🌴 What Happened to a Friend’s Cousin with Her Home in Costa Blanca (And How You Can Avoid It) By Lenka If I had a euro for every time someone told me, “Nobody mentioned that when I bought,” I’d already have my own beach bar by now. Today I want to share the story of a friend’s cousin (yes, really), who bought herself a stunning little house in Costa Blanca. A picture-perfect place, with blooming bougainvillea at the entrance and all. She didn’t rent it out, only stayed there for a couple of weeks a year… it was her peaceful escape from the freezing winters of Prague. And like many others, she thought: —“If I’m not making money with the house… I don’t have to declare anything, right?” Well… not exactly. 🧾 The Reality (That Many Don’t Know) In Spain, even if you don’t rent out your property, you still have to file a tax declaration every year if you’re not a fiscal resident. It’s called the Non-Resident Income Tax, and it’s submitted using the well-known Modelo 210. Why? Because the Spanish tax office assumes that, even if your home sits empty, it generates a kind of “imaginary income” (they call it imputed income). And that “income,” even if it’s fictional, must be declared and taxed. Yep, it sounds strange. But that’s the law. 😨 The Scare My friend’s cousin had no clue. Nobody explained this when she bought the house. No one from her previous agency even mentioned it. Years went by without filing Modelo 210… until someone randomly brought it up over lunch one day. She called me in a panic, thinking she was going to be hit with a huge fine. Luckily, we helped her get everything sorted out, filed the declarations from previous years, and got her back on track—finally letting her sleep peacefully again. And let me tell you—this isn’t a rare case. I’ve had so many clients who bought through other agencies and came to me later saying: —“But my friend never files that!” —“Doesn’t the bank take care of it?” —“Nobody told me this was required…” And I always say the same thing: not knowing doesn’t exempt you from the responsibility. But we can help you fix it. ✅ What You Really Need to Know If you’re thinking about buying a property in Spain—or already own one—and you’re not a resident, take note: Yes, you must file Modelo 210 every year. Even if you don’t rent the property. It’s not the same as the local IBI tax. This one is national. And yes, if you’ve missed a few years, it can be fixed—but the sooner, the better. When I work with international clients buying here on the Costa Blanca, I don’t just focus on finding them the perfect home. I make sure they understand everything that comes with owning a property in Spain. Because for me, the real work starts after handing over the keys. So now you know: if you’re about to make your Mediterranean dream come true, start off on the right foot. And if you’ve already made it but skipped that little “detail,” don’t worry—you’ve still got time to make it right. We’re here to help you, with experience, with solutions… and always with a smile. With love, Lenka 🌞

Buy Nice or Buy Twice: The Key to a Secure Investment in Costa Blanca Buying a property in Costa Blanca is an exciting decision. Imagining yourself enjoying the Mediterranean sun, with sea views and the tranquility of a home in Spain, is the dream of many. However, what seems like the perfect investment can turn into a headache if key factors are not considered from the start. This is where the importance of having an expert real estate agent in the area comes into play. Because, as the saying goes, buy nice or buy twice. More Than Just a Good Appearance: The Importance of Local Knowledge Many foreign buyers are swayed by a property's first impression: a beautiful terrace, an infinity pool, or modern decor. But the reality is that not all properties are what they seem. A specialized real estate agent in Costa Blanca not only helps you find the home of your dreams but also evaluates what is not visible to the untrained eye. For example, a property may be in optimal condition, but if it is located in an urbanization with structural issues or a financially troubled homeowners' association, you could face expensive future assessments. The same goes for homes that, while currently enjoying unobstructed sea views, have vacant land in front that could be developed in the future, meaning that attractive view could soon disappear. The Value of an Experienced Agent: Avoiding Costly Mistakes Market experience allows an agent to detect aspects that an uninformed buyer would not notice. A well-versed agent in the area: Knows the developers and builders in Costa Blanca, distinguishing between those with a track record of quality and those that might compromise your investment. Identifies structural or zoning issues in a property that could lead to unexpected costs. Assesses the investment potential, determining whether the property is suitable for short-term rentals and whether its future appreciation is promising. Negotiation and Valuation: Getting the Best Price for You One of the biggest mistakes foreign buyers make is paying more than a property is actually worth. A buyer’s agent has access to market data, comparing similar properties in the same development or surrounding areas. This allows for an objective valuation and the ability to negotiate a fair price based on the current market conditions. Additionally, a trained professional can predict real estate trends in Costa Blanca, advising you whether it’s the right time to buy or if it’s better to wait for a better opportunity. Your Peace of Mind and Security: The Benefit of Having an Expert Buying a second home in Alicante to escape the cold winters and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle is an important decision. But beyond the enjoyment, it is essential to ensure that this investment is solid and free of unforeseen issues. With the guidance of a specialized real estate agent in Costa Blanca, you ensure that every euro invested is backed by professional analysis, strategic negotiations, and a long-term vision. Because when it comes to real estate, true savings do not come from avoiding a commission, but from making informed decisions and avoiding costly mistakes. So remember: buy nice or buy twice. At Elevate Costa Blanca, we are here to help you find the perfect property in Costa Blanca with the assurance that your investment is in the best hands. Contact us and let’s make your dream of living by the Mediterranean a reality.

