Property market
HEATING UP
THE Costa del Sol property market is entering a new phase of confidence, supported by strong expatriate demand, upgraded infrastructure and the arrival of new digital tools designed to make buying in Spain more transparent. International buyers continue to drive the region’s momentum, with verified online listings, transport investment, and commercial growth shaping market conditions across the Malaga Province.
According to a statement published on OpenPR, the newly launched platform Spain-Real.Estate aims to offer ‘a transparent, convenient way for global buyers to explore verified homes across Spain’. The service brings together thousands of checked listings from certified agencies, with daily updates, professional photography, and neighbourhood data to support remote decision-making - an increasingly important
feature for UK and European expatriates purchasing from abroad.
Connectivity remains one of the most significant drivers of property demand along the Costa del Sol. Airport operator Aena has confirmed plans to invest €13 billion across Spain’s aviation network between 2027 and 2031, as reported by CAPA.
Malaga Airport is named among the main beneficiaries, with Aena stating
that investment will be “governed by actual traffic and future projections.” For expatriates, the expansion reinforces long-term accessibility to the region. For expatriates seeking a laidback lifestyle, rental potential, and long-term stability, the current climate suggests the Costa del Sol remains one of Europe’s most reliable coastal markets. It offers strong prospects for both personal use and investment.
IMAGINE living in a stunningly designed property surrounded by lush landscapes, where modern luxury meets the charm of nature. Now, envision having access to exclusive amenities such as private pools, a heated communal pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and meticulously maintained gardens.
This idyllic lifestyle is not a dream - it’s a reality with 33 exceptional houses that offer everything you need for comfort, relaxation, and convenience.
Spacious and versatile homes
The development consists of 17 three bedroom townhouses and 16 four bedroom semi-detached houses.
Each home features:
Generous floor plans with seamlessly flowing living areas
Carefully considered layouts designed for modern living
Three-bedroom townhouses: Ideal for small families, couples, or individuals
Four-bedroom semi-detached houses: Perfect for larger families or those who need space for guests
A Unique Opportunity of 33 Townhouses and Semi-Detached Houses
Luxury amenities
Private and communal pools
Select homes include private pools, offering your own oasis just steps from your door. The heated communal pool is perfect for relaxing or hosting gatherings.
Avenida Luis Braille 31, 29680, Estepona, Malaga • Office: +34 952 802 912
SUNSHINE HOMES is a professional property management company based on the Costa del Sol, specialising in holiday rentals and second homes across Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Mijas. The company has built a strong reputation for transparency, reliability and exceptional service for both international and local property owners. With a portfolio of more than 60 carefully selected apartments, Sunshine Homes manages every step of the rental process. The team handles property onboarding, interior design advice, professional photography, listing optimisation, guest communication, cleaning, maintenance and 24/7 support. Owners benefit from dynamic pricing tools, regular inspections and detailed checklists that help protect their investment and maximise occupancy and revenue. For travellers, Sunshine Homes offers modern, well-equipped apartments in prime locations, with fast WiFi, smart access systems and a focus on cleanliness and comfort. Guests can
ADVERTISING FEATURE
book airport transfers and enjoy local recommendations tailored to their stay, whether they are visiting for a beach holiday, golf break or an extended winter escape. The company’s more than 1,000 online reviews and an average rating of 4.83 out of five reflect consistently high satisfaction with communication, cleanliness and overall experience.
Sunshine Homes continues to grow, aiming to expand its portfolio while maintaining close relationships with owners and guests. The company’s multilingual team ensures a smooth experience from first contact to checkout, making Sunshine Homes a trusted partner on the Costa del Sol.
Fitness and wellness
A fully equipped, on-site gym means you can stay active without ever leaving the community.
Landscaped gardens
Thoughtfully designed green spaces
ADVERTISING FEATURE
create a peaceful sanctuary and enhance the natural setting.
Private parking
Each home includes a private parking space on the property.
With more than 41 years of experience in real estate on the Costa del Sol, particularly in Estepona, we are uniquely positioned to guide both sellers and buyers through this new landscape. Whether you’re looking to market your property with clarity or buy with confidence, we’re here to help you understand where value lies and how to future-proof your investment.
sales@melrose-properties.com • www.melrose-properties.com
MOT for your home?
