Frequently Asked Questions of Justspanishproperties.com

Just Spanish Properties for Property Rentals and Sales on the Costa Blanca & Costa de Almeria

South Costa Blanca - Frequently Asked Questions

What are average temperatures for this part of Spain? Children dream on Spanish Beach

See the actual weather forecast at this time on the right.
Click here for a full description Weather Link

This is one of the most even temperature areas of Spain, particularly on the coast. There are, on average, 320 sunny days a year on the Costa Blanca.


Plan your trip Local Radar Detailed Forecast

Jan 18°C	Feb 17°C	Mar 20°C	Apr 22°C
May 24°C	Jun 26°C	Jul 30°C	Aug 32°C
Sep 32°C	Oct 27°C	Nov 20°C	Dec 17°C

What is so good about living in Spain?

	The weather is undoubtedly good for your health. The social life is amazing - everyone is so friendly. The cost of living is considerably cheaper compared to the UK and many European countries. Spain is part of the EEC. There is no problem claiming your UK pension. Becoming a Spanish resident is quite straightforward, if a bit slow!. You are often entitled to use the Spanish National Health Service (but some may need to arrange private health insurance dependent on their circumstances, age, work situation, etc.). There are various television systems that relay your familiar UK television stations to Spain (at reasonable cost) in additional to the normal Sky packages, etc. If you like golf, you are spoilt for choice. .....and then there's the amazing food and drink....... Living outdoors, eating out, sitting out, people-watching over a leisurely glass, or strolling along the palm-shaded promenades, are all part of a normal way of life.

What is the procedure if I want to buy?

	You will be required to place a deposit of 3000 euros on your selected property and then we will introduce you to an English speaking Spanish Bank where you can open a bank account complete with internet access. We will also introduce you to a company specialising in foreign exchange (with a UK office) so that you can obtain the best currency exchange rate for transferring your remaining payments. If you require a mortgage on the property then the bank will be only too pleased to help you with the details, don't forget they will need your P60 and recent payslips (copy of your accounts if Self-employed). We will introduce you to a reputable Spanish solicitor, independent of our company. We will accompany you to the Notary to sign for the deeds, produce a Spanish Will and other necessary requirements dependent on whether it is a resale or new property. We can make recommendations, if necessary, on other items to complete your property including furniture, white goods, television services, security devices, etc.

What is the exchange rate at the moment?

How do I obtain euro currency in Spain?

	There are now some branches of British Banks here in Spain but most banks have English speaking staff. Banks are only open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 1.30pm so do your banking business in the morning. You can bring cash with you that you have already exchanged or use your bank cards, credit or debit, to draw cash. Your cards can be used to obtain cash from cash machines. The machines accept all the popular cards including Visa, Mastercard, Switch, Cirrus and Link. Preferably use a machine located inside a bank. Use with caution (watch out for strangers observing you) and never disclose your pin number to anyone. There are some exchange bureaus, but many have a bad reputation for high commission rates, "extra" hidden charges or short-changing you, so try not to use them.

Is it advisable to book a rental car in advance?

Car Hire is available both at airports and locally. The cost is far less than you think and it gives you complete freedom for getting around the area. All vehicles supplied by each company are fully taxed, insured and meet strict road worthiness rules and regulations.

We can offer two options for you to chose from of which both can be booked online.

A worldwide agency that has close connections with all major world rental companies.
A local Spanish car rental company that will give you the choice of collecting your car at the airport of from their local offices.

For further information click the button

What are the legal requirements for driving a car in Spain?

Spanish Road Sign

As in most continental countries the Spanish drive on the right hand side and overtake on the left.
An international driving licence is no longer necessary.
Minimum legal driving age is 18 years, although many car rental companies have a minimum age restriction of 21 or even 25
Whilst you are driving you are required by Spanish law to carry your driving licence, identification with photo (for British Citizens, your passport would suffice) and the rental documentation given to you by the company.

Directions from Alicante & Murcia airport to our area.

Click your selected Airport

How far is it from Torrevieja to some of the larger towns and cities of Spain?

