The Ultimate Buyer's Guide to Buying Property on the Costa del Sol

Key takeaways

• An area guide to Marbella, Puerto Banús, Estepona, Benahavís, Sotogrande, Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmádena, Torremolinos, Málaga, Casares and Manilva.
• Lifestyle on the coast: beaches, marinas, and one of Europe's densest concentrations of championship golf courses.
• International schools and healthcare, with Málaga Airport providing year-round connections across Europe, North America and the Middle East.
• New build or resale across one of Spain's most diverse property markets, and the five-step buying process through to completion.
• Understanding the buying costs, mortgages for overseas buyers, residency and visa routes, and annual running costs.
• Buying as an investment, plus fifteen frequently asked questions answered for overseas buyers.

The Costa del Sol has long been one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for buying property. Stretching along the Mediterranean coastline of Málaga Province, this world-renowned region combines over 160 kilometres of beautiful beaches with vibrant towns, luxury marinas, championship golf courses and some of Spain’s most prestigious residential communities.

From the glamour of Marbella and Puerto Banús to the traditional charm of Estepona’s Old Town and the hillside elegance of Benahavís, the Costa del Sol offers an exceptional choice of lifestyles. Whether you’re searching for a modern beachfront apartment, a luxury villa overlooking the Mediterranean, a family home close to international schools or an investment property with excellent rental potential, there is something to suit every buyer.

The region has evolved far beyond its reputation as a holiday destination. Today, it attracts entrepreneurs, retirees, remote workers, families and investors from around the world, all drawn by its outstanding climate, excellent infrastructure and relaxed Mediterranean way of life.

Málaga Airport, one of Spain’s busiest international airports, provides year-round connections across Europe, North America and the Middle East, making the Costa del Sol easily accessible throughout the year. Combined with excellent healthcare, international education, world-class restaurants and a thriving economy, the region continues to be one of Spain’s strongest property markets.

Buying property in Spain is a straightforward process when guided by experienced professionals. This guide has been created to help you understand the Costa del Sol, compare its different locations and make informed decisions as you begin your property search.

Why Buy Property on the Costa del Sol?

Few places in Europe offer the lifestyle, accessibility and variety found on the Costa del Sol.

With more than 320 days of sunshine each year, beautiful beaches, internationally recognised golf courses and a thriving year-round economy, it has become one of the Mediterranean’s most established residential destinations.

Unlike purely seasonal resorts, the Costa del Sol remains active throughout the year. Restaurants, shops, marinas, cultural events and sporting facilities continue well beyond the summer months, making the region equally attractive for permanent living and holiday home ownership.

Another major advantage is its diversity.

Luxury developments sit alongside traditional Andalusian villages.

Exclusive beach clubs neighbour authentic tapas bars.

International schools, private hospitals and modern shopping centres exist alongside centuries-old town squares and local markets.

Whether you want a peaceful retirement by the sea, a family home close to excellent schools or an investment in one of Europe’s most resilient property markets, the Costa del Sol offers opportunities for every type of buyer.

Is the Costa del Sol Right for You?

Every buyer has different priorities.

Some dream of living beside a marina.

Others want panoramic sea views.

Families often prioritise international schools and healthcare, while investors focus on rental demand and long-term capital growth.

Before choosing a location, ask yourself:

• Will this be your permanent home or a holiday property?

• Do you prefer a lively town or a quieter residential area?

• Is walking to restaurants and beaches important?

• Would you like to play golf regularly?

• Is proximity to international schools essential?

• Will you work remotely?

• Are you buying primarily for lifestyle, investment or both?

Answering these questions first makes choosing the right location much easier.

Choosing the Right Area

Marbella

Marbella is internationally recognised as one of Europe’s leading luxury property destinations.

Its elegant seafront, prestigious residential communities, luxury boutiques and outstanding restaurants attract buyers from around the world.

The municipality includes several distinct neighbourhoods, from the historic Old Town to the famous Golden Mile and exclusive communities such as Sierra Blanca, Nueva Andalucía and Los Monteros.

