Property Supplement CDS 29 May – 4 June 2025 Issue 2082
Housing hustle
Spain’s housing market is on track for another strong year in 2025
ACCORDING to leading real estate firm Solvia, property sales are expected to keep rising, even though prices may grow faster than the number of transactions. The biggest changes are expected in the rental market, but buyers and investors still have reasons to be optimistic, especially in sought-after areas like the Costa del Sol.
In 2024, the market showed solid performance, particularly in the second
half of the year. Lower interest rates, stable job numbers, and continued interest from international buyers all helped boost activity. Although more homes are now being built, supply is still falling short of demand. This shortage is one of the main reasons property prices continue to rise across much of Spain.
Solvia predicts home sales will grow by around 3 per cent to 4 per cent in 2025, a sign of steady, ongoing demand. Con-
tributing factors include lower borrowing costs, a backlog of interest from previous years, and a rising preference for smaller, more affordable homes, the kind that tend to sell faster. By late 2025, mortgage conditions may improve further, making it easier for more people to buy.
Coastal regions like the Costa del Sol remain particularly attractive. Known for its sunny climate, relaxed lifestyle, and strong rental potential, the area conti-
nues to draw both holiday-home seekers and long-term residents, including many from overseas.
With three million more people now living in Spain compared to 2008, and all needing housing, demand is likely to remain high. Whether you’re planning to buy, invest, or relocate, Spain’s property market still offers solid opportunities, with the Costa del Sol standing out as one of the most desirable regions to watch.
TIME IN SPAIN Sales and Rentals, established more than 20 years ago, are trusted experts in selling and renting property in and around Estepona. Known for achieving maximum sales prices and offering honest, reliable service, they provide complete property management, ensuring every home is well cared for. Whether you’re buying, selling or letting, Time in Spain delivers professional results with a personal touch.
With a strong local presence and a
multilingual team that includes Estepona residents, this longstanding agency has built a reputation for tailored support and deep market insight. Their team understands the needs of both international clients and local homeowners, offering expert advice from initial listing to final sale or rental.
Now actively welcoming new clients, Time in Spain is especially looking to expand its portfolio of Properties for Sale and shortterm Holiday Rentals.
If you’re a homeowner
ADVERTISING FEATURE
considering selling or letting your property
- especially during Estepona’s busy holiday season - this is a prime opportunity to work with professionals who know how to market effectively and deliver results.
Property owners benefit from direct listing opportunities, handson management, and
Their office is open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm during the high season, and Monday to Saturday during the winter months from 10am to 6pm.
To learn more or list your property, contact Time in Spain on +34 952 798 305 or reach out via WhatsApp +34 642 358 580 for a friendly chat with a member of their team.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Your property experts on the coast
MIBRO INTERNATIONAL is an established Real Estate Agency located in El Paraiso area, on the New Golden Mile of the Costa del Sol. Founded by Zoe Dyer, who brings over 15 years of experience in the local property market, the agency has built a reputation for offering a straightforward, nononsense but professional approach to real estate. Zoe has benefited over the 15 years from word of mouth recommendations from clients.
Specialising in property sales and rentals in areas such as Estepona, Marbella, El Paraiso, Benahavis and Puerto Banus. Mibro International offers a diverse portfolio that caters to various client needs. The team’s deep-rooted knowledge of the Costa del Sol ensures clients receive expert guidance, whether they’re purchasing a luxury villa or seeking a holiday rental. Rentals Manager Heather Coulson oversees all aspects of rentals, both long and short term.
Mibro International provides comprehensive aftercare services, assisting clients with all aspects of property ownership and life in Spain. This includes Property Management,
Maintenance, and Project Management and Reform Projects.
Zoe Dyer, originally from Lancashire, relocated to Gibraltar more than 28 years ago and has since made Marbella her home. Her candid and client-focused approach has been instrumental in the agency’s success, fostering collaborations with European agents to source luxury properties for discerning clients.
