Property Supplement AXA 30 Oct – 5 Nov 2025 Issue 2104
Sunny outlook
THE Axarquia’s property scene is set to end 2025 on a high, with demand showing no signs of cooling. The latest Tinsa figures reveal the Malaga Province enjoyed a healthy 15 per cent annual rise in home values during the third quarter of the year, an important sign of confidence in the market rather than inflated prices.
Buyers from across Europe continue
to see the Axarquia as the ideal destination for both lifestyle and long-term security. Sunshine, excellent transport links and a thriving cultural scene make it one of the most liveable provinces for expats, and with Spain’s digital nomad visa still attracting professionals from abroad, the international community keeps on growing.
Estate agents report a steady flow
of overseas interest, particularly along the Costa del Sol and in the Axarquía region. Rental demand remains strong too, giving reassurance to those planning to split their time between Spain and abroad.
Property analysts predict moderate growth of around 4 to 5 per cent in 2026, suggesting the market will remain buoyant yet sustainable. That’s welco-
Spain’s housing boost
SPAIN’S Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a bold €30,000 rent-to-buy support plan aimed at helping young people finally step onto the housing ladder.
Part of the upcoming State Housing Plan 2026-2030, the scheme seeks to ease pressure on under-35s struggling with soaring rents and property prices.
The plan allows tenants to rent protected homes with the option to purchase later, with up to €30,000 of rent already paid counting toward the final price. Instead of years of rent disappearing into landlords’ pockets, payments will di-
rectly bring young Spaniards closer to owning their homes. Properties bought under the scheme will carry permanent price caps to prevent resale at inflated rates.
Sánchez also confirmed a long-discussed rent default insurance to provide landlords financial security and tenants stronger contract stability, applying only where rent does not exceed half a household’s net income.
Rural Spain will benefit, too, with grants of around €10,800 for young buyers moving to towns under 10,000 residents, covering up to 20 per cent of the purchase price.
me news for homebuyers seeking value and stability rather than quick profits. Whether it’s a sun-soaked apartment overlooking the coast or a quiet townhouse inland, Malaga’s mix of Mediterranean charm, modern infrastructure and international spirit continues to make it one of Spain’s brightest property hotspots, and a place expats are proud to call home.
regions, provided they match the investment, unlocking up to €7 billion over five years. Housing has become a de-
with protests over rent hikes and shortages.
For many young Spaniards, turning rent into ownership
glimmer of hope, though whether the scheme succeeds or stalls will determine Sánchez’s housing legacy.
PICTURE a space bathed in natural light, with earthy tones, soft textures, and a relaxed elegance that feels straight out of a coastal villa. The best part? You don’t need a million-pound property to achieve it. With a few smart design choices, expatriates and homeowners can bring effortless Mediterranean luxury into their homes - without overspending.
Mediterranean interiors are known for their airy feel, natural materials, and timeless simplicity. By combining the right colours, textures, and furnishings, even modest spaces can feel stylish and serene. Small upgrades - like statement lighting, woven accents, or textured fabricscan transform ordinary rooms into boutique-style spaces that look high-end but aren’t highcost.
Architectural touches: Arches and light define Mediterranean elegance. If full renovations aren’t in budget, mimic the look with arched mirrors or curved curtain drapes to add softness and depth.
Furniture with soul: Pair a neutral linen sofa with rustic
Luxury on a budget
CREATING a luxurious Mediterranean-style interior doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune.
POLAR AIR
wooden tables, jute rugs, and wicker baskets for warmth and texture. Flea markets and vintage shops are perfect for unique, affordable finds.
Earthy tones: Choose a palette inspired by natureterracotta, cream, sand, and ocean blue. Add these through pillows, ceramics, or a painted accent wall to bring warmth and coastal calm.
Natural details: Mix in ceramic vases, rattan furniture, and plants. A few pots of herbs, succulents, or trailing greenery instantly add freshness and life.
