What Expats Should Know Before Building in Marina Alta and Marina Baixa

For many expats, building or renovating a home in Spain is a dream. The regions of Marina Alta and Marina Baixa – including towns such as Altea, Calpe, Moraira, Javea, Denia, Alfaz del Pi and Albir – are especially attractive for those looking for a Mediterranean lifestyle.

But turning that dream into reality is not without its challenges.

One of the first hurdles is understanding local regulations. Building permits and requirements can differ significantly between municipalities, and what seems like a simple renovation may require multiple approvals. This can be both confusing and time-consuming if you are unfamiliar with the process.

Another challenge is hidden costs. Many expats underestimate the expenses related to taxes, permit fees, utility connections and legal services. Without proper planning, the budget can quickly spiral.

Then there is the issue of finding trustworthy contractors. Construction quality in Spain can vary, and for those used to Scandinavian building standards, expectations regarding insulation, energy efficiency and timelines may not always be met.

This is where Scandic Construcción bridges the gap. We combine Scandinavian building principles, such as TEK17 standards, with local expertise and prefabricated solutions. This means shorter construction times, reduced labour costs and higher quality results – often without being significantly more expensive than traditional methods.

Finally, many expats struggle with language and cultural differences. Misunderstandings can delay projects or create costly mistakes. With a bilingual team that understands both Scandinavian expectations and Spanish regulations, we ensure smooth communication and execution.

👉 In short: Building in Marina Alta or Marina Baixa doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right knowledge and the right partner, your new home can meet Scandinavian standards, deliver better comfort and energy efficiency, and be completed on time and within budget.