Established in 2003, this local company has built a strong reputation as one of the most experienced and trusted estate agents in Orihuela Costa, representing the interests of hundreds of clients over the years.

With properties in popular locations such as La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Cabo Roig, Punta Prima, Campoamor, and Villamartin, the estate agency maintains a portfolio of around 1,000 new build and resale homes in the South Costa Blanca region.

But unlike high-volume agencies or exclusively online companies, Inmo Investments combines a family-run, client-focused approach with in-depth knowledge of local property trends, pricing strategy, and evolving buyer demand.

A local estate agent with established offices in La Zenia

With its centrally located office in La Zenia and a strong presence across Orihuela Costa, Inmo Investments positions itself as a leading choice for property owners seeking a secure, professionally managed and results-driven sale in the competitive Costa Blanca market.

Sellers benefit from a full-service sales process that includes accurate property valuations, professional marketing, international buyer reach, legal coordination, and comprehensive after-sales assistance.

Supporting this global approach is one of the company's greatest strengths: its multilingual team. Inmo Investments is uniquely positioned to work with an international client base, thanks to its native-speaking staff members who are fluent in Spanish, English, German, Dutch, Swedish, and French.

This means buyers and sellers can communicate clearly and confidently in their own language, removing barriers and creating a smoother, more reassuring transaction from the very first point of contact.

A proven track record in Costa Blanca real estate

Just last year, the team represented the interests of buyers from 21 different nationalities, including house hunters from Ukraine, Lithuania, Czechia, Norway, and Switzerland, in addition to domestic Spanish buyers.

For property owners looking to sell in Orihuela Costa, this international capability is a major competitive advantage, and Inmo Investments is not limited to one market or a single nationality of buyer. The company actively attracts purchasers from the UK and mainland Europe, while also expanding its reach into new and emerging global buyer segments.

By blending their market experience with a multilingual service and global buyer outreach, this unique local team provides vendors with a truly modern, results-driven estate agency experience, ensuring every property is marketed professionally, internationally, and with the highest level of support.

Furthermore, as a registered real estate agent in the Valencian Community, the company offers vendors additional peace of mind, regulatory compliance, an insured service, and total transparency.

Inmo Investments, a local company that speaks your language

Property owners considering selling in today's market can benefit from the estate agency's combination of local knowledge, extensive marketing reach, and a comprehensive service.

Whether you are selling a modest holiday apartment, an investment property, or an opulent luxury villa, Inmo Investments provides the tools, support and experience needed to secure a fast, smooth, and profitable sale – without the stress.

If you're thinking about selling your property, you can request your no-obligation property valuation online 24 hours a day by tapping here, send a WhatsApp to +34 667 319 713, or just call Shelley on +34 966 919 917. She will be happy to book a valuation appointment at a time that's convenient for you.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Inmo Investments Real Estate S.L.

Modern air conditioning units, or climate control, provide cooling air inside homes during the summer months, and many Spanish homeowners rely on their aircon to heat their homes throughout the winter months too.

According to a local survey, air conditioning is amongst the top ten most sought-after features home buyers in Spain are looking for, and it's a fundamental requirement for holidaymakers visiting our part of Spain, who may not be quite so acclimatised to the environmental extremes.

Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the life of your air conditioning units, and fortunately, there are many local businesses that specialise in maintaining and servicing aircon systems in the area.

We've compiled past recommendations from La Zenia Community Facebook Group members to bring you this list of local air conditioning companies – recommendations from people who have personally used their services.

Each company offers air conditioning installation, aircon repair and servicing, and climate control trouble-shooting in Orihuela Costa, including La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Dehesa de Campoamor, Playa Flamenca, Villamartin, and Punta Prima.

These air conditioning engineers also provide services to popular areas in the South Costa Blanca including Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura, and Ciudad Quesada.

Innovative Solutions, Torrevieja

Professional air conditioning installations and qualified electrician. Servicing, repairs and troubleshooting of all aircon systems with 24/7 emergency services.

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AMPS Electrical, San Miguel

San Miguel-based HVAC engineers for troubleshooting, aircon servicing, repairs and troubleshooting of aircon and climate control systems.

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P&G Services

Gary Hanlon is your go-to guy for air conditioning repairs, servicing and installation. UK and Spanish certified installers, experience of local brands.

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ACJ Installation

F-GAS certified refrigeration and air con engineers for servicing, installation, repair, regassing, and problems with aircon units in Orihuela Costa.

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MACS Services – Costa Blanca, Torrevieja

Aircon refrigerant charging, repairs, servicing and maintenance. Showroom in Torrevieja for aircon units, solar heating, and new installations.

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Jomar Refrigeracion Aire Acondicionado

Professional aircon repair, cleaning, problem-solving, and maintenance of all types of refrigeration and HVAC throughout the South Costa Blanca.

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Essential Air Conditioning Services

Re-gas of aircon units, servicing with prices from €30, and professional installation. 14 years of experience installing and servicing home units.

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Eurocool Air Conditioning Spain, Guardamar

Based in Guardamar del Segura, offering new air conditioning installation, repair and troubleshooting of aircon units, cleaning and servicing.

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Swedtec Costa Blanca, Cabo Roig

Scandinavian HVAC specialists in Cabo Roig. Official Panasonic Pro partners for all aspects of air conditioning in Swedish and English.

