Spain Property Guide - January 2022 Issue 7

BUYING IN SPAIN MADE SIMPLE

ENGLISH

EDITION

PROPERTY

WINTER > 2021/22 > COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

GUIDE

.COM

PLUSVALIA

TAX FOR

PROPERTIES

IN SPAIN

GRANADA

SEDUCTRESS

OF THE AGES

WELCOME TO

SPAIN 2022

AGENTS l LEGAL l RESIDENCY l CURRENCY l TAX

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CONTENTS

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Beaches and crystal waters 06

Featured property 10

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

The white coast 14

Why People Choose Welcome Estates 16

A family business 18

COSTA CALIDA

Classic Mediterranean region 24

Costa Calida Market review 26

Urbania - A philosophy of development 28

SALES

EDITOR

DISTRIBUTION

DESIGN

>> sales@spainpropertguide.com

>> editor@spainpropertguide.com

>> distribution@spainpropertguide.com

>> design@spainpropertguide.com

Tel: Spain +34 966 94 20 22 • Tel: UK +44 7498984177

COSTA ALMERIA

Long stretching beaches 32

Costa Almeria Market review 34

COSTA DEL SOL

Popular destination 38

Luxury in a natural setting 40

Granada - Seductress of the ages 44

Malaga - The other Barcelona 48

Malaga Technology Park 50

Andalucia’s own car maker 52

Spanish Architects 54

BALEARIC ISLANDS

Archipelago in the Mediterranean 58

Ibiza - Shabby Chic and much more 60

COVER IMAGE: Yaroslav Shuraev from Pexels woman in skiwear on a

snowy mountain

DISCLAIMER: Spain Property Guide Magazine accepts no responsibility for claims

made by advertisers or comments by made by contributors in any form. Any

unauthorised reproduction, in whatever media format, whether in whole or in part, is

strictly forbidden. Artwork produced by Spain Property Guide remains the property of

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

LAW & LEGAL

Golden Visa 04

Currency Outlook 20

Plusvalia - Tax for properties in Spain 22

Living in Spain 30

Buying A Property in Spain - The process 36

The next evelolution of BinckBank 46

Bodegas for a modern era 62

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

GOLDEN VISA

A GOLDEN PATHWAY INTO SPAIN

For people outside the EU interested in buying a property,

investing or indeed residing in Spain, the Golden Visa

scheme offers a convenient way of acquiring legal status.

Since Brexit, this also includes British citizens.

The access and rights once automatically granted to British

subjects were withdrawn when the UK left the European Union

along with the free movement of people within its boundaries;

now effectively outside of this zone, the same rules broadly apply to

them that also govern relations with the citizens of many other of the

world’s nations. However, the Golden Visa offers a way of attaining

residence rights and the ability to conveniently own property, invest

in and also reside within Spain.

WHAT IS REQUIRED

The essential requirements to qualify for a Spanish Golden Visa are

pretty straightforward. You really just have to own a property within Spain

with a minimum net value (excluding charges) of €500,000. The second

requirement is to be able to prove to the satisfaction of the country’s

authorities that you have the means to support yourself in Spain without

the need to work here, thus waving any responsibility of the state for

your financial wellbeing. The aim of this is to encourage investment in

Spain and to ensure that any non-EU citizens residing in the country are

financially independent.

HOW YOU APPLY

To apply for the Spanish Golden, you have to be physically present in the

country, as your passport will have to contain a date stamp of entry. While

a lawyer or gestor may submit the application on your behalf, you have to

be present in person during the process and up to its completion.

DOCUMENTS NEEDED

As is standard in such cases, a certain amount of documentation is

required and has to be submitted in a specific manner. Some, such as

your passport, will already be in your possession, while others will have

to be requested in your home country in advance of your Golden Visa

application in Spain. As these will be issued in your mother tongue,

an official translation of all such documents by an accredited sworn

translator will have to be prepared in Spain before submitting both sets

(the original and translated versions) for scrutiny. Make sure you have

both the original versions and copies available. Your lawyer or gestor will

be able to assist you with all of this.

Moreover, all documents have to be legalised and bear the Apostille of

The Hague – and remain valid for only three months from the date of

issue.

The documents needed for your Golden Visa application are:

• Passport and copies of all its pages (including blank ones)

• Non-criminal record certificate

• An updated marriage certificate (if applicable)

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

Documents to be requested in Spain:

HEALTH INSURANCE IN SPAIN

Proof of valid full health coverage, and if this needs to be contracted

through a health insurance company the lawyer or gestor will be able to

assist.

CERTIFICATE ISSUED BY THE LAND REGISTRY

This certificate confirms that a Spanish property is registered in

your name with the Land Registry, and that it is owned by you free of

outstanding charges or encumbrances. This too can be obtained on your

behalf by your appointed lawyer.

BANK CERTIFICATE – IN YOUR HOME COUNTRY

This certificate documents the current balance of your account in your

home country, as well as its average annual balance. In addition you will

be required to provide an extract of bank account movements going back

six months from the date of application. Both these documents need

to clearly identify the holder of the account and the matching account

number, so as to confirm that it is indeed your account and your money.

SPANISH BANK CERTIFICATE

The above also applies for your Spanish account, with which a lawyer or

gestor can once again be of assistance.

PROOF OF TRAVEL

This usually entails flight tickets to enter and leave Spain, with the latter

dated after the submittal of the application for a Spanish Golden Visa.

