– an honest perspective from a professional
Buying a property in Spain, and especially in the inland Alicante region, is a long-held dream for many people. More space, more light, a slower pace of life and a better quality of living are often the main motivations. At the same time, expectations are frequently shaped by assumptions that simply do not match the Spanish reality.
In my daily work as a real estate agent in inland Alicante, I see how important it is to approach property purchases without assuming that laws, processes and mentalities work the same way as in other countries.
Not legal is not illegal – a crucial difference
One of the most misunderstood aspects of buying property inland is legality. Many buyers believe that anything not fully registered or documented must be illegal. This is not necessarily true.
Spain has a different administrative and building history. Extensions or alterations were often made decades ago and never formally recorded. This does not automatically prevent a sale or future use.
What matters is understanding that legalisation is often possible. It takes time and it involves costs for the vendor, but in many cases a retention of part of the purchase price can be agreed, allowing the sale to proceed while the legalisation is completed afterwards.
Cadastre and Land Registry – two separate systems
A common issue in inland properties is the lack of consistency between the Cadastre and the Land Registry. Sizes, buildings or uses may not match. This is not an exception; it is part of everyday reality in rural Spain.
Recognising and correctly assessing these discrepancies is essential before drawing conclusions or walking away from an otherwise suitable property.
Laws are not the same everywhere
Another classic mistake is assuming that procedures, deadlines and regulations are similar in every country. They are not. Spain has its own logic, its own processes – and above all, its own pace. Anyone who tries to evaluate everything using the standards of their home country will quickly become frustrated. Those who are willing to embrace this will achieve their goals in a much more relaxed manner.
Coast or Inland – a question of lifestyle
One of the most important decisions is not the house itself, but how you want to live.
People who thrive on constant activity, nightlife and a changing social environment usually feel more at home on the coast.
Those looking for peace, space and stable neighbourhoods often find the inland areas far more suitable – and they usually get much more property for their budget. The coast remains easily accessible by car.
Underrated places with a high quality of life
Smaller towns such as Salinas, Monovar or Sax are often overlooked, yet they offer everything needed for daily life: shops, medical services, local events and a strong sense of community.
Integration does not happen automatically, but it is absolutely possible. Those who make an effort are usually welcomed and can turn a place of residence into a true home.
Common pitfalls when buying property
Buying property in the Alicante region in practice, I see two recurring problems:
• Discrepancies between the cadastral register and the land register – entries do not match or are incomplete.
• Renovations are underestimated – often reduced to "a bit of paint and plaster". Issues such as insulation, heating and energy efficiency quickly fade into the background, but come back to haunt you later.
Climatic expectations are also often idealised: warm winters with T-shirt temperatures are not the norm here. What does exist is plenty of sunshine and blue skies – that is a difference.
Prices, costs and realistic expectations
Property prices in Spain are rising, including in inland areas. While labour costs are still comparatively moderate, living expenses have increased noticeably. Honest budgeting is therefore just as important as emotional attachment to a property.
Life on the ground: integration is crucial
What my customers appreciate most after their purchase is almost always the friendliness of the people and the openness of the village communities. I hardly ever experience xenophobia in everyday life. However, if you don’t want to feel lonely, you should be prepared to learn the language and actively approach people. In functioning village communities, people look out for each other – those who integrate do not remain invisible.
Regulation, professionalism and relationships
The regulation of the real estate profession in Spain was long overdue. For many years, buyers had to navigate a market with very few formal safeguards, where the quality of advice depended largely on chance. The introduction of clearer rules has brought greater transparency, improved consumer protection and raised professional standards across the sector. This benefits not only buyers and sellers, but also those agents who take their responsibility seriously.
However, regulation alone does not create trust. In my experience, professionalism goes far beyond contracts, compliance and completing a transaction. Buying a property—especially in another country—is a major life decision, and the questions do not end once the sale is signed at the notary.
For me, my work continues well beyond that moment. I remain in contact with many of my clients long after the purchase, helping them find reliable tradespeople, navigate local administration or simply understand how things work in everyday life. I share local knowledge, practical advice and trusted contacts that I have built up over many years.
In many cases, these professional relationships naturally turn into ongoing personal connections. Sometimes that means a phone call for advice, sometimes a shared coffee, and occasionally a good meal. This is how real trust is built—through consistency, availability and genuine interest, not just during the transaction, but long after it is completed.
Who Inland Alicante is not suitable for
To be honest, if you insist on your rights, monitor every minute, and are inflexible, you will not be happy here.
The Alicante region operates according to a different mentality. It may also be challenging for people who rely on frequent urban amenities. Inland towns often have less shopping options, fewer restaurants, and reduced access to cultural events. Those accustomed to a wide choice of entertainment, international cuisine, or large shopping centers may feel restricted.
Inland living is not ideal for individuals who depend on strong public transport connections. Some villages require a car for daily life, including work, medical appointments, and shopping. Without private transportation, everyday logistics can quickly become inconvenient.
Who it is perfect for
Those who are open-minded, relaxed, have no problem with "mañana" and accept that things work differently can lead an exceptionally good life here – especially in the inland region, where community, tranquillity and quality of life are paramount.