Sunshine, Rain and the Importance of Choosing the Right Location
Valencia is synonymous with sunshine, a Mediterranean climate, outdoor living and a wonderful quality of life. But every now and then, nature reminds us that it can rain here too. And when it does, it really can pour! The heavy rainfall we are experiencing these days in different parts of the Valencian Community reminds us of one important aspect we should never overlook when buying a property: its location. Because buying a home is not just about falling in love with a beautiful terrace, a swimming pool or breathtaking views. It is equally important to know the surrounding area and understand how it responds when the weather takes a turn for the worse.Does this mean buying a home in Valencia is risky?Not necessarily, of course! Valencia remains a wonderful place to live, with a...
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A property in Valencia: Coast or Countryside
When people start dreaming about buying a home in Valencia, there is one thing that often appears very high on the wish list:“We want to be close to the beach.”And we completely understand why.You are moving to Spain. You imagine sunshine, palm trees, Mediterranean evenings and having the sea just around the corner.But then the property search begins.And suddenly, another question becomes interesting:What if the same €300,000 could buy you a completely different lifestyle just 30 or 40 minutes inland?What does €250,000/ €300,000 buy you?Closer to Valencia city and the coast, €250,000 / €300,000 may mean making compromises. Perhaps less outdoor space, a smaller property, no private pool, less privacy or a location slightly further away from where you originally wanted to be.Move inland,...
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Buying a Home with Peace of Mind: When Is It Worth Getting a Technical Inspection?
Buying a home is a significant financial investment. That is why it is perfectly natural to want to know its condition before making a decision. At MAKE IT REAL VALENCIA, we believe that transparency should be present from the very first viewing. Our goal is for every buyer to make an informed decision with as much relevant information as possible. During our viewings, we aim to present each property exactly as it is, highlighting both its strengths and any aspects that we consider relevant within what can reasonably be observed during a visit. If we notice defects, damp, cracks or any other visible issues, we point them out with complete transparency.Although a viewing provides an excellent overall impression of a property, some aspects cannot be detected with the naked eye and can...
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Do Property Photos Really Reflect the Home
A few days ago, during a property viewing, another client made a comment that we hear quite regularly and that reassures us that we are doing our job well. After walking through the house for a few minutes, they said: "What a relief. The house looks exactly like it does in the photos." It may sound like a simple remark, but it reflects something that is becoming increasingly important.Nowadays, technology can transform almost any image. A dry garden can become a green oasis, a swimming pool can appear larger, the views more appealing, or a room more spacious than it actually is.And that raises an important question:Where is the line between presenting a property attractively and creating expectations that do not match reality?At MAKE IT REAL VALENCIA, we believe that photographs should...
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Good News for Property Buyers: ITP Reduced from 10% to 9%
Good news for property buyers in the Valencian Community! From 1 June 2026, the Property Transfer Tax (ITP) will be reduced from 10% to 9%. As we always explain to our clients, let's look at a practical example:For a property priced at €220,000, the ITP used to be €22,000.From 1 June, it will be €19,800.That's a saving of €2,200.And yes... sometimes that makes all the difference.What we like most about measures like this is not just the money saved, but the effect it has on buyers.A purchase that seemed just out of reach suddenly starts to fit the budget.A doubt turns into a decision.And that “we'll see” becomes a “let's go for it”.If you're considering buying a property in the Valencian Community, this is certainly welcome news.
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Arras: a little word with an interesting fact
Often, the word arras is mentioned several times when explaining the property buying process… and I always think the same: how remarkable it is that such an old word still plays such an important role in buying a home today. Because arras are actually much more than a contract. They symbolize promise, guarantee, and a mutual commitment. It’s a way of saying: “we’re going for it.” IN THE REAL ESTATE WORLD: THE FIRST REAL STEPWhen a buyer and seller sign a purchase agreement with arras, they are taking a very concrete step.The buyer pays a significant amount (usually 10% of the agreed price) as a sign of intent. From that moment on, both parties commit to completing the sale.In Spain, there are different types of arras, but the most common is the “arras penitenciales.” In practice, it...
