Deciding between building a new home in Benissa or refurbishing an existing property requires knowing the current costs of construction and renovations on the Costa Blanca. Materials, labour and inflation have transformed the market, especially affecting Benissa. This 2025 guide compares prices, timelines, and practical tips.
Building from scratch is more expensive, but offers modern design, energy efficiency, and fewer structural risks:
Basic construction: 1,100 – 1,500 €/m²
Average build: 1,500 – 2,100 €/m²
Luxury Build: 2,100 – 2,800+ €/m²
Materials only (PEM, no fees/permit): 1,300 – 2,300 €/m²
Example: A modern villa of 150 m² in Benissa costs €225,000 – €420,000 (excluding land, permits and taxes).
Renovations are usually cheaper, but high-end finishes can be close to new construction prices:
Economic refurbishment: 700 – 1.000 €/m²
Standard refurbishment: 1,000 – 1,800 €/m²
Luxury refurbishment: 1,800 – 3,800 €/m²
Example: Refurbishing a 120 m² townhouse costs €105,000 – €216,000, with luxury upgrades up to €456,000.
| project | Cost (€/m²) | Example 120 m² |
|---|---|---|
| Basic new construction | 1,100 – 1,500 | 132.000 – 180.000 € |
| Average new construction | 1,500 – 2,100 | 180.000 – 252.000 € |
| Luxury new construction | 2,100 – 2,800+ | 252.000 – 336.000+ € |
| Economic reform | 700 – 1,000 | 84.000 – 120.000 € |
| Standard Reform | 1,000 – 1,800 | 120.000 – 216.000 € |
| High-end refurbishment | 1,800 – 3,800 | 216.000 – 456.000 € |
Land prices: from 20 €/m²; much more expensive coastal plots.
Property value: old houses from €275,000; luxury villas over €1M.
Permits and taxes: +6–10% on construction costs.
Hidden costs in renovations: +10–20% due to structural or regulatory problems.
New construction: 12–24 months from the approval of the permit.
Renovations: 6–12 months, depending on scope.
Delays are common due to permits or a shortage of contractors.
CTE regulations require insulation, energy efficiency and solar-ready housing.
Many homeowners invest in solar panels, sustainable materials, and high-efficiency windows, reducing costs in the long run.
Mortgages and construction loans available, though stricter for non-residents.
Materials and labour: +5–10% per annum.
Modern and sustainable homes tend to sell faster and at a better price than old ones.
Renovations: they retain charm, but depend on location and quality.
New villas: greater revaluation, especially with sea views and energy efficiency.
Hire a local technical architect (quantity surveyor).
Budget VAT of 10% on construction services.
Always check the urban planning regulations before buying land or starting renovations.
Reforms: more economical, but risky if structural work is required.
New construction: efficient, flexible and of greater value in the long term, although more expensive.
In Benissa, the choice depends on the lifestyle: traditional charm or modern villa with sea views.
Best value: Refurbishment — ideal if you're looking to save and are adaptable.
Best for modern living: New construction — efficiency, views, and custom design.
Next step: Contact architects and builders in Benissa for personalized quotes and deadlines.