Property developers on the Costa Blanca

Do you dream of a new home on the Costa Blanca? A modern villa, a luxury apartment with sea views or an energy-efficient house; a property developer can help you make this dream come true. Buying a new-build property in Spain is an exciting step, but it is essential to know what to expect.

An experienced Costa Blanca property developer can guide you from start to finish. They will take responsibility for the entire construction process and ensure that you can enjoy your new Spanish home with peace of mind.

Here you can read all the information you need about searching and finding a good and reliable property developer. This includes more information on:

• Exactly what a developer does;
• What services a developer offers;
• What to look for when choosing a developer;
• How to check the reliability of a developer.

What exactly a property developer does

A developer is the party that leads the entire construction process of a new home or project. They are involved from the purchase of the land to the delivery of the keys. They know Spanish laws and regulations and work with a network of professionals such as architects, contractors and municipal authorities.

A developer does more than just build. They provide:

• The planning and design of the home;
• Applying for all necessary permits and licenses;
• Coordinating construction;
• Supervising the progress and quality of work;
• The legal settlement and completion of the property.

In short, a property developer takes the complexities of a construction project off your hands so you can concentrate on furnishing your dream home.

What services does a property developer offer

A property developer offers various services aimed at realizing new construction projects.

Project Development:

• Design and architecture;
• Permits and licenses;
• Building and construction;
• Quality control.

Sales Assistance:

• Information and advice on offerings;
• Guidance during the purchase process;
• Legal support.

After-sales service:

• Completion and aftercare;
• Utility disconnection assistance;
• Warranty claim support.

What to look out for when choosing a developer

To be sure of a reliable partner, it is important to pay attention to several points when choosing a developer.

Points of interest:

• Experience and reputation in the region;
• View past projects and ask for customer references;
• A transparent working method and clear agreements on construction time and costs;
• Check that all permits and documents, such as the licencia de obras (building permit), are in order.

By carefully choosing the right developer, you can be assured of a smooth process and a home that meets all your expectations.

How to recognize a certified Costa Blanca property developer?

Purchasing a new-build property in Spain is a dream for many. For this dream to become a reality without unforeseen problems, it is essential that the developer comply with strict regulations. These laws and regulations are designed to protect the buyer and ensure the construction quality and reliability of the projects. Below is a summary of the main aspects that every property developer in Spain must comply with.

Legal and financial securities

A reliable developer in Spain must have the right documents and guarantee the buyer’s financial security. The following points are crucial here:

• Building permit (Licencia de Obra): before the first brick is laid, the developer must have a building permit from the local municipality. This permit confirms that the project complies with local building codes and is essential for a legal start;

• Technical Approval (Visado del Proyecto Técnico): The technical plans of the house must have been approved by the professional association of architects. This ensures that the design is safe and compliant with current standards;

• Certificate of Completion (Licencia de Primera Ocupación): Upon completion of construction, the municipality must issue a certificate declaring the property fit for occupancy. Without this document, the property cannot be officially occupied and utilities cannot be connected;

• Registration in the Property Registry: The developer is responsible for the proper registration of the property in the Registro de la Propiedad. This provides legal security for the buyer and protects against hidden debts or claims on the property;

• Bank Guarantee (Aval Bancario): For off-plan purchases, the developer is required to provide a bank guarantee or similar insurance policy. This ensures that down payments from the buyer will be refunded should the project not be completed.

Construction quality and durability

The quality of construction and materials used must meet strict Spanish standards to ensure longevity and safety.

• Spanish building regulations (Código Técnico de la Edificación): developers must strictly follow the requirements of these regulations, which cover everything from the construction to the insulation and energy efficiency of the home;

• Energy-efficient and environmentally conscious construction: modern projects should integrate energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and good insulation. This contributes to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint;

• Safety standards: a project must meet all safety regulations, such as fire protection and structural stability, to ensure a safe living environment.

Warranty and aftercare

A professional developer offers more than just a new home. Good warranty terms and customer service are invaluable.

• Completion inspection: upon transfer of the property, the buyer has the right to inspect the property and report defects. It is the developer’s job to remedy these defects professionally;

• Legal warranties: the law requires developers to provide warranties of one year on visible defects, three years on installations and as much as 10 years on structural problems of the building;

• Communication and transparency: throughout the project, the developer should communicate openly about progress. Good communication creates trust and is a sign of professionalism.

More tips for checking a broker’s reliability

• Verify identity: note the broker’s RAICV number and ccheck online in the registry to see if the number is correct and if the name and information match what the broker told you;

• References and reputation: Ask the broker for references from previous clients and check online reviews and ratings, for example, on Google or Facebook;

• Seek advice from other professionals: consult with a lawyer or other reliable real estate agent in the area;

• Check the contract: Make sure the broker’s RAICV number is in the contract;

• Ask for additional documents: ask the broker for copies of diplomas, certificates or professional liability insurance.