APPROVAL PERIOD

Once all the above documentation has been correctly compiled and

submitted, the Spanish government has 21 days to respond with a

definitive answer. If your application is successful, you will have to

come to Spain within around a month of a positive decision to have your

fingerprints taken at police headquarters.

You will then receive the Residence Card approximately six weeks later,

and again, it has to be collected in person.

LENGTH OF VALIDITY

From the moment it is granted, the Spanish Golden Visa is valid for a

period of two years, after which it should be a formality to be renewed

and extended for periods of five years at a time, until one ultimately

becomes eligible for indefinite residency status.

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

COSTALANCA

An ancient coast of beaches, crystalline waters and

rocky cliffs that lead down to secluded little coves

and bays, the northern part of the Costa Blanca is

often described as the most beautiful section of all – and

one of the finest examples of Mediterranean lifestyle to be

found anywhere.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Alicante provides the big city feel as well as a large

international airport for the region, and as you head north

from here the first significant resort town is El Campello,

popular above all with Spanish tourists. From here to the

pretty coastal town of Villajoyosa, with its multi-coloured

Levante houses, Beach, there are only tiny beachside spots dotted, and

Benidorm

l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

more of the same until you come to the most famous

Costa Blanca resort of all: Benidorm.

Famous for its package tourism, as humorously depicted in

a British comedy series, this large resort town is redeveloping

its look and offering to appeal to a more modern kind of

tourism, complete with stylish resort hotels and a series of

large theme park attractions such as Terra Mítica, Terra

Natura and Aqualandia. From here, the coast becomes

more rugged, with imposing capes and rocky cliffs and

bays that together create breath-taking scenery against

a backdrop of blue skies and green pine groves.

Altea is a stylish resort town with a beautiful historic centre

that ranks as one of the region’s highlights, while Platja

L’Olla is a wonderfully secluded stretch of coast between

NORTH

A view from

Moraira to

the Ifach in

Calpe.

Elche

Rojales

Orihuela

Villa Martin

distant cliffs. Just before you reach another iconic resort

town, Calpe, Altea Hills is the first of a series of luxurious

villas suburbs with stunning coastal views – one of several

residential resort areas that offer an excellent choice of

modern homes with all the latest styles, amenities and

high-tech comforts. The views from here are truly stunning.

EXQUISITE SHORES

Calpe is gifted with a stunning setting – a wide bay

overlooking an iconic rock cape not unlike that of

Gibraltar, as well as an inland lagoon known as Les Salines.

This picture perfect spot first named by the Phoenicians

provides the ideal setting for a resort town, and Calpe is

the last large town before you come to the end of the

Alicante

Santa Pola

Guardamar

de Segura

Torrevieja

Denia

Javea

Benissa Moraira

Altea Calpe

Albir

Benidorm

Villa Joyosa

Costa Blanca at Jávea and Denia, passing the pretty little

coastal resort of Moraira. Beyond it lays gorgeous coastal

scenery with idyllic bays such as Plata de la Granadella,

with its turquoise water.

Jávea and Denia are two pretty towns fronting sandy

beaches and surrounded by attractive residential

areas set within pine groves, with many following the

undulations of golf courses such as the excellent La Sella

Golf. The iconic Parc Natural Montgó crowns the natural

beauty of this region, which is also less than an hour from

Valencia, close to many more beauty spots and always

just a short drive from country villages full of authentic

regional charm.

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

Are you planning on

moving to Spain?

Blevins Franks has 45 years of experience advising

UK nationals moving to and living in Spain. We

can guide your through various aspects of your

move, from residence and Brexit, to tax and estate

planning, to how best to structure your investment

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Talk to the people who know

+44 (0)207 389 8133

centralenquiry@blevinsfranks.com

We have nine offices in Spain as well as one in

London. Our local advisers would be more than

happy to have a chat with you and see how they

can help you establish your dream life in Spain.

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SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

www.blevinsfranks.com

(+34) 965 791 035

rimontgo@rimontgo.es

https://www.rimontgo.com

Partida Montgo, Jávea l 5,700,000€

Dénia

l Price on Request

RMG6126

RMG3238

Spectacular villa built to the highest standards, a unique style,

beautiful views and a perfect enclave in the Montgó area in Jávea.

This majestic villa is surrounded by a well-preserved garden. The property

is organised into three levels, each of them with spacious rooms and a topquality

equipment. The main floor fuses with the terrace, the pool area and

a fantastic patio partially covered. All of it with beautiful views of the valley.

Property with private pool and panoramic views of the golf, sea and

the city in Dénia.

Exceptional, 5 bedroomed modern architect- designed avant-garde villa, set

within the privacy of the exclusive Golf Resort La Sella and Marriot Hotel,

with magnificent panoramic views to Montgó mountain, the 27 hole golf

course and the Mediterranean Sea.

La Plana, Jávea l 895,000€

Bocairent, Valencia l 1,930,000 €

RMG6303

Villa set on a plot of 13,000m2 in La Plana, a well-known area surrounded

by the Montgó Natural Park in Jávea. Includes guest accommodation.

The villa is comprised of the main residence and a guest apartment. The

main property is arranged on a single floor consisting of a large fitted

kitchen, living-dining room with fireplace, the master bedroom with an ensuite

bathroom, guest toilet and a bedroom.

RMGV1980

Unique rural home, very integrated into the surroundings with open

views of the valley and the spectacular swimming pool.