Lighting magic: Warm lamps, lanterns, or even candles create a cosy glow that completes the relaxed, sunlit atmosphere.
Investing thoughtfully in design not only enhances daily living but can also boost your home’s rental or resale appeal. A cohesive Mediterranean look signals quality and caresomething every buyer or guest appreciates.
With creativity, natural textures, and clever styling, you can capture that sun-kissed Mediterranean luxury at homeproof that elegance isn’t about price, but about balance, light, and thoughtful detail.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
CONDITIONING
POLAR Air Conditioning offers a dependable and personable service, supplying high-quality products at competitive prices.
Air Conditioning from Malaga to Axarquia · Costa del Sol Serving the area from Malaga to Axarquia, their certified AC and refrigeration technicians carry out repairs, servicing, supply, and installation of all manufacturers’ equipment. All work is guaranteed, and new air conditioning units come with up to a 10-year warranty.
Polar Air provides energy-efficient inverter technology air-conditioning systems from Malaga to Axarquia, suitable for both cooling and heating. These systems can reduce running costs to as low as four cents per hour for both homes and businesses. They’re F-Gas qualified and able to work on all air-conditioning units.
They ensure quality work at fair prices, covering all makes and models at the best rates, with service extending throughout Malaga and the Axarquia area.
For further information call 0034 655 211 192. www.polarairconditioningmalaga.com
High end look, low cost.
Second-hand is back
SECOND-HAND furniture has emerged as the new ‘in thing’ in interior design, combining sustainability, individuality, and timeless style. Once viewed as a compromise, pre-loved and vintage pieces are now celebrated for their craftsmanship, charm, and environmental benefits.
Across Spain and the UK, more homeowners and expats are turning to second-hand markets and online platforms to create homes that feel personal and full of character.
Designers are proving that furniture with history can completely transform a space. One striking renovation saw a dark, dated apartment reborn into a bright, open home using only se-
Second-hand furniture allows for a level of personalisation that new, mass-produced items rarely achieve.
cond-hand furnishings and the original terrazzo floor. Each piece told a story, creating a layered, lived-in aesthetic that new furniture simply can’t replicate.
This movement is also driven by environmental awareness. Choosing second-hand reduces waste, lowers carbon footprints, and supports more mindful consumption. It’s a stylish, sustainable alternative to fast furniture.
Beyond ethics, it’s about expression. Vintage pieces allow homeowners to mix eras, materials, and styles for a bespoke look, while creative up-cycling gives old furniture new life. Scuffs and imperfections are no longer flaws, they’re features that add warmth and authenticity.
From Bishop’s Cleeve
ADVERTISING FEATURE
(near Cheltenham) to the Costa del Sol: A Life in Property and Service
NEARLY four decades ago, Katy De Csanady-McEwen swapped the quiet charm of her Cotswolds village for the vibrant coastal town of Nerja. Arriving in 1984, her first role in Spain was selling properties on the local nine-hole golf course. A few years later, she broadened her skills working as a lawyer’s secretary and in insurance, before returning to the property market in 1994this time with the experience and determination to build a long-lasting career.
Since then, Katy has become a respected name in real estate, recognised for her careful approach and dedication to her clients. She insists that every home she markets is legally sound and takes pride in guiding buyers and sellers through each stage of the process. Her reputation is rooted in trust, professionalism, and attention to detail.
One of Katy’s greatest strengths is her ability to communicate across cultures. Fluent in English, Spanish,
French, and German, she has earned the confidence of an international clientele, making transactions smoother for all involved.
In addition to property sales, Katy provides translation and interpreting services. From medical visits and official paperwork to wills, powers of attorney, police reports, NIE fiscal numbers, residency applications, digital nomad paperwork and even court appearances, she ensures her clients are supported with clear, accurate communication - whatever the circumstance.
