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Here you will find news, views, events and information relating to real-estate in Spain.

Spain’s Rental Supply Shrinking

admin | 18th September 2026 | Costa del Sol, Marbella, News, Property Market, Rental Property, Spain
Demand for rental homes continues to rise
Demand for rental homes continues to rise

Demand for rental homes continues to rise

Spain’s rental market continues to face a growing imbalance between the number of people searching for homes and the number of properties available to rent. New research from Fotocasa shows that 80% of people participating in the rental market are looking for a property, while only 16% are offering one, highlighting the increasing pressure on Spain’s rental housing supply.

The figures show that the gap between supply and demand widened again during the first half of 2026. For tenants, this means greater competition for available properties, while for landlords it underlines the continued strength of demand across many parts of Spain.

Rental supply continues to fall

According to the data, overall participation in Spain’s rental market remained at 14% during the first half of 2026, unchanged from the same period in 2025 and remaining at the lowest level recorded in its historical series.

However, the balance between those looking for homes and those supplying them has continued to change. In 2025, 78% of rental-market participants were looking for a property and 19% were offering one. In 2026, demand has increased to 80%, while the proportion of participants offering property has fallen to just 16%.

The contrast is even clearer when compared with 2020. At that time, 74% of participants were on the demand side of the market and 21% were offering rental properties. The latest figures therefore point to a market in which available rental housing is becoming increasingly scarce relative to the number of people searching for it.

Finding a rental property remains difficult

The shortage of available homes is also reflected in the experience of tenants. Among people who participated in the rental market during the previous 12 months, 45% successfully found a complete property in which to live.

Although this is unchanged from 2025, it remains below previous levels. In 2024, 47% successfully secured a property, while in 2023 the figure stood at 51%. This suggests that securing a suitable long-term rental continues to be challenging for a significant proportion of prospective tenants.

The shared accommodation market is experiencing similar pressure. While 12% of participants successfully found a room, the proportion continuing to search unsuccessfully increased from 7% to 10%.

What does this mean for the Costa del Sol?

The figures represent the Spanish rental market as a whole and should not be interpreted as specific statistics for Málaga province. Nevertheless, the national trend provides useful context for established residential markets along the Costa del Sol, where long-term rental properties must accommodate demand from both local residents and an international population.

Areas such as Marbella, Estepona and Mijas have developed into year-round residential destinations rather than purely seasonal markets. International schools, established business communities, improved infrastructure and the ability to work remotely have all contributed to a broader range of residents choosing to make the Costa del Sol their permanent or semi-permanent home.

This creates a property market with several different sources of demand. Alongside buyers searching for permanent homes and second residences, there are tenants looking for long-term accommodation and property owners deciding whether to sell, rent long term or use their homes for shorter stays.

A strong market for property owners

For owners considering putting a property onto the long-term rental market, the widening gap between supply and demand is significant. A smaller pool of available homes combined with sustained tenant demand can create favourable conditions for well-presented properties in desirable locations.

However, strong demand does not remove the importance of selecting suitable tenants, establishing appropriate rental conditions and ensuring that the property is marketed at a realistic price. Professional presentation, accurate property information and careful tenant qualification remain important parts of achieving a successful long-term rental.

Location and property type can also make a considerable difference. A modern apartment close to amenities may attract a very different tenant profile from a family villa near an international school or a beachfront property close to the main commercial centres of the coast.

Could limited rental supply influence the sales market?

A constrained rental market may also influence some people’s longer-term housing decisions. For households planning to remain in southern Spain, difficulty finding suitable rental accommodation can make purchasing a home an alternative worth considering, particularly for those already financially prepared to buy.

The Costa del Sol offers a particularly diverse sales market, ranging from established resale homes to modern new developments. Buyers can choose between apartments, penthouses, townhouses and villas across a wide range of locations and price points.

For international buyers, the choice also extends well beyond the best-known resort areas. The wider Málaga coastline includes established communities, emerging residential areas and new-build projects catering to buyers looking for permanent homes, holiday properties and longer-term investments.

Supply remains the key challenge

The research illustrates one of the central challenges facing Spain’s housing market in 2026: demand for rental accommodation remains high while the proportion of people supplying properties continues to decline.