Located in the middle of the Sierra Mariola natural park, this villa sits on a huge

75,000m2 plot on top of a mountain. The house itself covers an area of 350m2

and comprises four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a magnificent living/dining

room with double-height ceilings, completed with a large kitchen.

Vall d’Albaida, Valencia

l Price on Request

El Bosque, Chiva, Valencia l 620,000€

RMGV2822

RMGV4241

Spacious country property surrounded by olive trees and vineyards in

one of the most beautiful locations of the Valencian Community.

Opportunity. Reduced price. Rimontgó guarantees that this property

features an extremely good price in its competitive market set. For more

information visit our Best opportunities section where you will find an

assortment of the very best buying opportunities in rimontgo.com.

Exclusive villa facing the golf in El Bosque, Valencia. Combination of modern

and Mediterranean style, bright with a large plot, garden and private pool.

Facing the prestigious golf course El Bosque, set on a plot of more than 1,200m2

with a well-established garden and a large swimming pool. The outdoor design

is Mediterranean with Ibiza-style touches and the indoor area benefits from a

modern design also combined with Mediterranean classic details.

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

FEATURED

PROPERTY

10 l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

STUNNING

CONTEMPORARY

MODERN DESIGN

PROPERTY

+34 96 5744179

info@tabairarealestate.com

www.tabairarealestate.com

Stunning contemporary modern

design property for sale located

just on the outskirts of Moraira with

incredible panoramic sea and

countryside views.

• Bedrooms: 3

• Bathrooms: 3

• constructed: 400m2

• Plot: 10.000m2

• Energy rating: In process

• Construction year: 2006

• Pool

• Air conditioning

• Close to all amenities

• Summer kitchen

• Pool

• Close to town

• Exterior Terrace

• Heating - underfloor

• Views - Sea views

• Parking - covered

• Electric car gates

• Alarm system

1.540.000€

m 2 Ref: 20.616

400m 2

10,000m 2 3 3 Pool

m 2

m 2 m 2

m 2

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

+34 96 5744179 Avenida Madrid, 03724 Moraira

info@tabairarealestate.com

www.tabairarealestate.com

CUMBRE DEL SOL 129.000€

MORAIRA 650.000€

m 2 m 2

m 2

2 1

131m 2 526m 2 4 3 Pool

m 2 m 2

m 2

m 2 m 2

86m 2 Terrace Pool

Ref: 30.192

m 2

Ref: 20.3399A

BENISSA 255.000€

BENISSA COSTA 550.000€

m 2

137m 2 Terrace Pool

m 2

3 2

m 2 m 2

Ref: 10.268E

MORAIRA 675.000€

m 2

m 2 Ref: 20.2267

255m 2 1.880m 2 6 3 Pool

m 2

m 2 m 2

m 2

JAVEA 1.250.000€

216m 2 1.947m 2 Pool

m 2

5 3

m 2 m 2

12 l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

m 2

Ref: 20.3427

m 2

m 2 Ref: 70.427

393m 2 1.000m 2 3 2 Pool

m 2

m 2 m 2

m 2

BUYING IN SPAIN?

from our Extensive Northern Costa Blanca North Portfolio

we’ll get you moving...

Moraira 350,000 €

Villa

Ref: MT.H-747

Altea 230,000 €

Apartment Ref: HO354024

Javea 1,095,000 €

Modern Villa Ref: HO232889

175m2

Build

825m 2

Plot

3 3

Bedrooms Bathrooms

Private

Pool

100m2

Build

200m2

Plot

2 1 Community

Bedrooms Bathrooms Pool

374m2

Build

1000m 2

Plot

3 3

Bedrooms Bathrooms

Private

Pool

Denia 179,999 €

Apartment Ref: HO593564

Jalon 159,000 €

Townhouse Ref: HO121316

Calpe 500,000 €

Villa

Ref: CA.H-099

105m2

Build

Plot

3 2 Community

Bedrooms Bathrooms Pool

165m2

Build

Plot

3 2

Bedrooms Bathrooms

475m2

Build

850m 2

Plot

7 4

Bedrooms Bathrooms

Private

Pool

Moraira • Javea • Jalon • Calpe • Denia

Northern Costa Blanca, our portfolio of properties is

second to none. Whether you’re looking for a lock-up and

leave weekend escape, rental investment, or something

larger and more permanent, contact us.

(+34) 96 649 1883

moraira@moraira-hamiltons.net

www.moraira-hamiltons.net

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

COSTA

LANCA

14 l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

Named ‘the White Coast’ for its

cliffs and beaches, the Costa

Blanca is a world of sand-toned

hues contrasting with the azure-blue of

the Mediterranean and the generally

deep blue of its skies. This is essential

Mediterranea, a region imbued by this

ancient sea and its cultures.

Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Moors

and Franks, they were all here, moulding

today with the indigenous population

with a culture that is Spanish, but also

has its own distinct identity. Spanish is the

main language, with English, German,

Dutch and French also frequently

heard, but the other official language is

Valenciano, which can be considered

to be a derivative of Catalan and also

closely related to the local vernaculars of

the Balearic Islands.

As a tourist and residential region, the

200 kilometres of the Costa Blanca

can be divided into a northern and a

southern section, which border Valencia’s

Costa del Azahar and the Costa Cálida

respectively. Though the regional capital

of Valencia – a jewel of a city, and

second only to Madrid and Barcelona

within Spain – is about an hour’s drive

away, the nearest point of reference is

the Mediterranean port of Alicante, itself

a popular tourist destination.

