Who Buys the Most in Costa del Sol? A Comprehensive Breakdown for Real Estate Professionals

The Costa del Sol remains a hotspot for international property buyers, with foreigners accounting for a significant portion of the market. In the third quarter of 2024, 34.76% of home purchases in Málaga were made by non-Spaniards, reaffirming its appeal. Here's a detailed look at the buyer demographics, including trends and key insights to optimize your real estate marketing strategy.

Key Nationalities and Their Buying Preferences

1. United Kingdom 🇬🇧

British buyers dominate the market, representing 27-28% of all foreign transactions. They typically purchase properties ranging from €300,000 to €600,000, favoring areas like Marbella and Mijas for their warm climate and established expatriate communities.

2. Germany 🇩🇪

Accounting for 20% of foreign purchases, Germans tend to invest in high-end properties exceeding €1,000,000. Despite a slight decrease in market share, their interest in luxury properties remains strong.

3. France 🇫🇷

French buyers hold 12-13% of the market share, with a diverse range of budgets. Their purchases often include properties near cultural hubs and beaches.

4. Scandinavia (Sweden and Norway) 🇸🇪 🇳🇴

Buyers from northern Europe represent 8% of transactions, primarily in Marbella and Benahavís. Their preferences lean toward used homes, often priced above €800,000.

5. Poland 🇵🇱

The fastest-growing segment, Polish buyers, comprise 5.32% of the market, showing a strong interest in new developments, particularly in Málaga, where they account for 20.9% of new property sales.

6. Netherlands 🇳🇱

Dutch buyers, representing 5% of total transactions, have become major players in the market. They often invest in new developments, motivated by stricter property taxes in the Netherlands and the high rental potential in Costa del Sol’s tourist areas.

7. Belgium 🇧🇪

Belgian buyers contribute 8% to the market, with a balanced interest in both resale and new properties.

8. Other Nationalities

1. Ukraine 🇺🇦: Buyers from Ukraine are increasingly targeting high-value properties, accounting for 3% of foreign purchases nationally.
2. Russia 🇷🇺: Focused on Marbella and Benahavís, Russian buyers represent 2.46% of foreign transactions in Málaga.
3. United States 🇺🇸: American buyers are emerging as a significant group, favoring properties over €700,000, particularly new developments.

Why These Nationalities Choose Costa del Sol

The region offers a mix of advantages, from its Mediterranean climate to strong rental yields and vibrant cultural life. Rising energy efficiency standards and the appeal of luxury developments have made the Costa del Sol particularly attractive for affluent international buyers. Additionally, new developments with certifications like Energy Rating A or B further appeal to eco-conscious buyers, especially from Northern Europe and the U.S.【483†source】【484†source】.

How Real Estate Agents Can Optimize Their Marketing Strategies

To capitalize on these trends:

• Specialize by Nationality: Develop targeted campaigns focusing on specific nationalities. For instance, highlight rental income potential for Dutch buyers or luxury amenities for Germans and Americans.

• Leverage Digital Platforms: Use social media and online listings to showcase properties with features that align with each buyer group's preferences.

• Offer Tailored Services: Provide multilingual support and expertise in local regulations to cater to diverse buyer needs effectively.

• Focus on Sustainability: Emphasize energy-efficient properties, especially for eco-conscious markets like Scandinavia and the Netherlands.

The Costa del Sol remains a vibrant market with diverse opportunities for real estate professionals. Understanding who buys the most and why is key to crafting a successful strategy. For more insights, explore sources like iRealty and Observatorio Inmobiliario.