Buy a home with a large terrace on the Southern Costa Blanca

Are you looking to buy a home with a large terrace on the Southern Costa Blanca? If so, it’s wise not to focus solely on the square meterage. A 60 m² terrace can be fantastic, but it may turn out to be much less practical if it’s completely exposed to the wind, offers virtually no privacy, or provides hardly any usable shade in the middle of the day.

On the southern Costa Blanca, large patios are an integral part of daily life. Whether it’s dining outdoors, enjoying coffee in the morning sun, entertaining family, creating a lounge area, or simply adding more living space, the patio here is often practically an extra living room.

Still, the quality of outdoor space varies greatly depending on the type of home. A penthouse with a solarium, a ground-floor apartment with a garden, a villa with a pool, or a townhouse with multiple terraces each require different considerations.

Be sure to check out our current listings, our existing homes, the available new construction homes, and our current new construction projects.

A large patio doesn't automatically mean a good patio

This may well be the most important principle.

The quality of a patio is determined by more than just its size. Other important factors include its shape, depth, orientation, privacy, wind, sun, access from the house, and the amount of shelter it provides.

A long, narrow 40 m² patio may be less practical than a square 25 m² patio where you can easily fit a dining table and a lounge area.

So always consider how you actually want to use the space.

What do you plan to use the patio for?

A patio for two people has different requirements than a patio for a large family or frequent guests.

Think about how you plan to use the space beforehand. Do you mainly want to eat outdoors, sunbathe, barbecue, garden, or create a full-fledged outdoor living space?

That determines how much space you actually need.

Eating Outdoors

To eat outdoors, you need more than just space for a table and chairs.

You'll also need space to walk around, access to the kitchen, and, ideally, some shelter from the sun and wind.

A patio right off the living room and kitchen is therefore often more practical than a larger rooftop patio that requires you to go up a flight of stairs first.

Lounge Area

A comfortable lounge requires more depth than many people realize.

A corner sofa, coffee table, and doorway can quickly take up quite a bit of space.

Therefore, be sure to check not only the total number of square meters, but also the usable area.

Sunbeds

Would you like to fit two or four lounge chairs?

In that case, consider the amount of sunlight and the amount of space to walk around.

A patio may be large, but doors, stairs, planters, and air conditioning units can reduce the usable space.

Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen can greatly enhance your home's comfort.

But make sure that:

water;
drain;
electricity;
enough workspace;
and, if possible, a suitable spot for a barbecue

be present.

When building a new home, it’s also important to check what’s included as standard.

Penthouse with a large terrace

A penthouse is often the first type of home that comes to mind when people think of a large terrace.

You may receive:

privacy;
unobstructed view;
lots of sunshine;
solarium;
and several outdoor areas.

However, there are also a few points to consider.

Wind on a Penthouse

The higher up you live, the more wind can be a factor.

That varies greatly depending on the building, its location, and its orientation.

A huge terrace that’s very windy may end up being used less often than a smaller terrace on a lower floor.

Shelter

Shelter can make a big difference.

Consider:

walls;
glass screens;
pergola;
awning;
and a smart layout.

Be sure to check whether existing structures are permitted under the law and community rules.

Solarium

A private solarium can provide a significant amount of additional outdoor space.

But always check how to get there.

A sunroom that is accessible only via a narrow or steep outdoor staircase may be less practical for everyday use.

This is especially important for future-oriented living.

Private or exclusive use?

For apartments, it is important to verify whether a terrace or sun deck is actually private property or common property with exclusive rights of use.

That legal distinction may be relevant to:

maintenance;
renovation;
waterproofing;
and liability.

Have this checked before you buy it.

Waterproofing a rooftop terrace

Waterproofing is essential for a large rooftop terrace.

For existing buildings, ask about previous leaks, repairs, and maintenance.

In new construction, the finish must be carefully inspected upon completion.

Drainage

A large patio collects a lot of rainwater.

Check to make sure that drain outlets are properly installed and do not clog easily.