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Moving up along the coast from the

SOUTH

Costa Cálida, the Southern Costa Blanca is

characterised by beachside resorts such as the

chilled atmosphere of La Zenia, the amenities of

Torrevieja – one of the icons of this coastline – and

the smaller but equally popular Guardamar del

Segura. This is a mostly sandy shoreline perfect for

tourism but it offers a diversity of resorts, including

the small-scale innocence of El Pinet la Marina, at

the entrance to a large area of marshes.

At its north end, in Bras del Port, high quality salt is

produced close to the famous resort town of Santa

Pola. Rounding the coast, one reaches the final

part of the southern Costa Blanca, as it approaches

the city of Alicante, which marks the dividing line.

Here Monte Faro is a pretty coastal town set amid

spectacular cliffs, and though Arenals del Sol and

Urbanova are a little bigger, they too invoke a sense

of endless beaches and classic summer holidays.

Elche

Rojales

Orihuela

Villa Martin

Alicante

Santa Pola

Guardamar

de Segura

Torrevieja

Torre Vigía Tamarit

(Vigilance Tower)

Santa Pola

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

Denia

Benissa Mo

Altea Calpe

Albir

Benidorm

Villa Joyosa

Why people

choose

Welcome

Estates

Welcome Estates brings more

than 25 years of experience in

the Spanish Property Market,

the team of property experts offer an

unparalleled level of knowledge of the

Costa Blanca region and the current

market and are always on hand to

support you in the buying and selling

process.

The office is situated at the beautiful

La Finca Golf and Spa Resort, with a

portfolio of new and resale properties

within the best golf resorts, coastal areas

as well as typical Spanish villages and

towns in the Costa Blanca and Costa

Calida. Whatever your dreams and

goals, Welcome Estates are qualified

and experienced to help you achieve

them.

The company is built on a simple

framework, helping you to build a

better life by understanding that

clients have their own unique

set of requirements. The priority

at Welcome Estates is to take

the time to establish how to

make them a reality together.

Why use Welcome Estates:

Transparency, honesty and

consistent communication are

paramount to help you navigate

the buying process. Providing an

extensive after-sales service ensuring

that you can always call to find help

and guidance long after you secure

your new home.

Highly qualified and experienced

staff will be able to guide you through

the process of buying and selling in

Spain, answering any questions that

arise along the way. The enthusiastic,

friendly, and personable team cover

multiple languages and have excellent

knowledge of the surrounding areas

and current market.

Buying or selling a home is one of the

biggest decisions you ever have to

make, Welcome Estates will be there

with you every step of the way to

make the buying process as simple and

straight forward as possible.

What our clients say:

We just purchased our property in

January and they were first class and

introduced us to our solicitor also based

on la finca who were so professional

and helpful with all aspects of buying

property in Spain. We love it here. Good

luck with your house hunting.

Joe and Rue (January 2021)

Amazing service

Amazing service from Lisa and Team at

Welcome Estates. By going over and

above from start to finish made our first

foreign property purchase a pleasurable

experience. Huge Thanks to Lisa and her

team.

Julie and Steve (August 2021)

16 l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

BUYING IN SPAIN?

From our Extensive range of properties in the Costa Blanca

LA FINCA GOLF RESORT 1,250,000€

3 Bed, 3 bath Villa

With Private Pool Ref: 658281

LA ZENIA 990,000€

Villa Ref: 658240

LA FINCA GOLF 347,500€

Villa Ref: 410506

LA FINCA GOLF 419,000€

Villa Ref: 658193

m 2

660m 2

Private

128m 2 350m 2

m 2

Communal

m 2

132m 2 500m 2

m 2

Communal

m 2

LOS ALCÁZARES 152,000€

Villa Ref: 658204

TORREVIEJA 172,000€

Villa Ref: 658261

FONT DEL LLOP 223,000€

Villa Ref: 658045

m 2

m 2 m 2

m 2

240m 2 68m 2

52m 2 Terrace

m 2

Communal

m 2

m 2 m 2

77m 2 Terrace

m 2

Communal

m 2

Terrace

Communal

Office: +34 965 020 204

UK: 01273 900966

Email: info@welcome-estates.com

Web: www.welcome-estates.com

We speak:

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

THE CASAS

MANUEL

FAMILY

Benefiting from two strategically

placed sales offices in Benijófar (Sales

office, and a dedicated aftersales

office) and La Zenia, Casas Manuel is a

professional, family-run company which

has been selling property throughout the

Costa Blanca since 2001 offering both

buyer and seller an exceptional strength

of service.

Since 2001, our reliable and professional

approach to business has created for

us many strong relationships throughout

Spain, UK, Belgium, France, Iceland,

Sweden, Russia, Norway, Czech Republic

and Holland. We pride ourselves on our

very personal and professional service that

we deliver to ALL clients.

As shown by our Testimonials page

– Trust is earned though our collective

Honesty, Hard Work, Transparency,

Knowledge and Ethics.

Our reputation for Values such as

these has enabled us to provide serious

property buyers the benefit of always

Whether you are buying

or selling, our approach to

business is simple - To provide

the best service possible to

every client we meet.

having a wide variety of well-priced

properties to offer for sale on the Costa

Blanca South. So, whatever budget range

stipulated… whether from small beachside

apartments, semi-coastal townhouses,

traditional Fincas, right through to luxury

villas – we will help you!

When you consult our specialist advisors

you will find we take your requirements

very seriously indeed and because we

listen to you we apply our extensive

knowledge and capacity within Casas

Manuel to diligently find you the perfect

property in your ideal location.