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Rustic vs Urban Land How to Choose When Buying in Spain
Buying a property in Spain is also about choosing a lifestyle. One of the most important decisions is understanding the difference between urban and rural land. It is not just about location but also about comfort regulations financing and realistic expectations. Urban Land Comfort Services and SecurityUrban land offers all the infrastructures needed for comfortable living:Paved streetsSidewalksPublic lightingSewage systemWater and electricity supplyInternet and telecommunicationsClose to supermarkets schools and medical centersMany homes are located in residential communities.This means close neighbors and in many cases shared areas such as swimming pools gardens or sports courts.Sometimes also concierge and social club.And community fees.From a legal and planning perspective it...
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New Regulation for Tourist Apartments in Valencia 2026: Almost Impossible to Obtain a License
The real estate market in Valencia is undergoing a major shift following the March 20 announcement: the City Council is set to approve a new regulation that will make opening new tourist apartments virtually impossible. The Urban Planning Councillor, Juan Giner, confirmed that this will be one of the most restrictive regulations in Spain, aiming to curb tourism saturation and protect residential housing. What will change with the new regulation?The new rules introduce strict limits affecting investors, property owners, and buyers:- Maximum of 2% of homes per neighborhood for tourist use- Limit of 8% tourist capacity relative to registered residents- Cap of 15% for ground-floor commercial units- Strict physical requirements for new licensesIn practice, this means that in many areas,...
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What is the role of the notary in the property buying process in Spain?
If you are planning to buy a property in Spain, it is essential to understand a key difference compared to other countries: the role of the notary is not the same. This is a common source of confusion for international buyers and can lead to misunderstandings. In Spain, the notary ensures the formal legality of the property transaction and acts impartially, verifying the identity of the parties and authorizing the public deed. However, the notary does not provide a full legal analysis nor replace the advice of a lawyer or gestor, which is essential for a secure purchase.What does the notary actually do in Spain?The notary is a public official whose main responsibilities include:- Give public certification of the transaction (confirming signatures are legal)- Verify the identity of the...
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Markets in Valencia: Complete Guide to Experience the City
If you are thinking about moving to Valencia, buying a second home, or simply enjoying local life, you cannot miss the markets in Valencia. From flea markets and neighborhood markets to medieval fairs, Turia river markets, beach markets, and Christmas markets, Valencia offers authentic experiences that reflect Mediterranean culture and community life. Flea Markets in Valencia: hidden treasuresValencia province hosts many flea markets, where you can find all kinds of objects: antique furniture, vintage clothing, books, tableware, and curiosities.Highlights- Rastro de Valencia: every Sunday and holidays, one of the largest flea markets in the city. More info- Pedralba Market: Tuesdays, popular across the region for clothes and home goods.- Llíria Market: Saturdays, with second-hand...
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The paellero (summer kitchen) that enchants: Valencian tradition and flavor
Introduction In Valencia, buying a house is not always decided just by square meters, location, or price. Sometimes, a small cultural detail can make all the difference: the paellero on the terrace or in the garden.More than just bricks, the paellero is the heart of Valencian social life, where cooking is done patiently, shared with family and friends, and becomes a moment of connection and tradition. For many, preparing a good paella is almost an art, and doing it with time and love is the key to unforgettable flavor.And let's not forget: Valencia is the birthplace of paella, and in our region, you can enjoy incredible, authentic paellas full of history.In this post, we tell you its history, its importance in the home, and share the authentic paella recipe, including the essential...
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Taxes after buying a property in Spain: a clear and friendly guide for foreign owners
Legal notice: The content of this article is for information purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. Regulations may change and every personal situation is different. We always recommend consulting a tax advisor specialised in non-residents before making any decision.Buying a home in Spain is much more than signing at the notary. From that moment on, a new stage begins: you enjoy your property, but you also take on a number of annual taxes and fiscal obligations that are important to understand from the very beginning.If you are a foreign property owner — especially if you are not a tax resident in Spain — this article will help you understand which taxes you must pay after the purchase, when they are due and how to avoid common mistakes.What taxes do you pay after...
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