Dutch and Belgian Buyers on the Costa Blanca

Dutch and Belgian buyers typically operate in the €250,000 to €600,000 range, though entry-level purchases around €180,000 to €220,000 are common for apartments in less central locations. At the upper end, villas with sea views and private pools in established areas like Jávea and Moraira can reach €700,000 to €900,000—still a fraction of equivalent properties in coastal Belgium or the Dutch Riviera.

Property preferences lean heavily toward low-maintenance homes. Modern apartments and new-build villas with energy-efficient features, communal pools, and minimal upkeep consistently outperform older resale stock with this demographic. The reasoning is practical: most owners use their property for three to six months per year, renting it out during peak summer and over Easter and autumn half-term.

The new-build premium matters less to these buyers than it might to others. They value warranty protection, modern insulation, and the ability to customise finishes—all of which reduce long-term maintenance and improve rental appeal. A well-located two-bedroom apartment in Calpe or Jávea can generate 4 to 6% gross yield annually, with occupancy rates of 65 to 80% during the rental season.

Dutch and Belgian buyers concentrate overwhelmingly on the Costa Blanca North. Jávea, Moraira, Calpe, and Dénia account for the largest share of purchases, drawn by established international communities, higher-quality infrastructure, and a quieter, more scenic coastline compared to the south.

Jávea remains the clear favourite. Three distinct beaches, a well-preserved old town, excellent restaurants, and a large existing Dutch and Belgian community create both lifestyle appeal and resale confidence. Buyers know that when they eventually sell, there will be a ready pool of similar buyers—a critical factor in any investment decision.

Moraira and Calpe attract buyers seeking better value without sacrificing quality. Moraira offers a more exclusive, village-like atmosphere with strong premium rental potential, while Calpe delivers better entry-level pricing and year-round vibrancy thanks to its larger permanent population. Dénia, with its Michelin-starred restaurants and growing digital nomad scene, is gaining ground among younger Dutch and Belgian buyers making lifestyle-driven purchases.

The Costa Blanca South—Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, and surrounding areas—attracts a smaller but growing number of yield-focused investors. Lower purchase prices translate to stronger percentage returns, though the buyer profile and resale market differ significantly from the north. For those prioritising capital appreciation and lifestyle over pure yield, the north remains the dominant choice.

Dutch and Belgian buyers tend to be more thorough in their due diligence than many other nationalities—but the Spanish property system still holds surprises. Hiring an independent lawyer who is not connected to the estate agent or developer is non-negotiable. They should verify the property’s legal status, confirm there are no outstanding debts or charges, and ensure all building licences and habitation certificates are in order.

Tax planning deserves early attention. Both the Netherlands and Belgium have tax treaties with Spain, but the interaction between domestic wealth taxes, Spanish non-resident income tax, and potential inheritance tax exposure can be complex. Getting professional tax advice before purchasing—not after—prevents costly mistakes and ensures the ownership structure is optimised from the start.