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The Refrigeration Man, Guardamar

Specialising in the repair of existing air-con units and based in Guardamar del Segura. Qualified and FGAS registered for commercial refrigeration.

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ABCool

Ventilation and aircon engineers for Torrevieja and South Costa Blanca. Aircon services in La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Villamartin and Orihuela Costa.

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ClimaZone

Aircon installation and servicing of Hisense, Mitsubishi, Daikin, LG, Fujitsu, Panasonic, and Toshiba units across the South Costa Blanca.

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Juanjo Plumbing Services and Maintenance, San Miguel

Locally based in San Miguel de Salinas providing complete services for aircon installation, repairs and servicing. 15 years experience.

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Conair Systems

Heating, ventilation and aircon service engineers specialising in Giatsu, Samsung, Mitsubishi, and Panasonic aircon units.

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Air Conditioning and Electrical Solutions

Qualified engineer providing installation and aircon maintenance services in Guardamar del Segura, Ciudad Quesada, Torrevieja, and Orihuela Costa.

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A.C.E. Vic Bates

Air conditioning, plumbing, and heating engineer. Specialising in gas and oil central heating, gas water heaters, and the issuance of gas certificates.

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Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com

Experts predict a continued rise in property prices across Spain in 2025, driven by a mix of factors such as limited housing supply, anticipated decreases in interest rates, moderate inflation, and population growth fueled by affluent international investors entering the market.

Here, we examine the expected trends in house prices, mortgage rates, and the broader real estate market dynamics that will define Spain’s property sector in the coming year.

Spanish house prices in 2025

The Spanish housing market experienced significant price growth in 2024, with resale property prices rising by 10.7% year-on-year to €2,244/m² in November. This marked the largest annual increase since 2006 and signified seven consecutive months of upward movement.

In 2025, house prices are expected to grow moderately, signalling a stabilisation phase after years of robust recovery. Predictions for national price increases vary slightly among key players:

• Bankinter forecasts a 5% rise, with stronger growth in major cities and popular coastal regions.
• Fotocasa anticipates increases of 5% to 8%.
• Idealista projects growth between 5% and 7%.
• Caixabank, taking a more cautious view, estimates a 4% nominal increase, citing affordability constraints as a limiting factor.

Urban hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante, and Valencia are likely to see higher price hikes, supported by strong demand and limited supply, alongside sustained interest from international buyers.

Costa Blanca property prices

The coastal regions, particularly Alicante Province and the Balearic Islands, are expected to benefit from steady price increases due to high demand for holiday homes and tourism. However, rural areas farther from the coast may experience slower growth as urban migration trends persist.

In the Costa Blanca, areas like Orihuela Costa will remain hotspots for international buyers, especially those from Northern Europe. The region's mix of affordable traditional homes and super modern luxury developments appeal to a wide range of buyer profiles.

Mortgage trends in 2025

Mortgage rates will continue to play a crucial role for buyers in 2025. While rising interest rates in recent years have increased borrowing costs, the European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to take a cautious approach to further hikes, prioritising economic growth stability.

Declining interest rates and heightened competition among banks are predicted to improve financing conditions. Fixed-rate mortgages are likely to gain popularity as buyers seek security amidst economic uncertainty. Euribor rates are anticipated to drop further, stabilizing between 2% and 2.5%.

Key factors shaping the market :

• Demand: Spain's enduring appeal as a holiday destination and investment hub ensures continued demand from international buyers, particularly from the UK, Germany, and other northern European countries.
• Accessibility: Regions like Costa Blanca and Orihuela Costa offer excellent flight connections and short travel times, maintaining their status as top destinations for foreign investors.
• Government policies: Initiatives to increase affordable housing and stricter regulations on short-term rentals could influence market dynamics, with potential impacts on both demand and supply.
• Remote work: Hybrid and remote work trends will sustain demand for properties in coastal areas, where buyers can enjoy affordable prices compared to other Southern European destinations.
• Rental market: Rising rental costs and limited supply continue to challenge the domestic rental sector, while holiday rentals are expected to maintain strong demand, particularly in coastal hotspots like Costa Blanca.
• Construction challenges: High costs, limited land availability, and administrative hurdles are slowing new development, shifting demand to resale properties and contributing to price increases.

Orihuela Costa's local property market

Orihuela Costa's property market saw a positive performance in 2024, with a 6% year-on-year increase in property sales, driven by international buyers. British buyers led the market, accounting for 17.5% of sales, followed by German (15.5%), Irish (9.7%), Swedish (6.8%), Belgian (6.8%), and other nationalities.

In total, buyers from 18 different countries invested in the Orihuela Costa area in 2024, a trend expected to continue in 2025 as demand for coastal properties remains strong.

The property market outlook for 2025

The Spanish real estate market in 2025 offers a blend of opportunities. With steady price growth, rising demand for coastal properties, and evolving buyer preferences, the market is set to attract both domestic and international interest.

Prospective buyers and investors are advised to stay informed about these trends and consider seeking professional guidance to navigate the dynamic property landscape.

Looking for your ideal holiday home or property in Spain? Inmo Investments Real Estate in La Zenia host a portfolio of almost 1,000 hand-selected properties in Costa Blanca. Visit their website and start your search for the perfect home.

Photo credit: Inmo Investments Real Estate S.L.

