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Real Estate in Alicante, Spain | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Alicante, Spain

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 09, 2025

Summary: Expats and retirees talk about real estate in Alicante, Spain? How do you find a home in Alicante? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?

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How do I find a place to live in Alicante?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Alicante involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a large villa, depending on your needs and financial situation. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Alicante to find one that suits your lifestyle. Some areas might be closer to the beach, while others are closer to the city center or have a more residential feel. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms that list properties for rent or sale in Alicante, such as Idealista, Fotocasa, and Pisos.com. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, price, size, and other features. In addition to online searches, you might also want to consider hiring a real estate agent. They can help you navigate the local market, arrange viewings, and negotiate contracts. When you find a property you're interested in, it's important to visit it in person before making a decision. This will give you a chance to check the condition of the property, the neighborhood, and ask any questions you might have. Finally, once you've found the perfect place, you'll need to sign a contract. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. If you're not fluent in Spanish, you might want to get a translation of the contract or hire a lawyer to help you understand it. Remember, finding a place to live in a new city can take time, so be patient and don't rush the process," said one person in Alicante.

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With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.

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With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Alicante?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Alicante, is often located in the city center or near the beach, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. These homes are usually modern and spacious, with a blend of Spanish and contemporary architecture. They often feature a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, one to three bedrooms, and one or two bathrooms. Some apartments may also have a balcony or a terrace, perfect for enjoying the warm Spanish weather. The interior design often reflects the Mediterranean lifestyle, with bright colors, tiled floors, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many homes also have air conditioning and heating systems to ensure comfort throughout the year. In terms of amenities, many expat homes in Alicante have access to a communal swimming pool, a garden, or even a tennis court. Some upscale apartments might also offer a gym, a sauna, or a private parking space. Despite being fully equipped and comfortably furnished, these homes often retain traditional Spanish elements such as wooden beams, wrought iron details, or decorative tiles. This blend of modern comfort and traditional charm is part of what makes living in Alicante so appealing to many expats. In terms of location, expat homes are often close to local amenities such as supermarkets, restaurants, and schools. They also offer easy access to public transportation, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. In summary, a typical expat home in Alicante offers a comfortable and convenient living space, with a touch of Spanish charm and easy access to the city's amenities and attractions," said one expat who made the move to Alicante.

Balcells Group Lawyers

With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.

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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Balcells Group Lawyers

With over 40 years of professional experience, Balcells Group provides legal advice on immigration, business, real estate, and tax. They help individuals, companies, investors, students, entrepreneurs, highly-qualified professionals, digital nomads, and more, to enjoy successful law processes in Spain by guiding their clients every step of the way. They speak Spanish, English, Catalan and Russian.

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What is the average cost of housing in Alicante?

If you are thinking about moving to Alicante, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Alicante can vary greatly depending on the location and type of property. For instance, in the city center, you might expect to pay a higher price compared to the outskirts. On average, you could expect to pay around €1,700 per square meter for an apartment in the city center. However, prices can drop to around €1,200 per square meter in less central areas. For rental properties, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center might cost around €500 per month, while a similar property outside the city center could cost around €400 per month. Please note that these are average prices and actual costs may vary," said one expat who made the move to Alicante.

Should I buy or rent a home in Alicante?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Alicante, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Alicante, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Alicante for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to build equity over time and could provide a sense of stability and permanence. On the other hand, renting might be a better option if you're not planning to stay in Alicante for a long time. Renting offers more flexibility, as you can move more easily if your circumstances change. It also means you won't have to worry about property maintenance and other responsibilities that come with homeownership. Financially, buying a home requires a significant upfront cost, including a down payment and closing costs. However, it could be more cost-effective in the long run if property values increase. Renting, while less of an initial financial commitment, could end up being more expensive over time, especially if rental prices rise. It's also worth considering the current state of the property market in Alicante. If it's a buyer's market, with plenty of homes for sale and lower prices, it might be a good time to buy. If it's a renter's market, with high demand for rental properties and lower rental prices, renting might be the better option. In conclusion, whether you should buy or rent a home in Alicante depends on your personal and financial circumstances, as well as the current state of the property market. It's a decision that requires careful consideration and, ideally, advice from a real estate professional," said one expat in Alicante.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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