Summer is traditionally a quieter period for Spain's housing market, but activity is rising along the coast, driven by growing demand from foreign buyers. According to donpiso, real estate interest on the Spanish coastline has increased by 30% this summer, with the Costa Brava standing out. Walter Haus highlights the area between Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Santa Cristina d'Aro, Platja d'Aro and Calonge as the most active market for property transactions during the season.

House price growth in Catalonia has become more moderate, but limited supply continues to support values despite a slowdown in sales activity. Experts agree that 2026 remains a good year to buy a home, particularly for owner-occupiers and second-home buyers, although not for those expecting widespread price falls. Eduardo Molet highlights areas such as Sant Cugat, Cerdanyola, Rubí and Terrassa among the most attractive locations for buyers seeking value and long-term potential.

Catalonia is one of Spain's most attractive regions for retirement, but retiree preferences vary considerably. According to Mercedes Blanco, CEO of Vecinos Felices, two distinct patterns emerge: older residents who remain in inland and Pyrenean areas such as Berguedà, Ripollès and Terra Alta, and those who actively choose where to retire, often favouring coastal districts such as Garraf, Baix Empordà, Alt Empordà and Tarragonès. Experts agree that the key factor is not climate alone, but overall quality of life, including healthcare, transport links and cultural amenities.

Flex living is becoming increasingly established in Barcelona and its surrounding area as one of the most dynamic segments of the living sector.

Renting a holiday home on the Catalan coast this summer will cost an average of €1,370 per week, just €17 above the national average of €1,353.

Barcelona combines established investment districts with emerging neighbourhoods that continue to attract buyers. As the market evolves, long-term residential rentals are becoming a more popular strategy. However, according to Rebeca Pérez, CEO and founder of Inviertis, investors must consider the wider economic and regulatory context before purchasing. With interest rates still relatively high and rental regulations changing, financing costs and local rules remain key factors when assessing opportunities.

One of the areas in Catalonia where house prices have surged is the Barcelona metropolitan area, with Castelldefels emerging as one of the region's most sought-after and expensive towns. Single-family homes and spacious layouts dominate the local housing stock, pushing average property transaction values above those of Barcelona's typically smaller apartments. Depending on the area, residential property prices in Castelldefels can range between €4,000 and €5,000 per square metre.

Problems with the train system are pushing people to alternative transport and affecting the housing market. Experts warn that poor mobility infrastructure worsens the housing shortage, especially in cities and metropolitan areas, limiting buying options for the middle class and deepening the supply and demand imbalance in well-connected areas.

Catalonia’s rental housing market came under intense pressure in 2025 due to a widening gap between supply and demand. Experts agree that little will change in 2026. Limited supply, sustained demand and rising rent are set to persist in a market shaped by ongoing regulation, including the designation of high-demand areas that continue to constrain available stock.

In just a few years, the number of occupied properties offered for sale has grown sharply. A large proportion are located in Catalonia, where transactions are increasing.