And who better to answer that question than the people that live here in the South Costa Blanca. Michelle posed the question in the Facebook Community Group earlier this week, asking “Pool heaters, are they worth it?”

Holiday home owners with private pools responded, and whilst the true cost of heating a pool in Spain through the winter will vary on a number of factors, including the electricity supplier and the chosen tariff, the results were surprisingly similar.

How much does it cost to buy a pool heater?

Local home improvements store Leroy Merlin in Zenia Boulevard supplies swimming pool heaters with prices starting from 925 € and exceeding 10.000 € for more powerful models with enough heating capacity to heat the largest of private pools.

Locally, the Pool People in Torrevieja offer a 22 kWh 75.000 Btu pool heat pump with a fitted price of 4.850 €. Their website hasn't been updated since 2015 so that price might be a little outdated, but members reported that they paid an average of 4.500 € for their pool heater.

The company notes that the swimming pool season on the Costa Blanca lasts only four months of the year, so it's no surprise that local residents are keen to maximise the use of their pool throughout the year.

The regular ongoing cost of electricity is the main expense associated with maintaining a heated pool in Spain through the cooler months, and increasing electricity prices have made a noticeable difference.

What is the cost of heating a swimming pool in Spain?

“Everything about the pool burns through the electricity, much more than we thought,” wrote Lindsey. Group member Arlene responded, “We have had the pool heat on whilst we have been here and the electric cost is rocketing”.

Members noted that it costs between 200 € and 350 € in electricity per month (dependent on the size) to maintain their heated pools at a comfortable temperature at this time of year, with an average cost of 265 € per month to heat their pool (around 9€ per day).

Group member Barry also reported that it took two days for the pool to reach the required temperature, and noted that a thermal or solar pool cover was an essential accessory to maintain the temperature without wasting electricity.

Want to know more? You can read the complete conversation in the La Zenia Community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the Orihuela Costa. Join in today.

Photo credit: Inmo Investments Real Estate S.L.

The answer is that it is legal, and the bank has the right to do so. This is because money laundering and terrorist financing regulations require banks to request documentation they deem necessary to identify and monitor the account holder and their activities.

According to the Bank of Spain, there are several reasons a bank may block a customer's account.

Freezing a bank account due to a lack of identification documents

If your Passport, Residence Card, Foreigners Identity Card, or Personal Identification Card has expired, be careful, because you could end up with your bank account blocked. Banks are required by law to identify all their customers and ensure that their documentation is up to date.

If the bank detects that your personal identification document is not up to date, it may block your account, as this is considered a lawful basis.

Freezing a bank account for the prevention of money laundering

The bank is legally obliged to request information about your economic activity, a process known as “Know Your Customer”. This is an anti-fraud measure that all banks must follow to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing.

If the bank requests information about your professional activity and you do not provide it, the bank may freeze your account until you provide the required documentation.

Blocking an account due to discrepancies between account holders

If you share an account with one or more account holders and they issue contradictory orders, the bank may place a block on the account to avoid taking sides in a dispute (e.g., during a divorce or the breakdown of a business).

A frozen bank account when the account holder dies

This is very common for non-residents living in Spain who die leaving assets and open bank accounts. In this case, their partner or relatives find that the bank has frozen the deceased's account and cancelled all direct debits and payment cards.

It is important to note that the bank must notify the account holder(s) before blocking the account and, if this is not possible, the announcement must be made immediately afterwards.

The problem is that many bank account holders receive a letter at their registered home address in Spain, and relatives living overseas often only learn that the account has been frozen upon arrival.

Others, on the other hand, receive an email outlining the documentation and how to submit it digitally, which, for many, is more technologically complex than simply taking the documentation to the bank in person.

For these reasons, many of our clients who do not live permanently in Spain ask us for assistance from their home countries to unfreeze their bank accounts.

The solution to this problem is to grant your lawyer in Spain a Power of Attorney in advance. With this power of attorney, your lawyer can easily unfreeze your account on your behalf and remove temporary stops or blocks that might be in place.

In this way, you will not have to wait until you return to Spain to do it yourself, bearing in mind the serious consequences of closing the account, such as non-payment of local taxes or utility bills, or generating unnecessary surcharges or penalties for the account holder, which could have been avoided entirely.

Find out more about Inmo Investments Real Estate, La Zenia's leading estate agent. Visit their website now to view their selection of beautiful homes in Orihuela Costa and the Costa Blanca areas of Spain.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com

It's an important point. In our ever-more connected world, being without an internet connection is simply not an option for many people who rely on internet access for news, communications, social content, or even for working. The internet forms an essential part of our everyday lives.

The same can be said for holiday home owners here in Spain. They'll need access to TV services and a high-speed broadband internet connection while they're visiting, but understandably, some property owners won't want to pay for something all year round that they plan to use relatively infrequently.

Instead, holiday home owners will be looking for a pay-as-you-go style internet service that can be activated and deactivated, turned on or off on demand to suit their schedule for future visits, providing an overall low cost during the year.

So who can you go to for digital services here in Spain, what services are on offer, what speeds are available in Spain, and how much does it all cost? Here are our top TV and internet service providers in Orihuela Costa.

Avatel Telecom, La Zenia

Avatel offers unmetered on-demand internet services for homeowners in Spain with symmetrical broadband data speeds of 600Mb (on both upload and download).