For enquiries, call 625 683 749, email info@knowneria. com, or visit www.knowneria.com
Photo credit: Brizmaker/Shutterstock
WITH more people than ever working remotely, Spain has become one of the top destinations for international professionals seeking a better work-life balance. Recent studies show that thousands of expatriates now combine their Spanish lifestyle with flexible or fully remote jobs. For many, having a proper home office isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential for daily life.
Start with the basics
Working from a beach café or sunny terrace sounds idyllic, but on days when you need focus, a little structure helps. Create a defined zone for work - ideally bright and quiet - to avoid daily distractions. If your home doesn’t have a spare room, use a corner of your living area or bedroom. Even a small desk, supportive chair, and good natural light can make a big difference. Don’t forget shutters or blinds to manage heat and glare throughout the day.
Tailor your workspace to Spanish living Spain’s beautiful tiled floors and high ceilings can amplify sound and make online meetings tricky. If you’re working remotely, invest in a headset or external
SPAIN remains one of Europe’s most popular property destinations, but buying here comes with its own set of rules. For foreigners, the first step is securing an NIE (foreigner ID number), essential for deeds, taxes and utilities.
Opening a Spanish bank account isn’t legally required but makes the process smoother, especially with
Creating a comfortable home office in Spain
microphone to cut echo during calls, and use fabric touches like curtains, rugs, or wall hangings to soften acoustics. It also helps to choose a spot away from street noise, part of Spain’s lively charm, but not ideal during professional calls.
Equipment and comfort
A reliable internet connection is key. Spain once had a mixed reputation for coverage, but most regions now offer strong fibre networks with high speeds. Unsurprisingly, some rural areas can still have patchy connections, so always check local fibre availability.
Let’s face it, you’re in Spain for a reason, and the chance to enjoy its sights and sounds during the day is hard to resist. Combine home working with some time in your community. Cafés and co-working hubs offer variety and social connection, but not every town has them. In quieter areas, public libraries can be a great alternative, often offering free Wi-Fi in a truly authentic Spanish setting. Just remember to secure your data with a VPN when using public networks and choose spots with dependable service.
Combine with working outside the home
Buying smart in Spain
lose it; if the seller pulls out, they must refund double. Mortgages are available to non-residents but usually capped at 60-70 per cent loan-to-value with shorter terms and stricter requirements. Completion always happens before a notary, who formalises the deed and ensures legality.
After purchase, buyers must register the property, switch utilities, arrange insurance and pay ongoing costs like council tax (IBI), community fees and annual non-resident income tax
Owning a property does not grant residency; non-EU nationals are still bound by the 90/180-day Schengen rule unless they obtain a visa, such as the non-lucrative or digital-nomad visa.
IN Spain’s increasingly urbanised cities, the patio remains a cherished refuge, a space that connects architecture, culture, and well-being. For expats settling in Spain, understanding this traditional feature is key to embracing the Mediterranean lifestyle and local rhythms.
Historically rooted in Roman and Islamic architecture, patios have long served as cool, airy spaces for light, rest, and social life.
In Andalucia, they are the heart of the home, surrounded by tiles, plants, and water features that invite tranquillity and conversation. In modern Spain, as living spaces shrink, the patio has evolved into rooftop terraces, inner
Expats can make their patios a personal haven with practical decorating tips.
courtyards, and shared gardens, offering city dwellers a link to nature and community.
For expatriates, even a small balcony can be transformed into a ‘mini-patio’ with greenery, colourful ceramics, and cosy seating. These spaces promote well-being by reducing stress and encouraging outdoor living, vital for those adapting to a new environment.
Decorating tips include using Mediterranean plants like lavender and bougainvillea, adding mosaic tiles, creating shade with awnings, and mixing rustic and modern furnishings. Flea markets and local artisans offer authentic Spanish pieces that bring character and charm.