With 80% of rental-market participants searching for homes and only 16% offering them, the gap has widened further over the past year. Unless more properties become available, competition among prospective tenants is likely to remain an important feature of the market.

For anyone considering renting, buying or investing in Costa del Sol property, understanding these wider trends can help put local market conditions into context. Individual areas and property types will always perform differently, but the latest national figures reinforce the importance of housing supply in shaping Spain’s evolving property market.

Sales Rise as Rental Prices Remain High

admin | 2nd September 2026 | Andalucía, Costa del Sol, New Developments, News, Prices, Property For Sale, Property Market, Spain
Lifestyle continues to drive Costa del Sol demand
Lifestyle continues to drive Costa del Sol demand

Spain’s lifestyle continues to drive demand

Spain’s property market entered the final weeks of summer with prices remaining firmly elevated, both for those looking to buy and those choosing to rent. The latest figures show particularly strong conditions in the sales market, while rental costs remain at historically high levels despite some signs of moderation nationally.

For the Costa del Sol, the figures reinforce a familiar picture. Demand continues to be supported not only by people looking for a permanent home, but by international buyers attracted by the lifestyle that Marbella, Benahavís, Estepona, Fuengirola, Mijas, and the surrounding areas can offer.

Resale property prices continue to rise

The average asking price of resale property across Spain reached €3,166 per square metre in August 2026, an increase of 0.4% compared with July and 15.6% compared with August last year.

For perspective, the data suggests that an average 80 m² resale property would now be marketed at approximately €253,270, compared with €219,020 a year earlier.

August marked the 70th consecutive month of annual price increases. There is, however, some indication that the pace is beginning to moderate. The 15.6% annual increase was the lowest recorded so far in 2026, following increases of more than 20% earlier in the year.

Prices are therefore not falling. They are simply rising at a slower rate.

Andalucía and Málaga remain firmly in demand

Andalucía recorded an annual resale price increase of 10.9%, with an average asking price of €2,958 per square metre.

Málaga province’s property prices sit considerably above that regional average.

At €4,631 per square metre, Málaga was the fourth most expensive province in Spain for resale property prices in August, behind only the Balearic Islands, Madrid, and Gipuzkoa. Málaga city itself averaged €4,387 per square metre.

These figures underline the strength of the wider Málaga property market, but averages only tell part of the story on the Costa del Sol.

The property markets of Marbella, Benahavís, Estepona, Fuengirola, and Mijas each appeal to buyers for different reasons. Marbella combines established residential areas with beaches, restaurants, international schools, golf, and year-round amenities. Benahavís offers space, privacy, golf communities, and a village lifestyle, while Estepona continues to attract buyers looking for a balance between traditional Andalusian character and modern residential development.

Further east, Fuengirola and Mijas provide excellent connections to Málaga and the airport, alongside beaches, established communities, and a broad choice of property.

Renting remains expensive despite national moderation

The rental market presents a slightly different picture.

Fotocasa’s latest rental figures, published in August and covering July 2026, show the average rental price in Spain at €14.14 per square metre per month. This represents a 1.6% annual decrease, ending a long period of sustained increases.

For an 80 m² home, the national average works out at approximately €1,131 per month.

That decline should be viewed in context. Rental prices remain at historically high levels, and Andalucía moved in the opposite direction to the national trend, recording an annual rental increase of 4.4%.

Málaga province was considerably more expensive again, reaching €16.23 per square metre per month. An 80 m² property at that average would equate to around €1,298 per month, although rental values in prime Costa del Sol locations can vary significantly according to location, property type, condition, views, amenities, and proximity to the coast.

Buying or renting on the Costa del Sol?

For people considering a move to southern Spain, the relationship between rental and purchase prices is becoming increasingly relevant.

Renting can provide flexibility, particularly for newcomers who want time to understand different locations before committing to a purchase. Living in Nueva Andalucía, for example, can feel very different from living in Benahavís, central Estepona, La Cala de Mijas, or Fuengirola.

However, sustained rental costs may also encourage longer-term residents to consider whether purchasing makes more financial sense, particularly if they intend to remain on the Costa del Sol for several years.

