Buying real estate in Spain?

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The best places to buy property in Spain in 2025

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Spain Property Pack

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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Spain Property Pack

Spain's property market continues its upward trajectory as we reach mid-2025, with certain coastal regions and tech hubs showing exceptional growth potential.

Property prices across Spain are expected to rise by an average of 7.3% in 2025, with Mediterranean coastal areas and major cities leading the charge with increases of up to 24%. Foreign buyers are driving demand in specific hotspots, particularly along the Costa del Sol and in Valencia's emerging tech district.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Spain, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At InvestRopa, we explore the Spanish real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

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Fact-checked and reviewed by our local expert

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Anna Siudzinska 🇵🇱

Real Estate Agent

Anna Siudzińska is a dynamic business strategist and experienced manager with a proven track record in sales, marketing, and corporate expansion. With years of experience navigating both domestic and international markets, she specializes in driving growth, strengthening companies' market positions and helping clients find lucrative real estate opportunities in Spain.

Where in Spain are property prices expected to rise the most in 2025?

Valencia leads Spain's property price growth with a remarkable 24% year-over-year increase in 2024, positioning it for an estimated 18% growth in 2025.

The Mediterranean coast dominates the highest growth regions, with Vélez-Málaga recording +17.6% in Q1 2024, followed by Marbella at +15.9% and Benidorm at +15.8%. These coastal areas benefit from strong international demand and limited supply, driving sustained price appreciation.

Madrid province shows robust growth at +11.4%, with specific suburbs outperforming the capital. Coslada has seen +9.5% growth while Las Rozas recorded +8.3% increases. The Madrid region benefits from infrastructure investments and its position as Spain's economic center.

Andalucía demonstrates strong performance with +13.4% growth in Q4 2024, led by Málaga at €2,709/m² with +12.3% appreciation. The region's appeal to international buyers and ongoing infrastructure projects continue to drive demand.

The Balearic Islands maintain premium growth at +12.1% in 2024, with Palma de Mallorca's luxury properties particularly sought after by high-net-worth international buyers.

Which regions offer the best balance between price growth potential and affordability?

Murcia stands out as Spain's most affordable mainland option at €1,219/m², while still projecting 8% growth in 2025.

Region Average Price (€/m²) 2025 Growth Forecast Foreign Buyer Share
Murcia €1,219 +8% 25%
Alicante €1,800-€2,200 +12% 44%
Valencia €2,300 +18% 15%
Galicia €1,200 +15% 8%
Castilla-La Mancha €647 +3% 5%

Alicante provides excellent value with prices ranging €1,800-€2,200/m² and projected 12% growth, supported by 44% foreign buyer participation. The region offers coastal lifestyle benefits at more accessible price points than premium destinations.

Galicia emerges as the "Green Spain" opportunity, combining affordability at €1,200/m² with impressive 15% growth potential. The region benefits from increasing recognition among buyers seeking authentic Spanish culture and natural beauty.

Valencia balances moderate pricing at €2,300/m² with exceptional 18% growth potential, driven by its transformation into a major tech hub and excellent connectivity to major European markets.

What are the local laws and taxes for foreign buyers purchasing property in Spain?

Foreign buyers face transfer tax (ITP) of 6-10% on resale properties, varying by autonomous community.

New construction purchases incur 10% VAT (IVA) plus 1.5% stamp duty, making total purchase costs significantly higher than the property price. Notary and legal fees add another 1-2% to the total investment.

A proposed 100% tax on non-EU buyers awaits parliamentary approval, potentially doubling purchase costs for investors from outside the European Union. This legislation targets foreign speculation but could significantly impact international investment flows.

Annual property ownership costs include IBI (property tax) at approximately 1% of cadastral value and non-resident tax at 19-24% of imputed income for those not residing in Spain. Wealth tax ranges from 0.2-3.5% depending on the autonomous community and total assets.

It's something we develop in our Spain property pack.

How do mortgage options and interest rates for non-residents compare across Spanish banks?

Spanish banks typically offer non-residents maximum loan-to-value ratios of 65-70%, requiring substantial down payments of 30-35%.