Property ranges from stylish beachfront apartments to some of Spain’s finest contemporary villas.

Marbella is ideal for buyers seeking luxury, excellent amenities and year-round international living.

Puerto Banús

Few destinations are as recognisable as Puerto Banús.

Luxury yachts, designer boutiques, waterfront restaurants and an energetic social scene have made the marina one of Europe’s most famous addresses.

Apartments overlooking the harbour remain highly sought after, while surrounding residential communities offer luxury villas and gated developments within minutes of the marina.

Puerto Banús appeals to buyers seeking a prestigious address with excellent rental potential.

Estepona

Often referred to as the “Garden of the Costa del Sol,” Estepona has undergone an impressive transformation over the past decade.

Its beautifully restored Old Town, extensive beaches and modern marina combine traditional Andalusian charm with contemporary living.

Luxury developments now stretch along much of the coastline, while the town itself retains an authentic atmosphere that appeals to both permanent residents and second-home owners.

Estepona offers an excellent balance between lifestyle, value and long-term investment potential.

Benahavís

Located just inland from Marbella, Benahavís has become one of Spain’s premier luxury residential locations.

Known for its outstanding golf courses, private estates and spectacular mountain scenery, the municipality is home to exclusive communities including La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, Los Flamingos and Marbella Club Golf Resort.

Many of the Costa del Sol’s most impressive villas are found here.

Benahavís is particularly popular with buyers seeking privacy, security and exceptional views.

Sotogrande

At the western end of the Costa del Sol lies Sotogrande, one of Europe’s most prestigious private residential estates.

Famous for its marina, championship golf courses, polo clubs and elegant villas, Sotogrande offers a refined lifestyle unlike anywhere else in southern Spain.

Properties include marina apartments, contemporary villas and expansive estates overlooking golf courses and the Mediterranean.

It remains a favourite among international families and buyers seeking discretion and exclusivity.

Mijas

Mijas offers two distinct lifestyles.

Mijas Pueblo is one of Andalucía’s best-known white villages, combining traditional architecture with breathtaking coastal views.

Mijas Costa stretches along the coastline, offering beaches, golf courses, modern developments and established residential communities.

The area appeals to buyers seeking variety and excellent value within easy reach of both Marbella and Málaga.

Fuengirola

Fuengirola combines one of the Costa del Sol’s longest promenades with excellent shopping, restaurants, healthcare and public transport.

The town remains active throughout the year and is particularly popular with buyers seeking apartment living close to every amenity.

Excellent rail connections to Málaga Airport add to its appeal.

Benalmádena

Benalmádena offers beautiful beaches, a lively marina and a wide variety of residential areas.

Properties range from modern apartments overlooking Puerto Marina to luxury villas in elevated neighbourhoods enjoying panoramic sea views.

The town is especially popular with families thanks to its international schools and year-round facilities.

Torremolinos

Once known primarily as a holiday destination, Torremolinos has evolved into a vibrant coastal town with a growing permanent international community.

Beautiful beaches, excellent transport connections and ongoing regeneration have made it increasingly attractive to buyers looking for convenience and value.

Málaga

As the capital of the Costa del Sol, Málaga offers one of Spain’s most dynamic property markets.

Historic architecture, world-class museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, beaches, shopping and a thriving technology sector have transformed the city into an increasingly desirable place to live.

Luxury apartments within the historic centre, waterfront developments and contemporary residential neighbourhoods continue to attract buyers from around the world.

Casares

Casares combines one of Andalucía’s most beautiful white villages with an attractive stretch of coastline and internationally recognised golf resorts including Finca Cortesín.

The area appeals to buyers looking for tranquillity, luxury and traditional Andalusian scenery.

Manilva

Situated close to Gibraltar, Manilva offers attractive beaches, marinas, vineyards and a relaxed pace of life.

Compared with many neighbouring locations, property remains competitively priced, making it popular with buyers seeking excellent value.

Lifestyle on the Costa del Sol

Life on the Costa del Sol revolves around the outdoors.

Breakfast on the terrace.

A morning round of golf.

Lunch overlooking a marina.

