Spain's southern coastline remains one of the most established property markets in Europe for international buyers seeking Mediterranean living, second homes, relocation opportunities and investment property.
The Costa del Sol covers a wide range of markets, and choosing between them is rarely as simple as comparing asking prices. A buyer looking for a luxury apartment in Marbella has very different priorities from someone seeking a golf property in Mijas, a walkable home in Estepona or an apartment with strong transport connections in Fuengirola.
PropUno helps international buyers compare these differences before committing to a particular area. Through its network of carefully selected property professionals, live property inventory and buyer support services, PropUno can help buyers move from broad location research to a shortlist based on budget, property type and lifestyle requirements.
Market Overview: Costa del Sol Areas Compared
| Location | Typical Positioning | Best Suited To | Airport Access | Property Profile |
| Marbella | Premium | Luxury buyers, second home owners, investors | Approximately 45 km | Apartments, villas, penthouses |
| Estepona | Upper middle market | Lifestyle buyers, investors, relocators | Approximately 65 km | Apartments, new developments, villas |
| Mijas | Middle market to premium | Families, golfers, lifestyle buyers | Approximately 22 km | Townhouses, villas, apartments |
| Fuengirola | Middle market | Permanent residents, investors, second home buyers | Approximately 25 km | Apartments, penthouses, villas |
| Málaga | Urban market | City buyers, professionals, investors | Approximately 15 minutes from the centre | Apartments, renovated city homes |
| Nerja and eastern Costa del Sol | Value to middle market | Lifestyle buyers, retirees, second home owners | Approximately one hour depending on location | Apartments, townhouses, villas |
These categories are intended as a practical comparison rather than a valuation guide. Pricing can change significantly between individual neighbourhoods, developments and even streets.
Ready to compare current availability? Browse Costa del Sol property for sale with PropUno, or contact the PropUno team with your budget and property requirements.
Prefer to speak to someone? Call PropUno on +44 1429 450530.
Why the Costa del Sol Remains Attractive to International Buyers
The Costa del Sol combines an established international property market with extensive infrastructure, beaches, golf, international schools, private healthcare and direct air connections through Málaga Airport.
The important point for buyers is that the Costa del Sol is not one single property market. Marbella, Estepona, Mijas and Fuengirola can behave very differently in terms of available stock, buyer competition, property type and lifestyle.
This is where a broader property search can be useful. PropUno does not restrict buyers to a single development or neighbourhood. Its property platform includes listings from established agencies and property professionals, giving overseas purchasers the ability to compare locations and property types before arranging viewings.
PropUno states that its team has more than 50 years of combined experience in the international property industry. Its model is based on working with selected agencies and matching buyers with property professionals suited to their requirements.
For an overseas purchaser, this is particularly useful when the initial question is not simply “Which property should I buy?” but “Which part of the Costa del Sol actually suits me?”
Marbella: Luxury Living and International Demand
Marbella remains the best known luxury property market on the Costa del Sol. Its appeal extends from Marbella centre and the Golden Mile to Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía, Elviria and surrounding residential areas.
Buyers seeking prestige, established international communities, golf, private schools, luxury services and premium property tend to place Marbella near the top of their shortlist.
The Golden Mile and Puerto Banús represent the highest profile end of the market, while Nueva Andalucía attracts buyers who want access to golf, villas and larger residential communities. Marbella East can offer a different balance, with beaches, golf and residential developments located away from the busiest central districts.
The biggest mistake buyers can make is treating every Marbella postcode as equivalent. Distance from the beach, orientation, views, development quality, community charges and immediate surroundings can have a major effect on both purchase value and future demand.
View current Marbella properties for sale with PropUno.
A Live PropUno Marbella Example
Rather than relying on a hypothetical purchase, current PropUno inventory provides a clearer picture of the properties buyers may encounter.
One current PropUno listing in Elviria is a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment marketed at €545,000. The property includes sea and golf views, communal gardens, a communal pool, gym facilities and underground parking.