During heavy rain, poor drainage can cause problems.

Ground-floor apartment with a terrace or garden

A ground-floor apartment can offer plenty of outdoor space without the need for stairs.

That makes this type of home appealing to:

families;
pets;
retirees;
and people who want to live on the ground floor.

The outdoor space can range from a tiled patio to a larger garden area.

Patio or garden?

In Spanish sales materials, "outdoor space" is sometimes defined quite broadly.

For example, a “jardín” can be mostly tiled.

Therefore, check what you're actually buying and how much soil you're allowed to modify.

Private garden within a community

A garden attached to an apartment may legally be part of the community but be used exclusively by your household.

That may affect what you're allowed to change.

Consider:

swimming pool;
pergola;
canopy;
artificial turf;
and high separation efficiency.

Therefore, please check the rules before making a purchase.

Privacy on the ground floor

A large street-level patio can offer plenty of space, but less privacy.

Please note:

pedestrians;
neighbors;
parking spaces;
preview;
and the height of partitions.

Sometimes, a smaller terrace located higher up in the building can feel much more private.

Villa with a large terrace

With a villa, it's often not just about one patio.

You can have different outdoor areas, for example:

patio off the living room;
pool deck;
patio;
front yard;
backyard;
and a rooftop terrace.

That can be appealing because you can choose between sun and shade throughout the day.

Patio surrounding the pool

Many villas have their main terrace surrounding the pool.

Check how much space is actually left for:

table;
sun loungers;
lounge;
and passageway.

A pool that takes up almost the entire lot sometimes leaves surprisingly little living space.

Large patio without a large yard

Not everyone wants to maintain a garden.

A fully tiled patio can actually be quite practical.

You have plenty of outdoor space without:

fat;
large plants;
irrigation;
and intensive garden maintenance.

That could be appealing for a second home.

Shade is just as important as sunlight

When you think of a terrace on the Costa Blanca, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the sun.

But during the warmer months, good shade can be just as important.

So take a look at:

overhang;
awning;
pergola;
trees;
and orientation.

A patio without shade is practically unusable in the middle of the day.

Orientation of the patio

Orientation has a major impact on when you get sunlight.

A south-facing patio can provide plenty of winter sun. An east-facing patio tends to get morning sun, while a west-facing patio may get more afternoon and evening sun.

However, surrounding buildings, trees, and changes in elevation can significantly alter the actual effect.

Therefore, always evaluate the specific property.

South-facing terrace

For winter visitors and permanent residents, a south-facing outdoor space can be appealing.

The sun is lower in the sky during the winter, so a well-oriented patio can provide a lot of comfort.

In the summer, having enough shade can actually be essential.

East-facing terrace

An east-facing patio can be nice if you like to have breakfast outside.

You'll get some sun earlier in the day and often more shade during the hot afternoon.

For some residents, that's actually ideal.

West-facing terrace

A west-facing terrace can be appealing for afternoon and evening sun.

That's perfect for people who spend most of their time outdoors later in the day.

It can get pretty hot there in the summer.

North-facing terrace

A north-facing patio isn't necessarily a bad thing.

In the summer, it can actually stay pleasantly cool.

For someone who lives there most of the time and wants to avoid the heat, this can be appealing.

Those who specifically spend the winter here and want plenty of winter sun will evaluate this more critically.

Testing Winter Sun

When winter navigation is important, it’s wise not to rely solely on a compass bearing.

The low winter sun may set behind:

opposite buildings;
walls;
trees;
or hills

disappear.

A visit in winter, therefore, provides a lot of information.

Shade from other buildings

This is especially true for apartments.

A patio may be south-facing on paper, but it can still be in the shade for much of a winter day because of a tall building in front of it.

That's why you should always pay attention to your surroundings.

Large terrace with a view of the sea

For many buyers, a large patio and a view of the sea are the ideal combination.

But an open location facing the sea often means more wind and salt exposure as well.

Therefore, check how sheltered the outdoor area is and what materials were used.

Ocean view from the patio or from inside the home?