For investors, strong rental values can also form part of the purchasing decision, although potential returns need to be considered alongside purchase costs, community fees, taxation, maintenance, local rental regulations, and realistic occupancy expectations.

A market offering more than resale property

Another important factor for buyers is that the Costa del Sol market is not limited to existing homes.

The continued expansion of new developments gives buyers an alternative to the resale market, particularly those prioritising contemporary design, energy efficiency, communal facilities, security, and lower immediate maintenance requirements.

New developments can now be found across much of the coast, from Marbella and Benahavís to Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola, and Benalmádena. The choice ranges from modern apartments and penthouses to townhouses and individual villas.

For international buyers, this variety is significant. The decision is increasingly not simply about whether to buy in Spain, but which location, lifestyle, and type of property best fits the way they intend to use their home.

Lifestyle continues to support the Costa del Sol market

Property prices provide a useful measure of market conditions, but they do not fully explain why Málaga and the Costa del Sol continue to attract buyers.

The region offers something difficult to measure in euros per square metre: a lifestyle that works throughout the year.

More than 300 days of sunshine, Mediterranean beaches, golf courses, international schools, restaurants, outdoor sports, excellent air connections, and established international communities allow buyers to combine everyday practicality with the benefits traditionally associated with a holiday destination.

That appeal extends across different lifestyles. Marbella and Puerto Banús offer an international social and leisure scene; Benahavís provides tranquillity and access to some of the area’s best-known golf courses; Estepona combines a thriving town with an expanding residential market; and Mijas, La Cala, Fuengirola, and Benalmádena offer their own mix of coastal living, amenities, and connectivity.

The latest figures suggest that buyers continue to place considerable value on that combination.

What does this mean for buyers?

The August data points to a market where demand remains strong, but where buyers should increasingly focus on value rather than simply following headline price movements.

Spain’s resale prices are still increasing, although at a slower pace than earlier in the year. Rental prices remain high, particularly in Málaga, while the expanding choice of resale properties and new developments gives Costa del Sol buyers a broad range of options.

For anyone considering a home in Marbella or elsewhere along the coast, understanding those differences is increasingly important. Comparing locations, property types, ongoing ownership costs, and long-term objectives can reveal considerably more than the national averages alone.

Ultimately, the attraction of the Costa del Sol continues to extend beyond the property itself. For many international buyers, purchasing here is as much a decision about how and where they want to live as it is about the direction of the Spanish property market.

Spanish Property Sales Increase in June

admin | 17th August 2026 | Property For Sale
Demand remains strong in Spain
Demand remains strong in Spain

Demand remains strong in Spain

Spain’s property market recorded a positive month in June, with 59,288 residential property sales, according to the latest figures from the National Statistics Institute (INE). Transactions increased by 5% compared with May and by 1.6% compared with June 2025.

However, the wider picture shows that activity is beginning to moderate from the exceptional levels reached last year. A total of 347,464 transactions have been recorded so far in 2026, 2.8% fewer than during the comparable period of 2025. June’s improvement therefore suggests continued resilience rather than a return to the rapid growth seen previously.

For buyers and sellers on the Costa del Sol, this gradual shift is particularly relevant. Demand for quality property remains strong, while limited supply in many of the most desirable locations continues to influence both availability and pricing.

Property sales remain at historically high levels

June’s 59,288 transactions are broadly in line with the average monthly level recorded during 2025, when approximately 58,700 sales were completed each month.

Rather than indicating a significant slowdown, the latest figures suggest that the Spanish property market is entering a period of normalisation following several years of exceptionally strong activity.

This remains against a backdrop of substantial price growth. Separate INE figures show that Spanish residential property prices increased by 12.9% year-on-year during the first quarter of 2026, with second-hand property prices rising by 13.5% and new-build prices by 9.1%.

For established markets such as Marbella, Estepona, Benahavís, Mijas, and the wider Málaga province, national statistics only tell part of the story. These areas continue to attract an international buyer profile alongside domestic demand, meaning individual locations and property segments can perform differently from the national market.