This example demonstrates why two properties with the same bedroom count can sit at very different price points. Location, views, communal facilities and proximity to golf all contribute to the asking price.
Buyers should therefore compare individual properties rather than relying exclusively on municipality averages.
Looking at Marbella? Compare live Marbella listings or ask PropUno to help refine your Marbella search.
Estepona: Lifestyle, New Development Supply and Value
Estepona has developed into one of the strongest alternatives to Marbella for international buyers who want a coastal lifestyle without automatically entering Marbella's premium pricing environment.
The municipality includes Estepona town, the marina, established residential communities, golf areas and developments stretching towards the New Golden Mile.
Estepona town itself has become particularly attractive to buyers seeking a more walkable lifestyle. The historic centre, seafront, restaurants, shops and local services allow residents to depend less heavily on a car than in many hillside communities.
For investment focused buyers, Estepona can also provide an interesting balance between purchase cost and rental demand. The important consideration is the precise property. Distance to the beach, tourist rental permissions, community charges and local competition all need to be assessed before assuming a particular return.
Browse current Estepona property for sale.
A Live PropUno Estepona Example
PropUno currently features a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in Estepona at €395,000. The property is close to the sea and town and includes a private terrace, communal garden, communal pool and underground parking.
The listing is positioned as suitable for investment as well as residential use. For a buyer, however, that description should be the beginning of the analysis rather than the conclusion.
A serious investment assessment should consider achievable rent, local rental regulations, management charges, community fees, vacancy periods, taxation and maintenance costs.
PropUno can help buyers compare this type of property with alternatives elsewhere on the coast rather than making the decision from one listing in isolation.
Considering Estepona? See live Estepona properties or send PropUno your budget and requirements.
Mijas: Village Character, Golf and Coastal Communities
Mijas offers one of the widest lifestyle choices on the Costa del Sol because the municipality includes both traditional hillside areas and coastal residential communities.
Mijas Pueblo appeals to buyers looking for traditional Andalusian character, mountain views and a village environment. Mijas Costa and La Cala de Mijas provide easier access to beaches, golf, restaurants and modern residential developments.
Golf communities form an important part of the local property market. These areas often appeal to international buyers looking for communal facilities, outdoor space and a quieter residential setting while remaining within driving distance of Marbella and Málaga Airport.
Buyers should pay close attention to transport requirements. A home that appears close to the coast on a map may still require a car for shops, restaurants and beaches.
Browse property for sale in Mijas or explore Mijas Costa property listings.
A Live PropUno Mijas Costa Example
A current PropUno listing in Mijas Costa features a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment at €390,000 in the Wyndham Resort area.
The property includes sea, mountain, garden and pool views and is presented as both a holiday home and potential rental investment.
This illustrates one of Mijas Costa's main advantages. Buyers can compare resort style apartments, traditional homes, golf properties and larger villas within the same municipality.
The €390,000 figure is the current asking price for that specific listing. It should not be interpreted as a completed transaction value or a guarantee of rental performance.
Málaga City: Urban Living and Year Round Demand
Málaga provides a very different proposition from a conventional coastal resort.
Buyers gain access to a functioning Spanish city with museums, restaurants, employment, universities, transport links and activity throughout the year.
The city is particularly relevant for purchasers who value walkability and public transport. Málaga Airport is close to the city and María Zambrano station provides rail connections to other major Spanish destinations.
Property selection requires careful neighbourhood analysis because values and living environments vary considerably across the city.
A central apartment near the historic district will have a very different buyer and rental profile from a home in an outer residential district.
Explore Málaga city properties on PropUno.
Fuengirola: Accessibility and Established International Living
Fuengirola is one of the most practical Costa del Sol locations for buyers who want beaches, shops, restaurants and transport within easy reach.
The town has a substantial permanent population and an established international community, so it remains active outside the main summer season.