Some homes only have a view of the sea when you're standing in a specific part of the patio.

So be sure to ask specifically:

From the living room?
From the bedroom?
From the main terrace?
Or just from the tanning bed?

That makes a big difference in everyday use.

Large patio near the beach

A home near the sea can be an attractive option for a second home or vacation use.

But keep in mind that maintenance is required.

Salt can affect:

metal furniture;
handrails;
pergolas;
lighting;
air conditioning units;
and sliding doors.

Choose materials that are suitable for coastal use.

Apartment with a large terrace

Not every large apartment has a large terrace, and vice versa.

In Spain, a compact apartment with a 30-square-meter terrace can sometimes feel more pleasant than a larger home with hardly any outdoor space.

For many buyers, the balance between indoor and outdoor space is therefore more important than just the total living area.

Corner Apartment

Corner homes sometimes have larger patios that wrap around the house.

This can offer benefits such as:

more light;
multiple orientations;
additional outdoor space;
and a better view.

On the other hand, there is often more wind and greater exposure to the elements.

Terrace on the middle floor

A large terrace isn't just for penthouses.

Some new construction projects feature deep terraces on the middle floors.

That can actually be appealing because you'll be more sheltered than if you were on top of the building.

Terrace above the common area

In the case of apartments, a private terrace may be located above:

garage;
another home;
or common area

are.

This may be relevant for maintenance and waterproofing.

Make sure the legal and technical responsibilities are thoroughly reviewed.

Patio and Elevator

In a penthouse with a large terrace, an elevator can be essential.

Don't just check to see if there's an elevator; also make sure it's accessible from the garage or the street without having to climb any extra stairs.

That makes a big difference when it comes to future-oriented living.

Large terrace for retirees

For people who spend their retirement in Spain, a large terrace can be an important part of daily life.

But make a forward-looking choice.

A huge sunroom with stairs may be less practical than a spacious patio right off the living room.

Accessibility may ultimately be more important than maximum floor area.

Ground-floor terrace

A patio that opens directly from the living room and kitchen can be especially practical.

You'll use it more often and more quickly because the indoor and outdoor spaces blend seamlessly together.

For permanent residents, this is often more important than a rooftop terrace that you only use occasionally.

Pets and a large patio

A large patio can be appealing if you have a dog or other pets.

But take a close look at:

fence;
height;
shadow;
floor area;
and safety.

A fully tiled patio with no shade can get very hot in the summer.

Children and the Patio

For families, safety and visibility are important.

Check:

balustrades;
stairs;
pool access;
glass partitions;
and the ability to see the children from the living room.

A large patio is only enjoyable if it's also safe to use.

Large patio and private pool

Some ground-floor homes or villas offer enough outdoor space for a small private pool.

But check to see if this is legally and technically feasible.

Restrictions may apply to a comunidad.

For new construction, you should ask whether a pool is included as standard or is optional.

Plunge pool

A smaller pool might be a good option if you're mainly looking to cool off.

It takes up less patio space than a large swimming pool.

For compact lots, this can provide a better balance.

Jacuzzi on the terrace

A hot tub may seem appealing, but it can be more technically complicated than expected.

Check the following, among other things:

load capacity;
electricity;
water;
drain;
community rules;
and licensing requirements.

Don't just put a heavy hot tub on a rooftop terrace.

Pergola

A pergola can make a large patio much more usable.

However, before purchasing, check whether existing pergolas have been installed correctly and whether you are allowed to make changes yourself in the case of new construction.

For community housing, the appearance and construction are often subject to regulations.

Awning

A retractable awning can be more versatile than a fixed pergola.

You can adjust the sun and shade.

Be sure to check the wind resistance and community rules.

Glass Curtains

Glass curtains can make a patio more usable during cooler or windier periods.

They are widely used on the Costa Blanca.

But have the installation inspected to ensure it complies with community rules and any permit requirements.

Completely Enclose the Patio

Using an open terrace as a living space at a later date is legally different from installing temporary glass curtains.

