Buying your first property is an exciting milestone, but if you’re on a budget, chances are you’ll be looking at homes that need some work. That’s not a bad thing — in fact, a fixer-upper can be one of the best ways to get onto the property ladder without overspending.
But here’s the truth: living in the house while renovating it is not glamorous. It’s messy, it’s tiring, and it takes patience. Still, it’s possible — and for many buyers, it’s the smartest path to creating a dream home.
The main attraction of buying a property that needs renovation is affordability. Instead of paying for a fully updated home, you buy something with "good bones" at a lower price. This gives you room to invest in renovations over time, often increasing the property’s long-term value.
For many first-time buyers, it’s the only realistic way to own a home — and while it comes with challenges, the rewards are worth it. At VíllaMía, we regularly help clients find renovation properties in Javea, Moraira, and across the Costa Blanca, identifying homes with strong potential and good structural foundations.
The reality of moving into a property that’s under construction means learning to adapt. Dust will get everywhere, rooms might be unfinished, and daily life won’t feel as comfortable as you’d like. But with some planning, you can make it manageable.
The golden rule? Have at least one usable room. Whether it’s a bedroom or a small living space, you need one "safe zone" where you can rest, recharge, and escape the chaos.
Another essential can be a camping gas stove or portable cooker — depending on the work done to the house, this will become your best friend for cooking simple meals. Add a kettle, a mini-fridge, and some storage boxes, and you’ll have the basics covered.
For the first and most disruptive stage of renovations — like rewiring, plumbing, or major bathroom work — many people choose to rent short-term for two or three months. This gives tradespeople the freedom to work quickly and saves you from living without essential services. It’s a common and practical solution, especially for families.
At VíllaMía, we offer short-term rentals in Javea and surrounding areas (minimum three months) that are ideal for this stage of renovation. A typical three-bedroom apartment costs around €1,200 per month, giving you a comfortable base while your dream home takes shape.
And if you’re new to the Costa Blanca, we can also recommend trusted local builders, electricians, and renovation experts — ensuring your project runs smoothly and stays within budget.
When money is tight, it’s important to prioritize. Focus on essential systems first: electricity, plumbing, heating and insulation. Once the basics are safe and functional, you can move on to cosmetic improvements like paint, flooring, and décor.
DIY is another budget-saver. Tasks like painting, sanding, and even basic tiling can be learned quickly and cut labour costs significantly. Reusing materials or shopping second-hand is also a great way to stretch your budget further.
At VíllaMía, we collaborate with a network of trusted Costa Blanca renovation partners who understand how to deliver quality work within budget — from builders and electricians to architects and landscapers. Whether you’re tackling a full reform or simply modernising key areas, we can connect you with the right professionals.
Living in a renovation isn’t easy, but it’s a lifestyle that many first-time homeowners embrace. Yes, you’ll be dealing with dust, noise, and half-finished projects, but you’ll also be watching your vision slowly come to life. Every improvement, no matter how small, feels like a step closer to the home you’ve always wanted.
Buying a fixer-upper and living in it during renovations isn’t for everyone — but if you’re determined, adaptable, and budget-conscious, it’s absolutely possible. With one liveable room, a camping stove, and a little creativity, you can survive the mess and end up with a home that’s truly your own.
If you’re ready to take on a renovation and want a property with real potential, VíllaMía has a range of homes ideal for reforming. From traditional Spanish villas to modernisation opportunities in central Javea, there’s something for every budget and vision.
Check out some of our current renovation listings:
- Villa in Jávea for sale VM 2924d
- Townhouse in Orba for sale VM 2909d
- Townhouse in Jávea for sale CP 4689-D
Whether you need advice on finding the right home, local builders, or short-term rental options during your renovation, VíllaMía is here to help you every step of the way.
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