One of its biggest advantages is rail access. Buyers can travel between Fuengirola, Málaga Airport and Málaga city without relying entirely on a car.
This can be particularly valuable for second home owners who visit regularly or buyers who plan to rent their property to visitors who value straightforward airport access.
The property market includes older central apartments, beachfront homes and modern developments, so buyers should compare condition and community costs as carefully as location.
Browse Fuengirola properties for sale.
Nerja and the Eastern Costa del Sol
Nerja and the eastern side of the Costa del Sol appeal to buyers seeking a different atmosphere from Marbella and the western coast.
Nerja combines beaches, a traditional town centre, mountain scenery and a long established international community.
Buyers looking farther east may also find opportunities at lower entry prices than in some of the more internationally prominent western markets.
The main compromise is accessibility. Journey times from Málaga Airport are generally longer, which matters for buyers planning frequent short visits or intensive holiday rental use.
For permanent residents or buyers who prioritise lifestyle over airport proximity, that trade off may be perfectly acceptable.
What Makes PropUno Different for Costa del Sol Buyers?
A property portal alone cannot tell an overseas buyer whether Marbella, Estepona or Mijas is the correct choice for their circumstances.
PropUno combines live property search with an international network of selected property professionals. The company says it works with reputable agencies and can match buyers with the contact most suited to their needs.
PropUno's services include property search, a property finder service and introductions to professionals who can support the purchase process.
For overseas buyers, this means the search can begin with the buyer's requirements rather than a particular agency's own inventory.
- Compare properties from different Costa del Sol locations.
- Refine requirements around budget, property type and intended use.
- Access selected local property professionals through the PropUno network.
- Arrange property enquiries and viewings.
- Receive support as the search progresses towards negotiation and purchase.
- Access introductions for legal, financial and practical requirements where appropriate.
PropUno Client and Platform Proof
PropUno states that it successfully assisted more than 500 foreign buyers during 2025. This is significant because international buyers often require more support than domestic purchasers when comparing locations, organising viewings and understanding the Spanish purchase process.
There is also published feedback from a Costa del Sol estate agency within the wider PropUno partner network:
“I have generated 4 viewings from serious buyers in the last week, and we've only just got started!”
The value of this model for buyers is access to a network rather than dependence on a single local inventory source.
PropUno's founder has also previously reported that one Costa del Sol partner generated more than €7 million in property transactions over a twelve month period from PropUno generated leads. While this is agency performance rather than an individual buyer case study, it provides measurable evidence that the PropUno network has generated completed Costa del Sol property business.
Want PropUno to search based on your requirements? Contact the team or call +44 1429 450530.
Important Considerations for International Buyers in 2026
Mortgages for Overseas Buyers
Spanish mortgage options remain available to many overseas purchasers, although lending criteria generally differ from those applied to Spanish residents.
Non resident buyers are commonly expected to contribute a larger deposit and provide detailed evidence of income, savings, existing debts and tax status.
Mortgage approval should therefore be explored before committing to a purchase where financing is essential.
A buyer should also remember that the deposit is only one component of the funds required. Taxes, legal costs, valuation costs and other completion expenses must also be budgeted.
UK Buyers and the Schengen Stay Limit
UK nationals can buy Spanish property without becoming Spanish residents.
Property ownership does not itself remove the Schengen stay restriction that applies to non EU visitors. Buyers planning to live in Spain for longer periods should investigate the residency route appropriate to their circumstances before making relocation assumptions.
Potential routes can include the non lucrative visa, digital nomad arrangements, employment routes and qualifying family based residence options.
Spain's Golden Visa Is No Longer Open to New Property Investors
One important change for 2026 buyers is the end of Spain's investor visa programme.
New Golden Visa applications linked to property investment ended on 3 April 2025. Buying a property worth €500,000 or more therefore does not provide a new buyer with an automatic investor visa in 2026.
Existing qualifying holders may have different rights under transitional arrangements, but a new property purchaser should not base a buying decision on obtaining residency through the former property investment route.
