Real estate FAQs in Alicante

On top of the property price, you need to budget for taxes and purchase costs such as notary, land registry, admin fees and, if you need a mortgage, the valuation. As a general guide, many buyers allow an extra 10% to 12% on top of the purchase price, though the figure varies depending on whether you buy new build or resale, whether a reduced tax rate applies and whether you need financing. Before making an offer, it is worth calculating the total cost of the transaction so you know how much you actually need to contribute.

It depends on the type of property. On new build you usually pay VAT and stamp duty (AJD). On resale you usually pay transfer tax (ITP). In the Valencian Community reduced rates may apply in certain cases, for example for a first main home, young buyers, large families or people with disabilities, provided the legal requirements are met. That is why it is advisable to review your specific case and confirm applicable taxes before signing a deposit contract.

Yes. Mortgage pre-approval lets you search with a realistic budget and move faster when the right home appears. It also shows the seller you are financially credible, reduces the risk of delays due to financing and can help you negotiate. At Inmolux we recommend checking mortgage viability before making an offer or signing a deposit contract.

Before signing arras it is important to check the legal, financial and technical position of the property. Key points include the land registry extract, ownership, charges, mortgages, embargoes, local tax receipts, community fees, possible special levies, energy certificate, actual condition and agreed purchase terms. The deposit contract should also clearly state the price, amount paid, deadline for completion at the notary, financing conditions if applicable and consequences in case of breach.

In many transactions around 10% of the purchase price is paid, although this is not mandatory and can vary by agreement between buyer and seller. What matters is not only the amount but that the contract is well drafted and protects both parties. Before paying any money, basic property documentation should have been reviewed.

Yes. Foreign buyers can buy property in Spain. They usually need an NIE, proof of source of funds and a Spanish bank account or accepted payment means for the transaction. If the buyer cannot travel to Alicante, the purchase can be handled through legal representation or a notarial power of attorney, provided documentation is properly prepared. At Inmolux we support international buyers through each step: search, viewings, offer, deposit, notary and follow-up procedures.

Yes. A purchase can progress remotely, especially with local advice. Virtual viewings, video calls, document review and signing via power of attorney are possible if you cannot travel. We still recommend a careful review of the property, area, documentation and purchase terms before making a final decision.

It depends on the transaction. If the buyer has approved financing and documentation is in order, the process can move quite quickly. Mortgages, outstanding charges, foreign buyers, powers of attorney or extra paperwork can extend timelines. The deposit contract usually sets a deadline for signing at the notary, typically agreed between buyer and seller according to both parties' needs.

Yes. At Inmolux we help buyers choose an area based on budget, lifestyle and purchase goal. Searching for a main home, second residence, investment, proximity to the sea, schools, services or good links to the centre are not the same. Our knowledge of the Alicante market helps us guide searches in areas such as Alicante Centre, Playa de San Juan, PAU 5, Cabo de las Huertas, Albufereta, Vistahermosa and other high-demand residential zones.

Yes. We support the buyer from defining needs through to completion. We help you search, arrange viewings, analyse prices, review documentation, submit offers, negotiate terms, coordinate the deposit and prepare signing at the notary. The aim is for you to buy with confidence, clarity and without rushed decisions.

The best time to sell does not depend only on the season. Real demand in your area, property type, available competition, launch price and marketing strategy all matter. In Alicante, some homes see stronger demand at certain times, especially those linked to the beach, second homes or international buyers. Even so, a well-valued, well-presented and well-promoted property can attract interest all year round.

For a solid valuation we analyse what most affects real market price: location and micro-area, building age and condition, upkeep, energy efficiency, property type, differentiating features and active supply and demand. Terrace, views, orientation, floor level, parking, lift, layout, renovation status or direct competition can significantly change the recommended price range.

Real value combines market data with a specific analysis of the property. Looking only at price per square metre in the area is not enough. At Inmolux we review comparables, direct competition, property features, condition, active demand, exact location, orientation, light, views, parking, terrace and possible improvements. From that we define a realistic price range and a launch strategy suited to the market.

It is best to have basic documentation ready from the start: title deed, updated land registry extract, energy certificate, local tax receipts, community charges, certificate of payments up to date with the community and utility paperwork. Where applicable you may also need a second-home licence, details of any outstanding mortgage, charges, inheritance, renovations or any legal issue affecting the property. The energy certificate is mandatory to sell or let existing homes and must be registered.

The seller should mainly plan for two taxes: municipal capital gains tax and personal income tax on capital gain if the sale is profitable. Municipal capital gains tax is paid to the town hall and taxes the increase in urban land value. In Alicante, the council offers online self-assessment and calculates the amount using objective and direct methods, allowing the applicable result to be chosen in each case. For income tax, capital gain may be exempt in certain cases, for example reinvestment in another main home meeting requirements, or if the seller is over 65 and sells their main home.

Selling time depends on area, price, property condition, active demand and direct competition. A well-valued and well-presented home usually attracts more interest from the first weeks. If the asking price is above market or presentation does not stand out against similar homes, the process can take longer and may require later price adjustments.

A mortgaged home can be sold without problem, but economic and registry cancellation must be coordinated. Usually part of the sale price is used to repay the outstanding bank debt. Before signing, request the bank's certificate of outstanding debt and prepare the paperwork needed to complete correctly at the notary.

Before listing we analyse how to improve presentation to attract more interest. This may include tidying, depersonalising, minor repairs, lighting, professional photography, video, virtual tour or communication tailored to the buyer profile. The aim is to launch with a polished image, competitive price and clear arguments against the competition.

Once an offer is accepted, the main terms are reviewed: price, deadlines, payment method, buyer financing, included furniture and expected completion date. Then the deposit contract is prepared, documentation is coordinated and progress is made towards signing at the notary. At Inmolux we support the owner throughout so the transaction closes safely and without surprises.