Cathedral Barcalona	Alicante 47 km Barcelona 570 km Benidorm 77 km Granada 358 km Madrid 445 km Murcia 72 km Valencia 217 km

Will I enjoy the food in Spain?

	In a nutshell - YES. Fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh fish and succulent meats are available in profusion. Spain has long been a major provider to the colder countries of early salads and vegetables as well as fruits - melons, oranges, lemons, grapes, tomatoes as most will be aware, but also of the lesser known delicacies like dates, pomegranates, peaches, artichokes, avocados, walnuts, almonds…and the rest. Numerous restaurants provide cuisine for all tastes, from traditional Spanish Tapas to the delights of Italian, French, Chinese, Indian and Mexican food. For the more non adventurous palate there are many English bars and restaurants that serve traditional English Food.

Do I need to apply for a Residence Permit if I buy a property in Spain?

	If you do not plan to stay in Spain for more than 90 days, then as an EU national you do not need to obtain a residence permit. If you are not an EU national, you may need to obtain a visa from the Spanish consulate in your country of origin. If you plan to live, study, work or start a business, you do need to apply for a residence permit. Permits for dependents are issued for the same period as the principal applicant and applications must be accompanied by proof of relationship i.e. marriage or birth certificates). The period of issue for a residence permit now has no expiry date. All resident and non-resident foreigners with financial affairs in Spain (such as ownership of property) must have a "foreigners identification number" (N.I.E.). The identity document habitually used in the home country or a passport is sufficient for identification purposes in Spain. You are required to go to the Foreigner’s Department of the National Police (comisaría de policía nacional) to apply for the Spanish residency permit. Most solicitors will make your residency or N.I.E. application for you. The N.I.E number is usually issued on the same day as you apply.

Do I have to pay Spanish "Income Tax" if I buy a property in Spain?

	If you choose to live in Spain for more than 182 days in a calendar year, then you will be liable to pay Spanish income tax on your worldwide income. It is advisable to appoint a "gestor", a professional who is trained to help you with official paperwork, to act on your behalf. Although you will have to pay for their services, they are generally reasonable and will almost certainly save you time and trouble. For the latest information, contact the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.

What is a "Community Charge" if I buy a certain type of property?

	Many new properties are situated within a Community of Homeowners. The Community is a separate legal entity which is formed by law to deal with a number of services within the development and the level of service will vary from place to place. The costs are known as the Community Charge or Comunidad de Propietarios. Some of the services that are commonly included are; maintenance of the Community gardens and swimming pools, lighting, security, etc. The Community will hold annual meetings during which a budget is approved by the Owners covering the expenses for the year. This budget is then divided between Owners depending on the size of their property. This division, or percentage, is mentioned in the Title Deed (Cuota). The Community fees are normally paid half-yearly depending on the Community. It is important to try and attend these meetings and vote on any matters that may affect the Community, or to make any suggestions as, by law, you must pay any charges agreed by the members of the Community. It is, for example, not possible to say that you are not paying because you do not use the swimming pool!!

When are there festivals in Torrevieja?

	Torrevieja's festive calendar starts in February with the happy sounds of the carnival heralding in the Spring. Holy Week processions up and down the streets of the town during May, at which time Torreviejans come onto the streets to dance and taste the finest sherries from the South. During the Summer, especially on July 16th , the Feast Day of our Lady of Carmelo the patron Saint of Sailors is commemorated with a traditional sea and land procession. October brings the High Feast of La Mata. The feast of the Immaculate Conception is held 1st -17th December saying farewell to the year with flower offerings, competitions and fireworks.

When and where are the markets in the South Costa Blanca?

	Monday: Santa Pola, San Pedro del Pinatar. Tuesday: Benijofar, San Fulgencio, Orihuela. Wednesday: Algorfa, Guardamar, La Mata, San Miguel de Salinas. Thursday: Rojales, Bigastro, San Javier, Urb La Marina. Friday: Torrevieja (am), Dolores, Los Montesinos (pm), Pilar de la Horadada (pm). Saturday: Almoradi, Playa Flamenca, Santa Pola. Sunday: Campo de Guardamar, Zoco market next to Masa Cement Plant on the road to San Miguel from Quesada, Urb La Marina.


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