We take care of every step so you can relax
DREAMING of your own slice of sunshine on Spain’s celebrated Costa del Sol? Welcome to Hansen Real Estate, your trusted partner since 2012 in finding the perfect home in southern Spain. Located in lovely Torre del Mar, they are deeply rooted in the local market and bring you personalised service from start to finish.
Whether you’re seeking a stylish apartment by the sea, a charming townhouse in the hills, or a luxury villa with sweeping Mediterranean views, our experienced team will tailor the entire purchase process to your needs - guiding you with clarity, integrity and local know-how.
They take care of every step, so you can relax and focus on the excitement of your new life under
the sun.
Hansen Real Estate offers multilingual expertise, so whether you speak English, Spanish, Danish or German, you’ll feel at ease working with here on the Costa.
And with their in-depth understanding of this vibrant region - known for its excellent climate, lively culture, and outdoor lifestylewe’re in a prime position to match you with the right property at the right price.
If you’ve been waiting for your opportunity to invest, relocate or retire in Spain with confidence, now is the time. Contact Hansen Real Estate today and discover your future home where the sea meets the mountains - and where life simply feels better.
Photo
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Legal considerations when buying property in Spain
IF you’re considering purchasing a property in Spain, whether it’s for holidays, rental income, or for permanent relocation, it’s essential to consider all the legal requirements of your purchase before committing.
Get an independent lawyer
One of the first things you should do is hire an independent Spanish property lawyer (abogado) who is not tied to the seller or the real estate agency.
A good one will examine contracts, deeds, and local regulations to ensure you know exactly what you’re signing. If you’re not in Spain during parts of the process, you can often arrange a power of attorney, so your lawyer can act on your behalf.
Residency & tax status
Who you are and how long you stay in Spain affect much more than lifestyle. EU citizens
have more freedom, while nonEU citizens (including many UK nationals since Brexit) need to check visas or residency permits if they plan to live here permanently.
Residency status ties directly to your tax obligations. If you live in Spain for over 183 days per year, you’re likely a tax resident and may be liable for tax on worldwide income. If not, then usually only income sourced in Spain is taxed.
Title, ownership & local rules
Before committing to a purchase, you must check the Land Registry to ensure the seller is the legal owner and that the property is free of debts or mortgages. Also, make sure the boundaries and land status are correct.
Some lands are ‘urbano’ (urban) and buildable. Others are
‘rústico’ and may be rural or restricted.
If any renovations or alterations have already been done, ensure the correct planning permissions are in place. These local rules vary a lot by region and municipality.
Taxes & ongoing legal costs
Expect certain taxes when you buy: transfer tax (ITP) for resale properties, and VAT (IVA)
and stamp duty for new builds.
After buying, you’ll also want to budget for ongoing taxes, such as local property tax (IBI), wealth tax in some cases, and potential taxes on rental income if you let the property. All of these depend on whether you’re considered a resident for tax purposes.
Mortgages, payments & transparency
If you’re arranging a mortga-
ge in Spain, legal advice is vital. Mortgage contracts can contain complicated terms, and it’s crucial to understand your obligations. Also, there are strict rules about how payments must be made, especially for large sums - traceability, source of funds documentation, and working via regulated channels are all essential.
Considering your transfer options
While dealing with the legal requirements when buying a house in Spain can be a hassle, transferring the funds to cover your purchase doesn’t need to be.
With Currencies Direct, you’ll benefit from competitive exchange rates, no transfer fees, and expert guidance from dedicated currency specialists. We make your transfer quicker, easier, and more secure.
Learn more by contacting Currencies Direct via phone +34 950 478 914, or visit our website currenciesdirect.es to find your local branch and speak to one of our multilingual experts.
Spain’s 2030 rule
SELLING or renting a home in Spain will soon come with a major new condition - energy efficiency. From January 1, 2030, existing properties will need an E rating or higher to go on the market, rising to D by 2033, under an EU directive aimed at cutting emissions and boosting sustainability. Miss those targets, and you won’t be legally allowed to sell or rent your property. The move could mean costly upgrades for many owners, but also new value opportunities for those who act early.
