The luxury real estate market is closing the summer of 2026 with a clear protagonist: the international buyer, who now accounts for 30% of transactions in Spain, particularly in destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona and the Costa Brava, according to data compiled by luxury real estate agency Walter Haus.
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This buyer profile is characterised by significant purchasing power, acquiring properties with budgets that typically range between €2 million and €5 million, although, as the company notes, transactions above that level are becoming increasingly common. Additionally, 70% of these purchases are completed without mortgage financing, reflecting the growing perception of real estate as a long-term wealth-preservation asset.
According to Walter Haus, there has been a notable shift in buyer behaviour. Whereas foreign buyers were once primarily associated with holiday-home purchases, today 45% buy as an investment, 35% purchase a second residence, and the remainder are linked to professional relocations, changes of residence or family-related reasons.
Purchasing preferences have also evolved. Location remains a key consideration, but buyers are increasingly seeking move-in-ready homes that offer large terraces, outdoor living areas, privacy, energy efficiency, smart-home technology and premium amenities.
Madrid, Barcelona and the Costa Brava remain key destinations
By location, managed transactions show average prices of around €11,500/m² in Madrid's Salamanca district, €10,000/m² in Turó Park and Barcelona's upper residential areas, and approximately €8,000/m² in the most exclusive parts of the Costa Brava. These figures underline the strength of a segment where limited supply continues to support price growth.
"Today's international buyer is no longer simply looking for an exclusive property in an attractive destination. They are seeking legal certainty, economic stability, quality of life and an asset capable of preserving value over the long term. Spain offers all of these factors, which helps explain why it continues to strengthen its position as one of Europe's most attractive residential markets," Walter Haus explains.
Outlook for the rest of the year
Looking ahead to the second half of 2026, Walter Haus expects international demand to remain the dominant force in the luxury housing market, supported by Spain's appeal as a destination for wealth investment and by a continued shortage of premium properties.
The agency believes that the most exclusive homes will continue to attract strong buyer interest and that international purchasers will remain a key driver of the market, both in terms of transaction volume and their capacity to complete the highest-value deals.
