Investing in Marbella: A 2025 Guide to Buying Apartments Safely
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Marbella, the jewel of the Costa del Sol, has been attracting investors and those looking for a second home in sunny Spain for many years. At GlobiHome, together with a real estate market expert in this region, we have prepared a comprehensive guide to buying apartments in Marbella. We will show you step by step how to safely invest in your dream property. Additionally, at the end of the article, we provide contact information for an agent we recommend if you want to discuss purchasing the perfect property for you.
Why invest in real estate in Marbella in 2025?
Marbella is one of the most prestigious real estate locations in Spain. Its unique location on the Mediterranean Sea, luxurious infrastructure, and stable market make it one of the best places to buy property in Europe.
In recent years, Marbella has attracted investors not only from Europe but also from the Middle East and North America. Luxury villas, exclusive apartments, and modern residences are excellent investment opportunities for real estate rental in Marbella.
Real estate market analysis in Marbella for 2025
The real estate market in Marbella remains stable and shows an upward trend. Average property prices are rising by about 5-8% annually, making Marbella an attractive place to invest. Demand for luxury villas and seaside apartments remains high, especially among buyers from the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia. From our observations, clients from these countries often also consider purchasing property in Tenerife.
At the same time, an additional factor affecting property value in Marbella is infrastructure development. In recent years, there have been more and more new investments that improve the quality of life for residents and tourists. Developers focus on building eco-friendly and architecturally interesting estates, which further increases the attraction of the region.
Current real estate prices in Marbella in 2025
Real estate prices in Marbella vary depending on location, standard, proximity to the beach, infrastructure, and additional amenities such as swimming pools, security, and exclusive services for residents. Apartment prices in Marbella in 2025 start from €190,000, and can go up to several million euros.
Property prices in Marbella without sea view:
- One-bedroom apartments: from €190,000
- Two-bedroom apartments: from €250,000
- Luxury apartments: from €400,000
- Penthouses and villas: from €800,000
Property prices in Marbella beachfront with sea view:
- One-bedroom apartments: from €300,000
- Two-bedroom apartments: from €525,000
- Luxury apartments: from €790,000
- Penthouses and villas: from €2,395,000
Best neighborhoods to purchase property in Marbella in 2025
Golden Mile Marbella – luxury and exclusive real estate on the Costa del Sol
This is the most prestigious part of Marbella, known for luxury residences, 5-star hotels, and exclusive restaurants. Villas and apartments in this area remain in constant demand among investors. It is also an area where property prices grow the fastest.
Puerto Banús – prestige and high rental income
This is the most famous place in Marbella, full of luxury brand boutiques, exclusive clubs, and prestigious apartments overlooking the port. Ideal for those looking for a dynamic lifestyle and high short-term rental income.
Sierra Blanca – exclusive villas with sea views
This exclusive, gated community is located on the hills of Marbella, offering amazing coastal views. Ideal for those valuing privacy and prestige. It is also one of the safest areas in the city.
Nueva Andalucía – a paradise for golf lovers and investors
This district is known as the "Golf Valley" because it is surrounded by some of the best golf courses in Europe. Modern villas and apartments, often with private pools, are on offer. The popularity of this area is due to the large number of buyers from Scandinavian and British countries.
How to buy property in Marbella step by step?
Buying property in Marbella consists of three simple stages.
Step 1: Selecting a reputable real estate agency
It is worth using the help of an experienced agent who lives in Marbella daily, has known the local market for many years and will help you find the best property for you. If you want, you can write or call the agent we recommend at GlobiHome. Contact details can be found at the very end of the article.
If you are a professional real estate agent in any city worldwide, you can become a co-author of articles on our GlobiHome blog for free. Details can be found in the partnership section HERE >>
Step 2: What documents are needed to purchase property in Spain?
- NIE identification number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) - Foreigners Identification Number
- Passport or ID card
- Bank account in Spain (you can open an account in person or online)
- Documented source of income
Step 3: The process of purchasing property in Marbella – formalities and fees
Preliminary reservation
- Signing a reservation agreement
- Deposit payment (€6,000-10,000)
- Time for due diligence: 14-30 days
Preliminary contract (Contrato de Arras)
- Payment of 10% of purchase price
- Setting a date for signing the notarized deed
Notarial deed
- Signing at the notary
- Payment of the remaining amount
- Handing over the keys
NIE number in Spain - key document for property buyers
The NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number for foreigners in Spain, necessary for purchasing property, opening a bank account, and carrying out financial transactions. Anyone planning to invest in Marbella must obtain the identification number NIE before signing the notarial deed.
How to obtain the NIE number in Spain?
- Submitting an application – this can be done in person at the Spanish immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería) or at a Spanish consulate in your country.
- Waiting period – usually up to 3 weeks.
- Possibility of obtaining through a representative – if you cannot personally visit the office, the NIE number can be obtained through a representative (lawyer or tax advisor).
The NIE number is assigned for a lifetime and is an essential element of any real estate purchase transaction in Spain. It is worth applying for in advance to avoid delays in the property purchase process.