For more information, visit Mibro International’s website or pop into their newly reformed offices. www.mibrointernational.com
C.C El Pilar local 4, Urb El Pilar, Calle Sabinillas CN-340km, 29680
personalised marketing strategies designed to attract serious buyers and quality tenants. For holiday rentals, the team ensures top-notch property presentation, guest communication, and reliable care between stays.
Far from a bubble
THE Spanish property market carries on its upward trend in 2025, following a strong 8.4 per cent rise in housing prices in 2024, according to INE data.
Analysts predict a more moderate increase of around 5 per cent in 2025, with S&P Global Ratings estimating 4.5 per cent, one of Europe’s biggest.
In Q1 2025, Tinsa reported the average price of completed homes (new and used) at €1,905 per square metre, up 7.6 per cent in a year. For Costa del Sol homeowners, the question remains: is now the ideal time to sell?
Several factors drive the price surge - Growing demand, particularly in urban centres and coastal spots like Marbella and Estepona; clashes with
limited supply, driving prices higher; falling interest rates making mortgages more accessible, and foreign investment, targeting high-value properties in salubrious areas. As well, a shortage of new construction for new households, further compounding the market.
For sellers, 2025 offers favourable conditions: prices are at historic highs, demand is strong, and competition is low in
key areas. But will this turn out to be a bubble about to burst?
Experts argue there’s no sign of a bubble forming yet. Unlike the 2008 crash, today’s growth isn’t driven by speculative over-leveraging but by genuine supply and demand.
Prices are still well below what would be expected for a bubble and buyers are financially more stable, with fewer risky mortgages.
Floor
CHOOSING the right kitchen flooring can be a challenge, with wood and tile being the most common options. But with so many new styles emerging for 2025, there’s more variety than ever.
Designers are favouring a mix of classic and modern looks, offering options that are both stylish and long-lasting.
Natural wood floors are making a strong return, bringing warmth and a softer feel underfoot. They also help create a seamless flow between rooms. For those after a more rustic style, textured stone or brick floors are growing in popularity, adding depth and character to the space.
Patterned tiles are
another big trend, offering a playful way to introduce colour without overwhelming the room. These designs can add personality while still feeling timeless. Texture is also key this year, with finishes that mimic natural surfaces like aged wood or stone now in demand. Many homeowners are choosing floors that blend with their
kitchen units, creating a clean, unified look. Matching tones and finishes between cabinetry and flooring helps make the room feel larger and more cohesive. Whether you prefer wood, tile, or stone, the focus in 2025 is on comfort, natural tones, and thoughtful design that stands the test of time.
Table trends
MODERN coffee tables have become much lower over the years, reflecting a shift in how we use this essential piece of furniture.
Originally, coffee tables were functional items for holding tea or coffee, but their purpose has evolved over time. From their 17th-century European origins to the 1950s’ focus on television, coffee tables have adapted to our changing lifestyles.
Today, coffee tables typically stand between 40 and 46 cm high. This low profile suits modern living by providing a practical, unobtrusive piece that serves multiple functions. These tables often include storage like drawers or hidden compartments. Their height and design are also ideal for smaller rooms or apartments, helping to maintain an open space.
Low coffee tables contribute to a sense of flow in a room, making movement easier and enhancing the overall feel of the space. Their smaller size keeps them from dominating the room, allowing them to fulfil a functional role without overwhelming other furniture.
Additionally, their lightweight nature makes them easy to move and rearrange.
Ultimately, these tables are versatile, stylish, and well-suited for modern living.
Image: Pixel-Shot / Shutterstock.com
Locksmith’s viral TikTok
A SIMPLE upgrade to your front door could help protect your home from thieves and squatters - and it’s more affordable than many think. Spanish locksmith Dismaur, now a TikTok sensation, has gone viral with a straightforward security tip: install a metal shield over your lock cylinder. This security cover hides the type of lock you have, making it harder for burglars to know what tools or techniques to use.
