Buying Property in Costa Cálida: Complete UK Buyers Guide

Jan 27, 2026

Buying Property In Costa Cálida: A Complete Guide For UK Buyers

Buying a property in Spain is a dream for many UK buyers but the process can feel daunting if you’re unfamiliar with how things work.

The good news? Buying property in Costa Cálida is straightforward, transparent, and well-established, especially when guided by an experienced local estate agent.

In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything UK buyers need to know from the buying process and costs to timelines and common questions so you can move forward with confidence.

Why UK Buyers Are Choosing Costa Cálida

Costa Cálida has become increasingly popular with UK buyers looking for:

✅ Excellent value for money compared to Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol

✅ A relaxed, authentic Spanish lifestyle

✅ Year-round sunshine and mild winters

✅ Coastal towns without mass tourism

✅ Easy access via regional airports

Areas such as Mazarrón, Puerto de Mazarrón, Bolnuevo, and Isla Plana offer a wide range of properties from affordable apartments to detached villas making Costa Cálida suitable for retirees, holiday-home buyers, and permanent movers alike.

Step-by-Step: How Buying Property in Spain Works

1️⃣ Choose the Right Area & Property

The first step is deciding where and what to buy. Costa Cálida offers a mix of:

🔹 Coastal apartments

🔹 Traditional townhouses

🔹 Golf-course villas

🔹 New-build developments

👉 Start by browsing Mercers’ Costa Cálida property listings to understand prices, locations, and property types.

2️⃣ Make an Offer

Once you’ve found a property, an offer is made through the estate agent. Negotiation is common, especially on resale properties.

If accepted, the property is usually taken off the market while the legal process begins.

3️⃣ Appoint an Independent Solicitor

UK buyers should always use an independent Spanish solicitor who:

✅ Checks legal ownership

✅ Confirms debts or charges on the property

✅ Ensures planning permissions are correct

✅ Handles contracts and completion

This is a crucial step for peace of mind.

4️⃣ Pay the Reservation Deposit

A reservation deposit (typically €3,000–€6,000) secures the property and removes it from the market.

5️⃣ Sign the Private Purchase Contract

Usually within a few weeks, a private contract is signed and a further payment is made (often bringing the total to around 10% of the purchase price).

6️⃣ Completion at the Notary

Completion takes place at a Spanish notary, where:

🔹 Final funds are transferred

🔹 Ownership officially changes hands

🔹 Keys are handed over

Congratulations you now own a property in Spain 🇪🇸

How Long Does the Buying Process Take?

For most UK buyers, the process typically takes:

✅ 6–10 weeks for resale properties

✅ Longer for new builds, depending on construction stage

Timelines can vary, but Costa Cálida is known for relatively smooth and efficient transactions.

Costs to Budget For When Buying in Costa Cálida

In addition to the purchase price, UK buyers should allow approximately 10–12% for buying costs, including:

🔹 Property transfer tax (resale) or VAT (new build)

🔹 Notary fees

🔹 Land registry fees

🔹 Legal fees

🔹 NIE number and administration costs

Mercers can guide you through these costs clearly from the start no surprises.

Common Questions from UK Buyers

❓ Can UK citizens still buy property in Spain after Brexit?

Yes. UK buyers can freely buy property in Spain. Brexit has not affected property ownership rights.

❓ Do I need a Spanish bank account?

Yes. A Spanish bank account is required to pay taxes, utilities, and ongoing property expenses.

❓ Is Costa Cálida good for year-round living?

Absolutely. With mild winters, excellent healthcare, and a strong local community, Costa Cálida is ideal for permanent living as well as holidays.

❓ Are there affordable properties still available?

Yes. Costa Cálida remains one of Spain’s most affordable coastal regions, with properties starting from around €40,000, alongside luxury villas for higher budgets.

👉 View reduced-price and bargain properties to see what’s currently available.