For homeowners looking for an on/off internet connection, the company provides high-speed internet access with free installation and a contracted rate of €24.99 per calendar month.

The service can be activated for just one month at a time, ideal for holiday home owners, and a disconnection fee of €4.99 is charged each time a customer requests temporary termination of the service.

Avatel offers packages and deals for permanent residents on the Orihuela Costa, with fibre optic internet connections from €24.99 per month including a free Spanish landline, a 12-month contract, and upgrade options including ClicTV (no English-language channels) and Amazon Prime.

WiMAX digital internet services are available for remote locations or properties that lack cabled internet coverage, with speeds of 6Mb or 12Mb and prices from €18.00 per month.

The internet service provider boasts its own state-of-the-art fibre optic network and complete online account management in Spanish and English languages – ideal for holiday home owners who might not be here for the majority of the year.

Avatel Telecom has local offices in Pinar de Campoverde, Pilar de la Horadada, and Zenia Boulevard shopping centre in La Zenia.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TELEPHONE

VegaFibra, San Miguel de Salinas

Self-branded as “The King of the Fibre”, VegaFibra provide internet services to customers across the South Costa Blanca area. Originally two separate companies, VegaFibra formed from the merger of goFibra and the SomosFibra group.

Undoubtedly one of the largest local TV and internet service providers, for Orihuela Costa, the company offers fibre optic internet connections with speeds of 600Mb and free installation.

Using the VegaFibra X-Days service, holiday home owners can request and pay for the exact number of days they require an internet connection. In essence, renting or hiring only the internet access they need.

A week costs €14.00, two weeks cost €22.00, and complete 30-day access for a whole month costs €38.00.

Payment needs to be made in advance no later than 48-hours before the service is scheduled to start, and termination of the service occurs automatically at the end of the hire period.

Payment can be made in person at any VegaFibra office, or customers can choose to set up a direct debit from a Spanish bank account to fund the on-demand internet service only when it's needed.

The scheme benefits from clear and low ongoing costs, the ability to pay only for the exact number of days required, and minimal outlay once the initial installation has been completed.

For residents, VegaFibra offers super high-speed internet access with broadband speeds of 600Mb for a fixed cost of €24.99 per month, free installation, and a variety of discounted promotions and incentives to attract new customers.

The company has more than 20 local offices including locations in San Miguel de Salinas and Torrevieja, and online account management in Spanish, Russian, English, French, and German languages.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TELEPHONE

NoLimitNet, Los Dolses

From one of the largest suppliers of local internet services to one of the smallest. NoLimitNet has a single office located within the Los Dolses commercial centre, offering a range of packages for holiday home owners and permanent residents in Spain.

A basic internet-only package costs €25 per month for a 600Mb fibre optic data connection, and installation is free of charge for customers that sign a 12-month contract.

Broadband speeds are available up to 1,000 Mb for an additional €10 per month, and the company offers a fast WiMax service with speeds up to 50Mb for properties unable to access a cabled connection. Their WiMax Air Fibre service costs €25 per month.

NoLimitNet also offers popular TV channels from the UK and Germany for an additional €5 per month, or a comprehensive UK TV package that includes prominent sports channels for €25 per month.

The company offer a suite of money-saving packages and additional services such as fixed landlines, Spanish mobile SIM card packages, and personalised holiday contract options for seasonal residents and homeowners.

NoLimitNet offer a dedicated website in English, online account management, and technical support 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Established in 2014, the local internet supplier has its own network with plans in place to provide 100% coverage of all residential areas in the Orihuela Costa.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TELEPHONE

Olé Comunicaciön, La Zenia

Olé pioneered the first installation of a fibre optic data network throughout the Orihuela Costa. Based in La Zenia, the company offers a suite of packages to suit holiday home owners and permanent residents and they are one of the local area's favoured TV and internet service providers.

Pay-as-you-go holiday packages cost €38.00 for a 300Mb connection, and an ultra-fast 600Mb fibre optic internet connection costs €43.00 per month.

For an additional €10.00 per month customers can add a TV package with more than 200 popular radio and TV channels, including English language TV channels such as BBC and ITV, plus international channels in Spanish, French, German and Russian.

Initial express installation costs €49.00 and the internet service can be turned on or off by phone or email almost instantly. Previous clients have stated that they have called from Alicante airport to activate the service prior to arrival at their holiday home.

The service can be activated for a minimum of 30-days at a time and there's a 3-month minimum usage condition per year. The company offers technical support and service calls in your home with customer service in English and Spanish languages.

For permanent residents living on the Orihuela Costa, Olë offers complete fibre optic internet installations using the latest whole-home Mesh WiFi, landline telephones, international terrestrial TV services, and mobile packages with up to 120Mb of monthly data.

Installations for permanent homeowners start from €27.00 per month for a 300Mb internet connection. A Spanish landline can be connected for an additional €11.00 per month offering unlimited free calls to all popular international destinations.

Olé Comunicaciön provides fibre optic internet services to the areas of La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Aguamarina, Las Ramblas, El Barranco, Los Dolses, La Florida, Villamartín, Punta Prima, Cabo Roig, Entrenaranjos, and many more.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TELEPHONE

DVBLab Communication, Torrevieja

Another small tech company punching above its weight, DVBLab in Torrevieja has a great local reputation for outstanding customer service.