With squatting incidents rising in Spain and eviction processes often slow, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to secure their properties. Dismaur warns that leaving your cylinder exposed is a major risk, as it offers intruders a blueprint for breaking in. By covering the lock, you add a crucial barrier that can delay or deter break-ins - often enough to make criminals move on.
For those willing to invest more, he recommends high-security op-
trick
you think.
tions like the KESO 8000 OMEGA 2 ULTRA cylinder with a SAG bolt. But even a basic shield offers a strong first line of defence. Dismaur stresses that the goal isn’t to make your home impenetrable, but to make it not worth the effort. He also advises combining the shield with other deterrents, such as alarms, window locks, and keeping homes looking occupied. In Spain’s fight against okupas, even small security upgrades can make a big difference.
Retro revival
RETRO bathrooms are enjoying a big comeback, and it’s easy to see why. They bring charm and personality that modern, minimalist spaces often lack. Moving away from plain white schemes, today’s designs celebrate bold colours, fun patterns, and vintage character.
Bringing retro style into your bathroom doesn’t mean copying the past exactly. It’s more about blending old and new. A patterned wallpaper with a vintage print is an easy way to start. Adding bold colours, like soft pinks or mint greens, helps capture that nostalgic feel without being overwhelming.
You can also go classic with black-andwhite checker board tiles, or bring in retro materials like terrazzo, which was big in the mid-20th century. A free-standing bath with curved lines, inspired by Art Deco or Victorian styles, adds elegance and a touch of drama. Mixing pieces from different decades can give your bathroom a well-loved, lived-in look.
Image: Pavlovska Yevheniia / Shutterstock.com
Credit: Nick Beer, Shutterstock
One simple fix to your front door could stop thieves and squatters in their tracks - and it’s not as expensive as
SITUATED between Marbella and the stunning Mediterranean, Estepona has become one of the Costa del Sol’s most sought-after investment hotspots - and with good reason. With its golden beaches, charming old town, world-class golf courses, and ongoing development projects, Estepona offers an unbeatable lifestyle and solid property value growth.
Despite fluctuations in global markets, the local real estate scene has remained remarkably resilient. Demand from international buyers continues to rise, particularly for modern apartments, frontline beach homes, and off-plan developments offering strong capital appreciation. Property here remains more affordable than in neighbouring Marbella, yet values are steadily increasing - making now an ideal window for smart investors and lifestyle buyers alike.
At Melrose Properties, we combine over two decades of on-the-ground
Why now is the perfect time to invest in Estepona Real Estate
experience with a deep understanding of the local and international market.
Whether you’re looking for a characterfilled resale home or a brand-new development opportunity, our team offers honest, expert guidance every
step of the way.
What truly sets us apart is our clientfirst approach. We’re proud to maintain a flawless five-star rating from buyers around the world who value our professionalism, transparency, and
dedication. You can view these verified reviews at www.melrose-properties. com.
We’re not just selling homes - we’re building long-term relationships, offering reassurance and security in every transaction. Whether you’re relocating, investing, or simply dreaming of a coastal escape, Estepona offers unmatched potential. Let Melrose Properties be your trusted partner in making it a reality.
ACROSS Spain’s coastal regions, more and more buyers are turning their attention to something a little different: run-down fincas, cortijos, and abandoned old townhouses.
These forgotten buildings, often perched in peaceful countryside spots with sea views or located in historic villages, are becoming a surprising trend with both locals and international buyers.
While modern homes still appeal to many, there’s something about old stone walls, traditional roof tiles, and the charm of a place with history that draws people in. Many buyers say they’re tired of ‘copy-paste’ homes and want something with more character. Restoring an old building allows them to create a home that stands out by blending original features with modern comfort.
In coastal areas where land is limited and new builds can be more expensive initially, restoring an old character property can also be a smart way to get more space for your money. However, it’s not always cheaper overall, renovations take time,
Restoring Ruins
patience, a solid budget, and maybe even some DIY skills.
For many, it’s more than just a home, it’s a project with meaning. Some buyers enjoy
learning about traditional building methods and working with local tradespeople to keep the style of the area alive. Others want to live more sustainably,
using natural materials and solar energy to bring life back to old walls without harming the environment.