FOREIGN buyers risking tens of thousands of euros on Spanish property face a hidden hurdle: the ITE (Inspección Técnica de Edificios), the compulsory ‘MOT for buildings’. This structural health check, required for residential blocks over 50 years old, and often as young as 30-45 in major cities, has become stricter. Missing it can halt sales, trigger fines or force costly repairs.
Governed nationally by Royal Decree-Law 8/2011 and enforced locally, the ITE certifies a building is safe, stable and watertight. For 2025–2026, thousands must submit reports by January 31, 2026. In Malaga, first-time checks apply to 1974 builds; renewals to 1964 ones.
Notaries and banks now demand a favourable ITE before completing sales or mortgages. An unfavourable or absent report freezes transactions. Expatriate buyers frequently lose deposits when sellers hide pending deadlines, as seen in Barcelona and Madrid forums. An unfavourable ITE flags minor, serious or very serious defects. Owners must apply for a works licence within three months and finish repairs on council deadlines. Non-compliance brings daily fines up to €6,000, council-enforced works with a 20 per cent surcharge, or evacuation.
Protect yourself: check construction year free on the Catastro website (sede. catastro.gob.es).
Older homes need structural checks.
Cosy up for winter under a Cape Reed thatch roof
AS winter settles across Spain and temperatures dip, there’s no better time to rediscover the comfort and charm of natural materials. A Cape Reed thatched roof offers the perfect invitation to slow down, warm up, and enjoy the season in a space that feels effortlessly cosy.
Thatch roofing may be synonymous with summer living, but its benefits in colder climates are just as impressive. The dense, tightly packed reed provides exceptional natural insulation, helping retain warmth and maintain a stable indoor temperature - even on the chilliest evenings. Unlike conventional roofing, thatch ‘breathes’, reducing condensation and creating a healthier, more comfortable environment throughout winter.
Beneath a Cape Reed thatch roof and its timber framework, the ambience shifts instantly. The warm tones of natural wood, combined with the soft texture and earthy scent of hand-crafted thatch, create an atmosphere that feels both rustic and refined. Whether
sheltering an outdoor seating area or enhancing a private retreat, the structure exudes a natural warmth that encourages people to gather, unwind, and enjoy slow winter moments.
In Spain’s mild yet crisp winter season, embracing a Cape Reed thatched roof is more than a design choice - it’s an invitation to experience winter in its most comforting form: naturally, beautifully, and warmly.
Contact John at 638 421 464 or john@capereed.com for a free consultation, or visit www.capereed.es for inspiration.
Spain’s housing hack
SPAIN has had an overheated housing market lately. The buyers worry about rising prices and lack of space, and in this hot climate, a quiet revolution is taking place. Instead of building from zero, property watchers are seeing a sharp change: the conversion of offices, shops and commercial units into homes. And this strategy is becoming a popular response to both soaring demand and vacant buildings.
According to consultancy CBRE, more than 390,000 square metres of space began transformation in 2024 alone, with 70 formal ‘changes of use’ recorded across Spain. The trend only gained momentum in the first half of 2025: over 137,000 square metres were converted in the period, a 4 per cent increase year-on-year.
Experts say this mismatched supply and demand is exactly what’s driving the conversions. Big cities such as Madrid and Barcelona remain conversion hot-spots, but now second-tier regions like Andalucia are gaining traction. Cities like Malaga or Sevilla are offering more attractive land and, at the same time, lower costs for developers.
For investors, converting an underused commercial unit into housing can unlock value faster than new builds. Meantime, for buyers, especially those priced out of traditional market segments, these are golden opportunities to access properties that might otherwise not have existed.
Transformation requires planning permission, building work and a change-ofuse certificate.
Spain’s cheaper housing hack: turning empty shops into homes.
EU Insurance Direct:
Leading the way in tailored protection for families across Spain
MARBELLA, Spain - November 20, 2025 - As Spain’s insurance market continues to evolve, EU Insurance Direct is proud to offer comprehensive, personalised coverage that meets the needs of modern families, drivers, and homeowners. With a focus on Life & Disability, Car, and Home Insurance, the company is setting new standards for trust, flexibility, and digital convenience.