Selling a house doesn’t necessarily mean you have to remove all furniture and personal items. In Spain, the law doesn’t require you to deliver an empty property, but there are some key points to consider to avoid misunderstandings. It all depends on the agreement with the buyer and what is mentioned in the sale offer. What Does the Law Say? There’s no legal obligation to leave the house empty, but anything mentioned in the property listing or agreed upon in the sale contract must remain. For example, if you advertise the house with included appliances, you’ll need to leave them. The same applies to items like air conditioning units or built-in furniture. What Is Typically Left in the House? Although there are no strict rules, it’s common to leave certain fixed or built-in elements, such as:   Built-in kitchen appliances (oven, extractor hood, stovetop). Basic fixtures like faucets, toilets, heating systems, and electrical connections. On the other hand, personal belongings or non-fixed items, such as paintings, sofas, or refrigerators, are usually taken by the seller. However, this can also be negotiated with the buyer. Negotiation and Agreements If the buyer is interested in keeping some furniture or appliances, both parties can negotiate and add the value of those items to the sale price. Alternatively, the buyer may request that the house is delivered completely empty, especially if they plan to renovate it. Avoid Issues by Clarifying Details   If you include furniture or appliances in the sale, ensure they are in working condition. Otherwise, the buyer could file a claim for “hidden defects.” Clearly specify what will remain in the house and what you’ll take to avoid confusion. Documents and Items You Must Provide to the Buyer:   House keys and garage remotes. Instruction manuals for fixed appliances (e.g., the boiler or stovetop). Energy certificate, utility contracts, and copies of recent property tax (IBI) receipts. Useful contacts, such as the property manager or building concierge. In summary, you are not required to completely empty the house, but it’s crucial to be clear about what’s included in the sale. A detailed agreement will prevent issues and make the process smoother. Talk to your real estate agent to ensure everything is well-defined!

Success Stories—The Nova 2 Project A recent success story illustrates our approach perfectly. Our Czech clients were considering a property at the Nova 2 Project. Every step of the process—from showcasing the plot and surroundings to collaborating with developers Sonia and Paco at Zapata’s office—was carefully planned and executed. The process culminated in a video call where the clients, thrilled by high-quality renders, gave their enthusiastic approval. This wasn’t just another property sale; it was the beginning of a beautiful story and a dream fulfilled. Purchasing a Property Online in Costa Blanca: A Significant Decision Purchasing a property is often considered one of life’s most significant and stressful events—ranked right up there with major life changes. Why start here? To fully appreciate the complexity of this decision and the care it requires. At Elevate Costa Blanca, we understand the weight of such decisions. That’s why we make it our mission to provide you with the knowledge, support, and confidence you need to make your dream home a reality, even when purchasing remotely. Here's how the journey unfolds: Step 1: Introduction Call — Understanding Your Needs We begin with a personal touch: an introduction call to get to know you. During this conversation, we take the time to ask detailed questions to understand your lifestyle, requirements, and vision for your new home. This foundational step helps us build a complete picture of what you’re looking for. For some clients, this process may eventually lead to an online purchase, which is a far cry from shopping on Amazon. Instead, it’s a carefully managed process that hinges on trust, patience, and expertise. Step 2: The Online Property Search Once we have a clear understanding of your preferences, the search begins. You’ll gain access to detailed listings, complete with photos, videos, and descriptions of properties in Costa Blanca. While online resources are an excellent starting point, this is where collaboration with a trusted real estate agent becomes essential. Our local expertise allows us to navigate the intricacies of each listing, ensuring that the properties we recommend align with your vision. From location insights to construction details, we go beyond the basics to bring you options worth considering. Step 3: Personalized Support from a Trusted Agent Your agent is the cornerstone of the process. At Elevate Costa Blanca, our agents don’t just present properties—they actively evaluate them. They visit properties in person, inspect the condition, meet developers, and vet every detail. This personalized approach ensures that the properties you’re considering meet your expectations, saving you time and potential frustration. For example, Lenka, one of our star agents, recently worked with clients from the Czech Republic to evaluate multiple projects. Her commitment and attention to detail made their experience seamless and stress-free. Step 4: Time and Patience Are Key Buying a property is not a process to be rushed. It’s a journey that requires thoughtful consideration at every step. Various options are considered, clients ask questions and rely fully on the experience, knowledge, and skills of the real estate agent. This level of care and patience ensures that every decision is made with confidence, turning what can be a stressful experience into a rewarding one. Step 5: Embracing Innovation At Elevate Costa Blanca, we leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance the property-buying experience. One standout tool is virtual reality. Using Oculus glasses, clients can visualize their future homes in stunning detail—right down to features planned for years ahead. This immersive technology allows you to explore every corner of your potential home, helping you feel confident in your decision even from miles away. Why Choose Elevate Costa Blanca? When it comes to buying a property online, having the right partner makes all the difference. At Elevate Costa Blanca, we: Tailor the process to your unique needs: Every client is different, and we adapt our approach accordingly. Use innovative tools: Virtual reality and detailed online resources streamline the process. Ensure transparency and collaboration: You’ll feel confident in every decision. Go the extra mile: From initial consultations to finalizing the purchase, we’re with you every step of the way. Buying a property online in Costa Blanca is an exciting and rewarding journey when you have the right guidance. If you’re ready to begin your story, contact us today. Together, we’ll make your dream home a reality.