Bank Max LTV Fixed Rates Variable Rates (Euribor +)
Santander 70% 3.5-4.0% +1.2%
BBVA 65% 3.7-4.2% +1.4%
CaixaBank 70% 3.6-4.1% +1.3%
Banco Sabadell 65% 3.8-4.3% +1.5%

Non-resident borrowers must provide NIE (foreigner identification number), proof of income, and maintain debt-to-income ratios below 40%. Banks typically require borrowers to demonstrate income stability and may request bank statements from their home country.

Fixed-rate mortgages currently range 3.5-4.3%, while variable rates track Euribor plus margins of 1.2-1.5%. Current market conditions favor fixed rates given European Central Bank policy uncertainty.

Processing times for non-resident mortgages typically extend 6-8 weeks, longer than resident applications due to additional documentation requirements and international income verification procedures.

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What are the ongoing costs of owning property in Spain, including maintenance and community fees?

Property ownership in Spain involves several recurring costs beyond the initial purchase price and taxes.

Community fees (gastos de comunidad) range €50-200 monthly for apartments, covering shared services like maintenance, security, and common area upkeep. Luxury developments and those with extensive amenities command higher fees, sometimes exceeding €300 monthly.

Annual IBI (property tax) typically costs 0.4-1.1% of the property's cadastral value, varying significantly between municipalities. Urban properties generally face higher rates than rural locations.

Utilities including electricity, water, and gas average €100-150 monthly for a typical two-bedroom property, though costs fluctuate with usage and regional pricing. Internet and phone services add approximately €40-60 monthly.

Property insurance ranges €200-500 annually, depending on location, property value, and coverage level. Coastal properties face higher premiums due to weather-related risks.

Are there visa or residency benefits for property buyers in Spain, such as the Golden Visa?

Spain discontinued its Golden Visa program for non-EU property investors in April 2025, eliminating the primary residency pathway for real estate purchasers.

Property buyers can no longer obtain residency solely through real estate investment, fundamentally changing the landscape for international investors seeking Spanish residence. The program previously required €500,000 minimum investment in real estate.

Alternative residency options include non-lucrative residence visas for retirees with sufficient passive income, requiring proof of €27,000+ annual income plus healthcare coverage. This visa prohibits employment in Spain but allows property ownership.

EU citizens maintain unrestricted property purchase and residence rights throughout Spain, providing significant advantages over non-EU buyers facing increased restrictions and taxation.

Investors seeking residency through property investment now consider alternative European programs in Portugal, Greece, or Malta, though these also face increasing restrictions and higher investment thresholds.

Which areas are attracting the most international buyers and why?

Alicante leads international buyer activity with 44% foreign participation, driven by its combination of coastal lifestyle and relative affordability compared to premium destinations.

The Costa del Sol continues attracting British, German, and Scandinavian buyers seeking year-round sunshine and established expatriate communities. Marbella and surrounding areas maintain premium positioning with luxury developments and high-end amenities.

Valencia's tech sector transformation draws international professionals and investors, with the city's €2 billion innovation district investment creating employment opportunities and property demand. The area appeals to buyers seeking urban amenities with Mediterranean access.

Málaga benefits from the €5.5 billion cybersecurity park development, attracting tech workers and investors. The airport's connectivity and cultural offerings appeal to international buyers seeking authentic Spanish lifestyle with modern conveniences.

Northern Spain, particularly Galicia and Asturias, gains recognition among buyers seeking undiscovered regions with natural beauty, authentic culture, and growing infrastructure investment.

What are the rental yields and occupancy rates in key cities and coastal towns?

Spanish coastal areas generally outperform major cities for rental yields, though regulatory restrictions increasingly impact short-term rental profitability.

infographics rental yields citiesSpain

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Spain versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Valencia offers 4-6% rental yields with strong occupancy rates exceeding 85% annually, supported by university populations and growing tech sector employment. The city's appeal to international students and professionals maintains consistent demand.

Costa del Sol towns like Marbella and Fuengirola achieve 3-5% yields, though luxury properties may yield less due to higher purchase prices. Peak season occupancy reaches 90%+ but drops significantly in winter months.

