Is buying a property in Playa de San Juan a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Alicante's property market is included in our pack

If you've seen the beautiful beach and Mediterranean lifestyle of Playa de San Juan, you may consider owning property in this coastal part of Alicante.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for Spain, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Playa de San Juan?

Playa de San Juan in Alicante stands out as a highly attractive location for property buyers for several reasons, each contributing to its unique appeal in the real estate market.

Firstly, it's important to understand the allure of this area, which sets it apart from other real estate markets, particularly in Alicante.

One of the most compelling attributes of Playa de San Juan is its stunning beach. Spanning over 7 kilometers, this beach is renowned for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters, a feature that's hard to find in many other parts of Alicante.

This natural beauty offers residents a serene and picturesque living environment, something that's highly sought after, especially by those seeking a combination of tranquility and accessibility.

Now, it's interesting to note when Playa de San Juan began to gain popularity. This trend started in the early 2000s when people began to recognize the unique blend of peaceful beach living with the proximity to Alicante's city center.

This accessibility is a major draw, as it allows residents to enjoy a quiet beach lifestyle while still being close to the urban amenities and vibrant cultural scene of Alicante.

As for the sustainability of its hype, several factors indicate that Playa de San Juan will continue to be a desirable location. The continuous development of high-quality residential properties, combined with ongoing improvements in infrastructure and amenities, underpins this belief.

Moreover, the area's enduring natural beauty and climate are timeless attractions that aren't subject to market trends.

The type of people attracted to Playa de San Juan is diverse. It appeals to retirees looking for a peaceful seaside retirement, families seeking a safe and beautiful environment for their children, and professionals who appreciate the balance between a relaxed lifestyle and the convenience of nearby city life.

However, it's also important to consider some of the potential weaknesses of the place. During peak tourist seasons, the area can become quite crowded, which might detract from its usual tranquility.

Additionally, property prices in Playa de San Juan tend to be higher than in other parts of Alicante, which could be a limiting factor for some buyers.

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Why is Playa de San Juan a nice place to live?

Playa de San Juan is often considered a wonderful place to live and there are various reasons contributing to its appeal.

Let's delve into what makes this location so special, focusing on aspects like lifestyle, culture, cost of living, safety, amenities, infrastructure, accessibility, and public transportation.

Starting with the lifestyle and culture, Playa de San Juan is known for its relaxed, Mediterranean way of life. This area boasts a beautiful, extensive beach that encourages outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle.

Residents often engage in beach sports, enjoy long walks along the shore, and relish the local cuisine at numerous seafront restaurants and cafes. The culture here is a blend of traditional Spanish influences and modern, cosmopolitan vibes, making it both vibrant and laid-back.

The expat community in Playa de San Juan is quite significant and growing. People from all over the world are drawn here for its beauty and quality of life.

This international presence adds to the area's diversity, with many expats actively participating in local events and contributing to a multicultural environment.

Regarding the cost of living, it's generally considered moderate. While living costs here can be higher than in other parts of Alicante, many find it reasonable, especially when compared to major cities in Europe or North America. The higher cost is often justified by the quality of life and the amenities available.

Speaking of amenities, Playa de San Juan is well-equipped with facilities that cater to both residents and visitors. There are several reputable schools, including the European School of Alicante, catering to a diverse student body.

For healthcare, the area is served by hospitals like Hospital Universitario de San Juan de Alicante, offering comprehensive medical services. Shopping enthusiasts can visit venues like the Alicante Golf's shopping center, which hosts a variety of shops and eateries.

The quality of infrastructure in Playa de San Juan is commendable. The roads are well-maintained, making driving around the area a pleasant experience.

Utilities are reliable, and the area boasts high-speed internet connectivity, a crucial aspect for both locals and expats, especially those who work remotely.

In terms of safety, Playa de San Juan is considered a safe place to live. Like any area, it's always wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, but overall, the crime rate is relatively low, adding to its appeal for families and retirees.

Accessibility is another strong point for Playa de San Juan. It's well-connected to other parts of Alicante and is just a short drive or tram ride away from the city center. This makes commuting for work or leisure both easy and convenient.