New-build property continues to attract buyers

One of the strongest elements within June’s figures was the performance of the new-build sector.

A total of 12,766 new homes changed hands during June, representing approximately 22% of all residential sales. New-build transactions increased by 6.3% compared with June 2025.

The continued appeal of new developments is particularly relevant to the Costa del Sol, where buyers increasingly place importance on modern specifications, energy efficiency, communal facilities, contemporary layouts, and properties requiring little or no renovation.

However, the ability of developers to respond quickly to demand remains constrained.

The availability of development land, construction costs, shortages of skilled labour, and administrative processes all affect the speed at which additional housing can reach the market. Where demand continues to exceed the supply of suitable new properties, upward pressure on prices is therefore likely to remain.

This supply-demand imbalance is especially important in prime locations where opportunities for substantial new development are naturally more restricted.

Interest rates introduce a new factor for buyers

Financing conditions are also beginning to change.

The European Central Bank raised its three key interest rates by 25 basis points in June 2026. The deposit facility rate subsequently moved to 2.25%, the main refinancing rate to 2.40%, and the marginal lending facility to 2.65%. At its July meeting, the ECB elected to keep those rates unchanged.

The change is significant for the property market after a period in which improving financing conditions and strong competition between lenders had helped support purchasing activity.

The ECB has subsequently reported that demand for mortgages has decreased, partly as a result of higher interest rates, while banks have also become more cautious about extending credit.

For mortgage-dependent buyers, borrowing costs will therefore become an increasingly important consideration during the second half of 2026.

However, the impact is unlikely to be uniform across every market.

What does this mean for the Costa del Sol?

The characteristics of the Costa del Sol property market distinguish it from many other parts of Spain.

International purchasers, second-home buyers, investors, retirees, and cash purchasers all form an important part of demand, particularly within Marbella and the surrounding coastal areas. As a result, changes to Spanish mortgage affordability do not necessarily translate directly into equivalent changes in demand across the Costa del Sol.

Nevertheless, the wider direction of the Spanish market remains important.

After several years of rapid growth, the latest figures suggest a transition towards a more measured property market rather than a reversal in activity. Transaction volumes remain high, new-build homes continue to attract buyers, and available supply remains constrained in many sought-after locations.

For buyers, this makes preparation increasingly important. Establishing a realistic budget, understanding purchase costs, and arranging financing before beginning a serious property search can strengthen a buyer’s position when the right property becomes available.

For sellers, the market continues to offer opportunities, but realistic pricing is likely to become increasingly important if transaction growth continues to moderate.

Outlook for the second half of 2026

The second half of the year is likely to provide a clearer indication of how the market responds to the changing interest-rate environment.

There are already signs that the rapid expansion of recent years is settling into a more sustainable pace. However, moderating growth should not be confused with falling demand.

Spain continues to record a high volume of residential transactions, while the structural shortage of housing in many locations remains unresolved. The latest INE Housing Price Index reinforces that picture: prices nationally were still rising at double-digit annual rates during the first quarter of the year.

On the Costa del Sol, the balance between supply and demand is likely to remain particularly important. Well-located properties with the specifications sought by today’s buyers can continue to attract significant interest, even as purchasers become more selective.

The market therefore appears to be entering a different phase: less characterised by accelerating transaction growth, but still supported by substantial underlying demand and restricted supply.

For anyone considering buying or selling property in Marbella or the Costa del Sol, understanding conditions at a local level will be increasingly important as the market evolves during the remainder of 2026.

Spain’s Rental Market Stabilises

admin | 3rd August 2026 | Andalucía, Costa del Sol, Marbella, New Developments, Prices, Property For Sale, Property Market, Rental Property, Spain
Lifestyle remains one of Spain's strongest selling points
Lifestyle remains one of Spain's strongest selling points

Lifestyle is one of Spain’s best selling points

After several years of relentless rental price growth, Spain’s residential rental market is finally showing signs of moderation. According to the latest data, rental prices increased by just 0.1% during the second quarter of 2026, the lowest second-quarter increase recorded in the last 19 years. While annual rents are still 2.9% higher than a year ago, the pace of growth has slowed considerably, suggesting the market may be entering a more balanced phase.