An afternoon on the beach.

Evening drinks in a traditional plaza or a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Whether your interests include sailing, hiking, tennis, cycling, gastronomy or simply enjoying the Mediterranean climate, the Costa del Sol offers an exceptional quality of life throughout the year.

Beaches

The Costa del Sol offers an outstanding variety of beaches, from lively urban promenades to quieter stretches of coastline.

Some of the most popular include:

• Playa de Cabopino

• Playa de la Fontanilla

• Playa del Cristo

• Playa de Burriana

• Playa de Los Álamos

• Playa de la Malagueta

• Playa de Guadalmina

• Playa de Sotogrande

Many have Blue Flag status and are supported by excellent facilities, beach clubs and waterfront restaurants.

Marinas

The Costa del Sol is home to some of Spain’s finest marinas, including:

• Puerto Banús

• Puerto Deportivo de Marbella

• Puerto Marina Benalmádena

• Estepona Marina

• Sotogrande Marina

• Cabopino Marina

• Fuengirola Marina

These marinas form the social heart of many coastal communities and are particularly attractive to boating enthusiasts.

Golf

Often described as the Costa del Golf, the region boasts more than 70 golf courses.

Among the best known are:

• Real Club Valderrama

• Finca Cortesín

• La Zagaleta Golf

• Los Naranjos Golf Club

• Marbella Club Golf Resort

• La Cala Golf

• Santa Clara Golf

• Río Real Golf

• Atalaya Golf & Country Club

The variety and quality of golf available continue to attract buyers from across the world.

International Schools

For families relocating to Spain, the Costa del Sol offers one of Europe’s strongest selections of international schools.

These include:

• Aloha College Marbella

• Swans International School

• The British International School of Marbella

• Laude San Pedro International College

• Sotogrande International School

• The British School of Málaga

• St George’s School Málaga

These schools provide British, International Baccalaureate, American and bilingual programmes, making the Costa del Sol particularly attractive for international families.

Healthcare

Healthcare across the Costa del Sol is excellent.

The region benefits from outstanding public hospitals alongside a wide network of private medical centres.

International residents also have access to English-speaking specialists, modern private hospitals and comprehensive healthcare services throughout Marbella, Málaga, Estepona, Benalmádena and Fuengirola.

The Costa del Sol Property Market

The Costa del Sol remains one of Europe’s most established and resilient property markets.

Demand comes from both Spanish and international buyers, creating a strong year-round market across every price range.

Property options include:

• Luxury beachfront villas

• Contemporary apartments

• Golf properties

• Marina residences

• Gated communities

• Traditional Andalusian homes

• Country estates

• Investment apartments

Whether you’re searching for a permanent residence, holiday home or investment property, the Costa del Sol offers exceptional choice, world-class infrastructure and one of Europe’s most desirable Mediterranean lifestyles.

New Build or Resale – Which is Right for You?

The Costa del Sol offers one of Spain’s most diverse property markets, giving buyers an exceptional choice between brand-new developments and established homes.

Whether you’re searching for a luxury apartment in Marbella, a golf villa in Benahavís or a beachfront home in Estepona, both new-build and resale properties have their own advantages.

Buying a New Build

New-build developments continue to shape much of the Costa del Sol’s property market.

Modern architecture, energy-efficient construction, spacious terraces and high-quality communal facilities have become standard features across many new residential communities.

Buyers often appreciate the simplicity of purchasing a home that’s ready to move into, complete with contemporary kitchens, modern bathrooms, underground parking, landscaped gardens and swimming pools.

Many developments also offer excellent security and low-maintenance living, making them ideal for holiday homes and second residences.

Buying a Resale Property

Resale properties often offer something that newer developments cannot—established locations and individual character.

From elegant villas along Marbella’s Golden Mile to charming townhouses in Estepona’s Old Town or frontline apartments overlooking Puerto Banús, many of the Costa del Sol’s most desirable homes are resale properties.

Larger plots, mature gardens and prime beachfront positions are often easier to find within the resale market.

The best choice isn’t simply new or old—it’s finding the property that best matches the lifestyle you’re looking for.