Protection that fits your life EU Insurance Direct provides:
• Life & Disability Insurance: Financial security for your loved ones and income protection in case of disability.
• Car Insurance: Full coverage with 24/7 roadside assistance across Spain and Europe.
• Home Insurance: Protection against fire, floods, theft, and emergency repairs.
Exclusive benefits
• Personalised service in your language
• Competitive rates tailored to the Spanish market
• Further discounts for integral clients
• Fast, digital claims and support
A growing market
Spain’s insurance sector is projected to exceed €60 billion in premiums by year-end, driven by demand for flexible, transparent coverage. EU Insurance Direct is at the forefront, offering solutions that reflect today’s realities - from climate risks to urban mobility and remote work.
EU Insurance Direct
Property paradise
BUYERS looking for a property in Spain have a wealth of jawdropping properties to choose from on the Costa del Sol, and in particular, the shining coastal city of Marbella. Boasting beautiful blue waters, idyllic mountains and hills, and charming white houses that enamour even the most critical of holidaymakers, it’s no surprise that Marbella has become a hotspot not only on the Costa del Sol, but in the whole of Spain, for its booming luxury real estate market.
In the first half of the year, despite a global stalling in property activity, the luxury real estate market on the Costa del Sol and particularly
Marbella’s luxury homes thrive as demand surges amid global slowdown.
in Marbella has remained strong. In fact, the real estate market in Marbella has doubled in the last seven years, and the city outperforms the national average by more than double. Championed by strong foreign demand, much of which comes from interested Brits, Marbella has become an exclusive property hotspot, with fewer, but higher quality, options for a highclass holiday.
Not only this, Marbella is a strategic hub for investors, not just for those looking for a home for personal use. Transaction volumes in the first half of 2025 surpassed the 2024 figures and cemented an
ongoing upward trend for the real estate on the Costa del Sol, in both sales and prices.
Buyers are drawn to Marbella due to several factors: the quality of life, the security, the international connectivity and desirability, and the strong advancement and professionalism of the real estate sector. Its leap forward and continuous growth make it a standout spot in the whole of the European luxury market.
Marbella is also particularly privileged when it comes to the social scene. With a reputation for wonderful golfing tourism, plenty of celebrities, a bright nightlife, to-die-
for gastronomy, and bask-worthy beaches, the city is an example of how good the Mediterranean lifestyle can get.
International demand continues to be the main propeller of the luxury real estate market in Marbella: buyers from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and other Nordic countries take the lead in interest for the shining gem of a city. Marbella’s Golden Mile, an area on the westernmost side of the city, continues to offer world-class amenities, a lush Mediterranean lifestyle, and an air of wealth and luxury among the most elite of Spanish properties.
Turning Houses into Homes: Discover
La Cala de Mijas
A TRUSTED local team offering interior design, furniture, renovations and exterior solutions - all under one roof.
In the heart of La Cala de Mijas, just a few steps from the church, a unique concept has taken shape - one that blends interior design, a carefully curated selection of furniture, and a complete range of solutions to enhance any home. This is MÁXIMO, a place where style, craftsmanship, and practical expertise come together under one roof.
Speaking with the team, it becomes clear that MÁXIMO is much more than a furniture store; it is a destination for anyone looking to elevate their home. “People come to us because they’re looking for guidance,” the team explains.
“Many clients know the feeling they want their space to convey, but not always how to achieve it. That’s where we step in.”
Interior design is the heart of the business. At MÁXIMO, they create personalised concepts tailored to each client’s lifestyle - modern coastal, warm Mediterranean, sophisticated minimalism, or something more eclectic. From the initial concept to full project management, they ensure harmony between colours, textures, layout and functionality. Whether furnishing a holiday apartment or redesigning a family home, the approach is personal, detailed, and always focused on high-quality materials.
Inside the store, visitors find a selection of furniture chosen for its style, durability, and timeless appeal: sofas, dining sets, bedroom furniture, outdoor pieces, decorative items, and more. “We only bring in pieces we would use in our own homes,” they say. “Quality matters - both in the materials and in the hands that craft them.”
