Costa del Sol: epicentre of global investment in luxury housing

The recent Luxury Real Estate Investment Conference, organised by Tecnitasa, underscored the ongoing strength and potential of the luxury market on the Costa del Sol. Key industry figures, such as Mariano Beristain of DM Properties, highlighted that international developers continue to acquire land at high prices, buoyed by their confidence in the region's future profitability.

The event also featured experts like Beatriz Toribio, Secretary General of APCE Spain, and Juan Alfonso Navas Mesa, Director of the Real Estate Business for Eastern Andalusia at Caixabank. Toribio emphasised the urgent need to boost housing construction in Spain, warning that a lack of supply could result in economic and social crises. She also stressed the importance of developing both affordable and luxury housing, noting that the latter not only have a substantial economic impact but also help revitalise previously underdeveloped areas of the Costa del Sol.

Juan Alfonso Navas further noted that the restrictions imposed following the 2008 financial crisis have severely constrained the sector, complicating the outlook even as demand continues to rise. He pointed out that the luxury property offering now stretches beyond the Costa del Sol to include Sotogrande, with increasing interest from foreign retirees and young people involved in music and football.

The Costa del Sol continues to be a magnet for foreign investors, drawn by its favourable climate, security and lifestyle. Trends such as the rise in residents due to remote working and the ongoing shortage of available properties were common points of discussion. Jesús Ruiz Ballesteros, a lawyer and economist, stressed the urgent need for closer collaboration between the public sector and private industry to ensure legal security and attract investment while cautioning against the growing burden of excessive regulation.

Francisco José Carrasco Ocón, from the HolaBank segment, highlighted a significant influx of investors from the United States, Latin America and Eastern Europe, attracted by the opportunity to reside in Spain, thanks to its flexible working environment. He also emphasised the diversity of the buyer profile, with entrepreneurs and professionals predominantly coming from the financial and IT sectors.

In conclusion, real estate leaders are calling for efficient collaboration between the public and private sectors to address the supply crisis, strengthen the development of all types of housing and ensure sustainable growth on the Costa del Sol. With its strong appeal to both the luxury and affordable housing markets, the region reinforces its position as a leading global destination for real estate investment.