Hello everyone,
I am Pauline Mulder, real estate agent and owner of PM Concepts Marbella. Recently a new article was published by one of the largest real estate agencies, Homerun Brokers, which once again confirms the growth of the Marbella real estate market. This report provides valuable insights and highlights why Marbella remains an attractive destination for investors and buyers.
Growth and Stability in Marbella's Real Estate Market
Our extensive research shows that the Marbella property market will continue to grow in 2024. House prices are rising steadily and have shown a significant increase since the end of the pandemic. This indicates that Marbella property prices have the potential to reach their all-time highs, presenting favourable opportunities for both investors and buyers.
It is striking that, despite the upward trend, prices are still below the peak levels of 2008. In 2023, prices were still around 25% lower than the 2008 peak. This means that there is still room for further growth, even if we take into account the current price increase.
Luxury Segment and Sustainable Growth
In Andalusia, including Marbella and the Costa del Sol, prices rose by 8.9% in 2022. This trend continues in 2023, with a year-on-year increase of 9.5%, and Marbella itself saw an average price increase of 20% compared to the previous year. These figures are among the highest in the country.
A key trend is the shift to cash purchases, which reduces reliance on mortgages. This helps maintain a balanced level of mortgage debt in the market. In November 2022, mortgage applications in the province were significantly lower compared to the peak, despite a similar number of homes sold
Stable Market through Controlled Developments
A key element of the stability in the Marbella property market is the controlled release of new homes. Recent data shows a healthy increase in approved building permits. This steady supply of new homes indicates sustainable market growth without the risks of excessive speculation and rapid, uncontrolled development.
Growth in the Rental Market
The rental market in Marbella has seen significant growth in recent years. With high demand for long-term rental properties, especially from families relocating from all over Europe, rental prices have increased noticeably. Many families choose to rent initially with the intention of eventually buying, driven by factors such as the excellent international schools and remote working opportunities. Marbella’s luxurious lifestyle and beautiful natural surroundings also contribute to it becoming one of the most expensive rental markets in Spain.
Changing Buyer Preferences
While demand for properties remains strong, we are seeing buyer preferences evolve. Demand for villas in the €1-3 million price range has declined due to rising interest rates and higher mortgage payments. This has led to increased interest in luxury apartments, penthouses and townhouses in the €500,000-€1,000,000 price range. However, the ultra-luxury villa market, with properties above €3,500,000, continues to perform well.
Price Increases in Prime Locations
Prime locations in Marbella such as the Golden Mile and Sierra Blanca have seen annual price increases of around 25%, with even higher increases of 32% in areas such as Zagaleta and La Quinta. In quieter areas such as San Pedro and Elvira/Cabopino, price increases are more in line with the regional average, around 16% and 10% respectively.
Factors That Promote Marbella’s Attractiveness
Marbella’s tourism and hospitality sector continues to flourish, as evidenced by high hotel occupancy rates. This appeal to international tourists is enhanced by the development of new luxury hotel projects. This growth in the hospitality sector demonstrates that Marbella’s economy is healthy and strong, further strengthening Marbella’s status as a luxury holiday destination.
In 2024, the Marbella property market will benefit from significant developments in the hospitality sector. Major projects include the opening of the five-star Kimpton Los Monteros Marbella by IHG, the construction of a Four Seasons resort in Río Real and the Las Dunas Club (W Hotel) in Los Monteros. These projects demonstrate the strong investor confidence in Marbella as a luxury destination and are likely to have a positive impact on the property market, attracting affluent visitors and buyers to the area.
Marbella’s appeal is not limited to tourists alone. The area has seen an increase in interest from international buyers, particularly those from Northern Europe. The local population, with a significant proportion of residents from outside Spain, reflects this international appeal. Furthermore, the region’s thriving technology sector, characterised by the presence of major companies such as Oracle, EY and Google, attracts a professional workforce that appreciates the Marbella lifestyle. This global appeal provides a buffer against short-term economic fluctuations, such as interest rate changes, ensuring more stable value growth in this premium location.
Investing in Marbella: Now is the Time
Investing in Marbella’s property market can be very beneficial due to the region’s strong growth and continued appeal as a luxury destination. Here are some insights into the return on investment (ROI) for those considering investing:
- Strong Value Growth: Marbella consistently shows a high potential for value growth. Property prices are rising steadily, especially in prime locations and luxury segments.
- High Rental Income: The rental market is vibrant due to the high demand for both long-term and short-term rentals.
- Diverse Investment Opportunities: Marbella offers a wide range of investment opportunities, from luxury villas and penthouses to affordable apartments and townhouses.
- Stable Market Conditions: The controlled issuance of new construction and the appeal to an international audience keeps the market stable.
- Tax Considerations: Good tax planning can maximize the net return on property investments.Investing in the Marbella property market can be very beneficial, given the region’s robust growth and enduring appeal as a luxury destination. Here are some insights into the potential for return on investment (ROI) for those considering investing in this market:
At PM Concepts Marbella we are here to help you every step of the way to ensure that your investment decisions are well thought out and aligned with your personal goals. Investing now can give you a head start before the competition in the market increases.
I look forward to discovering with you the best opportunities in the Marbella real estate market!
Greetings
Pauline Mulder Eigenaar, PM Concepts Marbella