
Beyond the Brochure: What to Know Before Buying a New Build on the Costa del Sol

New Builds on the Costa del Sol: How to Prioritise Quality and Protect Your Investment
Buying a newly built property on the Costa del Sol can be a dream come true. With its warm climate, Mediterranean charm, and growing selection of new developments, the region continues to attract those looking for a second home, lifestyle shift, or investment opportunity.
But alongside the boom in construction comes a growing concern—how can buyers be sure that what they’re purchasing is truly built to a high standard?
At TerraSur Homes, we visit dozens of new builds on the Costa del Sol each year, and we´ve seen a full range of quality. Many of these developments are beautiful and well-executed. But we’ve also seen situations where the reality hasn’t matched the brochure—and it’s the buyer who ends up carrying the stress.
What can you do to protect yourself when buying off-plan or newly built homes?
What makes a high-quality new build?
A truly well-built home isn’t just about clean lines and stylish finishes. It’s about what you don’t always see:
– Proper insulation for both summer and winter
– Soundproofing and durable materials
– Liveable layouts
– Reliable plumbing and electrical systems
– Full compliance with legal guarantees and energy certifications

The problem: Not all new builds are equal
Over the past year, especially during winter inspections, we’ve seen some worrying trends in a few new developments:
– Rushed finishes
– Poor insulation
– Loose fittings and cracked tiling
– Missing promised features or downgraded materials
– Delays in post-handover support
Many of these problems can be avoided with the right guidance and proactive after-sale management.
How to protect yourself when buying a new build
You don’t need to be a construction expert—just prepared and well-supported. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Check the developer’s track record
Visit past projects. Look beyond the showroom.
2. Work with a buyer-focused agent
Who asks the hard questions, translate the fine print, and join site visits.
3. Get everything in writing
Finishes, specs, timelines—no verbal promises.
4. Request a snagging inspection
Before final payment, ensure everything meets contract specs.
5. Stay informed—even from abroad
Ask regularly for photos, reports, and clear timelines.
Our role at TerraSur Homes
We support buyers throughout the process—especially those purchasing from abroad who need a team they can trust on the ground.
We work with developers who value quality and transparency—but we also know how to navigate challenges when they arise. From contracts to handover, we’re by your side to make sure your new home lives up to its promise.
New builds can be an excellent choice—when you know what to look for and have the right people supporting you.
If you’re thinking of buying a new property on the Costa del Sol and want to explore trusted new developments, we’re happy to guide you through the process step by step.
Let’s talk about your plans—and how we can help you get there.
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