Apart from the obvious decision of the region you wish to buy in Spain, the main question you must consider is the type of location and environment you wish to buy in…..

1. Do you want to immerse yourself into a Spanish lifestyle, by mixing with locals and learning the language. Is the beach and socialising with people of your own nationality not of the utmost importance? Are you looking for a very idyllic and quiet lifestyle where you can have a lot of your own space and enjoy stunning countryside views?

If the answer to this is yes, it would be a good idea to seriously consider a country property as you will be able to buy much more for your money than in coastal areas – a large modern 3 bedroom villa with 3 acres of land (approx 10.000m2) start from under 150.000 Euros in the countryside areas!!  The areas we cover are still within easy reach of Alicante city, beaches and airport (max 50mins drive) and may be something to consider.

OR

2- Do you want a 2^nd home where you can easily escape harsher weather conditions and enjoy the superb climate together with the beaches and/or numerous golf courses of Southern Spain? Maybe you are buying for investment or rental purposes? Do you like the idea of being part of an international community of residents where you could look for work or retire and therefore want to buy in an area where you can meet new people and easily settle in without prior knowledge of the Spanish language and where children can easily attend English speaking schools?

If your answer to one of the above is yes you may be better to consider a coastal property the majority of which are less than 10mins drive to numerous blue flag beaches and all amenities including schools and hospitals.

PROPERTY REQUIRMENTS: Regardless of the location, you need to seriously consider which factors are important to you when selecting a property. Questions to consider are…..

• Property  - do you want an apartment, townhouse or villa, the size (how many bedrooms/bathrooms), is a swimming pool important (communal or private), do you want a garden (this may require some maintenance if you are not here permanently), views, …  etc  
• Budget (how much capital do you have available or is a mortgage needed)
• New build properties - you can buy either ´key ready´ or ´off plan´. The advantage with `off plan´ is that sometimes you can choose the style, construction materials, or change small things in the property. A deposit will be required and construction could take up to 18months which may suit your plans. If however you are ready to move now it will be better to buy ´key ready´ where you can step inside the property today and the purchase can go through as quick as 2 weeks.
• Resale Properties/second hand: This can range from a new property being sold by the first owner that has never been used to an old finca that needs total reform. Completion time can be agreed between the buyer and seller with typical timescale being 4-10 weeks.