Estate agents on the Costa del Sol

Pros and cons of Urbanizaciónes

On your search for property in Spain, you will surely have come across many properties that are part of a development - or urbanización - and you may have also wondered what that means for you.

Many of the Spanish villas for sale on the Costa del Sol that are part of a development offer many advantages because you pay community fees that go towards general upkeep, so you can enjoy a gorgeously groomed garden without having to get your hands dirty, as well as decoration and maintenance of buildings, water supply, insurance, and often a full-time concierge (portero).

These developments are often in prime locations with fantastic views across valleys and the Med, and offer many facilities such as golf courses, pools, gyms, bars, restaurants and tennis courts. Developments with golf courses are especially popular, as there is usually a discount on green fees, and the knowledge that no-one is going to build a house in front of yours and ruin your view!

Some more advantages include the chance to live in a community with close neighbours, reduced property taxes in comparison with detached homes, and increased security.

Whether your property search takes you to Calahonda, Marbella or Estepona, make sure that the community fees are not excessively high - ask the current owner if the level of maintenance reflects the cost of the fees. Make sure to ask about the rules and regulations of the development - they may, for instance, allow pets!

For more information on living in developments, visit this page on the Just Landed website.