The company offers a basic 300Mb internet service for €19.90 per month, a 600Mb high-speed internet connection for €24.90, or a 1,000Mb Gigabit internet fibre optic connection for €29.90 per month.

Higher speed services enjoy the benefit of free UK Freesat TV channels with a paid option to upgrade the TV service to include premium content delivered by UK pay-TV broadcasters.

DVBLab Communication also offers a start/stop internet package with 400Mb data speeds for €29 per month, with the ability to connect or disconnect the service so customers pay only for what they need while in Spain.

The start/stop on-demand internet connection can be turned on or off online, and the service can be complemented with UK Freesat TV channels as an optional extra. Different TV channel selections are also available for Spanish, Russian, and Scandinavian customers.

For maximum flexibility, customers can request internet and television services to start on a specific date and buy a minimum of one month's access at any time.

Orders can be made and paid for in advance with a debit or credit card, and any unused time remains valid for use within one calendar year from the date of purchase. Additional subscriptions for one month or more can be purchased as needed.

In most cases, initial installation costs €149 with concessions for residents and homeowners prepared to sign a 12-month contract.

Technical support is available in most common languages including English and German, and the DVBLab website can be accessed in English, Spanish, and Russian languages.

DVBLab Communication has an office in the centre of Torrevieja along the Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas with plenty of free parking, making access simple and hassle-free.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TELEPHONE

Flexa Networks, La Zenia

Looking like a subtle rebrand of the VegaFiba website, Flexa Networks may be sharing online resources with the self-proclaimed “King of the Fibre”, but Flexa is a separate business.

Just like VegaFibra, Flexa Networks offer the same X-Days service that allows holiday home owners to request and pay for the exact number of days that an internet connection is required for.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the cost is the same whichever provider you choose. A week of high-speed internet access costs €14.00, two weeks cost €22.00, and complete 30-day access for a whole month costs €38.00.

The service can be requested online anytime at least 48-hours before the service is scheduled to start, and termination of the service occurs automatically at the end of the hire period.

There's a minimum switched-on period of 3-days, and the temporary X-Days service can be activated for a maximum of 90-days at a time – ideal for most seasonal residents and homeowners.

Payment can be made in person at any Flexa Networks office, but unlike VegaFibra, Flexa Networks have an office right here in La Zenia, plus local offices in Pilar de la Horadada and Torre de la Horadada.

A 600 Mb symmetrical broadband internet connection costs €24.99 per month with special discounts and free installation available for new customers with a 12-month contract.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TELEPHONE

TV and internet service providers on the Orihuela Costa

This article was compiled using feedback and personal recommendations from members of the La Zenia Community Facebook Group, based on the customer experiences of people that live here and use the services. Other TV and internet service providers may be available in the local Orihuela Costa area.

Details and prices were checked for accuracy upon publication but may be subject to change over time. Please ensure you check the latest availability and pricing information directly with each internet service provider (via the links provided above) before undertaking a contractual obligation.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Perhaps we're biased, but we believe that La Zenia is one of the best areas to own a home – not just in Spain, but in the whole of Europe and perhaps even the entire world.

After all, we decided to live here, and when it comes to affordability, accessibility, overall safety, and quality of local services, as a country, Spain is hard to beat.

Your alternatives? There's no doubting that France is a patently beautiful country but with its more northerly latitude, it can't hold a candle to the fabulous weather you'll find here on the Orihuela Costa.

Florida in the USA offers typically large family homes that provide unbelievable value, but with a median flight time of comfortably under three hours, Spain is undeniably more immediately accessible.

You're unlikely to look forward to a weekend away in Orlando quite the same way you would do in Orihuela Costa, with jet lag, high flight costs, and a nine-hour flight time ahead of you.

The Orihuela Costa is just so much closer to home, and La Zenia property offers outstanding value. So let's take a look at what you'll need to know about La Zenia before you start your search for a home here.

Location, location, location. Where is La Zenia?

La Zenia is an urbanisation located on the eastern coastline of the Mediterranean Sea, in the southernmost quarter of the Alicante province, and 8 km's south of the port city of Torrevieja.

The area is exceptionally popular during the height of the summer season as a respected holiday destination for tourists, attracted by the quality of the beaches and the abundance of quality facilities.

Less than two thousand registered residents live in La Zenia, but that number belies the popularity of the locality, as tourists and seasonal visitors can multiply that figure six-fold throughout the summer months.

Occupying just 1.9 km² of premium beachfront real estate, La Zenia might be considered small, but the community packs plenty of quality into a seemingly diminutive space.

The locality is compact and bordered by Playa Flamenca to the north, the beach district of Cabo Roig to the south, and Los Dolses inland to the west.

Exceptionally well connected, the main N-332 coast road runs north to south through La Zenia, with easy access to the AP-7 motorway which runs in parallel to the coast offering toll-free access south toward Murcia, or a faster toll route northward to Alicante and beyond.

La Zenia is well-served by two international airports, with Alicante airport less than an hour away to the north, and the newly opened Corvera Región de Murcia airport approximately 45 minutes away by car.

The best place to buy a property on the Costa Blanca

La Zenia took off as a holiday destination following the opening of the neighbouring Villamartin Golf Club in 1972. Development of the local area began shortly thereafter, and the Servigroup La Zenia hotel was built on a rocky outcrop that separates the two sandy beaches in 1974.