In simple: Our team is here to make your

Spanish buying process as easy as possible

and will be assisting you through every

step of the buying process...

If you are looking for something that we

do not have in our portfolio then not to

worry, you simply tell us what it is you want,

and our team of dedicated agents will

find it for you.

In 2016 Casas Manuel were honoured

to take part in a new Channel 4 property

series “Sun, Sea and Selling Houses”. The

success of the 1st show resulted in the

series being re-commissioned by channel

4 and was followed up by a further three

series!

FEATURED PROPERTY

Benijófar

Stunning new build villas on the

outskirts of the popular village of

Benijofar. These villas are built over

two floors boasting a open plan

living/dining area on the ground

floor along with a shower room.

The first floor holds the two double

bedrooms along with a family

bathroom along with a roof top

solarium.

18 l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

€224,900 Cabo Roig

KEY FEATURES

• Beds: 2

• Baths: 2

• Plot size: 134m2

• Build size: 90m2

• Pool: Private

• Parking: Off-road

• Full furnished

Ref CM6810

New Build Villas located in Lomas de

Cabo Roig, within walking distance

to all the local amenities that Lomas

de Cabo Roig has to offer. The

properties offer 3 double bedrooms,

3 bathrooms, spacious living and

dining area with an American style

kitchen. The property is sat on a

spacious plot which has a private

swimming pool, plus a roof solarium.

€349,900

KEY FEATURES

• Beds: 3

• Baths: 3

• Plot size: 199m2

• Build size: 131m2

• Pool: Private

• Parking: Off-road

Ref CM7870

Benijofar

Av. Federico Garcia

Lorca, 15, Benijofar,

03178, Alicante

+34 966 714 719

La Zenia

C. Maestro Torralba, 2

La Zenia,

03189

+34 966 714 719

FORMENTERA DEL SEGURA 510.000€

PUNTA MARINA 139,900€

672m 2

m 2

547m 2

m 2 Communal

m 2

5 3 Pool 66m 2 Parking 2 2

m 2 m 2 m 2 m 2

m 2

Ref: CM6210

Ref: CM8156

ALGORFA 58,000€ VILLAMARTIN 149,950€

m 2

50m 2 Parking Communal

m 2

2 1

m 2 m 2

Ref: CM7834

DAYA NUEVA 129,500€

m 2

98m 2 Parking 3 2 Communal

Ref: CM8168

m 2

m 2 m 2

m 2

CABO ROIG 89,950€

m 2

166m 2 Garage Communal

m 2

3 2

m 2 m 2

Ref: CM7649

@ info@casasmanuel.com @

m 2

71m 2 Parking 2 1 Pool

Ref: CM8145

m 2

m 2 m 2

m 2

www.casasmanuel.com

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

ALICANTE –

lady of the seas

You couldn’t imagine a seaside city more

quintessentially Mediterranean and Spanish

than Alicante. It offers history, culture, culinary

experiences and authentic Spain while also

being at the heart of the Costa Blanca and its

endless beaches, coves and resorts.

little over an hour south of Valencia is Alicante,

the second-largest city of the autonomous

Community of Valencia. Midway between

Catalunya and Andalusia in culture, it is the elder

of the two cities, originating some 5000 years BCE.

This means the area has been an inhabited centre

for over 7000 years, and was already known when

Greek and Phoenician colonists began building their

trading port – long before Romans or Moors ever

set foot on these shores. Alicante has seen battles,

sieges, plagues, civil war, inundations and fire, but

survived them all, producing a city that is at once

rugged and beautiful.

It was the site of skirmishes between Moors and

Christians, and for a while found itself dominated

by Cid el Campeón, the famous Spanish warlord,

before settling down to become a more sedate

port city. The 1950s brought renewed importance as

the centre of an expanding tourist region, and this

has continued to this day, though academic institutions,

tech parks and film studios have added to growing

diversification in recent years.

AWAY FROM THE BEACH

In a port city such as Alicante, the focus will naturally

always be on the sea, and the spectacular bay and its

broad sandy beaches make it hard to pay attention to

anything else, but there is in fact more to this city than

just miles of sand, azure waters, wooded cliffs and the

palm-lined seaside esplanade. Alicante is certainly a

scenic city, but it is also atmospheric, so be sure not to

miss out on its authentic side.

Tourism is all good and well, but if you were to make your

way to the hill atop of which stands an ancient fortress

(the Castle of Santa Barbara on Mount Benacantil),

your breath would most likely be snatched away by

the spectacular views across the city, the beaches, the

port and the blue expanses of sea and air. Only when

you survey this does the true length of Alicante’s history

become clear, and what this means in terms of legacy.

Walk through the main thoroughfares, through shaded

parks and elegant avenues, and you will come to

the true barrios or city suburbs of Alicante. It is in

places such as the Barrio de la Santa Cruz that you’ll

encounter traditional character and colour, both in the

atmospheric architecture and the little taverns, cafes

and tablaos where fiery flamenco shows still spark with

raw non-touristy passion. The little, tightly-packed houses

stand against steep inclines, dissected by narrow streets

and alleyways.

But by all means end your visit to this most Mediterranean

of cities to the pretty Tabarca Island, which lies just a few

kilometres offshore. Once a lair for Barbary Corsairs, it is

now a beauty spot popular with visiting tourists – and

there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be one of them, so

complete a well-rounded exploration of Alicante with

some typically hedonistic sun-worshipping.