Restoring a ruin isn’t for
everyone. Buyers should always check that the property is legal and that planning permission can be granted for the work they want to do. Rules can vary depending on whether the building is in a protected rural zone or a historic village. Before signing anything, it’s wise to hire a qualified building surveyor to assess the structure. Some old character properties may look charming, but can be structurally unsafe or require more work than expected. A detailed report can help avoid costly surprises.
Local property experts and estate agents can also be invaluable. They usually have trusted contacts like surveyors, architects, and legal advisors who understand the local regulations and can guide you through the process. Having the right team makes all the difference when taking on this kind of project. Still, if done right, restoring an old finca can be incredibly rewarding. Not only do you get a beautiful home full of character, you also help preserve the unique style and story of Spain’s coastal communities.
Spain’s smart housing boom
SPAIN’S homes are getting smarter - and fast. Once limited to WiFi bulbs and robot hoovers, smart living now means walls that change scenery, living rooms that smell like forests, and flats that manage themselves. The era of intelligent living has arrived, where high-tech meets high comfort.
According to Spanish trade publication InfoConstrucción, adaptive furniture and spatial computing are transforming interiors. Kitchens can become zen retreats, and bedrooms can double as rainforest spas - complete with scent diffusers. A revolution in building materials is also underway, aiming to make homes lighter, greener, and more efficient from the foundations up.
In Malaga, smart living is no longer just for luxury lofts. The southern Spanish city is developing the nation’s first smart city of affordable rental homes, already 32 per cent complete. With €59.3 million in funding from the ICO and Lagoom Living through the EU’s Recovery and Resilience funds, the Distrito Universidad project will deliver 530 smart rental units averaging €600 a month.
Sustainability and accessibility are key. These are not concrete blocks
with tech bolted on - they’re designed with digital systems, energy efficiency, and communal spaces built in. The first tenants are expected in phases during February, May and June 2026. It’s not just developers leading the
No Need To Paint are looking for promotional homes
charge - public interest is strong. A recent report by the Unión de Créditos Inmobiliarios (UCI) found that 74.5 per cent of Spaniards are willing to invest in smart home technology. On average, homeowners are ready to spend €5,156.90. Aragonese (€6,478), Murcians (€6,353), and Galicians (€6,179) are among the top spenders, while lower averages are found in Asturias (€2,338), Navarra (€2,440), and Cantabria (€2,880). Despite enthusiasm, most would fund upgrades with savings - only one in five would consider a loan.
So what are Spaniards buying? Top smart home devices include bulbs, thermostats, and plugs that cut energy use and can be remotely controlled. Also popular are smart appliances, robot vacuums, security systems, motorised blinds, voice assistants, and remote-controlled locks. Even fridges are evolving - some can restock themselves, and perhaps judge your snack choices.
This isn’t just tech for the elite. Spain’s smart home movement is about sustainability, accessibility, and efficiencyoffering homes that are greener, safer, and more connected.
NO NEED TO PAINT, the number one Spray Coating for property exteriors have been established on the Costa del Sol since 1991.
One of our very first clients Mrs Ballmer has recently had her property recoated with No Need To Paint Long Life Coating. It is proven to last in excess of 15 years and is fully washable which is important when the Sahara Sand rain comes. It is breathable and will stop penetrating damp also, it will not fade appreciably in colour. No Need To Paint have a unique 15 year insurance back guarantee, which is testament to the quality of the pro-
duct.
The treatment No Need To Paint we will carry out on your property is not a decoration. It is a renovation!
The first process is to thoroughly wash all the walls, using a treatment to remove surface contamination and algae etcetera.
Once all the surfaces have been cleaned, any cracks are filled with flexible fillers, loose render is repaired and reinstated. When the surfaces are 100 per cent sound all the walls are primed and stabilised.