The measure is part of the EU’s drive for climate neutrality by 2050, with buildings seen as a key focus. According to Spain’s government, they account for more than a third of Europe’s total greenhouse-gas emissions. To qualify for the new energy label, a certified technician will assess a property’s insulation, façade, heating and cooling systems, water heating, and ventilation. Each home receives a grade from A to G, with green meaning efficient and red inefficient. From 2030, if your property falls below E, you’ll need to upgrade before selling or renting.
The impact could be huge. Around 85 per cent of Spanish buildings are expected to need rehabilitation to meet EU decarbonisation goals. And this comes at a time when the housing market is already under pressurerents rose 11.5 per cent in 2024, and second-hand home prices climbed 8.4 per cent, their biggest increase in nearly two decades. Owners of older homes may now face additional renovation costs for insulation, windows or systems.
Yet there’s a clear upside. Energy-efficient properties are already selling faster and commanding higher prices as buyers and tenants seek lower running costs.
Experts say even modest upgrades - fixing draughts, improving glazing or updating water systems - can make a difference and boost a home’s rating.
For homeowners, the message is clear: don’t wait until 2029. Booking an early energy assessment will show where your property stands and what improvements are needed. With the 2030 and 2033 deadlines
approaching, planning ahead could save money, stress, and ensure your home remains market-ready in Spain’s new green era.
Spain to enforce new home energy rules by 2030.
Property as retirement plan
FOR many expats, Spain’s sunshine, relaxed lifestyle, and rich culture make it an ideal place to retire. Yet, with pensions under strain and living costs on the rise across Europe, financial stability has become a key concern. Increasingly, experts view property ownership as one of the most effective ways for retirees abroad to safeguard their future.
Owning a home offers both security and flexibility, acting as a ‘personal pension plan’. Unlike renting, property provides a stable base and the potential for long-term appreciation in value. In popular regions such as the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands, housing prices have historically remained resilient, making real estate an attractive hedge against inflation and rising rents.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Welcome to Diaz & Webber!
WE are proud to be recognised as a group of real estate agents with a solid track record and deep experience in the sector. Diaz & Webber is a young company made up of experts with more than 10 years of experience in the sector, which allows us to offer a high quality service backed by solid knowledge of the real estate market.
ting properties; We also stand out in new construction promotions, helping our clients find the home of their dreams from the beginning of the construction process to the final delivery.
Over time, homeowners build equity, effectively turning mortgage payments into savings. This accumulated wealth can later be used to fund travel, healthcare, or as rental income in Spain’s strong tourism market. For many expatriates, renting out their property part-time offers a sustainable way to supplement retirement income while maintaining ownership of a valuable asset.
However, buying property in Spain requires careful planning. Expats should budget for deposits of 2030 per cent and factor in additional taxes and fees. Location, access to healthcare, and lifestyle preferences should also guide decisions.
Ultimately, purchasing a home in Spain is more than a lifestyle choice, it’s a long-term investment in comfort, stability, and independence during retirement, offering both financial peace of mind and a tangible connection to life under the Mediterranean sun.
Specialising in the sale and rental of real estate properties in the picturesque region of Axarquia, we cover a wide spectrum that includes Torre del Mar, Velez-Malaga, Algarrobo, Almayate, Benajarafe and beyond. Additionally, we offer tourist rental management services on the coast, providing comprehensive solutions for owners and tenants alike.
Our experience is not limited only to the intermediation of exis-
At Diaz & Webber, we understand the importance of fluid communication, which is why we are proud to have native English and German speakers on our team. We value the trust you place in us and work tirelessly to exceed your expectations every step of the way.
Whether you are looking to buy, sell or rent a property, our team of highly trained professionals are here to provide you with a personalised and results-oriented service. Contact us today and discover how we can help you make your real estate dreams come true in beautiful Axarquia.