Buying property in Marbella remotely
Physical presence is not necessary for purchasing property in Marbella. It is possible to:
- Grant a notarial power of attorney (about €100-150)
- Conduct the entire transaction remotely
- Virtual property viewing
Mortgage for purchasing property in Marbella - current terms 2025
The purchase of property in Marbella can be financed either with cash or with a mortgage in Spain. Banks in Spain offer attractive credit terms, including for foreigners.
Current credit conditions:
- Maximum financing: up to 70% of the property's value
- Required down payment: 30-40% of the property's price
- Loan term: usually up to 25 years
- Interest rate: typically 2.5-3.5% (fixed or variable)
Required documents for a mortgage:
- Passport or ID card
- Income certificate
- Tax declarations
- Credit history
- NIE identification number
- Investment financial plan
Costs and fees when purchasing property in Marbella
Buying property in Marbella involves additional costs that should be included in the investment budget. Below you will find detailed information about taxes, purchase-related costs, and expenses related to maintaining property in Marbella.
What taxes need to be paid when buying an apartment in Marbella?
- VAT (for new properties): 10%
- ITP tax (for second-hand properties): 7%
The rate of ITP tax in Spain depends on the region and is not uniform across the country. For example, in Alicante it reaches 10%, while in Andalusia it is 7%. The ITP tax for second-hand properties in Marbella is 7%.
Additional costs: notary, translations, property registration
- Notary: 0.5-1%
- Registration: 0.5-1%
- Lawyer: 1-1.5%
- Translations: €200-500
Property maintenance costs in Marbella
- Property insurance: €200-800 annually
- Administrative fee (comunidad): €100-400 monthly
- Electricity: about €120 monthly
- Water: about €30 monthly
- Garbage: about €15 monthly
Practical tips from GlobiHome
Transaction security
- Always use the services of a trusted lawyer
- Check all documents before paying the deposit
- Confirm the compliance of the area with the documentation
Tax optimization
- Consider setting up a Spanish company
- Plan the ownership structure in advance
- Consult with a tax advisor
Due diligence
- Check the land-use plans
- Verify the legality of the building
- Check mortgage burdens
- Confirm owner status
Property rental management in Marbella and rental earnings
The average annual rental yield in Marbella is around 5-9%.
Real estate rental in Marbella – revenues
- High season (June-September): €150-400/night
- Mid-season (April-May, October): €100-300/night
- Low season (November-March): €80-200/night
Rental management in Marbella
Professional companies offer a comprehensive rental management service:
- Reservation management
- Cleaning
- Marketing
- Customer service
- Financial reports
Monthly cost: from €200 + 15-25% commission on rental income
Weather in Marbella by months
Average temperatures by month:
- January: 12-17°C
- February: 13-18°C
- March: 14-20°C
- April: 16-22°C
- May: 18-25°C
- June: 21-28°C
- July: 24-32°C
- August: 24-33°C
- September: 22-30°C
- October: 18-26°C
- November: 15-21°C
- December: 13-18°C
Average number of sunny days: 320 days a year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – property purchase in Marbella 2025
How much does property cost in Marbella in 2025?
Property prices in Marbella depend on location, standard, and amenities. One-bedroom apartments can be purchased from €190,000, luxury apartments with sea views start from €300,000, and penthouses and villas from €800,000.
How to buy property in Marbella – step by step?
The purchase process consists of several stages. First, choose a property and sign a reservation agreement, paying a deposit. The next step is signing a preliminary contract (Contrato de Arras) and paying 10% of the property's value. Then, the transaction is finalized at a notary by signing the ownership deed and transferring the remaining amount. To ensure the process goes smoothly, it's worth obtaining a Spanish NIE number earlier, which is necessary for property purchase.
What are the costs and taxes when buying property in Marbella?
VAT for new properties is 10%, and ITP tax for the secondary market is 7%. Additional costs include notary, registration, and translations, which amount to around 2-3% of the property's value, as well as legal fees at 1-1.5%.
How to obtain the NIE number in Spain for property purchase?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is mandatory for anyone buying property in Spain. It can be obtained personally at the immigration office in Spain, at the Spanish consulate in your country, or through a representative, such as a lawyer in Spain. It's advisable to obtain the NIE number before starting the purchase process to avoid delays.
Can foreigners get a mortgage in Spain?
Yes, banks in Spain grant mortgages to foreigners. Maximum financing is up to 70% of the property's value, and the required down payment is 30-40%. The interest rate in 2025 ranges from 2.5 to 3.5% per year, and the loan term extends up to 25 years. To obtain a loan, necessary documents include NIE number, passport, income certificate, credit history, and an investment financial plan.
Can property in Marbella be purchased remotely?
Yes, purchasing property in Spain can be done fully remotely. A notarial power of attorney can be granted, costing about €100-150, and properties can be viewed virtually. The entire transaction process, including signing documents and executing bank payments, can be conducted remotely.
Summary: is it worth investing in real estate in Marbella in 2025?
Buying an apartment in Marbella is an excellent investment, both in terms of luxury lifestyle and financial opportunities. However, it is important to carefully plan the entire process and thoroughly check the legal and technical aspects of the property.
Looking for property in Marbella? Contact the expert recommended by GlobiHome to get the best offers tailored to your needs. We only recommend professional and trusted real estate agents. Contact details below: