THE Costa del Sol real estate market has entered a mature, balanced phase this summer, swapping post-pandemic frenzy for stable, sustainable growth. For British expatriates and second-home investors, the sun-drenched Andalucian coast remains one of Europe’s most resilient property hotspots, though the buying landscape has noticeably shifted.
The frantic bidding wars of previous years have largely eased. Buyers are taking their
time, which has narrowed the gap between asking and final transaction prices to a much healthier margin. Interest rates have also levelled off, boosting buyer confidence and improving mortgage affordability for those looking to fund their Mediterranean dream.
The buyer profile remains intensely international. While British buyers face competition from a surge of North American and Scandinavian investors, the demand for premium, move-in-ready villas and energy-effi-
cient apartments continues to outpace the actual number of properties available.
This ongoing shortage of supply is keeping prices firm, particularly within the famous “Golden Triangle” hub of Marbella, Benahavis, and Estepona. These areas continue to command the highest premiums due to strict local planning controls and a genuine scarcity of buildable land near the sea.
Meanwhile, emerging pockets are stealing the spotlight. Towns like Mijas Costa and
Benalmadena are seeing heavy transaction volumes, offering relative value, excellent holiday rental potential, and great infrastructure.
For sellers, it remains an excellent time to list, provided properties are accurately priced from the outset. For buyers, the summer of 2026 offers a welcome breath of sanity: a coastal market defined not by wild speculation, but by solid, long-term lifestyle value.
FOR years, Estepona has been one of the Costa del Sol’s most remarkable success stories. From the revitalisation of its charming Old Town to the continued investment in infrastructure, public spaces and new residential developments, the town has steadily evolved into one of southern Europe’s most desirable destinations for both lifestyle buyers and investors.
Now, attention is turning towards what could become the next chapter in Estepona’s evolution: the proposed transformation of the marina by D-Marin.
While final approvals remain pending, the plans already presented suggest a significant enhancement of the marina and surrounding areas, creating stronger connections between the port, beachfront, town centre and emerging residential districts. For investors, this is precisely the type of long-term urban improvement that has historically created substantial demand and value growth.
However, successful property investment is rarely about simply reacting to headlines. The greatest opportunities
are often identified before they become obvious to the wider market.
At Melrose Properties, we have witnessed first-hand how Estepona has transformed over the last decade. Our daily involvement in the local market allows us to identify which locations, developments and property types are most likely to benefit from future improvements and changing buyer demand.
Whether it is a luxury apartment overlooking the marina, a contemporary residence in Las Mesas, an investment opportunity along Avenida del Carmen,
or a villa in one of Estepona’s established residential areas, selecting the right property requires local knowledge, market insight and access to opportunities that are not always visible from abroad.
International buyers are increasingly attracted to Estepona for its quality of life, walkability, year-round appeal and strong long-term fundamentals. As new investment continues to enhance the town’s infrastructure and lifestyle offering, demand is expected to remain strong.
For those considering investing in Estepona, the question is not simply what
is being built, but where the smartest opportunities lie.
At Melrose Properties, our role is to help clients answer that question with confidence. Through personalised guidance, local expertise and access to the most suitable properties available, we help investors position themselves for both lifestyle enjoyment and long-term value.
The future of Estepona continues to look exceptionally bright. The best opportunities are often secured by those who act before everyone else recognises their potential.
FOR the past decade, the blueprint for luxury along the coast has been strikingly uniform. Drive up into any premium hillside enclave and you will see them: clinical, ultra-white ‘box’ villas defined by sharp geometry, blindingly glossy marble floors, and cold polished chrome. They were designed to look flawless, but they often felt less like sanctuaries and more like echoing contemporary art galleries.
This summer, a new trend is taking root. Architects and designers across Southern Spain are staging a beautiful rebellion against this stark minimalism, ushering in an era known as ‘The New Andalucian Minimal’. The goal isn’t to abandon modern architecture, but rather to inject soul, warmth, and physical texture back into wide-open spaces. It is a movement that replaces a show-home aesthetic with authentic, lived-in luxury.
The transformation begins from the ground up. High-gloss tiles are being systematically swapped for seamless, matte micro-cement or local white limestone, known beautifully as ‘piedra paloma’. These raw surfaces capture the shifting Mediterranean light without creating a harsh, blinding glare.
Colour palettes are experiencing a similar sun-kissed evolution. The cold, blue-toned whites are softening into warm sands, taupes, and beiges. Accents of rich terracotta and muted olive green are introduced to directly mimic the surrounding countryside, creating a continuous visual dialogue between the interior lounge and the rugged hillsides outside.