This could affect built-up areas and permits.

Always have such a modification reviewed in advance.

Roof Terrace and Extra Room

Some existing homes have a storage room or an additional room on the sun deck that was added later.

Please verify that this amendment has been incorporated in a legally correct manner.

A room that actually exists is not necessarily a legally recognized part of the living area.

New construction with a large terrace

Building a new home is a good option if a large outdoor space is one of your top priorities.

Many modern projects place a strong emphasis on patios.

Check out our current new homes and new construction projects.

Rendered vs. Actual Terrace

A sales agent can make the patio feel much more spacious.

Furniture is sometimes shown on a smaller scale, or the angle of view is very wide.

Therefore, always use the dimensions shown on the floor plan.

Terrace area on the floor plan

Don't just look at the total area.

Also measure:

width;
depth;
door positions;
planters;
stairs;
and technical systems.

This will help you determine more realistically which pieces of furniture will fit.

Specifications

For new construction, you should check the memoria de calidades.

This is especially relevant for the patio.

For example, ask which:

floor;
railing;
water stations;
lighting;
outlets;
pergola;
and outdoor kitchen

will be delivered.

Outdoor Kitchen for a New Construction Project

Some projects advertise an outdoor kitchen on the sun deck.

In practice, that can only mean a work surface and connections.

Ask exactly what is included.

Shower in the tanning salon

An outdoor shower can be appealing, especially when you're by the pool or sunbathing.

Check whether this is standard and where the drainage occurs.

Water Point

A water fountain on a large patio is very practical.

With it, you can:

watering plants;
cleaning the patio;
use the outdoor kitchen;
and, if necessary, connect an outdoor shower.

This small detail can make everyday life much more convenient.

Electrical Outlets

Outdoor outlets are also important.

Consider:

lighting;
laptop;
refrigerator;
electric barbecue;
or other equipment.

Check the quantity and location.

Lighting on a large patio

Good outdoor lighting makes the patio usable even in the evening.

A single wall sconce might not be enough for a 60 m² patio.

With new construction, you can sometimes have additional features installed in a timely manner.

Newly built ground-floor unit with a large terrace

A ground-floor apartment in a new building can combine a large outdoor space with modern technology.

Please be mindful of privacy and the location of common walkways.

A patio that’s right next to the pool or a path can be very exposed to passersby.

Newly Built Penthouse

A penthouse often has the largest outdoor space in a development.

You usually pay a higher price for that.

So consider whether you actually use that extra outdoor space.

Is a penthouse worth the extra cost?

That's a personal matter.

If a patio, privacy, and a view are your top priorities, the extra cost may be worth it.

If you're primarily interested in the beach, the city center, or indoor spaces, a mid-floor unit may be a more financially attractive option.

Existing home with a large terrace

With existing homes, you have the advantage of being able to fully enjoy the patio right away.

You'll see right away:

zon;
wind;
preview;
view;
furniture;
and sound.

That makes it easier to compare.

Renovating an Old Patio

An older patio can have a lot of potential.

Consider:

new tiles;
lighting;
pergola;
outdoor kitchen;
planters;
and a lounge area.

Check the waterproofing and drainage first before undertaking any purely cosmetic renovations.

Patio Tiles

Outdoor tiles must be suitable for outdoor use.

Pay special attention to slip resistance, heat, and water drainage.

Smooth tiles around a pool can be impractical or dangerous.

Artificial Turf

Artificial turf is commonly used on patios.

It may feel softer, but it also retains heat and requires maintenance.

Always check how water can drain away.

Plants on the patio

A large patio can be made much more pleasant with plants.

But keep in mind:

wind;
zon;
irrigation;
weight of large pots;
and drainage.

On a rooftop terrace, large planters can be quite heavy.

Creating Privacy with Plants

Plants can be a good way to block the view.

However, in a community, there may be rules regarding height and fixed screens.

Freestanding planters are sometimes simpler than permanent structures.

Golf Course Terrace

A large patio at a golf course can offer a beautiful, unobstructed view.