The Buying Process

Buying property in Spain is a straightforward process when you’re supported by experienced professionals.

Once you’ve found the right property, the purchase usually follows these simple steps.

Step One – Finding the Right Property

Every successful purchase starts by understanding your priorities.

Are you looking for sea views?

Walking distance to restaurants?

A golf property?

A family home near international schools?

Or perhaps a secure lock-up-and-leave apartment?

Defining your priorities makes your search far more focused and enjoyable.

Step Two – Agreeing the Purchase Price

Once you’ve chosen your property, your estate agent negotiates with the seller on your behalf.

After a price has been agreed, the property is normally reserved while the legal work begins.

Step Three – Independent Legal Advice

Your independent Spanish lawyer will carry out all the necessary legal checks before you commit to the purchase.

This includes verifying ownership, reviewing planning documentation, checking outstanding debts and ensuring everything is in order before completion.

Having an independent lawyer gives buyers complete confidence throughout the transaction.

Step Four – Signing the Private Purchase Contract

When the legal work is progressing satisfactorily, both parties sign a private purchase contract and an agreed deposit is paid.

Your lawyer then prepares the remaining documentation ready for completion.

Step Five – Completion

Completion takes place before a Spanish Notary.

Ownership officially transfers to you, the remaining balance is paid and you receive the keys to your new property.

Your lawyer completes the registration process and deals with the remaining administration after completion.

Understanding the Buying Costs

When buying property on the Costa del Sol, it’s important to budget for the purchase costs in addition to the agreed sale price.

These typically include:

• Property Transfer Tax (for resale properties)

• VAT and Stamp Duty (for new-build properties)

• Legal Fees

• Notary Fees

• Land Registry Fees

• Mortgage costs (if applicable)

As a general guide, buyers often budget around 10–13% of the purchase price to cover taxes and associated costs, although the exact figure depends on the property and individual circumstances.

Your lawyer will provide a clear breakdown before contracts are signed so there are no surprises.

Can Overseas Buyers Get a Mortgage?

Yes.

Spanish banks regularly provide mortgages for overseas buyers purchasing holiday homes, investment properties and permanent residences.

The amount available depends on several factors, including:

• Your income

• Existing financial commitments

• Residency status

• The property’s valuation

Many buyers choose to speak with a mortgage adviser before starting their property search, helping establish a realistic budget and making the buying process smoother once they’ve found the right home.

Residency and Living in Spain

Buying property in Spain does not automatically give you residency.

EU citizens can live in Spain subject to the relevant registration requirements.

For buyers from the UK, USA and other non-EU countries, several residency options may be available depending on your circumstances.

These include:

• Non-Lucrative Visa

• Digital Nomad Visa

• Employment Visas

• Business and Entrepreneur Visas

• Family Residency

The Estates works with trusted legal and immigration professionals who can explain the options available and guide you through the application process if required.

Healthcare

One of the Costa del Sol’s major attractions is its excellent healthcare.

The region benefits from outstanding public hospitals alongside an extensive network of private medical centres and specialist clinics.

International residents also enjoy easy access to English-speaking doctors and private healthcare providers throughout Marbella, Málaga, Benalmádena, Fuengirola and Estepona.

Whether you’re relocating permanently or spending part of the year in Spain, you’ll have access to high-quality healthcare whenever you need it.

Annual Running Costs

Owning property on the Costa del Sol is generally straightforward, with annual costs that are easy to budget for.

Typical ongoing expenses include:

• Local Property Tax (IBI)

• Community Fees (where applicable)

• Home Insurance

• Electricity and Water

• Internet

• Garden and Pool Maintenance (for villas)

Before completion, your lawyer and estate agent will explain these costs so you have a clear understanding of annual ownership expenses.

Buying as an Investment

The Costa del Sol remains one of Europe’s strongest property investment markets.

Its popularity with international buyers, year-round tourism and growing permanent population continue to support demand across a wide range of property types.

