speaks your language, and stays with you through the entire purchase — not a call centre and not a form that goes nowhere.
- English-speaking, foreigner-friendly. I work with international buyers every day and explain each step — NIE, bank account, deposit, notary and taxes — in plain English.
- Local knowledge that matters. I know which towns, urbanisations and new developments fit your budget, lifestyle and rental plans.
- New-build and resale. Access to brand-new developments straight from the builder and to resale homes across the Costa Blanca.
- Personal, honest, responsive. Straight answers, no pressure, and the same person from the first message to the day you collect the keys.
The best areas on the Costa Blanca
The south of Alicante — the Costa Blanca South — offers over 300 days of sun a year, blue-flag beaches, golf, healthcare and easy flights from Alicante and Murcia airports. These are the areas international buyers ask me about most:
How buying works for foreign buyers
Non-residents can freely buy property in Spain — there are no special restrictions. The path is straightforward when someone walks you through it:
- Tell me what you want. Your budget, preferred area and must-haves. I send a shortlist of matching homes.
- Viewings. In person on a viewing trip, or by video if you're still abroad.
- Get your NIE and a Spanish bank account. The NIE is your foreigner ID number, needed to buy. I'll point you to the right help.
- Reserve the property. A reservation deposit takes it off the market while paperwork is checked.
- Private purchase contract & deposit. Usually around 10% of the price, with the purchase terms agreed.
- Completion at the notary. You sign the title deed, pay the balance and taxes, and collect the keys.
Tip: many steps can be handled remotely or by power of attorney if you can't be in Spain for everything.
Costs to budget for
As a rule of thumb, set aside roughly 10–13% on top of the purchase price for taxes and fees:
- New-build: 10% VAT (IVA) + about 1.5% stamp duty (AJD).
- Resale: transfer tax (ITP) of roughly 8–10% in the Valencia region.
- Plus: notary, land-registry and (recommended) independent lawyer fees.
Figures are indicative and change with regulations and your situation — always confirm current rates with your lawyer or gestor before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner buy property on the Costa Blanca?
Yes. Non-residents can freely buy property in Spain. You'll need an NIE (foreigner identification number) and, in practice, a Spanish bank account. With the right guidance the process is straightforward.
Does Guillermo Costablanca speak English?
Yes. Guillermo works with English-speaking and international buyers, and the website is available in seven languages (English, Spanish, German, French, Dutch, Polish and Swedish).
Which areas of the Costa Blanca are best to buy in?
Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa (La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Villamartín), Pilar de la Horadada, Punta Prima and Guardamar del Segura are the most popular for sun, beaches, golf and value. The best fit depends on your budget and lifestyle, which is exactly what Guillermo helps you narrow down.
How much does it cost to buy, beyond the price?
Budget roughly 10–13% on top of the price. New-builds carry 10% VAT plus about 1.5% stamp duty; resale homes carry a transfer tax of around 8–10% in the Valencia region, plus notary, registry and legal fees. Confirm current rates with a lawyer.
Do I need to be in Spain for the whole purchase?
No. Viewing trips are recommended, but many steps can be handled remotely or through a power of attorney, so you don't have to be in Spain for every stage.
How do I start?
Message Guillermo on WhatsApp with your budget, preferred area and must-haves. He'll send matching homes and arrange viewings — there's no obligation.
Useful guides for buyers
Ready to find your place in the sun?
Tell me your budget and the area you like. I'll do the legwork and send you homes worth seeing.