The Spanish real estate market is transitioning after the good results of 2022, with figures unseen since the previous housing boom. However, the current situation of uncertainty, with high-interest rates to contain inflation, opens the door to new trends, which are not always known among buyers. The real estate network Comprarcasa has put together a quick guide to avoid getting confused by the new terms in the real estate market. New home-buying models are emerging, from 'build to rent' to 'house flipping'.
For Lorena Zenklussen, CEO of Comprarcasa, the new home ownership and home buying models are "innovative approaches to the market that may provide a possible solution to the declining number of sales, as they allow us to adapt the real estate experience to customers' changing needs".
Here's your quick guide to the new real estate trends.
Timeshare
Although it was already a trend in the 1990s, timeshares are once again a purchase option, especially for second homes. This housing scheme involves several people purchasing a property, and using a prior agreement, co-owners take turns using the property for a given period. This agreement also defines how much each buyer will pay, which will be proportional to their time spent in the property, and be able to enjoy all the services and facilities available in the property, such as its furniture, swimming pool, gym, communal areas, etc.
One of the main characteristics of timeshare ownership is that the buyer does not have the right to own the property but rather the right to use it. And among its main advantages, it is much cheaper than usual.
Flexible housing
This innovative concept refers to new homes that adapt to the owner's needs, allowing them to use and transform the space as required. To this end, these homes are designed with a modular structure, making it easier to change the spaces according to each resident's needs. They can even vary their size through modular and mobile walls and furniture, adapting to single people, couples, families or any other situation, using all their available space in a 100% efficient way.
House flipping
This involves buying a house that needs renovating and reselling it shortly afterwards, profiting from this operation. In other words, house flipping involves buying, renovating and selling a property quickly at a higher price than when it was purchased. Investors committed to this type of transaction should be aware that the main key to maximising profits is to choose low-priced properties that need renovating but with a repair budget that is tight enough to ensure their subsequent sale will generate a profit.
Build-to-rent
As its name suggests, this investment tool consists of constructing new builds to rent them out. Therefore, this formula helps people who find it harder to buy gain access to the property value.
Senior living
A new type of real estate property specially designed for independent elders or those who require assistance. This trend has been consolidated in English-speaking countries, and can now be found in cities such as Valencia, Barcelona and Madrid, where older people live together in a community with services adapted to their needs. France and the United Kingdom are the leading countries in Europe in 'senior living'. However, Spain is emerging as a leader in this type of housing model due to the ageing of the population and the high quality of life and services it offers.
Coliving
This type of collaborative housing, better known as cohousing, is becoming recognised as an alternative to renting or buying housing. In cohousing, a group of people, often families, seniors or individuals with similar interests, decide to come together to share a residential community in an intentional and participatory way.
The main characteristic of cohousing is that each member or family has a private space (a house or a flat) with all the necessary amenities and services. However, they also share common spaces and resources within the community. These common spaces often include a community house, where members can gather for social activities, shared meals or meetings, outdoor areas, gardens, playgrounds, workshops, and more.
Costa del Sol property: new homes from €339,000 offer value for money
If you’ve been thinking about buying a home in Spain, you’re not alone – and if your budget is under €500,000, you’re very much in line with the majority of international buyers.
Living in Menorca: life on the quiet Balearic
While Ibiza is famed for its clubs and Mallorca for its resorts, Menorca is a world apart. Known locally as 'the calm island', this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a different pace of life, and this peaceful identity is central to the experience of living in Menorca. Its history is just as rich, with prehistoric Talayotic stone monuments scattered across the landscape and Georgian townhouses in Mahón hinting at a period of British rule. There’s even a strong local claim that salsa mahonesa (m
Buying or renting in Southern Europe: prices in Italy, Spain and Portugal
The property market in southern Europe’s three key countries continues to rise, with varying trends. According to idealista’s June report, Spain has hit record highs in both sales and rentals. Portugal remains the most expensive overall, though its price growth is more moderate. In Italy, sales prices are still below the peaks of over a decade ago, but rental prices have surged to historic highs, even surpassing Spain. We take a closer look at the property and rental markets in the main citi
Alicante's most expensive neighbourhoods and their house prices
With its privileged climate and coastal charm, Alicante has become a top choice for those seeking quality and exclusivity on the Mediterranean. Rich in history and beaches, the city attracts a discerning clientele drawn to the Costa Blanca lifestyle.
Catalonia's most affordable town to buy a house
Buying a home in Catalonia without overspending remains achievable. While property prices pose challenges, several towns and villages still offer surprisingly affordable options. According to a recent report, Ulldecona, in Tarragona province, is the cheapest town in Catalonia to buy property, with prices well below the regional average. This article explores what life is like there, reveals the most affordable coastal town, and highlights other Catalan locations presenting unique real estate opp
Europeans, Latin Americans and Americans investing in Catalonia housing
According to the Association of Registrars, foreign demand for housing in Spain has slightly decreased in percentage terms but remains stable, accounting for 14.1%, still at the higher end of the historical range. Eight autonomous communities reported quarterly increases in the share of home purchases by foreigners. The highest proportions are found in the Balearic Islands (30%), Valencian Community (28.3%), Canary Islands (24.6%), Murcia (20.4%), Catalonia (15.6%) and Andalusia (14.2%).
Penthouse in Valencia sells in under 24 hours for €765,000
The sale of a penthouse for €765,000 in Valencia’s Mestalla neighbourhood, completed after a single viewing and in under 24 hours, underscores the strength of the city’s property market. Managed by the young agency Lion Capital Group, the transaction reflects growing demand for high-end homes and the importance of efficient, tailored service in closing premium deals.