Real Estate Guides

Can Americans buy property in Spain guide for US buyers looking at Costa del Sol real estate

Can Americans Buy Property in Spain? A Simple Guide for U.S. Buyers

When exploring Costa del Sol real estate, many American buyers ask the same question: Can Americans buy property in Spain? The short answer is yes. Spain imposes no restrictions on U.S. citizens looking to purchase real estate. In fact, many Americans choose the Costa del Sol as a location for a second home, for retirement or for investment purposes. However, there are a few additional documents and...

How easy is it to buy property in Spain guide for international buyers

How Easy Is It to Buy Property in Spain?

Many international buyers ask me the same question: how easy is it to buy property in Spain? From my experience of working with clients on the Costa del Sol, I can tell you that the process is actually very straightforward if you have the right team supporting you. Spain has a clear legal system for purchasing property, and once you understand the steps involved, buying property here can be...

Map of Spain showing regions to buy property including Costa del Sol Alicante Valencia and Murcia

Where to Buy Property in Spain: Comparing the Main Regions

Although Spain has many beautiful places to buy property, not all regions offer the same lifestyle, climate or long-term investment potential. From my experience of working with international buyers on the Costa del Sol over the years, I have noticed that many people initially consider several areas before eventually focusing on one that best aligns with their priorities. When we first came to Spain,...

International schools on the Costa del Sol – 27 best schools compared in Marbella, Málaga and Sotogrande

Top International Schools on the Costa del Sol (Guide for Expat Families)

As a father of two with a third child on the way, I understand how frustrating and confusing it can be to move your children to a new country and have to choose a school. When my family and I started considering life on the Costa del Sol, one of the first things we thought about was education. International schools here offer a variety of programmes, languages and learning styles. For parents, this can...

Hidden costs of buying property on the Costa del Sol including taxes and legal fees

Additional Real Estate Costs When Purchasing Property on the Costa del Sol (Andalusia)

Whether you are planning a holiday home, retirement residence or long-term investment, buying property on the Costa del Sol is an exciting step. However, many international buyers are taken aback by the additional purchase costs. When buying property in Spain, you will incur additional costs such as taxes, legal fees and notary expenses. Based on my experience of helping buyers in Benalmádena, I...

How to get a mortgage in Spain guide for foreign property buyers

How to Get a Mortgage in Spain (2026 Guide for Foreign Buyers)

Many international buyers ask if they can leverage a purchase by taking out a mortgage. 'Can foreigners get a mortgage in Spain?' The short answer is yes. Spanish banks regularly offer mortgages to international buyers, including non-residents, provided certain financial requirements are met. I have been living on the Costa del Sol for over nine years, raising two children here and helping...

Best cities to buy property on the Costa del Sol Spain real estate guide

Buying Property on the Costa del Sol: City Guide (2026)

Prices, lifestyle and the best areas to buy property this year Having lived on the Costa del Sol for over nine years, raising two children here, I have experienced the entire process of relocating from scratch, including finding schools, understanding the property market and getting to know each area. Over the years, I’ve helped many international buyers purchase property here, and I’ve learned...

Best places to invest in Spain real estate – Costa del Sol property investment guide 2026

Where to Invest in Spanish Real Estate

Spain has many attractive locations for real estate investment, but the Costa del Sol is one of the most stable and in-demand markets internationally. If you want to get an overview of all the Spanish regions, here's an article you can check out. Remember that there are different types of investment, which depend on your strategy, lifestyle and budget. Here, you can invest in short-term rentals,...

Okupas in Spain article cover explaining the 2025 anti-okupa law and property protection for homeowners

Okupas in Spain: What Is the Okupa Movement and How the 2025 Anti-Okupa Law Protects Property Owners

In Spain, the term "okupas" refers to individuals who illegally occupy empty properties without the owner’s permission. This practice is linked to the Okupa movement, which began as a political housing protest but now often involves organized squatting in vacant homes. The illegal occupation of property, known in Spain as "okupación", has long been a concern for homeowners and international...

Short-term rental rules in Spain 2026 guide explaining tourist license regulations for property investors

Short-Term Rental Property on the Costa del Sol: 2026 Rules, Licenses (VUT), and Smart Investment Tips

I have a friend who rents out a one-bedroom apartment in Málaga's historic center. She maintains a 90% occupancy rate and earns an average of €1,000–€1,500 per month after covering all costs. She keeps it simple. She placed the listing on Airbnb and manages most of the service herself, only hiring specialists for special cases. Yes, that's possible in Málaga if you buy a property with an...