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021

PLUSVALIA:

value added

tax for

property in

Spain

The ‘Plusvalia’ tax is one that every property owner

and new buyer should become familiar with, as it is

a tax applicable to any increase in the value of the

land your property stands upon when it is sold to a new

owner. It is important to note that the tax only applies

to the value of the land, and not to the property on it.

Furthermore, it only affects dwellings that are classified

as urban, not those defined as ‘rustic’.

Each municipality is responsible for collecting this tax

themselves, although some of them may delegate

its collection to their local Provincial Revenue Board.

Either way, it is due within 30 days of the property being

transferred to the new owner.

WHO PAYS PLUSVALIA?

In the case of a property sale, the seller must pay the

tax. If the property is left as an inheritance, then the

person receiving the property is responsible for paying

it.

HOW IS IT CALCULATED?

Plusvalia tax is calculated by multiplying the tax base

by the tax rate:

a) The tax base is the increase in value that the property

has experienced during the time it has been owned

by the seller. This increase is calculated by multiplying

the cadastral value of the property at the time of

its sale by the annual rate set by each municipal

council (with the maximum limit established by law).

The calculation is based on whole years, not on

fractions of years.

b) The type of lien is the rate set by the municipal

council, and there is a 30% limit established by law.

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There are, however, some variations depending

on the years of ownership.

RECENT CHANGES

Back in 2017 the Spanish courts determined that the

method of calculating the tax was only valid if the

seller profited from the sale, and that it would be

unconstitutional to levy the tax if there was a loss.

Another court then ruled that any loss must be proven,

either through documentation or expert evidence. In

proving a loss, neither the expenses associated with

the transfer of the property, nor any expenses for

property improvements could be taken into account,

since what is taxed is the increase in the value of the

urban land and not the buildings upon them.

And in October 2019, the Constitutional Court

ruled that that the tax is also unconstitutional when

the calculated tax payment is greater than the

increase in value actually obtained by the seller,

because “it would be taxed for a non-existent, virtual

or fictitious income, producing an excess of taxation

contrary to the constitutional principles of economic

capacity and is non-confiscatory (article 31.1 Spanish

Constitution).”

In 2021, the Supreme Court ruled that the method

of calculation applied thus far is unfairly biased

towards the town halls, favouring payment of

taxes even when there was no real profit made.

of calculation will be more evenly balanced between

town halls and property owners, and therefore more

in line with the reality of a situation, in which value

added tax only becomes applicable when a profit

has been made.

There were hopes that the ruling would go

even beyond this result and allow for claims and

reparations on the part of those who had ‘overpaid’

in the past, but it seems the authorities are happy for

the old system to end but also want to protect town

halls from claims. Overall, the ruling is a very important

step, and one that gives homeowners in Spain added

assurance that their interests are being heard and

acted upon – so all existing properties and any new

properties bought since autumn 2021 will fall under a

far more favourable method of calculating the value

added tax on property sales.

BENEFITTING HOMEOWNERS IN SPAIN

In other words, new buyers, existing

homeowners and those selling their properties

in Spain will no longer have to worry about

unfairly high Plusvalía taxes, as the new form

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

OSTA C

Less famous by name than some of Spain’s other costas, the

Costa Cálida extends from the Costa Blanca southwards to

the border of Almería province, covering a 250-kilometre

stretch of shoreline within the province of Murcia.

It’s a classic Mediterranean region of blue seas, rocky cliffs,

secluded bays and coves, and golden beaches dotted

with holiday resorts and traditional fishing towns. As its name

indicates, this is a warm coast, with warm summers and very

comfortable winters, and as rainfall is low the region also

offers a healthy climate to visitors and residents, making it

much-loved with families and especially retired tourists and

homebuyers from northern countries.

Formerly – and still – a rural area sprinkled with little country

towns, this is now a major holiday and retirement destination

that is marked by two distinct areas:

MAR MENOR

At its northernmost point, in El Mojón, the Costa Cálida

touches the Costa Blanca. South from here is the Parque

Regional de Las Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar, a

coastal marshland protectorate named for the nearby town

of San Pedro del Pinatar. The centre of town is surrounded by

extensive residential and holiday resorts in suburbs such as

Las Esperanzas, Los Imbernones, El Salero, Las Pachecas, Los

Antolinos, Las Beatas, Los Sáez, Lo Pagán, Molino del Chirrete

and Los Cuarteros, which front the main feature of this part of

the Costa Cálida: the Mar Menor.

Where the more inland resorts offer residential golf living

complete with extensive on-site amenities and leisure facilities,

the beachside area that extends southwards towards

Santiago de la Ribera and fronts the western shoreline of the

Mar Menor up to a military airbase provides a more classic

beachside ambience. Though this is not the Mediterranean

but a saltwater lagoon – at 170km2 Europe’s largest – known

for its warm, shallow waters and delicious sweet fish. The lower

section is dotted with smaller resorts and towns such as La

Roda, Playa de Los Narejos, Los Alcázares, Bahía Bella, Punta

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ALIDA

San Javier

Murcia

Santiago de

la Ribera

La Manga

La Azohia

Cartegena

Mazarron Isla Plana

Aguilas

Sunrise at

Playa de la

Misericordia,

Costa Calida

Brava, Los Urrutias, Estrella De Mar, Los Nietos and Mar de

Cristal.