Barcelona and Madrid provide 3-4% yields with year-round demand but face increasing short-term rental restrictions limiting tourist accommodation opportunities. Long-term rental markets remain stable with 85-90% occupancy rates.

It's something we develop in our Spain property pack.

How accessible are schools, hospitals, transport, and internet in the areas I'm considering?

Spain's major cities and coastal regions offer excellent infrastructure, while rural areas may have limited access to certain services.

Madrid and Barcelona provide world-class healthcare systems, international schools, and comprehensive public transport networks. High-speed internet coverage reaches 95%+ in urban areas with 5G networks expanding rapidly across major cities.

Valencia combines excellent connectivity with lower costs, offering direct flights to major European cities, high-speed rail connections to Madrid and Barcelona, and extensive local transport networks. The city hosts numerous international schools and quality healthcare facilities.

Costa del Sol areas benefit from Málaga's international airport and established expat infrastructure, including English-speaking healthcare providers and international schools. Internet connectivity is generally excellent, supporting remote work requirements.

Rural areas, particularly in interior regions, may lack comprehensive public transport and specialized healthcare services. Internet speeds can be significantly slower, though the government's rural connectivity investment aims to improve coverage by 2026.

What's the average time it takes to sell a property in different parts of Spain?

High-demand areas like Costa del Sol and Madrid typically see sales complete within 3-6 months during favorable market conditions.

Prime coastal locations benefit from consistent international buyer interest, reducing time on market significantly. Properties priced competitively in popular areas like Marbella, Valencia, or central Madrid often receive multiple offers within weeks.

Emerging regions like Galicia and Asturias require 6-12 months for sales completion, as buyer pools remain smaller and awareness continues growing. However, well-positioned properties in attractive locations can sell faster than regional averages.

Seasonal factors significantly impact coastal property sales, with spring and summer months showing 40-50% faster transaction times than winter periods. International buyers typically concentrate purchasing activity during warmer months when they can view properties and experience local lifestyle.

Rural and interior properties face longer sales periods, sometimes extending 12-18 months, due to limited buyer demand and specific use requirements.

How vulnerable are these regions to climate risks like droughts, heatwaves, or flooding?

Southern Spain faces increasing drought risks, with Andalucía reservoirs operating at just 30% capacity as of 2025.

Valencia and Málaga coastal zones confront rising sea level threats and increased flooding risk, as highlighted by recent extreme weather events. Properties in low-lying coastal areas face particular vulnerability to climate change impacts.

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C across southern Spain, increasing cooling costs and potentially affecting property desirability during peak months. This trend is expected to intensify over the coming decades.

Northern regions like Galicia and Asturias demonstrate greater climate resilience, with adequate rainfall and moderate temperatures making them increasingly attractive as "climate havens" for long-term property investment.

It's something we develop in our Spain property pack.

Are there any upcoming infrastructure projects or developments that could affect property values?

Madrid Nuevo Norte represents Spain's largest urban regeneration project, with €5.5 billion investment expected to boost property values by 15% in surrounding areas.

Valencia's €2 billion tech hub investment creates 15,000 new jobs and drives residential demand in the metropolitan area. The project positions Valencia as a major European technology center, attracting international companies and skilled professionals.

Málaga's cybersecurity park development adds 5,000 high-paying jobs, supporting property demand and rental markets. The facility attracts international technology companies and establishes Málaga as a specialized tech hub.

Spain's €524 million allocation to renewable hydrogen projects creates employment opportunities and industrial development, particularly benefiting regions like Andalucía and Aragón where major facilities are planned.

High-speed rail network expansion improves connectivity between major cities and secondary markets, potentially increasing property values in newly connected areas while reducing travel times for residents and investors.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. SurInEnglish - House Prices Will Rise 2025
  2. Global Property Guide - Spain Price History
  3. Spanish Property Insight - BBVA Research Forecast
  4. Spanish Property Insight - Mediterranean Coast Prices
  5. BBVA Research - Spain Real Estate Watch
  6. CaixaBank Research - Real Estate Boom
  7. Lexidy - Invest in Spanish Property
  8. SpotBlue - Spain Real Estate Market 2025
  9. My Lawyer in Spain - Non-European Buyer Tax
  10. My Spanish Residency - Get Mortgage Spain