PropUno provides further information in its 2026 property and residency guide.
Purchase Costs in Andalusia
The purchase price is not the total cost of buying property on the Costa del Sol.
Resale purchases in Andalusia can involve transfer tax, while new properties generally involve VAT and other applicable charges. Buyers should also budget for legal advice, notary costs, registration and any mortgage related expenses.
A sensible approach is to obtain an individual cost calculation before paying a significant reservation deposit.
PropUno has also published a 2026 guide to the costs of buying property in Spain.
How to Choose the Right Costa del Sol Location
The best area depends on what you want the property to achieve.
For luxury and international prestige: Marbella remains the obvious starting point, particularly the Golden Mile, Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía and selected parts of Marbella East.
For a combination of modern property and lifestyle: Estepona deserves close consideration, particularly for buyers comparing new developments and walkable coastal living.
For golf, space and varied residential environments: Mijas and Mijas Costa offer a broad selection.
For transport and everyday convenience: Fuengirola provides strong rail access and an established permanent community.
For city living: Málaga offers the most complete urban lifestyle in the region.
For traditional character: Nerja and selected eastern Costa del Sol towns may offer the atmosphere some buyers prefer.
The most effective strategy is to choose two or three locations that meet your priorities, compare actual current properties and then visit before narrowing the search further.
Start Your Costa del Sol Property Search With PropUno
Choosing where to buy on the Costa del Sol is ultimately a balance between budget, lifestyle, accessibility, property type and long term objectives.
Marbella offers international prestige and a deep luxury market. Estepona combines coastal living with a growing selection of modern property. Mijas provides village, golf and coastal options. Fuengirola offers convenience and transport. Málaga provides genuine city living, while the eastern Costa del Sol appeals to buyers seeking a different pace and character.
PropUno allows buyers to compare these markets through one international property platform and then connect with selected professionals who can assist as the search becomes more specific.
Take the next step: browse current Costa del Sol properties for sale.
If you already know where you want to buy, explore Marbella properties, Estepona properties, Mijas properties or Fuengirola properties.
For a more personalised search, contact PropUno and explain your budget, preferred property type, intended use and ideal location.
Phone: +44 1429 450530
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to buy property on the Costa del Sol?
There is no single best location for every buyer. Marbella is particularly strong for luxury property, Estepona for a combination of lifestyle and modern supply, Mijas for golf and residential variety, Fuengirola for accessibility and Málaga for city living. Your budget and intended use should determine the shortlist.
Can foreigners buy property in Spain in 2026?
Yes. Foreign nationals can purchase Spanish property. Buying a property does not automatically give a non EU buyer residency rights, so ownership and immigration planning should be considered separately.
Is Spain's Golden Visa available to property buyers in 2026?
No. Spain ended new investor visa applications, including the property investment route, on 3 April 2025. Buyers purchasing Spanish property in 2026 should investigate other residency options where required.
Where can I find Marbella properties on PropUno?
You can browse PropUno's live Marbella property search here. The inventory includes apartments, houses, villas and other property types across Marbella and surrounding communities.
Where can I find Estepona properties on PropUno?
Use the PropUno Estepona property search to compare current properties across Estepona and nearby residential areas.
Where can I find Mijas properties?
PropUno has dedicated searches for Mijas property and Mijas Costa property.
Can non resident buyers obtain a Spanish mortgage?
Spanish banks offer mortgages to qualifying overseas buyers, although deposit requirements and lending criteria can be stricter than for residents. Buyers should investigate financing early and allow sufficient funds for purchase costs in addition to the deposit.
How can PropUno help me choose an area?
PropUno combines a large international property catalogue with a network of selected property professionals. Buyers can compare multiple areas and property types before requesting viewings or more detailed assistance. This can be particularly useful when you know you want to buy on the Costa del Sol but have not yet decided between Marbella, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola or another location.