The next stage is to mask, with paper and tape, all doors, windows and floors, not requiring treatment. The
No Need To Paint Long Life Coating is then applied with a heavy duty airless spray machine, applying a minimum of two coats to each section. Finally, once the property has been fully coated the masking tape is removed and the site cleared.
The homeowner can now look forward to a minimum of 15 years, peace of mind! No regular repainting every three or four years, no more penetrating damp, which is a
problem in Spain and walls that can be hosed or power washed to keep them looking their best No Need To Paint is offering a FREE survey and quotation service, where everything is put in writing and valid for up to three months. No Need To Paint is always looking for Promotional Homes to showcase their work with the homeowner enjoying a special discount, subject to certain terms and conditions.
We cover all the Costa del Sol, so please call without obligation and book your FREE QUOTATION, now! For more information please call: +34 965 275 865 · email: admin@noneedtopaint.com.
Spain’s Intelligent Living Revolution. Spain’s future houses are here: They don’t just talk - they think, transform and even sniff. Credit
Trimobilia Real Estate
your Trusted Partner in Elviria since 1995
LOCATED in the heart of Elviria on the beautiful Costa del Sol, Trimobilia Real Estate Marbella has been a trusted name in property sales and rentals since 1995. Founded by Holger Klauke, a German national with a passion for real estate and client care, the agency has built a solid reputation for its professional, honest, and personalised service.
Conveniently situated at Centro Comercial Contur, Local 5 (beach side Elviria, opposite Alanda Hotel), Trimobilia offers a warm, welcoming office where clients are always gree-
ted with a smile. The team includes multilingual sales professionals who speak German, Dutch, French, Russian, English, and Spanish, making communication smooth and accessible for a wide range of international clients.
While Trimobilia sells both resale and new build properties along the entire Costa del Sol, the agency is particularly specialised in the Elviria area. This deep local knowledge allows the team to provide expert advice and guidance to both buyers and sellers. Additionally, the company boasts its own professional rental department dedicated exclusively to Elviria through its sister brand, Lettings Marbella, offering both short and long-term rental solutions.
Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home, invest in a holiday property, or rent out your property, Trimobilia is ready to assist. Their long-standing presence in the market, paired with a client-first approach, ensures every transaction is handled with care and expertise.
Visit or contact Trimobilia: Centro Comercial Contur Local 5, 29604 Elviria, Marbella, Malaga
Follow them on Facebook for updates on the latest listings and property news.
Energy hog
THINK your fridge or washing machine is to blame for high energy bills? Think again. In Spanish homes, the biggest energy guzzler is often hiding in plain sight: the induction hob.
That sleek surface where you boil pasta or fry eggs uses more electricity than most other appliances.
While fridges and dryers run longer, the induction hob draws huge power in short, intense bursts, especially when all burners are cranked up.
Over time, those quick sessions add up. Electricity prices in Spain have climbed steadily, making energy awareness vital for saving money, not just for being eco-friendly. People often unplug TVs, use LED bulbs, and limit heating, but the kitchen hob slips under the radar.
You don’t need to give up home-cooked meals to cut costs. Smarter cooking habits help: use lids on pots to speed up heating, try batch cooking, turn off the hob early to use residual heat, and stick to medium power when possible. Also, some Spanish electricity plans offer cheaper rates during certain hours, like mid-afternoon or late at night. Timing your cooking sessions could make a real difference. The next time you’re at the stove, think before blasting every burner on high. Your energy bill - and your budget - will thank you.
Landlord tax
LANDLORDS in Spain could be missing out on thousands of euros if they’re not claiming appliance costs on their tax returns. Renting out a property isn’t cheap, especially when tenants expect fully equipped kitchens with fridges, washing machines and ovens as standard.
But under Spanish tax law, landlords can deduct part of the cost of those appliances - provided certain conditions are met. The rule is simple: the appliance must be installed, in use, and serving the rental property for at least one year. Short-term rentals or spare items kept in storage don’t qualify. Instead of claiming the full amount at once, landlords must amortise the cost over timetypically deducting 10 per cent of the purchase price each year. For example, a €600 oven
would allow a €60 annual deduction. Over time, those savings can add up. The deductions aren’t just limited to kitchen gear either. Improvements like air conditioning units, stair lifts, heating systems and even security doors can also be included, provided they enhance the property’s livability.