Crucially, this trend thrives on tactile, organic materials. Designers are layering minimalist floor plans with rich textures that demand to be touched: linen drapery that catches the sea breeze, woven rattan statement lighting, and heavy, reclaimed rustic wooden beams stretching across towering ceilings.
The result? Homes that retain the airy, clutter-free freedom of minimalism, but feel deeply grounded, comforting, and welcoming. By trading perfection for organic character, the region’s newest properties are finally discovering their Mediterranean soul.
IN a region where property decisions are often guided by emotion as much as investment sense, experience remains the one quality that truly reassures. That is precisely where Andalucia Development sets itself apart. Established in 1981, the company brings more than four decades of knowledge from the Costa del Sol market, offering clients not just services, but perspective shaped by years of change and growth in the region. What defines the company is not simply its history, but the depth of expertise that underpins every interaction. With an international outlook and a
Scandinavian led team, there is a clear understanding of what overseas buyers and sellers expect. This global perspective is matched with strong local knowledge, creating a balanced approach that helps clients feel confident in every decision they make. Each step is explained clearly, ensuring that nothing feels uncertain or overwhelming.
The services offered reflect a commitment to making the entire process as straightforward as possible. Whether assisting with buying, selling, or building, the team works alongside trusted legal professionals, notaries, developers, and pro-
OPEN shelving has become one of the defining features of contemporary interiors, offering a stylish alternative to traditional cupboards while creating a sense of openness and personality. Whether in the kitchen, living room or home office, thoughtfully styled shelves can transform a functional storage space into an eyecatching design feature.
The secret lies in striking the right balance between practicality and aesthetics. Rather than filling every available inch, leave breathing space between objects to create a curated look. Designers often recommend working in groups of three, combining items of varying heights and textures to add visual interest without appearing cluttered.
Natural materials are particularly effective. Ceramic vases, woven baskets, wooden bowls and stoneware pieces introduce warmth and texture, while books stacked both horizontally and vertically help anchor the display. A trailing houseplant or a simple arrangement of greenery softens the lines and brings life to the shelves.
Colour is equally important. Sticking to a cohesive palette creates harmony, whether that’s calming neutrals, earthy tones or a monochrome scheme punctuated with a few bold accents. Repeating colours and materials throughout the arrangement helps tie everything together and gives the impression of a carefully considered space.
Open shelving also provides an opportunity to showcase meaningful objects rather than purely decorative
perty managers. This close cooperation ensures that every detail is handled with care and professionalism. Clients benefit from a seamless experience where practical support and personal attention go hand in hand.
Just as important is the company’s focus on long term relationships. Many clients return over the years, drawn by a level of service that feels both reliable and personal. It is this ongoing trust that has helped
build a reputation that extends far beyond the local area. The aim is not simply to complete a transaction, but to create a positive experience that clients remember and recommend. In an industry where trust is everything, Andalucia Development continues to stand out through its combination of experience, insight, and genuine client care. It is not simply about property. It is about ensuring that every decision feels informed and worthwhile.
accessories. Travel souvenirs, family photographs in elegant frames, handmade pottery or favourite cookbooks all contribute to a home that feels personal and lived in. In kitchens, practicality should remain a priority. Frequently used glassware and serving bowls can become part of the
design, provided they are neatly organised and colour coordinated. Attractive storage jars filled with pasta, grains or coffee add both function and visual appeal, proving that everyday essentials can be beautiful too.
Perhaps the most important styling tip is to edit regularly. As collections grow,
shelves can quickly become overcrowded. Removing unnecessary items and refreshing displays with the changing seasons keeps the look feeling light and contemporary. Ultimately, successful open shelving is less about perfection and more about thoughtful composition.
FOR years, home design has chased a single goal: hide everything from view. We have been told to clear our worktops, conceal appliances behind handlefree cupboards, and keep shelves free of personal items. While this polished look creates a tidy house, it can also leave living spaces with little warmth or character. It might look impressive, but it doesn’t always feel welcoming.
Many homeowners are now embracing a different approach. Instead of filling cupboards with the objects they love, they are giving them a place of honour. The focus is on creating interiors that encourage everyday pleasures rather than perfect appearances.
The idea is simple: favourite pastimes become part of the décor. Permanent, highly visible areas celebrate hands-on activities that encourage us to step away from screens and spend time doing something meaningful. These corners are practical, inviting and ready to use at a moment’s notice.
Walk into a contemporary lounge
today and you may find a carefully styled vinyl record station at the heart of the room. Open timber shelving displays colourful album covers, while a comfortable chair and a small reading lamp create the perfect spot to listen to an entire record from start to finish. Nearby, a shelf of photography books or travel journals adds another layer of personality.