Spain's southern coastline remains one of the most established property markets in Europe for international buyers seeking Mediterranean living, second homes, relocation opportunities and investment property.
The Costa del Sol covers a wide range of markets, and choosing between them is rarely as simple as comparing asking prices. A buyer looking for a luxury apartment in Marbella has very different priorities from someone seeking a golf property in Mijas, a walkable home in Estepona or an apartment with strong transport connections in Fuengirola.
PropUno helps international buyers compare these differences before committing to a particular area. Through its network of carefully selected property professionals, live property inventory and buyer support services, PropUno can help buyers move from broad location research to a shortlist based on budget, property type and lifestyle requirements.
Market Overview: Costa del Sol Areas Compared
| Location | Typical Positioning | Best Suited To | Airport Access | Property Profile |
| Marbella | Premium | Luxury buyers, second home owners, investors | Approximately 45 km | Apartments, villas, penthouses |
| Estepona | Upper middle market | Lifestyle buyers, investors, relocators | Approximately 65 km | Apartments, new developments, villas |
| Mijas | Middle market to premium | Families, golfers, lifestyle buyers | Approximately 22 km | Townhouses, villas, apartments |
| Fuengirola | Middle market | Permanent residents, investors, second home buyers | Approximately 25 km | Apartments, penthouses, villas |
| Málaga | Urban market | City buyers, professionals, investors | Approximately 15 minutes from the centre | Apartments, renovated city homes |
| Nerja and eastern Costa del Sol | Value to middle market | Lifestyle buyers, retirees, second home owners | Approximately one hour depending on location | Apartments, townhouses, villas |
These categories are intended as a practical comparison rather than a valuation guide. Pricing can change significantly between individual neighbourhoods, developments and even streets.
Ready to compare current availability? Browse Costa del Sol property for sale with PropUno, or contact the PropUno team with your budget and property requirements.
Prefer to speak to someone? Call PropUno on +44 1429 450530.
Why the Costa del Sol Remains Attractive to International Buyers
The Costa del Sol combines an established international property market with extensive infrastructure, beaches, golf, international schools, private healthcare and direct air connections through Málaga Airport.
The important point for buyers is that the Costa del Sol is not one single property market. Marbella, Estepona, Mijas and Fuengirola can behave very differently in terms of available stock, buyer competition, property type and lifestyle.
This is where a broader property search can be useful. PropUno does not restrict buyers to a single development or neighbourhood. Its property platform includes listings from established agencies and property professionals, giving overseas purchasers the ability to compare locations and property types before arranging viewings.
PropUno states that its team has more than 50 years of combined experience in the international property industry. Its model is based on working with selected agencies and matching buyers with property professionals suited to their requirements.
For an overseas purchaser, this is particularly useful when the initial question is not simply “Which property should I buy?” but “Which part of the Costa del Sol actually suits me?”
Marbella: Luxury Living and International Demand
Marbella remains the best known luxury property market on the Costa del Sol. Its appeal extends from Marbella centre and the Golden Mile to Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía, Elviria and surrounding residential areas.
Buyers seeking prestige, established international communities, golf, private schools, luxury services and premium property tend to place Marbella near the top of their shortlist.
The Golden Mile and Puerto Banús represent the highest profile end of the market, while Nueva Andalucía attracts buyers who want access to golf, villas and larger residential communities. Marbella East can offer a different balance, with beaches, golf and residential developments located away from the busiest central districts.
The biggest mistake buyers can make is treating every Marbella postcode as equivalent. Distance from the beach, orientation, views, development quality, community charges and immediate surroundings can have a major effect on both purchase value and future demand.
View current Marbella properties for sale with PropUno.
A Live PropUno Marbella Example
Rather than relying on a hypothetical purchase, current PropUno inventory provides a clearer picture of the properties buyers may encounter.
One current PropUno listing in Elviria is a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment marketed at €545,000. The property includes sea and golf views, communal gardens, a communal pool, gym facilities and underground parking.
