Common Mistakes UK Buyers Make When Buying Property In Costa Cálida

Common Mistakes UK Buyers Make When Buying Property In Costa Cálida

Buying a property in Spain is an exciting step, but it is also one where mistakes can be costly if buyers are not properly guided.

The Costa Cálida is one of the most affordable and rewarding regions in Spain, but UK buyers often arrive with assumptions based on the UK market that do not always apply here.

The good news is that these mistakes are very easy to avoid when you work with an experienced local estate agent.

Below are the most common mistakes UK buyers make when buying in Costa Cálida, and how to avoid them.

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Mistake 1. Focusing Only on Price

 

Many buyers begin their search by filtering only for the lowest possible price.

While Costa Cálida offers excellent value, price alone should never be the deciding factor. Two properties with similar prices can differ hugely in location, build quality, legal status, and long term suitability.

A cheaper property is not always better value if it does not suit your lifestyle or future plans.

At Mercers, we help buyers understand value, not just price.

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Mistake 2. Choosing the Wrong Area for Their Lifestyle

 

Costa Cálida offers a wide range of locations, each suited to different types of buyers.

Some buyers assume all areas offer the same experience, which can lead to disappointment later.

 

For example:

🔹 Puerto de Mazarrón suits buyers who want coastal living and amenities nearby
🔹 Camposol is ideal for space, value, and community living
🔹 Mazarrón town suits full time residents who want a traditional Spanish environment
 

Choosing the right area is just as important as choosing the right property.

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Mistake 3. Underestimating Total Buying Costs

 

Some UK buyers focus only on the purchase price and forget to budget for buying costs.

 

In Spain, buyers should allow approximately 10 to 12 percent on top of the purchase price to cover:

💶 Property transfer tax or VAT

⚖️ Legal fees

🖊️ Notary and land registry fees

📂 Administration costs

 

Understanding the full financial picture from the start avoids stress later in the process.

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Mistake 4. Not Using an Independent Solicitor

 

One of the most important steps in buying property in Spain is appointing an independent Spanish solicitor.

 

A solicitor ensures:

✅ The property is legally registered

✅ There are no debts or charges attached

✅ Planning permissions are correct

✅ Contracts are properly checked

 

Skipping this step or relying on informal advice is one of the biggest risks buyers can take.

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Mistake 5. Rushing the Decision

 

Many buyers fall in love with the first property they see.

While this is understandable, rushing into a purchase without viewing alternative options or understanding the area can lead to regret.

 

We always encourage buyers to:

✅ View multiple properties

✅ Compare different areas

✅ Ask questions

✅ Take time to be confident in their decision

 

A well informed purchase is always the best purchase.

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Mistake 6. Assuming All Estate Agents Are the Same

 

Not all estate agents in Spain operate in the same way.

Some focus on volume rather than long term client satisfaction. Others may not have deep local knowledge of the areas they sell in.

Working with an established, reputable agent who knows the region well makes a significant difference to the buying experience.

 

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Mistake 7. Not Planning for How the Property Will Be Used

 

Some buyers do not clearly define how they plan to use the property before buying.

 

Questions to consider include:

❓ Will this be a holiday home or a permanent residence

❓ Will the property be rented out

❓ Will accessibility matter in the future

❓ Will you spend summers, winters, or both in Spain

 

The answers help determine whether a new build or resale property, coastal or inland location, is the best fit.

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How to Avoid These Mistakes Completely

 

The easiest way to avoid these mistakes is to work with an experienced local agent who puts your interests first.

 

At Mercers Spanish Property, we:

✅ Explain the process clearly from the start

✅ Match buyers to the right areas and property types

✅ Highlight risks before they become problems

✅ Guide you through every stage of the purchase

 

Our role is to make buying in Spain safe, clear, and enjoyable.

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Why UK Buyers Trust Mercers

 

Mercers Spanish Property has been helping UK buyers purchase property in Costa Cálida for over 40 years.

We offer:

✅ Honest advice

✅ Local knowledge

✅ English speaking support

✅ A proven track record

 

Many of our buyers come from recommendations, which speaks for itself.

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Start Your Costa Cálida Property Search with Confidence

 

If you are considering buying in Costa Cálida, the best first step is speaking to an agent who knows the region inside out.

👉 Browse Costa Cálida properties for sale
👉 Explore homes in Mazarrón, Puerto de Mazarrón, and Camposol
👉 View new build and resale properties with expert guidance

With the right support, buying property in Costa Cálida can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make.