What many may not know is that the MÁXIMO team also offers a much broader range of services to support any home improvement project. Beyond interior design and furniture, they coordinate renovations, masonry work, tiling and flooring, painting, and even specialised exterior solutions such as awnings, glass curtains, and custom enclosures. These services allow clients to transform their spaces completely - without needing to deal with multiple providers. This comprehensive and centralised
approach has made MÁXIMO a trusted reference for residents, new homeowners, and international buyers settling on the Costa del Sol. “People want peace of mind,” they add.
“Our job is to make the process comfortable, beautiful, and stressfree.”
With a combination of design expertise, quality furnishings, and reliable home-improvement services, MÁXIMO continues to help turn houses into homes- stylish, functional, and built to last.
Photo
Credit:
Maksim
Considerations when renovating a Spanish property
BUYING a fixer-upper in Spain and giving it a fresh lease of life can seem like the perfect way to get more for your money, especially in a country where older properties often offer plenty of charm and potential.
But managing a renovation in another country can come with surprises. From budgeting and local building rules to exchange rates and contractors, careful planning is key to keeping your dream project on track.
Building a realistic budget
The purchase price of your dream home abroad might seem like a steal, but if the property needs a lot of work, your initial savings can vanish fast.
You’ll need to factor in materials, travel and accommodation while working onsite, the cost of contractors, and local permits or taxes. But be warned: making a property liveable can quickly eat into any savings from a ‘bargain’ purchase.
Check the structural basics
Before you fall in love with exposed beams and whitewashed walls, make sure the property is sound at its core. The foundation, structural supports, and roof should all be carefully inspected, particularly in rural or historic regions.
A sound structure gives you a good base to work on and helps prevent a property from becoming a hidden money pit. Consider hiring a local surveyor who knows the lay of the land and understands local codes.
Living, renting or flipping?
What you intend to do with the property will influence how you renovate. Are you planning to live there full-time, use it as a holiday home, rent it out or sell it later for profit?
Each goal comes with its own set of priorities. For example, if you plan to rent it, you may favour durability and minimal style-specific touches. If your goal is to
sell, you’ll want to maximise appeal to a broad audience and possibly retain a ‘blank canvas’ feel.
Getting the right local help
Undertaking a renovation abroad can mean dealing with language, local building regulations, and logistics from afar.
Hiring reputable local contractors, and possibly someone who speaks your language, can reduce stress.
If you can’t be on site regularly, organise for regular progress updates with clear photographs and have someone local
who can act as your eyes and ears.
Maximising your renovation funds
If you’re buying and renovating in Spain but sending funds from the UK or elsewhere, you should consider your foreign exchange options.
Currencies Direct’s excellent exchange rates can help stretch your budget a little further than when transferring your money via a high-street bank. With the help of your own dedicated account manager, you can get guidance on when to time your transfer to maximise your returns.
Learn more by contacting Currencies Direct by phone on +34 950 478 914 or by visiting our website at currenciesdirect.es to find your local branch and speak to one of our multilingual experts.
Venetian design returns
VENETIAN design is experiencing a revival in Spanish homes, blending warmth, texture, and artisan craftsmanship with traditional Mediterranean architecture. After years of minimalism and Nordic-inspired interiors, homeowners are reintroducing layered colours, decorative details, and tactile surfaces, creating spaces that feel lived-in and emotionally resonant. The historical connection between Venice and Spain, both regions shaped by Mediterranean light and rich textures, makes this style especially compatible with Spanish domestic interiors.
A central element of this trend is Venetian plaster (estuco veneciano), which enhances walls with subtle tonal depth and captures natural light beautifully. Its application complements Spain’s sunlit interiors, thick walls, and traditional materials such as terracotta, limestone, and hydraulic tiles. Alongside plaster, earthy colours like terracotta, olive, blush, ochre, and cream are replacing the minimalist greys and whites, creating soft, grounded spaces that balance aesthetic elegance with functionality.
Murano glass features prominently, with handblown chandeliers and pendants adding shimmer without overwhelming rooms. Spanish designers often incorporate one or two statement Venetian pieces, such as a chandelier or mirrored console, to anchor spaces while maintaining harmony with existing architectural features like high ceilings and decorative tiling. The revival aligns with a broader appreciation for local craftsmanship, including carved wood, ironwork, textiles, and glass. Rather than maximalist opulence, Venetian-inspired Spanish interiors emphasise subtle atmosphere, warmth, and tactile beauty, creating timeless homes that combine history, personality, and Mediterranean light.
