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The property market on the Costa Blanca offers many opportunities for those seeking a home with character, a mild climate, and a unique setting. But before diving into the purchase of an old property, it's crucial to understand everything involved in renovating a home on the Costa Blanca.

In this article, we explain what you should consider before buying a property with the intention of renovating it—from technical and legal aspects to design opportunities. Renovating a home here can be a fantastic decision, as long as you know how to go about it.

Why renovate a home on the Costa Blanca?

There are many reasons to choose to renovate a home on the Costa Blanca instead of building from scratch:

• Prime locations: many older homes are in historic centres or have sea views.
• Architectural charm: stone walls, exposed beams, interior courtyards, vintage tiles…
• Planning advantages: in some towns, renovation involves fewer hurdles than new builds.
• Sustainability: reusing existing structures reduces environmental impact and resource use.

But be careful: a successful renovation requires good planning, technical advice and long-term vision.

1. Structural review before renovating

Before buying, it’s essential to conduct a technical inspection. What should be checked?

• Foundations: are there cracks, settlement or rising damp?
• Load-bearing walls: are they sound? Can openings be created if needed?
• Roof: are there leaks? What kind of insulation is present?
• Installations: plumbing, electrics and drainage systems are often outdated and need replacing.

An architect can assess these points and help you forecast the true cost of the project.

2. Legal and planning considerations for renovation

Not every property can be altered as you wish. It’s essential to check:

• Local planning regulations: is the land classified as urban, rural or protected?
• Land registry and cadastre: does the built structure match what's recorded?
• Heritage protection: some homes have restrictions due to being in protected zones or historical areas.
• Planning permissions: whether your renovation counts as minor, major or full, and what paperwork is required.

Working with an architect familiar with local regulations—especially in places like Jávea, Dénia, Benissa or Moraira—makes a big difference.

3. What to preserve in a renovation

A good renovation doesn’t mean demolishing everything. It’s about valuing what already exists and deciding what’s worth keeping:

• Traditional façades with exposed stone or lime render
• Restorable timber windows or doors
• Decorative floor tiles (hydraulic cement)
• Original staircases
• Courtyards, water cisterns or other unique features

Preserving original materials adds not only beauty, but authenticity, heritage value and sustainability.

4. Energy efficiency in renovated homes

Renovation is also an opportunity to improve comfort and cut energy usage:

• Add thermal insulation (internally or externally)
• Upgrade to double-glazed windows with thermal break
• Improve airflow with cross-ventilation and passive strategies
• Install aerothermal systems, solar panels or heat recovery systems

Bioclimatic design isn’t just for new builds—it has huge potential in renovation too.

5. How much does it cost to renovate a home on the Costa Blanca?

Every project is different, but as a general guide:

• Light renovation: from €400–600/m²
• Full refurbishment: €700–1,200/m²
• Structural reinforcement or major works: can exceed €1,500/m²

On top of that, factor in permits, technical reports, taxes and any surprises behind old walls or roofs. That’s why a detailed feasibility study before buying is so important.

Real examples of home renovations on the Costa Blanca

At La Quinta Fachada, we’ve worked on numerous renovation projects in towns like Altea, Benissa, Teulada and inland villages rich in architectural heritage. From historic townhouses to old agricultural estates transformed into modern homes with soul. In all cases, the process begins the same way: listening to the client, analysing the property, and proposing a renovation that respects the place.

Renovating a home with care and vision

Renovating a home on the Costa Blanca is an exciting investment—but also a complex one. It’s not just about buying an old house and giving it a coat of paint. It’s about understanding the structure, the planning rules, the story behind the building… and giving it new life while respecting its essence. At La Quinta Fachada Arquitectura, we’re with you from the very first step. Before you buy, we assess the technical and planning feasibility. And if you go ahead, we design a renovation that respects the past and looks firmly to the future.