Tax consultant Juan Gutiérrez advises
landlords to make the most of these benefits, reminding property owners that smart investments not only attract better tenants but also ease the financial burden come tax season. In Spain’s increasingly competitive rental market, every euro counts - and knowing how to recover costs legally could give landlords a much-needed edge.
Landlords in Spain can claim appliance deductions on their 2024 tax return.
Credit : brizmaker, Shutterstock
Slimy showdown
ARE you tired of slugs and snails destroying your garden plants?
While it might not be the most appealing task, picking them off by hand is one of the most effective ways to manage these common pests.
Slugs and snails become especially active in spring when damp, mild conditions allow them to thrive. They hide under pots, stones, and dense plants during the day,
then come out at dusk or during the night to feed on young leaves and stems. This makes early evening, particularly after a wet or cloudy day, the best time to spot and remove them. Take a torch and some gloves and check your garden carefully, including under leaves, around containers, and in shady spots. You’ll likely find them grazing or following their telltale slime trails. Relocate them if you prefer not
to harm them. Some people even leave them out for natural predators like birds or frogs. To truly reduce numbers, repeat the hunt on several evenings and use it alongside other defences. Try beer traps, crushed shells, or gravel barriers around vulnerable plants. Used consistently, these methods will help keep your garden free from snail and slug damage without resorting to chemicals.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Streamline international property transactions with Redpin - built by Currencies Direct
HOW property professionals can take control with a faster, safer, smarter payments solution
International property transactions often have complications, including tight deadlines, cross-border currency transfers, compliance risks, and last-minute changes. For property professionals, these issues can delay deals, frustrate clients, and increase admin.
That’s where Redpin comes in.
Developed by the experts behind Currencies Direct, Redpin is a powerful payments platform designed specifically for real estate professionals. It provides a secure, fully digital workspace where agents, clients, and legal representatives can collaborate and complete multi-party, multi-currency property transactions with confidence. A solution for real estate professionals
Take the case of Hugo, a Marbella-based lawyer overseeing a high-value villa purchase for an overseas client. Normally, Hugo would have to juggle
notary deadlines, paper-based bank drafts, and the risks of email fraud - all while keeping his client informed and reassured. Instead, Hugo used Redpin. With Redpin, he created a dedicated payment workspace for the deal. He invited his client to join, shared key documents, and managed everything from scheduling to fund transfers in one place. When the notary requested a change to the payment timeline, Hugo updated it instantly online - no document
redrafts, no delays.
Crucially, when it came time to complete the transaction, he initiated a wallet-to-wallet payment via Redpin, enabling instant* transfer of funds at the notary’s office without relying on traditional bank processes.
His client enjoyed competitive exchange rates and no transfer fees thanks to Currencies Direct, while Hugo maintained complete oversight and control throughout. The result? A seamless, professional experience that
impressed everyone involved. Redpin offers benefits for everyone:
• Secure digital workspace to manage transactions and invite clients or legal partners.
• Faster completions, thanks to instant* payments and no reliance on paper drafts.
• Peace of mind, with secure communications and protection against fraud.
• Streamlined operations, saving you time and reducing admin. Redpin turns complex international deals into smooth, digital experienceshelping you close faster, improve client satisfaction, and stand out from the competition.
*The transfer of funds between buyer and seller can be instant if both are using Redpin.
Image: Tatevosian Yana / Shutterstock.com
Energy rules
HOMEOWNERS in Spain need to prepare for major changes. From January 1, 2030, you won’t be able to sell or rent out your property unless it meets new EU energy stan dards. Homes must have an energy rating of at least ‘E’ by 2030, and ‘D’ by 2033. If your property falls below, you’ll be required to upgrade it before listing. More than 85 per cent of homes in Spain are likely to need improvements, especially older properties with poor insulation, outdated heating, and single-glazed windows. Upgrades like better insulation, new boilers, and even solar panels could be necessary. While these renovations come at a cost, they can
boost property value and lower utility bills. Until now, a home’s Energy Performance Certificate (CEE) was needed to sell or rent, but the rating itself didn’t matter.