Exceptional land in one of Almeria’s most valuable growth areas
DISCOVER one of the most exclusive investment opportunities on the coast of Almeria: a remarkable seven-hectare development plot in Mojacar, located just 470 metres from the shoreline and close to a planned marina. Opportunities of this scale and potential are increasingly rare along the Mediterranean, making this a standout proposal for investors and developers alike.
The land offers up to 27,500 m² of buildable residential area, providing exceptional flexibility for a wide range of high-end projects. Whether envisioning a spectacular private estate or a boutique luxury development, the plot’s size and configuration allow for a variety of premium concepts. Its strategic positioning grants sea views, immediate proximity to the beach, and excellent access to international airports, a forthcoming high-speed train connection and nearby yacht moorings.
What truly distinguishes this plot is its setting. Mojacar is known for its natural beauty, warm climate and sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle. Unlike more saturated Mediterranean destinations,
Mojacar retains a sense of space, privacy and authenticity while offering all essential services and continued growth potential. This balance of tranquillity and opportunity makes the area especially attractive for highquality residential projects.
For investors seeking strong long-term returns, the land represents a rare chance to secure a large, premium coastal asset in a region with rising demand. For developers, it opens the door to creating an exceptional residential enclave: imagine contemporary villas, landscaped communal areas, elegant design and walking proximity to the future marina and the Mediterranean
Sea. Thanks to its extensive buildability and privileged location, the plot supports a wide spectrum of luxury concepts, from a single visionary project to a series of exclusive plots.
PARTIAL PLAN: The drafting of the Partial Plan has been commissioned to the Soto & Tudela Architecture Studio in order to advance the urban planning process for the transformation of the land into Urban Land. Initial approval of the Plan is expected by mid-2026, followed by the subsequent drafting phases until the Final Approval is granted. This final approval will enable the Urbanisation and Reparcelling of the land, ultimately securing its definitive classification as Urban Land.
In essence, this offering combines scale, scarcity and location - the three pillars of a truly valuable real-estate investment. With its development potential, access to future infrastructure and unparalleled coastal position, this plot is poised to become one of the most desirable residential opportunities in the region.
For more information, including the Project Summary, Urban Planning Record and Preliminary Zonings Study, please visit: www.landinmojacar.com
SPAIN’S property market is entering what analysts are calling a ‘historic phase’, with prices expected to reach record highs by 2026 if current trends continue.
According to Idealista, second-hand home prices jumped nearly 16 per cent in October, reaching €2,555 per square metre - the highest level ever recorded for Spain’s resale market. A separate report by Fotocasa found an 18 per cent year-on-year rise in national housing prices, placing the average at €2,789 per square metre - just 5.5 per cent below the peak of the 2007 property boom. “2026 is shaping up to be the year of historic prices,” said Fotocasa’s research director, María Matos. So far, there is little evidence that the trend will slow.
Market enters new phase
At the heart of the surge is a severe imbalance between demand and supply. The number of homes for sale remains extremely low - only 9 per cent above Spain’s alltime minimum in 2014while demand continues
to grow. Rising rents have also worsened the situation. As rental prices climb, more people are rushing to buy before prices rise further, while those unable to purchase
are forming a ‘delayed demand’ that analysts expect will keep pressure on prices in the years
Falling mortgage rates have only intensified the rush. After the Euribor dropped to around 2 per cent from a 2023 high of 4 per cent, many buyers who had paused their plans have re-entered the market. Fotocasa reports that 21 per cent of Spaniards are now actively looking to buy - up from 18 per cent last year - while rental participation has stayed flat at 17 per cent. But the housing boom is leaving young Spaniards behind. Among 18- to 24-year-olds, participation in the property market fell from 54 per cent to 44 per cent in one year, as deposits, unstable employment, and surging
rents make independence nearly impossible.
Unless Spain rapidly increases housing supply or demand cools, the forecast remains clear:
2026 could mark a new peak in property pricesand for many Spaniards, the dream of owning a home may move even further out of reach.