Public transportation options are ample, with a reliable network of buses and trams. The tram system, in particular, is a popular way to travel, connecting Playa de San Juan not only to Alicante city but also to other coastal towns, making it easy for residents to explore the region.

All these factors collectively make Playa de San Juan a desirable place to live. The combination of a pleasant lifestyle, a supportive community, good infrastructure, and accessible amenities contributes significantly to its charm and livability.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Playa de San Juan?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in Spain.

When considering the cost of buying property in Playa de San Juan, it's essential to understand the variety of residential properties available, the current market trends, and the factors that influence property values in this area.

Playa de San Juan offers a range of residential properties, including apartments, houses, and luxury villas. The types of properties that are particularly in high demand are apartments and luxury villas.

This demand is driven by the location's appeal as a coastal area, offering stunning beach views and a relaxed lifestyle.

Apartments, especially those with sea views or close proximity to the beach, are sought after by both investors and individuals looking for holiday homes or permanent residences.

Luxury villas, on the other hand, attract a market segment looking for exclusivity and privacy, along with the charm of Mediterranean architecture.

In terms of market composition, there's a mix of new developments and resale properties in Playa de San Juan. New developments are emerging, catering to the growing demand for modern, high-standard living spaces.

These often come with amenities like pools, gardens, and sometimes even sports facilities, attracting a diverse range of buyers.

Talking about price ranges, the cost of properties in Playa de San Juan varies significantly based on factors like size, location, and amenities. For a general idea, prices per square meter can range from mid to high levels, reflecting the area's popularity and the quality of life it offers.

It's important to note that these prices have been subject to change over recent years, generally showing an upward trend. This increase is partly due to the growing interest in coastal properties and the overall development of the Alicante region.

Looking at future developments and city planning changes, there are always new projects and initiatives that could impact property values.

For instance, any future developments enhancing infrastructure or adding new amenities could make Playa de San Juan even more attractive, potentially driving property prices up.

Predicting the real estate market in Playa de San Juan in the coming years involves considering several factors. Given its ongoing popularity, the demand for properties in this area is likely to remain strong, which could lead to a continued increase in property values.

Factors such as the development of new residential projects, improvements in transportation links to other parts of Alicante, or enhancements in local facilities can all contribute to this trend.

Specific factors that indicate a potential increase in value include the ongoing demand for coastal properties, the area's growing popularity among expats and retirees, and the continuous development of local amenities and infrastructure.

These elements, combined with the charm and appeal of living in a Mediterranean coastal area, position Playa de San Juan as a robust market for property investment.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Playa de San Juan?

When it comes to buying property in Playa de San Juan, the best area for you largely depends on what you're looking for in terms of atmosphere, property type, and budget.

The area closest to the beach, often referred to as the frontline, is highly sought after. You'll find a lively atmosphere with easy access to the beach, restaurants, and cafes.

Properties in this zone are predominantly apartments, many of which offer stunning sea views. As expected, prices in this area are generally higher due to the prime location and the appeal of beachfront living.

Moving slightly inland, the atmosphere becomes more residential and tranquil. This area offers a mix of apartments and houses, appealing to those who prefer a quieter environment while still being close to the beach.

The prices here can be more moderate compared to the frontline, offering good value for those looking for a balance between beach life and a peaceful home setting.

For those interested in up-and-coming areas, certain parts of Playa de San Juan are witnessing new developments. These areas might not be as close to the beach but offer modern housing options, often with added amenities like pools, gardens, and sports facilities.

Investing in these areas could be advantageous as they may increase in value as the neighborhood develops further.

When considering where to buy, areas like Cabo de las Huertas are worth exploring. This area is known for its exclusive villas and upscale apartments. It offers a more secluded and luxurious living experience and is ideal for those seeking privacy and elegance.

On the other hand, there are areas that might not be as advisable for property investment. These could be zones that are further away from the beach and lack easy access to local amenities or public transportation.

Also, areas that haven't seen much development or renovation might not offer the same value growth potential as more dynamic parts of Playa de San Juan.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for Spain.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range
Frontline Beach	Lively, Beachfront	Apartments	Higher
Inland Residential	Tranquil, Residential	Apartments, Houses	Moderate
Up-and-Coming Areas	Developing, Modern	Modern Houses, Apartments	Varies
Cabo de las Huertas	Secluded, Luxurious	Villas, Upscale Apartments	Higher
Far from Beach/Underdeveloped	Less Accessible, Limited Development	Varied	Lower

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Is there a strong rental demand in Playa de San Juan?

