Complete Guide to Buying Property in Altea
Thinking about buying a property in Altea? Whether you’re dreaming of a seafront villa, a modern apartment near the promenade, or a peaceful home in Altea Hills, this guide will walk you through the full process of buying property in this iconic Costa Blanca town — from paperwork to costs and expert tips.
1. Why Buy Property in Altea?
Altea combines cultural charm with coastal elegance. Its whitewashed Old Town, pebble beaches, palm-lined promenade, and scenic hillside views have attracted international buyers for decades — especially from the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany. Whether you’re relocating or investing in a holiday home, Altea offers:
- Stable property values and demand
- High-end developments like Altea Hills and Mascarat
- A slower pace of life with year-round Mediterranean sunshine
- Excellent connectivity via the AP-7 and Alicante Airport (45 min)
And unlike some overbuilt areas, Altea has preserved its authentic character. You won’t find high-rise hotels here — just charm, culture, and quality living.
2. What Types of Properties Can You Buy in Altea?
Altea offers a wide mix of properties for different budgets:
- Seaview villas in Altea Hills or Galera de las Palmeras
- Modern apartments near the beach or marina
- Rustic fincas in Altea la Vella or rural outskirts
- Luxury penthouses with panoramic views in Mascarat
Average budgets range from €300,000 for a quality apartment to €2M+ for exclusive villas in gated communities.
3. The Buying Process in Spain: Step-by-Step
The buying process in Spain is safe but can feel unfamiliar if you’re not from here. Here’s what it typically looks like:
- Property reservation: Sign a reservation contract and pay a small deposit (usually €3,000–€6,000).
- Get your NIE number: Required for any property transaction in Spain. We assist our clients with this.
- Hire a lawyer: Independent legal support is key. We’ll recommend trusted partners.
- Due diligence: Your lawyer will check the land registry, debts, building permits, etc.
- Sign the purchase contract: Also called the "Contrato de Arras", this confirms the deal and typically requires a 10% payment.
- Final deed at notary: The final signing and payment is done before a Spanish notary.
From start to finish, the process usually takes 4–8 weeks if all paperwork is ready.
4. What Documents Do You Need to buy Property in Spain?
- Valid passport or EU ID card
- NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
- Proof of funds or mortgage pre-approval
- Reservation contract + private purchase agreement
- Final notary deed (escritura pública)
For a deeper explanation, check our article in Moraira: What Documents You Need to Buy Property in Spain
5. What Does It Cost to Buy in Altea?
In addition to the purchase price, you should budget approximately 10–13% extra in buying costs:
- Transfer tax: 10% on resale properties
- VAT (IVA): 10% on new builds + 1.5% stamp duty
- Notary and registration: ~1–1.5%
- Legal fees: ~1% (varies by lawyer)
You can find a full breakdown here: Costs of Buying Property in Altea
6. Is Buying in Altea Safe and Legal?
Yes — if you work with the right professionals. Altea is a secure market with a high number of international homeowners. That said, it’s essential to:
- Work with a licensed estate agent who knows the area
- Have a lawyer conduct due diligence and ensure everything is legal
- Avoid cash deals or unregistered constructions
At Altea Moraira Villas, we’ve guided hundreds of clients safely through the process — and we only list properties that pass our quality checks.
7. Do You Need Residency to Buy?
No. Foreigners can buy property in Altea without being residents. However, if you plan to stay long-term or rent out the property, some additional rules apply.
"Client story: We thank Martijn and Zino for their professionalism from the beginning of their involvement in the sale of our apartment. Each in his field contributed to the success of this operation. Always smiling, welcoming and optimistic about the successful completion of the sale of this property.
Without any hesitation we highly recommend the agency of Altéa Moraira Villas managed by Martijn and assisted by Zino." — Daniel Antoine Rose
8. Our Tip: Trust the Local Experts
Online research is helpful, but buying a home in Spain is still a very human process. Having a team on the ground that knows the paperwork, the neighborhoods, and the hidden gems makes a big difference.
We’re not just agents — we live here. Our Altea team can guide you personally from the first viewing to the final signature, and even after you’ve moved in.
- You can buy in Altea as a foreigner without needing Spanish residency
- You’ll need an NIE, a lawyer, and ~10–13% extra budget for costs
- The process typically takes 4–8 weeks from reservation to notary
- Altea offers a mix of sea view villas, modern flats, and hillside homes
Common Questions About Buying in Altea — Answered
Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a non-resident?
Yes. Most Spanish banks offer up to 60–70% LTV mortgages to non-residents. Interest rates vary but are usually competitive. We can connect you with trusted lenders.
How long does it take to buy a house in Altea?
Typically 4 to 8 weeks once you’ve selected a property and gathered the necessary paperwork.
Can I rent out my property after purchase?
Yes, but you’ll need a tourist license for short-term rentals. These are regulated by the Valencian government and availability depends on location and property type.
Are there any hidden costs?
If you work with us and a transparent lawyer, there shouldn’t be. We always give a full cost estimate before you commit to any purchase.
Ready to Make Altea Your Home?
Buying property in Altea in 2025 is more straightforward than you might think — especially when you have a trustworthy team guiding you through each step. Whether you’re eyeing a luxury villa in Altea Hills or a cozy apartment in the Old Town, we’re here to help you turn your dream into reality.
Want to start your Altea property search? Contact our team for a no-obligation consultation.