The Orihuela Costa Resort hotel followed suit in 1979 and occupies a sizeable chunk of beachfront real estate, today offering tennis courts, a large outdoor swimming pool, and informal accommodation set inside spacious private gardens.

The Zenia Boulevard shopping centre opened in 2012 and brought much-needed world-class shopping facilities to the local area. The largest mall in the Alicante province offers 150 stores, a selection of casual and fine dining outlets, and free parking for more than 5,000 vehicles.

The area is characterised by a low-lying relatively flat topography typical of most Mediterranean beachfront locations, and benefits from its immediate proximity to the sea, providing cool onshore breezes during the summer and temperate generally dry winters.

La Zenia benefits from a healthy Mediterranean micro-climate, characterised by low annual rainfall, and an average of 320 days of sunshine each year with a median annual temperature of 19.3°c.

Long warm summers and short mild dry winters are emblematic of this part of the Costa Blanca, and visitors to the area from June through to September can regularly expect temperatures to vary between 25°c at night to 35°c during the day.

The proximity to Torrevieja's salt lakes to the north and the absence of heavy industry in the area contribute to a particularly clean environment and excellent air quality.

Hundreds of bars and restaurants to sample in La Zenia

What La Zenia lacks in size is more than compensated for by a wide variety of amenities and excellent public transport links that connect the community with adjacent towns and cities, including regular services to Torrevieja to the north.

La Zenia possesses two beautiful beaches replete with white sands and Spanish chiringuito beach bars. Both beaches receive Blue Flag accreditation year on year, recognised for their high standards of maintenance and flawlessly clean Mediterranean waters.

La Zenia's main beach, Cala Bosque, offers more than 27,000 m² of pristine sands and La Zenia's smaller beach, Cala Cerrada, offers additional capacity with a wide fine sandy cove-shaped beach that measures 167 m at the waterline.

World-class fine dining restaurants rub shoulders with baroque cafés and intimate eateries, and La Zenia´s gastronomic community offers a veritable choice of dining experiences encompassing the complete spectrum of international cuisine.

La Zenia is also home to Zenia Boulevard shopping centre. A commercial sanctuary for hardcore consumers and casual window-shoppers alike, La Zenia Boulevard boasts a spectacular 161,000 m² of retail heaven.

And for those looking for peace, tranquillity, and open green spaces, three 18-hole championship golf courses are on the doorstep, with Villamartin, Las Ramblas, and Real Club de Campoamor resort all less than 15 minutes away by car.

Public Wi-Fi is widely available at most bars and restaurants, and super-fast fibre-optic broadband services offering data transfer speeds over 100MB are available in the vast majority of residential areas.

La Zenia property, a wide choice of apartments and villas

When it comes to La Zenia property, beachfront homes east of the N-332 coast road tend to be large detached villas – single or two-storey properties on medium-sized private plots that command premium prices.

Newer-style properties in La Zenia constructed further inland are inevitably built on smaller plots. Newer properties typically require less maintenance and are built to modern building standards.

With a few notable exceptions communities of apartments in La Zenia tend to be low-rise, and the area offers a wide selection of affordable townhouses, apartments, and modest detached villas.

One important point of note for potential overseas La Zenia property buyers is that with only a few undeveloped building plots remaining in the urbanisation, within just a few years it simply won't be possible to build new homes in La Zenia.

It has been said that La Zenia is home to people of more than 100 different nationalities, and international residents outnumber the indigenous Spanish population, with a multicultural mix of North European expatriates settled within the community.

Of course, La Zenia can be busy in the summer months, but those of us who live here consider this a small price worth paying to enjoy the wealth of quality year-round amenities and the sheer natural allure the area has to offer.

La Zenia will suit property buyers who value quality services, who desire a great choice of shops and restaurants, and buyers that want to be as close to a beach as they might be able to afford. You'll find a fantastic selection of beautiful homes in La Zenia on the Inmo Investments website.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com / Inmo Investments Real Estate S.L.

• Where are the main transportation facilities, airport and railway stations?
• Which are the biggest cities, and how many inhabitants do they have?
• Where are the UNESCO heritage sites?
• Where are the top places to spend your holidays? The best beaches, shopping malls and retail outlets, traditional and street markets, the top golf courses and natural parks?
• If you are looking to study there, where will you find the best universities?
• Last but not least, it's always good to know where the Hospitals are.

Now that you know the region, it will be easier to move further and study the location criteria you should have in mind while searching for your Spanish dream home. And of course, your ideal location is the one you will love, never forget that. In this article, you will only find practical tips to make sure you don't forget anything.

List your objectives

To be efficient in your property search, don’t hesitate to list your objectives.

Sea view?

90% of overseas property buyers looking to buy in Spain want proximity to the sea. Unsurprisingly, the Costa Blanca, the Costa del Sol and the Spanish islands are top of the list of places to search for a property in Spain. Let's enjoy tapas on the beach.

Your budget

Depending on your budget there are certain locations available or out of reach. So it's important to calculate your budget before you start your search. Knowing if you are searching in an expensive or cheaper region will help you to define your budget. Here is a good place to check Spanish property prices.

On a tight budget?

The good news is that property prices in Spain are not expensive and the Costa Blanca is not too expensive either. If your budget remains small for your area, our advice is to search further in the countryside, you'll decrease your budget by at least 20% if you are not searching in a major city.

