Renovations in Spain: how to plan a stress-free home project as an international owner

Many international homeowners with a holiday property in Spain want to carry out renovations in Spain to modernise their home, improve comfort or adapt it for year-round living. But when you don’t live here, it’s only natural to have questions: how do you manage everything from abroad? What permits are required? How can you be sure the work is progressing properly? How do you choose the right materials? And, above all, how can you ensure the final result matches your expectations?

With more than 50 years of experience on the Costa Blanca, Construcciones Marva guides international clients through every step of the process with complete transparency. Having a clear vision from the outset makes each stage simpler and helps the project progress smoothly, without any unwelcome surprises.

Before you start your renovation

Before beginning renovations in Spain, it’s useful to understand the local context and shape your project with clear priorities. This preparation strengthens every later decision and helps ensure a predictable, well-structured renovation:

Renovations in Spain: an overview

Spain has a strong renovation culture, especially in Moraira, Jávea, Benissa and Calpe, where many international homeowners update older properties. Construction methods here can differ from those in other countries, so working with local professionals helps you set clear expectations from the start and manage materials, suppliers and regulations — even when you’re abroad.

Define the scope of your renovation

Every successful renovation begins with a well-defined project. Consider how you plan to use the property: a main residence often requires different priorities than a holiday home or rental investment. Decide whether you need a full transformation or a more selective update, and identify your key objectives: improved light, better distribution or modern finishes. A renovation company can translate these ideas into a practical plan, outlining necessary work and preparing an initial budget.

Align design decisions with your budget

Given the wide range of materials and finishes available, setting your design choices and budget early helps prevent surprises. A renovation team can guide you toward options that match your style and investment. 

Once your goals are clear, the next step is learning how to manage the renovation from abroad.

Managing the process from abroad

Once the project is structured, coordinating the renovation from another country requires good communication, trusted professionals and a clear understanding of administrative requirements.

Trusted professionals and clear communication

For homeowners abroad, seamless communication and reliable professional coordination are essential. Marva delivers regular updates, progress photos and clear explanations, while managing all trades through one dedicated team. This unified approach ensures consistency, eliminates communication gaps and keeps the project aligned with your expectations from start to finish.

 Understand administrative requirements and licences

Depending on the extent of your renovation, specific building licences may be required. Although architects usually prepare the technical documentation, your renovation company can support you with identifying the correct permit, organising documents and communicating with the local town hall. This guidance prevents delays and ensures the renovation complies with local regulations from the outset.

Benefit from after-sales support

Once work is complete, small adjustments often become noticeable as you start using your renovated home. For international owners, after-sales support is particularly valuable. At Marva, a reliable team addresses final tweaks, answers questions and ensures everything functions correctly, giving you long-term reassurance even when you are away.

Why choosing a long-established company matters

Experience makes a significant difference, especially when renovating from abroad. With over five decades of work on the Costa Blanca, Marva’s approach is built on transparency and careful project management. Our technical team, site managers and specialists oversee each phase with precision, ensuring a well-coordinated process. Their deep regional knowledge provides international homeowners with the clarity and confidence needed throughout the renovation.

Before taking the next step… 

Planning renovations in Spain from abroad may initially seem challenging, but with clear goals, good communication and the support of an experienced renovation company, the process becomes structured and manageable.

Whether you want to update part of your property or transform an entire villa, choosing the right team allows you to enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience. At Construcciones Marva, we’re here to help you plan your next step: contact us whenever you’re ready!