Holiday rentals remain particularly strong in locations such as Marbella, Puerto Banús, Estepona, Fuengirola and Benalmádena, while Málaga city has become an increasingly popular destination for long-term rentals thanks to its expanding business and technology sectors.

If rental income forms part of your plans, it’s important to understand the relevant licensing requirements before purchasing.

The Estates can introduce you to trusted professionals who will explain the regulations and help you make informed decisions.

Why Buy Through The Estates?

Buying property abroad should be exciting, enjoyable and completely transparent.

At The Estates, we believe finding the right home is about more than simply arranging viewings. It’s about understanding your lifestyle, your priorities and your long-term plans.

Whether you’re searching for a luxury villa in Marbella, a golf property in Benahavís, a beachfront apartment in Estepona or a family home close to international schools, we’ll help you identify the locations and properties that genuinely suit your needs.

Once you’ve found the right property, we’ll continue supporting you throughout the buying process.

We work alongside trusted independent lawyers, mortgage advisers, currency specialists, tax professionals and relocation experts, helping coordinate every stage from your first enquiry through to completion.

Our goal is simple: to make buying property on the Costa del Sol as straightforward and enjoyable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners buy property on the Costa del Sol?

Yes. Overseas buyers can purchase property in Spain without restrictions in most cases.

Is the Costa del Sol suitable for year-round living?

Absolutely. The region enjoys an excellent climate, outstanding infrastructure and thriving communities throughout the year.

Do I need an NIE number?

Yes. All overseas buyers require an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) to purchase property in Spain.

Can I buy before moving permanently?

Yes. Many buyers purchase a holiday home first before deciding to relocate full-time.

How long does the buying process take?

Most purchases complete within six to twelve weeks, depending on the legal process and individual circumstances.

Can I complete the purchase remotely?

Yes. Your lawyer can often complete the purchase on your behalf using a Power of Attorney if required.

Should I appoint an independent lawyer?

Yes. An independent lawyer represents your interests throughout the transaction and ensures the purchase proceeds securely.

Can overseas buyers obtain a Spanish mortgage?

Yes. Spanish banks regularly lend to international buyers, subject to lending criteria.

Are there good international schools?

Yes. The Costa del Sol has one of Europe’s largest selections of international schools, making it particularly attractive for families relocating to Spain.

Is healthcare good?

Yes. The region offers excellent public and private healthcare, with many English-speaking medical professionals.

Which areas are best for luxury property?

Marbella, Benahavís, Sotogrande, the Golden Mile and parts of Estepona offer some of Spain’s finest luxury homes.

Which areas are best for apartments?

Puerto Banús, Marbella, Fuengirola, Benalmádena, Málaga and Estepona all offer an excellent selection of apartments close to beaches and local amenities.

Can I rent out my property?

Yes. Holiday rentals are popular across the Costa del Sol, although owners must comply with the relevant licensing requirements.

Is the Costa del Sol a good place to retire?

Very much so. Its climate, healthcare, international community and relaxed lifestyle continue to attract retirees from around the world.

Is the Costa del Sol a good long-term investment?

The Costa del Sol remains one of Spain’s most established property markets, benefiting from strong international demand, excellent infrastructure and a broad appeal to both lifestyle buyers and investors.

Your Costa del Sol Journey Starts Here

The Costa del Sol has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s premier property destinations for good reason.

Whether you’re drawn to the sophistication of Marbella, the charm of Estepona, the exclusivity of Benahavís, the marina lifestyle of Puerto Banús or the vibrant atmosphere of Málaga, you’ll find a region that offers an exceptional quality of life throughout the year.

Buying property here isn’t simply about purchasing a home—it’s about investing in a lifestyle built around sunshine, beautiful beaches, world-class golf, outstanding cuisine and the relaxed rhythm of Mediterranean living.

At The Estates, we’re here to make that journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

From helping you choose the right location to introducing trusted legal and financial professionals, we’ll guide you through every stage of the buying process with honest advice, local knowledge and personalised support.

Whether you’re looking for a holiday apartment, a permanent family home, a retirement property or a long-term investment, we’d be delighted to help you find your perfect place on the Costa del Sol.