New Build vs Resale Property on the Costa Blanca

For buyers considering property on the Costa Blanca, the decision between new build and resale is becoming less about preference, and more about what the market will realistically allow.

In areas such as Ciudad Quesada, Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa, both segments still exist, but availability, pricing dynamics and buyer behaviour have shifted significantly over the past 12–18 months.

Price Differences Are Measurable

Across the Costa Blanca, new builds consistently trade at a premium.

• New builds typically carry a 15–25% premium over comparable resale properties

• In high-demand areas, this can exceed 50% or more on a €/m² basis

• Example: A new 2-bed apartment may sit at €240k–€280k vs €200k–€240k resale

This gap reflects:

• Modern construction standards

• Higher energy efficiency (A/B ratings)

• Included amenities (pools, gyms, gated communities)

Put simply: you are paying upfront for specification, efficiency and ease of ownership.

Cost of Ownership

The purchase price is only part of the equation.

New Build

• VAT (IVA): 10%

• Stamp Duty (AJD): ~1–1.5%

• Total: ~11–11.5%

Resale

• Transfer Tax (ITP): ~10%

• Total: ~10%

On a €400,000 purchase, the difference is typically around €6,000+.

Running Costs

This is where newer stock begins to justify its premium.

• New builds (A/B rating): ~€45/month cooling

• Older resales (E–G): can exceed €180/month

Over 10 years, that gap can reach €15,000–€20,000+.

Additionally:

• New builds include a 10-year structural warranty

• Resales carry immediate maintenance and upgrade risk

Location vs Specification

There is still a clear distinction:

• Resale: stronger presence in established, walkable areas

• New build: typically located in expanding urbanisations

However, the gap is narrowing as new developments push closer to prime zones.

Supply and Demand Is Driving the Market

• High-quality resale stock is becoming increasingly limited

• Many available resales require renovation or are priced aggressively

• Well-located, turnkey resales are often sold quickly or off-market

At the same time:

• New developments are released in phases and absorbed rapidly

• International demand remains strong

As a result, new builds are no longer just a premium option, they are increasingly the primary route into the market for many buyers.

Investment Performance

Historically, resale properties have often delivered stronger growth, largely due to:

• Better locations

• Scarcity

• Ability to add value through refurbishment

However, this comes with conditions:

• Access to the right property

• Willingness to renovate

• Time and capital to execute

In today’s market, these opportunities are harder to find and more competitive, which reduces their accessibility for many buyers.

New builds, often priced more efficiently from day one, with less reliance on future uplift, also offer:

• Predictability

• Rental readiness

• Lower friction entry

Timeline and Flexibility

New Build

• Often off-plan (12–24 months)

• Limited negotiation

• Some customisation pre-completion

Resale

• Immediate availability (30–60 days)

• Negotiable pricing

• Opportunity to refurbish

Again, availability is key - many buyers simply don’t find suitable resale options within their timeframe.

What This Means in Practice

In markets like Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja and Ciudad Quesada:

New build increasingly suits:

• Buyers prioritising ease and certainty

• Investors seeking rental-ready assets

• Those entering the market without renovation appetite

Resale suits:

• Buyers focused on specific locations

• Investors seeking value-add opportunities

• Those willing to manage upgrades

Summary

There is no universal “better” option on the Costa Blanca, but there is a clear direction of travel:

• New builds: higher entry price, lower friction, increasingly dominant in today’s market

• Resales: lower entry price, stronger locations, but increasingly limited and harder to secure

For many buyers today, the decision is less about choosing between the two, and more about recognising that new builds now represent the most accessible, efficient and widely available route into the Costa Blanca market.

Get in touch with our professional and helpful team at Right Priced Real Estate, experienced Costa Blanca real estate agents, today.