Building a villa on the Costa Blanca

Design of villa El Portet in Moraira with pool and sea view
Design: villa El Portet, Moraira

Your own villa on the Costa Blanca, built exactly to your wishes, with sea views and a pool in the sun: a dream for many people. Building a villa in Spain is very achievable, as long as you know the steps and who you work with. In this guide we set out the process, based on our experience with building projects in Xàbia (Jávea) and Moraira.

1. The right plot

Building plot with sea views on Calle L'Arnica, Cap Martí (Xàbia)

Everything starts with the plot. Look not only at location and views, but also at the planning rules: how much you may build, how high, and how far from the boundary. Orientation (sun and sea views), slope and access to water, electricity and sewerage also determine what is possible and what it costs. View our building plots in Xàbia and Moraira.

2. Design with a local architect

An architect who knows the local rules and climate gets the most out of your plot: shade, wind, views and privacy. For our own projects we work with Dean Architecture. The design forms the basis of the planning application.

3. Permits

For a new build you need a building permit from the town hall (licencia de obra mayor). The processing time varies by municipality and project and can take several months or longer; allow plenty of time in your planning. After construction come the completion documents needed to occupy the house and connect the utilities.

4. Construction and supervision

During construction the architect and a site supervisor monitor quality and schedule. If you do not (yet) live in Spain, a fixed point of contact on site is essential: someone who follows the build, puts decisions to you and keeps you informed.

5. Legal and financial

  • NIE number: as a foreigner you need a Spanish identification number to buy a plot.
  • Independent lawyer: have the plot purchase and the building contracts checked by your own lawyer (abogado).
  • Taxes and costs: on top of the purchase price and building costs you pay taxes, notary and registry fees and municipal charges. Get good advice beforehand so you know the total budget.
  • Insurance: for new builds in Spain a ten-year structural insurance is generally compulsory; your architect or lawyer will know what applies in your situation.

Or: choose turnkey

Would you rather leave the building to someone else? With several of our projects you buy plot and villa in one go, turnkey: we handle design, permits and construction, and you receive the keys to a fully finished villa. View our projects in Xàbia and in Moraira.

Get acquainted?

Unsure about a plot, or want to know what is possible on a particular site? Contact us, and we will gladly advise you without obligation.