Nationally, the average rental price now stands at €14.79 per square metre per month, but behind these figures lies a more complex story, particularly for sought-after destinations such as Marbella and the Costa del Sol.

A Turning Point for Spain’s Rental Market

For much of the past decade, rental demand has consistently outpaced supply across Spain, driving prices higher year after year. According to María Matos, Director of Research and spokesperson for Fotocasa, the latest figures suggest that household affordability is beginning to limit further increases.

In simple terms, many tenants have reached the maximum they can realistically afford. Rather than continuing the rapid increases seen in recent years, landlords and the wider market are now finding a new equilibrium. This doesn’t necessarily mean rents will fall dramatically, but it does suggest that future increases are likely to be far more moderate than those experienced since the pandemic.

For renters, this could provide some welcome breathing space after years of escalating monthly costs.

Andalucía Remains Stable

While Spain as a whole recorded only a 0.1% quarterly increase, Andalucía followed almost exactly the same pattern, also posting a modest 0.1% quarterly rise.

Average rents across Andalucía now stand at €12.33/m² per month, placing the region comfortably below Madrid, the Balearic Islands and Catalonia, yet continuing to offer one of Spain’s strongest combinations of lifestyle and value.

This is particularly important for international buyers and investors considering the Costa del Sol. Although Andalucía remains comparatively affordable on paper, the most desirable coastal locations continue to attract significant domestic and overseas demand.

Málaga Defies the Regional Trend

Interestingly, Málaga Province actually recorded a quarterly decline of 1.6%, making it one of only a handful of Spanish provinces where rental prices eased during the second quarter.

While this may initially appear surprising, it should not be interpreted as a weakening market.

The Costa del Sol continues to experience exceptionally strong demand from international professionals, retirees, digital nomads and lifestyle buyers. Short-term fluctuations often reflect changing availability rather than falling demand, particularly in premium locations such as Marbella, Benahavís, Estepona and Mijas.

In reality, quality rental properties in prime locations remain in limited supply, meaning well-presented homes continue to attract strong interest.

What This Means for Property Owners

For landlords, a stabilising rental market is not necessarily bad news.

Rapid price growth is often followed by increased tenant turnover and affordability concerns. A more balanced market allows landlords to focus on securing reliable, long-term tenants while maintaining healthy occupancy levels.

Owners of quality apartments and villas in Marbella and the surrounding areas are still likely to benefit from sustained demand, particularly where properties offer features increasingly sought after by today’s renters, including outdoor living space, energy efficiency, modern interiors and proximity to beaches, golf courses or international schools.

Buyers May Find New Opportunities

For prospective buyers, the slowing rental market creates an interesting backdrop.

Many international purchasers initially rent before committing to buying on the Costa del Sol. As rental prices begin to stabilise nationally, buyers may feel less pressure to rush their decision, allowing them to spend more time identifying the right property.

At the same time, mortgage costs continue to improve compared with recent years, making ownership increasingly attractive for those planning to spend extended periods in Spain.

For investors, the fundamentals remain strong. Marbella and neighbouring municipalities continue to benefit from limited land availability, high international demand and a globally recognised lifestyle that supports long-term property values.

As the market begins to stabilise, many buyers are also turning their attention to new developments on the Costa del Sol. Modern, energy-efficient homes with resort-style amenities continue to attract strong interest, particularly from international purchasers seeking low-maintenance properties with excellent rental potential. With a wide choice of contemporary developments available in Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Casares, buyers have an opportunity to secure a brand-new home that combines modern living with long-term investment appeal.

A More Sustainable Market Ahead

The latest figures suggest that Spain’s rental market is entering a healthier phase. Rather than the sharp increases that have characterised recent years, the market appears to be moving towards greater stability as affordability becomes a defining factor.

For the Costa del Sol, however, the long-term outlook remains positive. International demand, exceptional lifestyle appeal and continued investment in infrastructure ensure that Marbella and its surrounding areas remain among Spain’s most desirable places to live and invest.

While national rental growth may be slowing, the appeal of owning property on the Costa del Sol continues to be stronger than ever.