In Playa de San Juan there's indeed a strong rental demand, which is influenced by various factors including the type of rentals, target demographics, and the specific needs of potential tenants.

Firstly, the rental market in Playa de San Juan is characterized by a mix of both short-term and long-term rentals, each catering to different needs. Short-term rentals are particularly popular during the tourist season, attracting holidaymakers who prefer the comfort and privacy of an apartment or villa over traditional hotel accommodations.

These visitors are often families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a beachside vacation experience. For these short-term stays, properties with proximity to the beach, good sea views, and amenities like swimming pools, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi are highly sought after.

On the other hand, there's also a steady demand for long-term rentals. These are typically favored by expatriates, retirees, and sometimes students or professionals who are in Alicante for work or study purposes.

The long-term tenants often seek comfortable and well-equipped apartments or houses, preferably in quieter, more residential parts of Playa de San Juan.

Areas like Cabo de las Huertas are popular among those looking for a more upscale, tranquil environment, while areas closer to the beach attract those who appreciate a more vibrant atmosphere.

The profiles of potential tenants in Playa de San Juan vary, but they generally look for properties that offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and access to local amenities.

For short-term rentals, properties that are fully furnished and equipped, preferably with modern amenities and close to tourist attractions, are in high demand. For long-term tenants, factors like proximity to schools, shopping centers, and public transportation become more important.

Including certain amenities in a rental property can significantly reduce vacancy rates. Features like a balcony or terrace, a good view, air conditioning, and a modern kitchen can make a property much more attractive to potential renters.

Additionally, in a beachside area like Playa de San Juan, having a pool can be a major selling point.

Regarding the potential returns on investment, properties in Playa de San Juan can offer attractive yields, although the exact numbers depend on various factors like property location, type, and condition.

Generally, the return on investment (ROI) for rental properties in this area can be quite favorable, especially for well-located and well-maintained properties. The ROI can be particularly high for properties that cater to the short-term rental market during peak tourist seasons.

In terms of property types gaining more demand and potentially offering better yields, apartments close to the beach and properties with unique features (like sea views or exclusive amenities) are becoming increasingly popular.

As the area continues to attract both tourists and long-term residents, these properties are likely to remain in high demand, potentially offering higher rental yields.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Playa de San Juan?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in Spain.

Buying property in Playa de San Juan, Alicante, as a foreigner is generally straightforward, but it's important to be aware of specific regulations, the purchasing process, potential risks, and best practices to ensure a smooth transaction.

Firstly, there are no specific restrictions for foreign buyers in Spain. In fact, the Spanish real estate market is quite open to international investors.

However, foreigners do need to obtain an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is an identification number required for all financial transactions in Spain, including property purchases.

The purchasing process in Playa de San Juan typically starts with finding a property and agreeing on a price. Then, a deposit (usually around 10% of the purchase price) is paid to reserve the property. This is followed by a due diligence process, where legal checks on the property are conducted.

Once everything is in order, the sale is formalized through a public deed of purchase (escritura pública) and the balance of the purchase price is paid. This process is completed in the presence of a notary, and the deed is then registered in the Land Registry.

One primary risk associated with property investment in Playa de San Juan, as in other parts of Spain, is buying a property with unresolved legal issues, such as unclear ownership, outstanding debts, or planning permission violations.

A classic pitfall for foreign buyers in Spain is not being fully aware of the legal and fiscal obligations involved in the property transaction.

For example, there are various taxes and fees associated with buying property, such as transfer tax, notary fees, and registry fees, which can add a significant amount to the overall cost.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly advisable. A knowledgeable local agent can help you navigate the market and find properties that meet your needs, while a lawyer can handle the legal aspects of the transaction, ensuring that all paperwork is in order and protecting your interests.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Playa de San Juan include selling the property at a profit or renting it out.

The area's popularity as a tourist and expat destination makes rental properties a potentially lucrative investment, especially if you buy in a desirable location and maintain the property well.