LA MANGA

The saltwater lagoon conditions of the wonderful Mar

Menor are created by a dry climate and the 22-kilometere

long sand bar that extends from the protected Playas de

La Llana down to the La Manga resort at its southern end,

where the land spit joins the mainland at Cabo Palos and

Playa Honda. Among the famous golf courses in this area

are the Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort, Hacienda del

Alamo, El Valle and of course La Manga itself.

COASTLINE

If the northern areas surrounding the Mar Menor are where

most of the tourist and residential resorts are located,

then the coastline of rocky cliffs and bays extending from

La Manga down to Aguilas is rather more natural and

authentic. Here you will find a succession of fishing towns

such as

Puerto de Mazarrón and natural coastal reserves – as well as

the historic port of Cartagena, a cultural gem first founded

by Carthaginian traders more than 2000 years ago.

In the later years of Franco’s rule, a US aeroplane

accidently dropped bombs during naval exercises not far

from the coast. It sparked a massive ‘search and rescue’

operation on the part of the American forces, who much to

their embarrassment could not locate the errant devices.

Fortunately, some locals managed to do just that several

weeks later, and the potentially dangerous of equipment

was returned to its red-faced owners. Ever since, the Costa

Cálida has become not only one of the favourite tourist

destinations in Europe, but thanks to its climate, scenery

and good value for money, also a popular focus for yearround

residence and retirement.

The beach at

Mazarron

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

Costa Cálida

Market Review

Known as the ‘warm coast’,

the Costa Cálida extends over

250 kilometres of dramatically

changing shoreline within the

province of Murcia. Thanks

to its scenery, amenities

and healthy climate, it has

become one of the most

popular places to live and

own a property.

The Costa Cálida is sometimes mistaken for the Costa

Blanca, which in truth begins just after Murcia’s most

northerly coastal resort town, San Pedro del Pinatar.

Few of Spain’s littoral regions and holiday destinations

can boast such variety of scenery as the Costa Cálida,

and this, coupled with its dry, healthy climate and

extensive leisure facilities makes it one of the most

in-demand places to visit and live among foreign

homebuyers.

If the dream of owning a summer home on Spanish soil

first began in locations such as the Costa Brava and

the Balearic Islands, and later spread to the likes of the

Canaries, the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol, then

the Costa Cálida is a relatively newer but already very

well-established destination in its own right, with a broad

offer of inland and seaside locations to choose from – a

factor that is given added depth by the scenic diversity

of this fascinating region.

VARIETY OF CHOICE

In a region where you’re never more than half an hour’s

drive from two international airports and can similarly

choose from the cultural attractions of historic cities such

as the regional capital of Murcia and the ancient port

city of Cartagena, variety is the name of the game. The

most famous of the many golf courses are Hacienda

Riquelme Golf Resort, El Valle, Hacienda del Alamo and

the famous La Manga Club, which enjoy one of the

longest playing seasons in Europe.

The same is true of a summer beach season that offers

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a wide variety of settings and resort towns, not to mention

one of the most unique features in Europe – the 170km2

Mar Menor, a saltwater lagoon whose relatively shallow

waters are ideal for water sports. Another stunning natural

phenomenon in the area is the 22-kilometre long La

Manga sandbar, which divides the Mar Menor from the

Mediterranean Sea, while the southern Costa Cálida is

marked by dramatic coves.

PROPERTY MARKET

If you choose to own a holiday home or live in the

Costa Cálida year-round, choice once again becomes

a notable factor, as there is the option of buying in a

Spanish town or village, a coastal resort, a golf country

club or also smaller purpose-built communities, many of

which are gated and offer amenities such as restaurants,

cafes, sports clubs and shops. The most popular of these

are Tore-Pacheco, Los Alcazares, Villamartin, San Pedro

del Pinatar, Roda, Sucina, Fuente Alamo, Corvera and La

Palma.

Here, and elsewhere, you will find apartments ranging

from €75.000 upwards, townhouses and bungalows from

under €100.000 upwards and private villas from as little

as €200.000. Some require a little renovation, while others

are perfectly maintained, and there are also newly-built

modern projects from as little as €120.000 to multi-million

modern mansions. The combination of sun, setting and

value for money ensures the Costa Cálida remains a

popular destination with strong demand for its lifestyle and

properties.

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

VALENCIA

elegance by the Mediterranean

The capital of its own autonomous region within

Spain’s federal system, Valencia is one of the cultural,

historic, gastronomic and architectural gems of

Spain, a city of boulevards, monuments and parks that

also has a sandy beach. One of the ultimate lifestyle

destinations among Europe’s larger urban centres, it is

Mediterranea personified, and draws on a rich historical

heritage that includes the Iberians, Romans, Moors and

subsequent Spanish monarchy.

Valencia is also the home of paella, one of Spain’s

most iconic dishes, which like the saffron fields has its

spiritual home in the Albufera wetlands located just

south of the city. A little further south the northern part

of the Costa Blanca begins, positioning Valencia ideally

between Barcelona, Madrid, the Balearic Islands and

endless beaches to the south. Not surprisingly, it is very

popular among European and American visitors and

homebuyers.

MODERN MEETS CLASSIC

The city that has such a colourful past is also forwardlooking,

and among its landmarks are not just the

cathedrals, palaces, parks and grand edifices of other

centuries, but also gleaming modern ones in areas

such as Penya-Roja and the otherworldly theatres

and museums of Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

who would go on to become world-famous, the

L’Hemisfèric, Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia and Museu

de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe helped to give the city

a truly modern identity.

