Why Dutch and Belgian buyers invest in Benissa and the Marina Alta

The Marina Alta, located in the north of the Costa Blanca, has established itself as one of the strongest real estate markets in Spain for international buyers. In particular, buyers from the Netherlands and Belgium play a key role in the demand from municipalities such as Benissa, Moraira, Dénia and Jávea.

In this article we look at who is buying in the area, how much they invest and why Benissa and the Marina Alta continue to attract long-term interest.

International buyers in the Marina Alta

Foreign buyers represent a very relevant part of real estate transactions in the Marina Alta, especially in coastal and near-shore areas. Among the most active nationalities are:

• Dutch buyers, constantly among the main foreign groups in the province of Alicante

• Belgian buyers, especially from Flanders, with a high interest in second homes and homes for future retirement

• German, British and French buyers, who continue to have a significant weight in the market

• Scandinavian buyers, especially in the high-quality, energy-efficient housing segment

The presence of established international communities makes the area particularly attractive to new buyers, as local services and industry professionals are used to working with foreign clients.

Why Benissa is a key location

Within the Marina Alta, Benissa stands out for its combination of privacy, space and value. Unlike other more densely urbanized destinations, Benissa offers:

• Larger plots and lower building density, especially in Benissa Costa

• A balanced mix of traditional character and modern villas

• Excellent connection to Moraira, Calpe and the AP-7 motorway

• Great appeal for buyers looking for peace of mind without isolation

For many Dutch and Belgian buyers, Benissa offers more space and privacy on the same budget as in neighbouring municipalities.

How much buyers are investing

Dutch and Belgian buyers in the Marina Alta usually concentrate on well-defined budget ranges. Although there are exceptions, most operations fall into the following segments:

Entry and refurbishment segment

• Apartments, townhouses or properties in the interior

• Budgets between €250,000 and €400,000

• Frequent among buyers with a long-term vision or renovation projects

Main segment (the most active)

• Detached villas with terraces, pool and privacy

• Budgets between €500,000 and €1,200,000

• This is the most common range between Dutch and Belgian buyers

High and luxury segment

• Villas with sea views, modern architecture and prime locations

• Budgets from 1.5 million euros, which may exceed 3 million

• Strong demand from lifestyle buyers and long-term investors

Prices per square meter (updated market data)

Property prices in the Marina Alta vary significantly depending on the location, proximity to the sea and the type of property. The following figures correspond to average prices of second-hand housing and do not include one-off operations of extreme luxury.

Average prices per square metre (€/m²)

These data clearly reflect the price premium of consolidated coastal areas compared to inland municipalities.

What Dutch and Belgian buyers are usually looking for

The preferences of buyers from the Netherlands and Belgium are quite homogeneous. The most common requirements are:

• Detached chalets instead of apartments

• Privacy and usable outdoor spaces

• Views of the sea or open valley areas

• Low-maintenance pitches

• Modern standards and good energy efficiency

Many buyers think about extended stays or a future permanent residence, which directly influences the type of home they choose.

Investment Outlook: Lifestyle and Stability

The Marina Alta maintains a good market performance because it combines residential attractiveness with solid fundamentals:

• Sustained international demand

• Limited supply of coastal land

• Good resale and long-term rental potential

• Increase in international permanent residents

These factors have contributed to price stability and long-term positive developments.

Additional expenses to take into account

In addition to the purchase price, the buyer should expect approximately 10% to 13% additional to cover the costs associated with the transaction, including:

• Property transfer tax or VAT

• Notary and Land Registry

• Legal fees

• Processing of the NIE and administrative expenses

Clear planning from the beginning is key to a smooth purchasing process.

Conclusion

For Dutch and Belgian buyers, Benissa and the Marina Alta continue to offer a very attractive combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, solid property market and long-term security. With realistic budgets starting at €500,000 and a wide range of options in the medium and high segment, the area continues to be one of the best options on the Costa Blanca.

Benissa, in particular, stands out for those looking for space, privacy and long-term value within a well-established international market.