Be sure to check:

privacy;
golf balls;
maintenance;
and irrigation.

A patio right next to a fairway might not be as peaceful as it looks in the photo.

A terrace by the sea or by the golf course?

A terrace by the sea offers that coastal vibe, but often comes with more wind and salt.

A terrace at a golf course offers a view of greenery but can lead to greater dependence on cars.

Your priority will determine which location is a better fit.

Properties in Ciudad Quesada

Ciudad Quesada offers many villas, bungalows, and apartments with spacious outdoor areas.

Due to differences in elevation, some homes have large terraces with unobstructed views.

Be sure to watch out for slopes and wind.

Terrace in Guardamar

Guardamar del Segura is an attractive option for apartments and penthouses that combine beach access with a terrace.

In central areas, outdoor space may be more limited than in villas located further inland.

Patio in Orihuela Costa

Orihuela Costa offers many residences with terraces, sun decks, and ground-floor units.

That makes the region an attractive option if outdoor space is high on your list of priorities.

Land in Santa Pola

Santa Pola offers both urban apartments and residential neighborhoods.

If you're primarily looking for a large patio, you might want to compare the downtown area with the surrounding neighborhoods.

Patio in Pilar de la Horadada

Pilar de la Horadada and the surrounding residential areas feature many modern homes in which outdoor space is an important part of the design.

When buying a new home, be sure to carefully compare ground-floor units, mid-floor units, and penthouses.

Large patio for wintering

If you're staying in Spain mainly in the fall and winter, winter sun is more important than maximum summer shade.

A large south- or southwest-facing terrace can be an attractive option.

But always check the actual shade at the specific address.

Large patio suitable for year-round living

For permanent residence, you often want both: winter sun and summer shade.

A patio with different areas is ideal in that case.

Consider a sunny spot and an area under a pergola or awning.

Large patio as a second home

For a second home, a large patio can be fantastic, but you should also consider the maintenance.

Plants, wooden furniture, and outdoor kitchens require attention when you're away for long periods of time.

A simpler patio can be more practical.

Key Management

If you have a large patio and will be away for several months, someone locally can check to see if:

storm damage;
drain;
freestanding furniture;
plants;
and leaks.

This is especially important on higher floors and in open areas.

Storms and Outdoor Furniture

Loose umbrellas and lightweight furniture can cause problems in strong winds.

Therefore, think about safe storage in advance.

A storage room right next to the patio can be very convenient.

Salvage

A storage shed is especially valuable when you have a large outdoor space.

For example, you can use it to store:

pillows;
umbrella;
barbecue;
cycling;
and beach gear.

Ask if this belongs to the house.

Community and Terrace Rules

For an apartment or bungalow, the community may have rules regarding:

pergolas;
colors;
awnings;
glazing;
satellite dishes;
and permanent structures.

If you want to customize the patio, please ask about this before making a purchase.

Vacation rentals and a large patio

A large terrace may seem commercially attractive for rental purposes, but it does not guarantee a higher return on investment.

If you plan to rent out the property for tourism purposes, always verify this before purchasing.

That may depend on regional regulations, the municipality, the urban planning situation, the comunidad, and registration requirements.

Noise on the patio

A house can seem quiet inside when the windows are closed.

On the patio, sounds seem much louder.

So come on in and listen to:

traffic;
hospitality industry;
swimming pool;
school;
neighbors;
and construction activities.

Terrace above commercial space

A large terrace above stores or restaurants can be spacious, but it may also be noisier.

Check the hours of operation and future uses of commercial spaces.

Patio next to the communal pool

This might be ideal for families, but less appealing for someone looking for peace and quiet.

There can be a lot of activity in the summer.

So check how close your private patio really is to the pool.

Privacy in the pool area

A ground-floor apartment right next to the communal pool can be convenient, but it leaves the home quite exposed to view.

A terrace one level higher can sometimes be more pleasant.

How much does a home with a large patio cost?

Quoting a general amount is of little value.