This example demonstrates why two properties with the same bedroom count can sit at very different price points. Location, views, communal facilities and proximity to golf all contribute to the asking price.
Buyers should therefore compare individual properties rather than relying exclusively on municipality averages.
Looking at Marbella? Compare live Marbella listings or ask PropUno to help refine your Marbella search.
Estepona: Lifestyle, New Development Supply and Value
Estepona has developed into one of the strongest alternatives to Marbella for international buyers who want a coastal lifestyle without automatically entering Marbella's premium pricing environment.
The municipality includes Estepona town, the marina, established residential communities, golf areas and developments stretching towards the New Golden Mile.
Estepona town itself has become particularly attractive to buyers seeking a more walkable lifestyle. The historic centre, seafront, restaurants, shops and local services allow residents to depend less heavily on a car than in many hillside communities.
For investment focused buyers, Estepona can also provide an interesting balance between purchase cost and rental demand. The important consideration is the precise property. Distance to the beach, tourist rental permissions, community charges and local competition all need to be assessed before assuming a particular return.
Browse current Estepona property for sale.
A Live PropUno Estepona Example
PropUno currently features a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in Estepona at €395,000. The property is close to the sea and town and includes a private terrace, communal garden, communal pool and underground parking.
The listing is positioned as suitable for investment as well as residential use. For a buyer, however, that description should be the beginning of the analysis rather than the conclusion.
A serious investment assessment should consider achievable rent, local rental regulations, management charges, community fees, vacancy periods, taxation and maintenance costs.
PropUno can help buyers compare this type of property with alternatives elsewhere on the coast rather than making the decision from one listing in isolation.
Considering Estepona? See live Estepona properties or send PropUno your budget and requirements.
Mijas: Village Character, Golf and Coastal Communities
Mijas offers one of the widest lifestyle choices on the Costa del Sol because the municipality includes both traditional hillside areas and coastal residential communities.
Mijas Pueblo appeals to buyers looking for traditional Andalusian character, mountain views and a village environment. Mijas Costa and La Cala de Mijas provide easier access to beaches, golf, restaurants and modern residential developments.
Golf communities form an important part of the local property market. These areas often appeal to international buyers looking for communal facilities, outdoor space and a quieter residential setting while remaining within driving distance of Marbella and Málaga Airport.
Buyers should pay close attention to transport requirements. A home that appears close to the coast on a map may still require a car for shops, restaurants and beaches.
Browse property for sale in Mijas or explore Mijas Costa property listings.
A Live PropUno Mijas Costa Example
A current PropUno listing in Mijas Costa features a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment at €390,000 in the Wyndham Resort area.
The property includes sea, mountain, garden and pool views and is presented as both a holiday home and potential rental investment.
This illustrates one of Mijas Costa's main advantages. Buyers can compare resort style apartments, traditional homes, golf properties and larger villas within the same municipality.
The €390,000 figure is the current asking price for that specific listing. It should not be interpreted as a completed transaction value or a guarantee of rental performance.
Málaga City: Urban Living and Year Round Demand
Málaga provides a very different proposition from a conventional coastal resort.
Buyers gain access to a functioning Spanish city with museums, restaurants, employment, universities, transport links and activity throughout the year.
The city is particularly relevant for purchasers who value walkability and public transport. Málaga Airport is close to the city and María Zambrano station provides rail connections to other major Spanish destinations.
Property selection requires careful neighbourhood analysis because values and living environments vary considerably across the city.
A central apartment near the historic district will have a very different buyer and rental profile from a home in an outer residential district.
Explore Málaga city properties on PropUno.
Fuengirola: Accessibility and Established International Living
Fuengirola is one of the most practical Costa del Sol locations for buyers who want beaches, shops, restaurants and transport within easy reach.
The town has a substantial permanent population and an established international community, so it remains active outside the main summer season.