Spain’s Property Market Begins to Stabilise

admin | 16th July 2026 | Property For Sale
Spain's property market remains resilient
Spain's property market remains resilient

Spain’s property market remains resilient

After five years of exceptional activity, Spain’s residential property market is beginning to show signs of a gradual return to more sustainable levels. The latest figures released by the National Statistics Institute (INE) reveal that while the pace of property sales is moderating, buyer demand remains remarkably resilient.

In May 2026, 56,462 residential property transactions were completed across Spain. This represents a 6% increase compared with April, but a 7.3% decrease year-on-year. While that annual decline may initially appear significant, it comes after several years of record-breaking activity and still represents one of the strongest May figures recorded in recent history.

For buyers considering the Costa del Sol, these figures should be viewed as a sign of a maturing market rather than a weakening one.

A healthier pace after record-breaking years

Spain’s property market has enjoyed an extraordinary period of growth since 2021, driven by renewed international demand, favourable mortgage conditions and changing lifestyle priorities.

Rather than signalling a downturn, the latest figures suggest the market is entering a more balanced phase. Activity remains well above long-term averages, but the intense pace seen throughout 2025 is naturally beginning to ease.

According to Fotocasa, strong buyer demand continues to be supported by favourable financing conditions and an ongoing need for quality housing, even as transaction levels gradually normalise.

The Costa del Sol continues to attract buyers

The Costa del Sol remains one of Spain’s most desirable locations for both domestic and international purchasers.

Destinations such as Marbella, Estepona, Benahavís, Fuengirola, Mijas Costa, Nueva Andalucía, San Pedro de Alcántara, Casares and Sotogrande continue to attract buyers looking for a permanent residence, holiday home or investment property.

The region’s appeal extends far beyond the housing market itself. A warm climate, excellent transport connections, international schools, world-class golf courses, marinas and an exceptional quality of life continue to attract buyers from across Europe and beyond.

For many purchasers, the decision to buy is driven as much by lifestyle as by market performance.

New-build homes remain highly sought after

One of the most interesting findings from the latest report is the continued popularity of newly built homes.

In May, 11,888 new-build properties were sold, accounting for 21.1% of all residential transactions. Buyers continue to favour new developments because they offer the features modern homeowners value most, including energy efficiency, open-plan layouts, generous outdoor spaces and high-quality construction.

Across the Costa del Sol, this trend is reflected in the growing demand for contemporary developments in areas including Estepona, Fuengirola, Mijas, Casares and Manilva, where buyers can enjoy modern homes designed for Mediterranean living.

Demand continues to exceed supply

Although the pace of transactions is becoming more measured, one challenge remains unchanged: there are still not enough quality homes available to satisfy demand.

This ongoing imbalance continues to support property values across many of Spain’s most desirable regions, particularly in Málaga Province, where both domestic and overseas buyers remain highly active.

For prospective buyers, this means well-priced properties in sought-after locations continue to attract considerable interest, even as the overall market becomes more stable.

Confidence remains high

Another encouraging sign is that buyers continue to show confidence in the long-term outlook for the Spanish property market.

Improving mortgage conditions over the past two years have helped many purchasers enter the market, while lifestyle changes, remote working opportunities and international mobility continue to support demand for homes in coastal locations.

The Costa del Sol remains particularly well positioned thanks to its diverse buyer base, attracting families, retirees, digital professionals, second-home owners and investors throughout the year.

The latest transaction figures indicate that Spain’s property market is entering a period of healthy normalisation rather than experiencing a slowdown in demand.

With 56,462 property sales recorded in May, activity remains historically high despite a 7.3% annual decline, reflecting a market adjusting after several years of exceptional performance. Meanwhile, demand for quality homes and new developments continues to underpin confidence across Spain’s most desirable regions.

For buyers considering the Costa del Sol, the fundamentals remain unchanged. Strong international demand, an enviable Mediterranean lifestyle and a limited supply of quality homes continue to make the region one of Europe’s most attractive places to buy property, whether for permanent living, investment or a second home.

Spanish Property News

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This is where you will find the latest news, facts and figures, and information relating to the Spanish property market, with the occasional property for sale!

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