If you want to read more on that subject, have a quick look at our article covering the real estate activity of foreigners in Spain.

Before looking at the top criteria for your Spanish property location, check the weather statistics for the location of your future Spanish property.

Always check the cost of living in your future city

We wrote a detailed article on the cost of living in Spain. In this article, you can compare the cost of living in any Spanish city with your current city anywhere in the world or with any other Spanish city.

What do you want to use your property for?

The first question you should have in mind is what will be the function of your property on the Costa Blanca? We can differentiate between three main purposes:

• A holiday home or second home abroad
• A primary residence if you want to relocate to, or retire in Spain
• An investment property

Each of those functions will mean very different objectives and specific search criteria.

Location criteria for your Spanish holiday home

Holiday home capacity (the number of bedrooms) is always one of the first ways to start. Proximity to the airport and travel time from your home country are other criteria.

Here is our list of search criteria important for your second home:

• Distance to the beach
• Distance to the airport
• How many flights are available to the airport?
• Travel time from your home country
• Check transport facilities
• Proximity to tourist attractions and sightseeing places
• Distance from the best beaches
• Distance to shopping malls, shops, and retail outlets
• Distance to traditional and street markets
• Hospitals and care facilities
• Distance to recreational and family activities
• Plan to rent your property? Check if it is legal to rent your home

If you are not buying for a second home, your criteria may be different, check those by following the links:

• Location criteria for your Spanish first home
• Location criteria for your investment property

Your property on the Costa Blanca and the weather

This is of course the first reason why people buy a property on the Costa Blanca. Checking weather statistics for the full year is important. Another good piece of advice is to check the weather statistics for the months when you intend to go there.

Yes, it is obvious, but many think “It is warm in the winter”. That is not the case everywhere in Spain. If you want a warm winter, you have only one perfect place in Spain: the Canary Islands.

Have a quick look at the infographics on our website with the monthly weather statistics for Alicante. You will find details available for each month:

• Average, minimum, and maximum daily temperatures (°c)
• Sea temperatures (°c)
  Daily and monthly average rainfall (mm)
• Average relative humidity (%)
• Number of rainfall days equal or greater to 1 mm, and the number of snow days
• Number of stormy days
• Number of foggy days
• Number of frosty days
• The monthly average number of cloudless days
• Hours of sunshine per day and month

This article was written by howtobuyinspain.com in partnership with Lazenia.com. Read the full article here: Where are the best places to buy a property in Spain?

Photo credit: Inmo Investments Real Estate SL

Today, we're speaking with Alexander Pichlmayr, founder and Managing Director of the Inmo Investments estate agency right here in La Zenia. We asked him what it's like to live and work on the Orihuela Costa, and what drew him to the area in the first place.

Alexander, what would you say would be the advantages of living in La Zenia compared to other areas in South Costa Blanca?

La Zenia is special and unique. Centrally located on the Orihuela Costa, with the City of Torrevieja just a few minutes away by car, La Zenia offers a choice of three Blue Flag beaches, carefully tended daily throughout the summer to ensure that they remain in a blissfully idyllic condition. Lapped by the Mediterranean Sea, each beach offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the average 320 days of sunshine that the Costa Blanca is blessed with throughout the year.

You will find hundreds of cosmopolitan cafes, lively bars, and exquisite restaurants to enjoy in La Zenia. Restaurants cater for every conceivable taste and budget, and with a multicultural mix of visitors and residents alike, you will no doubt be surprised to find that you have more choices here than you have at home.

La Zenia is also home to Alicante Province's largest shopping centre, La Zenia Boulevard. A commercial sanctuary for veteran consumers and casual window-shoppers alike, La Zenia Boulevard boasts a spectacular 161,000 m2 of retail heaven. More than 150 shops representing local and global brands are spread across a single floor, navigated via spacious avenues that meander around the shopping complex.

Does the area appeal to everyone, are there any possible downsides to living in La Zenia?

With so many local amenities, great restaurants, fabulous shopping, and idyllic beaches, La Zenia is popular year-round with local residents from other areas and visitors alike. But that can mean that summers in La Zenia can be busy and car parking spaces can be difficult to locate in high season. I love La Zenia, and I believe that that is a small price to pay in order to enjoy the benefits that the local area has to offer all year round.

What proportion of the local Orihuela Costa population is Spanish?

La Zenia is home to a multicultural mix of residents, but the traditional Spanish population is outnumbered by British, German, Dutch, and residents of many other nationalities. The Spanish population remains an absolutely vital part of La Zenia, bringing with them their vibrancy, natural charm, and legendary Spanish friendliness.

What are your favourite things to do in the area?

Nothing beats grabbing a beach bag and getting down to La Zenia beach – whatever time of day it happens to be. In the mornings, the beaches of La Zenia are deserted but for a few hardy joggers and beach-loving insomniacs, and the Mediterranean Sea provides a reliable visual spectacular suited to end even the busiest of days.

Can you give us some insider tips on the best local bars or restaurants?

It´s certainly no secret that Makai Cafe in La Zenia is the locals' favourite dining spot, but for those looking for truly superb cuisine off the beaten track, try the Old Asia Restaurante or Che Ristorante Italiano. Both offer a mouthwatering experience at excellent value prices.