The price depends heavily on:

location;
housing type;
patio area;
ocean view;
floor;
swimming pool;
parking space;
new construction or existing buildings;
and is.

A large terrace can have a significant impact on the price, especially for penthouses and coastal homes.

So be sure to check out our current listings for current asking prices.

Compare prices per home, not just per square meter of interior space

For a home with plenty of outdoor space, the price per square meter of living space doesn't tell the whole story.

An 80-square-meter penthouse with a 100-square-meter terrace may be more expensive than a 100-square-meter apartment with a small balcony.

That doesn't automatically mean that one of them is expensive; you're simply choosing a different way of living.

Total Budget

In addition to the purchase price, please also consider:

furniture;
pergola;
sun protection;
outdoor kitchen;
lighting;
plants;
communitykosten;
and maintenance.

In new construction, many of these features may be optional.

Purchase Costs

When buying a home in Spain, there are additional costs on top of the purchase price.

New construction and existing buildings are treated differently for tax purposes.

In addition, there may be costs associated with the notary, the property registry, independent legal counsel, and any financing.

Therefore, have a customized overall calculation prepared for each specific home.

Mortgage

Dutch and Belgian buyers can apply for a Spanish mortgage under certain conditions.

The options depend on factors such as income, financial obligations, age, appraisal, home value, and immigration status.

Learn more about a mortgage in Spain.

NIE number

To buy real estate in Spain, you need a NIE number.

An NIE is not the same as a residencia.

Learn more about NIE and residency in Spain.

Legal Review of the Patio and Sunroom

Proper legal oversight is especially important when it comes to large outdoor spaces.

Have the following checked, among other things:

ownership status;
exclusive use;
surface;
canopies;
glass curtains;
solarium;
storage rooms;
and subsequent revisions.

A patio may appear to be completely private, even though the legal situation is different.

Dutch real estate agent for a home with a large patio

Are you looking for a Dutch real estate agent to help you find a home with a large terrace on the Southern Costa Blanca?

Casas Palmeras allows you to search specifically for outdoor space rather than just by location or property type.

That means we can, for example, filter by:

minimum patio area;
winter sun;
penthouse;
ground-floor apartment;
ocean view;
private pool;
solarium;
few stairs;
or a patio right off the living room.

A large patio or a bigger house?

This is an important consideration.

On the Costa Blanca, you'll enjoy your outdoor space for much of the year.

As a result, a smaller home with an exceptionally nice patio might be a better fit for you than a larger home with a small balcony.

People who have a lot of guests may actually find having more bedrooms more important.

So figure out where you actually spend most of your time.

Who would benefit from a home with a large patio?

A large patio can be especially appealing to people who:

spending a lot of time outdoors;
enjoy hosting guests;
overwinter;
want minimal yard work;
consider a view of the sea or the ocean important;
or look for an apartment that still feels spacious.

But the best outdoor space isn't necessarily the largest one.

A practical, sheltered, and well-oriented patio can ultimately provide much more enjoyment than dozens of extra square meters that are hardly ever used.

View homes with large patios

Would you like to search specifically for a home where outdoor space is one of your top priorities?

Then take a look at our current listings, our existing homes, the available new-construction homes, and current new-construction projects.

Would you like us to conduct a targeted search for, say, a penthouse with a large terrace, a ground-floor home with a garden, a villa with a spacious pool terrace, a home that gets winter sun, or an apartment with a large terrace and ocean view? If so, please fill out the questionnaire for your home search or feel free to contact Casas Palmeras.

Buying a home with a large terrace on the Southern Costa Blanca is ultimately less about the total square meters and more about practicality. Consider depth, shape, sun exposure, shade, wind, privacy, accessibility, and how it connects to the living room and kitchen. For apartments and penthouses, be sure to thoroughly check the legal status of the terrace or solarium, the community association rules, and the technical condition of the waterproofing and drainage systems. This way, you won’t just be choosing a large terrace, but an outdoor space that you can actually use for a significant portion of the year.