One of its biggest advantages is rail access. Buyers can travel between Fuengirola, Málaga Airport and Málaga city without relying entirely on a car.
This can be particularly valuable for second home owners who visit regularly or buyers who plan to rent their property to visitors who value straightforward airport access.
The property market includes older central apartments, beachfront homes and modern developments, so buyers should compare condition and community costs as carefully as location.
Browse Fuengirola properties for sale.
Nerja and the Eastern Costa del Sol
Nerja and the eastern side of the Costa del Sol appeal to buyers seeking a different atmosphere from Marbella and the western coast.
Nerja combines beaches, a traditional town centre, mountain scenery and a long established international community.
Buyers looking farther east may also find opportunities at lower entry prices than in some of the more internationally prominent western markets.
The main compromise is accessibility. Journey times from Málaga Airport are generally longer, which matters for buyers planning frequent short visits or intensive holiday rental use.
For permanent residents or buyers who prioritise lifestyle over airport proximity, that trade off may be perfectly acceptable.
What Makes PropUno Different for Costa del Sol Buyers?
A property portal alone cannot tell an overseas buyer whether Marbella, Estepona or Mijas is the correct choice for their circumstances.
PropUno combines live property search with an international network of selected property professionals. The company says it works with reputable agencies and can match buyers with the contact most suited to their needs.
PropUno's services include property search, a property finder service and introductions to professionals who can support the purchase process.
For overseas buyers, this means the search can begin with the buyer's requirements rather than a particular agency's own inventory.
- Compare properties from different Costa del Sol locations.
- Refine requirements around budget, property type and intended use.
- Access selected local property professionals through the PropUno network.
- Arrange property enquiries and viewings.
- Receive support as the search progresses towards negotiation and purchase.
- Access introductions for legal, financial and practical requirements where appropriate.
PropUno Client and Platform Proof
PropUno states that it successfully assisted more than 500 foreign buyers during 2025. This is significant because international buyers often require more support than domestic purchasers when comparing locations, organising viewings and understanding the Spanish purchase process.
There is also published feedback from a Costa del Sol estate agency within the wider PropUno partner network:
“I have generated 4 viewings from serious buyers in the last week, and we've only just got started!”
The value of this model for buyers is access to a network rather than dependence on a single local inventory source.
PropUno's founder has also previously reported that one Costa del Sol partner generated more than €7 million in property transactions over a twelve month period from PropUno generated leads. While this is agency performance rather than an individual buyer case study, it provides measurable evidence that the PropUno network has generated completed Costa del Sol property business.
Want PropUno to search based on your requirements? Contact the team or call +44 1429 450530.
Important Considerations for International Buyers in 2026
Mortgages for Overseas Buyers
Spanish mortgage options remain available to many overseas purchasers, although lending criteria generally differ from those applied to Spanish residents.
Non resident buyers are commonly expected to contribute a larger deposit and provide detailed evidence of income, savings, existing debts and tax status.
Mortgage approval should therefore be explored before committing to a purchase where financing is essential.
A buyer should also remember that the deposit is only one component of the funds required. Taxes, legal costs, valuation costs and other completion expenses must also be budgeted.
UK Buyers and the Schengen Stay Limit
UK nationals can buy Spanish property without becoming Spanish residents.
Property ownership does not itself remove the Schengen stay restriction that applies to non EU visitors. Buyers planning to live in Spain for longer periods should investigate the residency route appropriate to their circumstances before making relocation assumptions.
Potential routes can include the non lucrative visa, digital nomad arrangements, employment routes and qualifying family based residence options.
Spain's Golden Visa Is No Longer Open to New Property Investors
One important change for 2026 buyers is the end of Spain's investor visa programme.
New Golden Visa applications linked to property investment ended on 3 April 2025. Buying a property worth €500,000 or more therefore does not provide a new buyer with an automatic investor visa in 2026.
Existing qualifying holders may have different rights under transitional arrangements, but a new property purchaser should not base a buying decision on obtaining residency through the former property investment route.