Under the new rules, it does. A poor rating means no sale or rental until improvements are made.
Financial support is available through EU programmes like the Next Generation funds, with more grants expected as the deadline nears. Homeowners are advised to check their current energy ratings soon. The new standards mean that energy efficiency is no longer just a bonus - it’s essential for selling or renting a property in Spain’s future market.
Luxury living, naturally inspired
THERE can be little doubt that summer’s the season when Spain comes alive. With a lovely climate and an exquisite natural environment, the best part of summer is the time one gets to spend outside.
Now, imagine stepping into your backyard and being instantly transported to a luxurious tropical resort… amid it all stands a stunning thatched gazebo. This picturesque scene is not just a dream but a reality for many homeowners who have incorporated a Cape Reed gazebo into their outdoor living space.
Thatched gazebos (cherished for their rustic charm and versatility) offer an idyllic setting for al-fresco dining and precious family moments, making every minute spent outdoors a memorable experience.
Another benefit of having a Cape
Reed gazebo is the opportunity to enjoy a vacation-like experience without ever leaving home. Whether you’re relaxing with a book or hosting a dinner party, a tropical retreat in your backyard allows you to unwind and recharge in the comfort of your own space.
With the warmer weather on our doorstep, now is the perfect time to embody the true spirit of the Spanish summer. And a thatched gazebo will do just that, creating a sanctuary where nature and leisure intertwine harmoniously, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space in comfort and style.
For more information or to book a consultation, visit www.capereed.es or give John a call on 638 421 464.
Credit : nikkytok, Shutterstock
IN 2025, luxury living on the Costa del Sol has a new definition: sustainability. Eco-conscious villas are redefining what opulence is, incorporating zero-energy consumption with elegant design to offer a lifestyle that puts environmental responsibility first without sacrificing comfort.
These homes showcase how cuttingedge technology can create selfsufficient sanctuaries tailored to modern, eco-aware buyers. Fuelling this trend is energy independence, more prevalent than ever in the minds of homebuyers after the events of April 2025.
Enabling off-grid living are advanced renewable systems to power villas. Geothermal technology harnesses the earth’s natural heat for underfloor heating,
Renewable luxury Flipping south coast
round climate regulation, operate at over 500 per cent more efficiency. PV panels on the roof with high-capacity batteries that store surplus energy for nighttime use, or power blackouts, generate electricity for all household needs, with a seamless integration of geothermal and solar power ensures a sustainable, proving a cost-effective lifestyle that doesn’t compromise on luxury.
Atmospheric water generators convert air humidity into purified water good enough to drink, while rainwater harvesting systems collect up to 25,000 litres from rooftops for watering the plants and pool maintenance. Nasa-inspired grey-water recycling tech reuses water from sinks and showers for toilets and gardens, creating a closed-loop system
that reduces waste.
EVER since the pandemic when everyone bingewatched the Property Brothers, house flipping has surged in popularity on Spain’s southern coast, with specialists dealing specifically in properties to renovate and turn a profit from.
It may not be to everyone’s taste, but to the more adventurous, the strategy involves purchasing undervalued properties, renovating them, and selling at a premium. Some might be distressed homes, inherited properties, or auction finds, ripe for transformation into stunning, market-ready residences.
The process starts
and amenities, and community perks like pools and parking. For those with more capital to play with, villas with private pools, scenic views of the sea, mountains, or golf courses, and the potential for gardens go down well. Thoughtful renovations are key, blending stylish, neutral designs with quality materials to attract discerning buyers.
significant, but is the effort worth it? Flips in sought-after areas like Benalmadena or Rincon de la Victoria can bring in substantial returns, and often the edge it needs to sell is one accent piece, such as a beautiful tiled chimney breast. But keep in mind a flexible budget because who knows what you will find when you strip back the
The rewards can be walls ready to rebuild?
