Country houses, fincas or cortijos, located in rural valleys and hillsides, often have a large plot of land, possibly with irrigation systems for growing crops. Some are new, some restored, some primitive but habitable and some in a ruinous state requiring renovation. Many are surrounded by vineyards, almond and olive groves and have views over countryside, mountains, white villages and the Mediterranean. If you are looking for a rural property with a large degree of privacy, the tradeoff is often track access connecting them to tarmac roads.

Townhouses and apartments have balconies and terraces overlooking shaded streets, often with sea and mountain views, and are located in pretty white villages, coastal or golf resorts with all amenities. Many townhouses have roof terraces and internal patios; some have gardens. Apartments and modern townhouses, newly built on urbanistaions, often have communal facilities including pools, gardens and tennis courts. Traditional village houses have access to outdoor public pools and gardens. In some instances a townhouse or ultra luxurious apartment may have a private pool or splash pool.

Villas are recently constructed, detached houses on plots varying from 500m2 in urban areas to 10,000m2 plus in rural locations. They may be situated by the coast, lakeside, inland or near to a village or town. The land can be sloping or flat with landscaped areas and mature trees on some of the more established properties. From 2 to 10+ bedrooms, with any number of bathrooms, features include private swimming-pools, barbecue areas and terraces. As land is at a premium close to the coast, plots are likely to be smaller abd the villas costlier in these areas.

Land is available in plots measuring from 500m2 upwards, and can be coastal, rural, lakeside or close to towns. Some plots have permission to build but the size and density depends on the classification - urban or one of several different rural classifications. The size of build allowed will depend on the land classification, plot size, municipality and location. On a plot you can chose to find a south-facing area with sunshine all day and panoramic views, on which to build.