For all this, some of its greatest sites are still classical,

including the beautiful Mercat Central market, the

Monastério de San Miguel de los Reyes, the Mercat

de Colon in local Modernista style, Llotja de la Seda,

the city’s main cathedral and de Convento de

Santo Domingo, to name just a few. The Palau de

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For those who are not familiar with Spain’s

third-largest city, it is a wonderful blend of

the first two – Madrid and Barcelona – but

on a more personable scale and full its own

character and charm. In other words: this

is one of the most attractive cities on the

Mediterranean.

la Generalitat Valenciana, the belfry tower of Santa

Catalina church and the Sant Joan del Mercat are

also gorgeous examples of local architecture, but

above all it is a delight to stroll through the avenues,

squares and parks of Valencia.

A LIVELY PLACE

But if you’ve come to relax, then head for the beach

or the long park that has been created where the

Turia River once flowed, for the rest of Valencia is all

about action. It’s a city of sport, with one of the top

football clubs in the Spanish Liga, for several years

also home to the F1 Valencia Street Grand Prix, hosts

major international regattas, and is of course famous

for the Fallas, one of the noisiest festivals in Spain, and

therefore Europe. Expect raucous fire cracker salvos

along with processions of amazing (and huge) effigies,

which are spectacularly burnt on the final day.

Valencia is also home to many excellent food

markets, cafes and restaurants, and in addition to

paella is also the birthplace of Orxata de Xufa – a

drink served chilled that is made from tiger nuts. It

also comes in ice cream form, but the liquid version

is best for washing down Farton pastries. Aigua de

València – a cava cocktail mixed with orange juice

and vodka or gin – is one of many local delicacies,

and if the names sound strangely not quite Castillano

then that is because, while most people speak

Spanish here, the local vernacular is Valenciano, a

close relative of Catalan.

In many ways Valencia blends the best of its two

larger cousins, Barcelona and Madrid, and does so

on a more intimate scale in a great setting by the

sea. In fact, there are few reasons why you shouldn’t

experience this city for yourself.

SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM l

LEGAL ADVICE

Living in Spain

If you intend to live in Spain for more than 90 days

in every 180 days then as you may already knowthe

rules for non EU citizens have changed since

January 31st 2001.

We all love the weather in Spain the wonderful

beaches and most of all the outdoors and lifestyle

that is on the wish list for most UK citizens especially

those who plan to retire.

Therefore if you intend to spend any considerable

amount of time in Spain and if you want to remain

longer then 90 days in every six month period then

it is required to apply for your Spanish non-lucrative

visa. This must be done form you home country by

application to the Spanish consul. It is also advisable

to apply for an NIE number for things like opening

a bank account, registeration of a Spansih mobile

phome and also to buy a car. Infact the Spanish

NIE number is used for most things so even if you

intend to stay for shorter periods but live in Spain

part time you will find that life without a NIE is almost

impossible.

For both the NIE number and the Spansih residency

visa (non-lucrative visa) you will need to fill in forms

in Spanish, also you will need to present the required

documents, some of the documents would need to be

translated and certified together with your passport,

utility bills and bank statements all with multiple

copies.

This process can be discouraging for those who

are considering a move to Spain, and expectadly

difficulties with the language, as well as which

documents to produce. Legal advice and support

is recommended to the simplify the process and

lead the way to a straight forward and stress free

application process. The timing which is most

important for those people wanting to buy a property

at the same time as selling a property and then move

to Spain as there are time restrictions on visas once

granted and necessary to apply for the residency TIE

card.

30 l SPAINPROPERTYGUIDE.COM

The

Spanish

power of

attorney

THERE IS AN EASIER WAY!

By Michel Cruz

Legal Services in Spain has produced a simple easy to follow guide

under their website https://www.getspanishresidency.com/

You can apply for your Spanish residency online or simply

arrange a free no obligation 30 minute telephone consultation,

that will save you time and headaches. Legal services in Spain will

help you every step of the way to becoming a resident in Spain.

· Assurance of the correct paperwork completed prior to visiting

the authorities

· An appointment made for you at a mutually convenient time at

the Police station and the Health centre

· Support of English speaking legal professionals on hand to

answer any questions you may have and provide the advice you

will need

· Assistance to find insurance companies for you to choose the

health insurance package that best suits your needs

· Help with your health insurance agent to ensure all documents

are issued correctly prior to presentation to the Spanish

authorities.

In Spain the power of attorney is known

as poder notarial the document must be

drawn in front of a public notary and it

must clearly stipulate the types of activities

that are granted to another person who can

be a family member or a Spanish abogado

(lawyer).

To grant someone the power to act on

your behalf must be carefully considered as

well as the powers you are granting to that

person.

These powers are usually used when

overseas property buyers instruct a lawyer

to act for them. Simple actions such as

opening a bank account and registering for a

NIE number are amongst the common uses,

they would normally include the power to sign

deeds on your behalf to buy, sell or inherit

property, or to issue legal proceedings.

A power of attorney is a powerful document

which authorises the appointed attorneys,

and must be only be used for trusted people,

to carry out wide ranging powers on your

behalf.

In Spain we have general powers of

attorney and special powers of attorney. A

general power of attorney is by its nature

wide ranging with general powers to carry

out a number of tasks. A special power of

attorney is used for a specific purpose, for

example to issue legal proceedings or to

incorporate a company.

If you want to get further advice and

consultation with a lawyer contact Alex

Radford legal abogado in Spain.

Spain Property Guide - January 2022 Issue 7

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