Shared property in Spain
or adding plants to the building entrance or place solar panels on the roof? Who decides on the colour of doors and façades in a residential complex, or when the lift will be repaired?
In Spain, decisions like these are not left to individual homeowners. Instead, they’re typically regulated by the junta de propietarios - the residents’ meeting that governs shared properties under the Spanish Horizontal Property Act (Ley de Propiedad Horizontal, LPH).
These meetings are the core decision-making body for any building or residential complex. They approve budgets, discuss maintenance, and vote on changes like installing solar panels or upgrading lifts. Each homeowner has the right to attend and vote - but only if they’re up to date with community fees. Tenants and non-owners can only join if they hold written authorisation from an owner.
There are two types of meetings: ordinary (held at least once a year for routine matters) and extraordinary (called when urgent issues arise). Extraordinary sessions can take place as often as needed and may be
triggered by the president or a group
representing at least 25 per cent of the ownership shares.
Meeting notices must be communicated clearly, with at least six days’ notice for ordinary sessions.
Channels can include email, printed notices or even WhatsApp - if all owners have agreed on that method. If meetings are called incorrectly, their decisions
Renewable energy installations require one-third of owners to approve, accessibility upgrades need a simple majority, and changes to community statutes demand unanimous agreement. Importantly, improvements considered non-essential can’t be forced on dissenting owners if they don’t benefit directly.
Since the pandemic, many
meetings. Still, digital tools have helped
increase participation, especially for voting and sharing information. Ultimately, the junta de propietarios ensures that life in communal spaces runs smoothly. For expats navigating Spanish property life, knowing the rules - and their voting rights - is the first step to becoming an active and informed neighbour.
Sun, sea, and sofa-based Mortgages
WITH the rise of digital mortgage platforms, purchasing property in Spain has become more accessible - often without needing to travel. But how secure is the process, and what should buyers expect?
Today’s remote mortgage services allow international buyers to apply online using their credit history from their home country. Platforms such as Upscore UK compare offers from multiple lenders, assign a personal advisor, and guide applicants through to com-
pletion - often at no direct cost to the buyer.
The process is simple: check your eligibility, compare offers, then let the advisor walk you through the paperwork. Many services remain free to the buyer because brokers are typically compensated by the lender. However, additional fees may apply for legal assistance or other optional services.
While the process is increasingly streamlined, buyers should take precautions:
• Verify that the lender is licensed and authorised to operate in Spain.
• Account for local expenses, including notary fees, legal services, and document translations.
• Consider viewing the property in person before making a purchase - this remains a key recommendation from experts.
Well-regarded brokers such as Mortgage Direct, Habito, IPF, Simon Conn, and Enness Global offer varying levels of support tailored to individual needs.
Barby boost
AS the warmer days are slowly returning, it’s time to dust off the barbecue and get ready for outdoor meals and evenings in the garden. But after months of sitting unused, your grill might not be in the best shape. Before you light it up for the season, it’s important to give it a proper check and clean.
Start by giving the whole grill a good scrub. Remove old grease, food remains, and any signs of pests. Use soapy water and a stiff brush, then rinse well and heat the grill briefly to dry it completely.
Next, make sure the fuel system is working safely. Test for gas leaks by spraying soapy water on the hoses and connections. Bubbles will show where there’s a leak. Fix or replace any faulty parts. If the flame seems weak despite a full gas tank, try disconnecting the hose, waiting a minute, then reattaching it.
Look over the grill for signs of rust. Remove any flaky rust with a wire brush and sandpaper, then clean and dry the surface. You can paint exposed metal areas with heat-resistant paint to prevent future damage.
Finally, protect your cooking surface by rubbing on a thin layer of oil and heating the grill. This keeps the surface seasoned and helps prevent rust.
People are snapping up Spanish homes without leaving the their home country - but here’s what you need to know first.