Are there many local facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops, etc?

I have already mentioned the fabulous shopping experience available at La Zenia Boulevard, but there are plenty of local shops around too that cater to the requirements of the sophisticated consumer. The nearest medical centre is in Cabo Roig, just 1.5 km to the South of La Zenia, and the award-winning hospital in Torrevieja is just ten minutes away by car.

Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend for people thinking of relocating to the area?

Drive to the neighbouring town of Villamartin, just 2 kms inland, and you'll think you have been transported to a faraway place. Green rolling valleys, copses of palm trees, and the slower pace of life contrast so vividly with the beaches and cosmopolitan vibrancy of La Zenia. Villamartin is home to three championship golf courses and the spectacular Villamartin Plaza too, and it's reached within mere moments by car.

Where are the nearest international schools and how good are they?

The El Limonar International School in Villamartin is particularly locally respected. The Phoenix International School in neighbouring San Miguel de Salinas follows the British National Curriculum, offering recognised English qualifications in a wide variety of educational subjects with a natural focus on languages.

Is crime an issue for ex-pats living in La Zenia?

Not at all. Crime is rarely experienced in La Zenia and in common with other areas of the Orihuela Costa it enjoys a very low crime rate, with petty crimes representing the vast majority of Police complaints. La Zenia is a very safe and family-friendly place to live, and the local Police provide effective but unobtrusive support to local residents.

With regard to buying property, what is the real estate market like now in terms of prices going up, or down or staying the same?

Right now, prices are surprisingly stable. Obviously, the Coronavirus pandemic has had a profound effect on the Spanish real estate market, but this has negatively affected market activity rather than house prices, with sellers less keen to enter the market whilst travel restrictions remain in place.

There are buyers around of course, and the pandemic has led to a significant change in what buyers expect from a property. This has been driving domestic demand amongst existing residents who, for instance, wish to trade up to a larger property with more outside space.

Buyers have always looked for the best value for money, but we're experiencing an increased focus on location with sellers being more selective about exactly where they want to live, perhaps being prepared to pay that little bit more for a location that fits their requirements or potential future lifestyle.

Inmo Investments has had offices in La Zenia since 2003, so we've been through tough times before. I believe that this summer, once things start to return to what we perceive as normal, the financial outlook is exceptionally good. Nothing lasts forever, and as a nation, I'm confident that Spain will bounce back from the pandemic quickly.

Is this a good time to buy, and are properties in La Zenia still offering good value?

Of course, I'm biased, but in my opinion, there has never been a better time to consider buying a property in La Zenia. With stable property prices and a real estate market that has proven surprisingly robust and the potential to grow from the current low activity point, potential buyers can still take advantage of prices that offer excellent value. An inactive property market has only one direction … up!

Inmo Investments always have a great selection of properties for sale in La Zenia and the surrounding areas, and for those looking for the ultimate money-saving investment property, our extensive portfolio of apartments always offers outstanding value.

It's still possible to pick up a holiday home on the Orihuela Costa for €55,000, and that compares well not just to other areas of Spain, but to other countries in Southern Europe too. Spain offers ease of access, short flight times, unbeatable weather, and excellent value for money compared to almost any other location in the world.

What communities are there, and can you describe each one and how each might be different?

La Zenia is actually remarkably small, covering little more than a single square kilometre. Squeezed between Playa Flamenca to the North and La Regia and Cabo Roig to the South, La Zenia is split into the beach area which runs the length of the coastline, and the inland areas of Monte Zenia and Torre Zenia. The beach area is predominantly occupied by luxury villas whilst the inland areas closer to La Regia and Castillo de Don Juan tend to be more affordable.

How much are typical properties in La Zenia? Prices for apartments or villas?

A small apartment suited for use as a holiday home or a modest retirement property in La Zenia can be found for as little as €55,000, with larger apartments and penthouses offered to the market for around €90,000.

Villas command premium prices due to their close proximity to La Zenia beach, and you should expect to pay at least €250,000 for a detached villa here. Prices increase substantially the closer you get to the Mediterranean Sea, and budget for at least a half-million Euros if you're searching for a beachfront villa in La Zenia.

Townhouses and quad-villas in La Zenia offer very good value considering the space they offer, and our top tip would be to look around at this particular segment of the market. It is still possible to get a lovely spacious townhouse within just a few minutes walk away from La Zenia beach for as little as €125,000.

Do you have any tips or advice for people looking to buy in La Zenia or the surrounding area?

The best advice we can give to people to maximise their enjoyment of their new property in Spain is that buying close to amenities always pays dividends. Properties within easy walking distance of a beach or a popular commercial centre are always in demand.

When you are looking for property make sure you get local “on the ground” knowledge of the area and the current properties on the market by getting in touch with local estate agents (hopefully including Inmo Investments), subscribing to mailing list offers, and generally interacting with the people who work in the community you are interested in living in.

Of course, Inmo Investments are an estate agent and we're here to sell property, but La Zenia is a small and close-knit community so it's ultimately important to us that we help people and provide them with reliable advice too. We never forget that one day they might be our new neighbours!

To find out more about Inmo Investments or to take a look at their selection of beautiful homes in La Zenia and the surrounding areas please visit their website. Alternatively, you can find their offices beside the N-332 adjacent to the La Zenia beach roundabout.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Inmo Investments Real Estate S.L.