Tips for finding the perfect property in the Moraira-Benissa region

Many people consider living under the Mediterranean sun. They want to buy a home in countries like Italy, France and Spain. But how to find the right property? Some home seekers are get overwhelmed and withdraw. A shame, because with the right approach you will definitely find your “home sweet home”. In this blog we will share some easy home finding tips. 

1. Area research

This is the first important step. You decided you want to live in the Costa Blanca in Spain. And you chose Moraira and its surroundings as the region you want to buy a house. Excellent! This already narrows your search. But you need to define more to not waste your time and energy. Where do you want to live? An area that is convenient for a friend does not have to be the ideal place for you. Explore, explore, explore. Visit towns by car and by foot. And, very important, on different days, hours and in different seasons. This is the perfect way to find out about noise and parking problems. Are there any smell issues etc. You will see if a place is is full of tourists. If living near the sea is NOT a must for you, don´t forget to explore the inland villages. Housing is cheaper here. Life is more authentic, and you are closer to nature. Living close to the beach is something to think about. It does not make much sense to search for a country finca if you want to be on walking distance from the beach. Which beach do you like better? El Portet or the Ampolla beach in Moraira? Or do you prefer La Fustera in Benissa or Arenal in Javea. Look online if you find something about safety in the area. Did something  happen recently? Ask other people for their opinion. What do they think about the area? Bottom-line: explore the area before you start searching for a specific property.

2. More research 

You took step 1. You decided in which area you want to live. Now comes the next step. What kind of home are you looking for? Take your time for this. Buying a house abroad is a big step, so do not rush. What would be the perfect home for you? For example, how many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? Do you want a garden, pool, garage etc.? Do you mind stairs? What views are important for you? Do you mind renovating a bit or a lot? Or do you want to take your suitcase and enter your new home. What is your budget-range? At the bottom of this article, you find a shortlist of criteria to consider. Split this list into two categories. MUST HAVES (essential) and WISHES (nice to have, but not essential). What is very important in this step of the process: BE REALISTIC AND STICK TO IT!!! This list is not complete so feel free to add your own criteria.

For us, as experienced estate agents, it is not strange to meet clients that want it all. Sea views, no renovation, walking-distance from beach and village and private pool. Of course, for less than 250.000 euros. You do not have to be Einstein to know that you will never find your ideal property like this. Have a look at our shortlist below. This is a good guideline to find your dream home that meets your requirements.

3. Money, money, money

We know and understand that you want to view possible homes as soon as possible. But before rushing into this, we tell you to take time and think about the next step: your budget! Define the budget range for your search. Again, be realistic! Do not only think about the actual buy of the property. Also, think of costs relating to moving, upgrading or renovating. As well as costs of notary and necessary paperwork etc. Do you need a mortgage? Always have a good budget for unexpected costs. Because you don´t know now for what you will need that, but for sure, you will need it! This step can be painful, but it will help you a lot in your home search. You love that property of 595.000 euros and you want it. But you made your calculation and you cannot spend more than 450.000 euros. Conclusion: forget that house! Try to find the most ideal house within your budget. You cannot enjoy living under the sun when you have a daily financial headache.

4. Think about your future

You have selected some properties that you want to view. Try to imagine yourself there in the future. Is there enough space for your family? You might have small kids that will be teenagers soon and all want to have their own room. Is the kitchen spacious enough? You always dreamt of certain hobbies? Make sure you have enough room and outside space to practice them. Your back is always hurting. Are you sure you can maintain this large garden yourself? Finding the right home now will save you unnecessary expenses and hazzle in the future.

How do I know I found the right house?

With the tips, time and energy you will definitely find your dream home. But even if you think you found it, it is completely normal to have some doubts and cold feet. So, how do you know that the property you found is your “home sweet home”. Below you will find some indicators that will help you to find out if it is the house for you.

1. You want to find out how the house look inside

You are enthousiastic about a property and feel like you want to know it inside out. This is a very good sign. Something about this property attracts you. The first impression is beyond important.

2. You feel good from the moment you stepped in

No doubt you will know within a couple of minutes after entering the house if this is the place to be. Does it feel good? Do you feel comfy? If it does, it is yours!

3. You defend the house

If you are discussing the property with someone you should be aware of your reaction. If you are defending the house, you fell in love with it.

4. Bathrooms are no problem for you

This is a funny one. Some people cannot enter a bathroom when viewing a house. They do not feel comfy about it. They look at it from a distance but do not go in. If you enter a bathroom without problem and even feel you could have a shower there, you know you are on the right track.

5. You are more “flexible” with your needs and desires

The property ticks many of the boxes on your wish list. But not all. You start to be more flexible with certain criteria. Then this might be the property for you. You loved it and now you want it to fit in your dreams.

6. You envisage the interior decorating

While going through the house you see it clear: this is where the sofa needs to be. In that corner you will put the floor lamp. And, oh yes: this is the perfect spot for our Christmas tree. These are signs that you love the house more than you aware of.

7. You want to stop house hunting

If you are not in to viewing other houses and you want to stop your house search it is a very clear sign. You compare every property with the one you fell in love with. And guess what: the other properties never win!

8. You want to go back

You had a viewing, and you have that feeling that you want to go back. You want to see the house at different times on different days. Together with other people. This can be another sign that you find the right place to live.

9. You want to brag about it

If you start sharing any info of the house to other people you are very interested in the property. Did you tell friends or family? Did you share any picture on social media? All signs that this is the place to be.

Home Sweet Moraira

The team of Orange Villas hopes you find your perfect home in the large Moraira area. Use these tips to get the best out of your house hunting. Start your search today! Have a look at the properties of Orange Villas. Your “home sweet home” might be there already.

CHECKLIST to find the ideal home easier

Year round living or holiday home

Which towns (do you want to live in an urbanization, centre or inland)

What type of home (Villa, apartment, bungalow, penthouse, country house)

One level or different floors

How many bedrooms

How many bathrooms

Budget range

Ready to move in or renovation ok (to what extent)

How far from shops, restaurants, schools, public transport etc.

Views (sea / mountain / open / street)

Modern or traditional

Pool (communal or private)

Garden (size, maintenance, space for growing fruits and vegetables)

What kind of heating do you want

Do you find air conditioning a must

What about parking (garage, off road parking, space for a mobile home)

How far do you want to be from the nearest beach

If you have a boat, how far do you want to be away from the marina

Separate guest apartment yes or no

How many stairs are acceptable for you

House and plot size

Do you need a licence for holiday rent

How close do you want to be to your neighbours

What about the orientation of the property