Property in Marbella: Is it better value for money than property in the UK?

Thinking about selling up and moving to Spain?

You’re not on your own.

As the UK’s cost of living crisis continues and house prices soar, it seems, more and more Brits are looking to escape – and checking out what they could get for their hard-earned cash abroad instead.

Recent data from the Spanish Land Registry shows that in the first quarter of 2022, British buyer transactions reached their highest level since 2018. And according to Rightmove, the number of UK buyers enquiring about Spanish property has increased by 36% since April 2021.

Marbella has been named as one of the main hotspots – and it’s easy to understand why. Endless days of guaranteed sunshine, an excellent quality of life, plenty to see and do, lower living costs, affordable properties. It fits the bill perfectly.

In June 2022, the average asking price for a UK home was £368,614 – which is approximately €430,000. So, for anyone considering buying a property in Marbella, here we put things into perspective – and take a look at what you could get here for the same amount of money in the UK.

It may be a lot more than you think!

Apartments in Marbella

If you like the idea of a luxury apartment in Marbella, there’s certainly plenty to choose from – with lots currently on the market in the region of €200,000 – €400,000.

Many of these are brand new developments, including a selection of ground floor studios and duplex apartments, as well as stunning penthouse suites with fantastic views.

For the price, you can expect around 2-3 spacious bedrooms. Most are set in secure gated communities; enveloped by lush green gardens, with a peaceful laidback atmosphere – yet just a stone’s throw away from the beach and heart of Marbella. Residents usually have access to a range of 5* facilities, too – such as chill-out areas, communal swimming pools and gyms.

Traditional apartments are also available for around the same price. Again, these tend to have 2-3 bedrooms and are finished to an immaculate standard – and many have an enviable frontline beach location. Perfect for anyone dreaming of lazy days in the sunshine.

Townhouses in Marbella

Many authentic townhouses can be snapped up in Marbella for around €400,000 or less.

Typically, these have 2-4 bedrooms and boast charming ‘Andalusian’ features, including whitewashed exteriors, decorative iron shutters and Juliet balconies. And whilst some can be found lining quaint cobbled streets, most are situated in gated urbanisations – with access to exclusive on-site facilities and all the amenities you could possibly need right on the doorstep.

Some new build townhouses are also available for this price.

These do tend to be located in the surrounding areas of Marbella East and Marbella West – yet they’re still within easy reach of the city. And for the same price as the average UK home, you could be living in a brand new 2-3 bedroom property – with contemporary open-plan interiors and breath-taking views across the Mediterranean Sea.

Villas in Marbella

Admittedly, new build villas for this price are difficult to find in Marbella itself. However, if you’re willing to cast your net a little wider, spectacular detached and semi-detached properties can be found in neighbouring resorts – such as Estepona and Mijas – for around €400,000.

These are typically 3-bedroom villas, set on sizeable plots of land – with a private garden and access to a communal swimming pool. Contemporary in design, they boast a bright open-plan interior and minimalist décor, finished to the highest standards. And there are often plenty of bars, restaurants, shops and amenities to be found just a short walk away.

If location is a priority – and you’d prefer to be in Marbella itself – some re-sale properties are available for this price. These may be in need of a little modernisation, but they have the benefit of being right at the centre of the action.

Is there a catch?

Absolutely not.

Of course – due to the changes brought about by Brexit – UK nationals now require a visa to move to Spain permanently (or to reside in Spain for more than 90 consecutive days).

‘The Spanish Golden Visa’ has been a popular option for many expats over the last couple of years – but this is only available if you invest in a property worth €500,000 or more. If you’re working with a budget of €200,000 – €400,000, unfortunately you won’t be eligible. However, this isn’t the only option.

Brits are also entitled to apply for a number of other visa types. If you’re retired and have no plans to work in Spain, the Non-Lucrative Visa is a fantastic alternative. There’s also a Work Visa, Self-employment Visa, and an additional Digital Nomad Visa set to be launched later this year.

So no matter how modest your budget may be, there’s no need to give up on your dream of relocating, just because of a little red tape.

Start your property search today

As a leading real estate agent in the Costa del Sol, we have an extensive portfolio of properties for sale in Marbella – hundreds of which fall within the affordable price bracket of €200,000 – €400,000.

If you think a home in Marbella could offer you better value for money (and a better quality of life), where’s the harm in taking a look? Why not scroll through our listings? See if something catches your eye – and if it does, join the countless number of Brits who have already contacted us this year and get in touch.

We appreciate that moving to Spain is a big change and a daunting prospect, but we’re here to help.

Not only do we have unparalleled knowledge of Marbella, we also have fantastic insight into the property market. And we can help to identify your dream home, arrange viewings (in person or virtually), recommend the best visa for your needs and guide you through the buying process.

Simply give us a call on +34 952 939 460 (+44 208 068 7606). Or send your enquiry to info@bromleyestatesmarbella.com and one of our Marbella real estate specialists will respond as soon as possible with further information and advice.