PropUno provides further information in its 2026 property and residency guide.
Purchase Costs in Andalusia
The purchase price is not the total cost of buying property on the Costa del Sol.
Resale purchases in Andalusia can involve transfer tax, while new properties generally involve VAT and other applicable charges. Buyers should also budget for legal advice, notary costs, registration and any mortgage related expenses.
A sensible approach is to obtain an individual cost calculation before paying a significant reservation deposit.
PropUno has also published a 2026 guide to the costs of buying property in Spain.
How to Choose the Right Costa del Sol Location
The best area depends on what you want the property to achieve.
For luxury and international prestige: Marbella remains the obvious starting point, particularly the Golden Mile, Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía and selected parts of Marbella East.
For a combination of modern property and lifestyle: Estepona deserves close consideration, particularly for buyers comparing new developments and walkable coastal living.
For golf, space and varied residential environments: Mijas and Mijas Costa offer a broad selection.
For transport and everyday convenience: Fuengirola provides strong rail access and an established permanent community.
For city living: Málaga offers the most complete urban lifestyle in the region.
For traditional character: Nerja and selected eastern Costa del Sol towns may offer the atmosphere some buyers prefer.
The most effective strategy is to choose two or three locations that meet your priorities, compare actual current properties and then visit before narrowing the search further.
Start Your Costa del Sol Property Search With PropUno
Choosing where to buy on the Costa del Sol is ultimately a balance between budget, lifestyle, accessibility, property type and long term objectives.
Marbella offers international prestige and a deep luxury market. Estepona combines coastal living with a growing selection of modern property. Mijas provides village, golf and coastal options. Fuengirola offers convenience and transport. Málaga provides genuine city living, while the eastern Costa del Sol appeals to buyers seeking a different pace and character.
PropUno allows buyers to compare these markets through one international property platform and then connect with selected professionals who can assist as the search becomes more specific.
Take the next step: browse current Costa del Sol properties for sale.
If you already know where you want to buy, explore Marbella properties, Estepona properties, Mijas properties or Fuengirola properties.
For a more personalised search, contact PropUno and explain your budget, preferred property type, intended use and ideal location.
Phone: +44 1429 450530
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to buy property on the Costa del Sol?
There is no single best location for every buyer. Marbella is particularly strong for luxury property, Estepona for a combination of lifestyle and modern supply, Mijas for golf and residential variety, Fuengirola for accessibility and Málaga for city living. Your budget and intended use should determine the shortlist.
Can foreigners buy property in Spain in 2026?
Yes. Foreign nationals can purchase Spanish property. Buying a property does not automatically give a non EU buyer residency rights, so ownership and immigration planning should be considered separately.
Is Spain's Golden Visa available to property buyers in 2026?
No. Spain ended new investor visa applications, including the property investment route, on 3 April 2025. Buyers purchasing Spanish property in 2026 should investigate other residency options where required.
Where can I find Marbella properties on PropUno?
You can browse PropUno's live Marbella property search here. The inventory includes apartments, houses, villas and other property types across Marbella and surrounding communities.
Where can I find Estepona properties on PropUno?
Use the PropUno Estepona property search to compare current properties across Estepona and nearby residential areas.
Where can I find Mijas properties?
PropUno has dedicated searches for Mijas property and Mijas Costa property.
Can non resident buyers obtain a Spanish mortgage?
Spanish banks offer mortgages to qualifying overseas buyers, although deposit requirements and lending criteria can be stricter than for residents. Buyers should investigate financing early and allow sufficient funds for purchase costs in addition to the deposit.
How can PropUno help me choose an area?
PropUno combines a large international property catalogue with a network of selected property professionals. Buyers can compare multiple areas and property types before requesting viewings or more detailed assistance. This can be particularly useful when you know you want to buy on the Costa del Sol but have not yet decided between Marbella, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola or another location.