The kitchen is also becoming a destination for daily rituals. An elegant pour-over coffee bar, complete with ceramic drippers, a brass gooseneck kettle and locally roasted beans, turns the first cup of the day into an enjoyable experience.
Open shelves filled with handmade mugs, recipe books and jars of loose-leaf tea create a welcoming atmosphere that
encourages friends and family to gather. Creative spaces are finding a place in the centre of the home as well. An artist’s easel with unfinished canvases, a pottery
wheel, a vintage sewing table or even a knitting basket beside the sofa all invite spontaneous moments of creativity. Some households are also setting aside corners for board games, puzzles or indoor plants, proving that simple hobbies deserve just as much attention as expensive furniture. By putting passions on display instead of hiding them away, homes feel less like carefully staged showrooms and more like genuine reflections of the people who live there. The result is an interior filled with comfort, conversation and small moments of joy.
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SALES is a legally registered Spanish business run by Diane Heston and her team of bilingual professionals who have been es tablished in the beautiful Jaen Province for over 20 years. Spe cialising in property sales in An dalucia, they offer clients a bespoke, unpressurised experience when buying a Spanish property.
Andalucian Property Sales offer help, support and advice during your search, through both the buying process and personal after sales services. They have a wide range of properties to interest potential clients, from small village houses to large country fincas or cortijos.
Andalucian Property Sales,
though based in the beautiful province of Jaen, also have properties available in the provinces of Granada, Cordoba, Malaga and Almeria. Covering all the popular towns and villages, such as Alcala La Real, Alcaudete Castillo de Locubin, Martos, Iznajar, Garrucha and Arboleas to name a few. For your inland property needs contact Diane and her team today.
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GREEN HILL 14 is a rare combination in La Cala de Mijas: a modern family home in a peaceful setting, yet within easy reach of the village, beach and golf. As an exclusive listing with Plexo Properties, this home has been carefully prepared and presented to showcase the best of contemporary Costa del Sol livinggenerous indoor space, multiple terraces and a layout that works for both full-time living and high-quality holiday use.
From the bright, open-plan living area, you step directly out onto large terraces with open views and plenty of room for outdoor dining and relaxing. The bedroom configuration offers flexibility for families, visiting guests, or remote work, while the modern kitchen and finishes make the home genuinely move-in ready. With La Cala’s restaurants, schools, golf courses and beach only a short drive away, Green Hill 14 delivers the lifestyle that buyers consistently ask us for in this area.
Because this listing is exclusive to Plexo Properties, we can offer personalised guidance throughout the process - from viewing arrangements and negotiation to coordination with lawyers, banks and other advisors. Our focus is on clear, professional communication and a smooth transaction for both buyer and seller.
If you already own a property in La Cala or the
surrounding areas and are considering a sale, we are happy to provide a free, no-obligation valuation and marketing plan. As part of our strategy, new resale listings are also featured on our dedicated local platform LaCalaForSale.com, giving your property targeted exposure directly to buyers who are specifically searching for La Cala.
Interested in Green Hill 14 or in having your own property valued and sold?
Contact Plexo Properties today for a private consultation and full details.
SHARING your home with a four-legged companion no longer means sacrificing beautiful interiors. Today’s design trends prove that practical, pet-friendly living can sit comfortably alongside elegant style, creating spaces that work for every member of the family.
The key is choosing materials that are both durable and timeless. Hard flooring such as engineered timber, luxury vinyl or porcelain tiles offers a sophisticated finish while standing up well to muddy paws and the occasional accident. If carpet is preferred, opt for low-pile varieties in neutral tones or subtle patterns, which are more forgiving of pet hair and everyday wear.
When it comes to furniture, performance fabrics have transformed the market. Stainresistant upholstery in textured weaves or tightly woven materials is easier to clean and less likely to show scratches. Removable, washable covers are another smart investment, allowing sofas and chairs to stay looking fresh without constant professional cleaning.
Colour also plays an important role. Mid-tone shades, warm greys and natural earthy hues tend to disguise fur and minor marks more effectively than stark white or very dark finishes. Layering throws and cushions not only adds warmth and personality but also provides an easy way to protect favourite resting spots. Storage is another essential element of pet-friendly design. Stylish woven baskets, built-in cabinetry and decorative storage benches can neatly house leads, toys, grooming supplies and food, keeping living spaces clutter-free. A dedicated feeding station, integrated into a kitchen island or utility area, creates a practical solution that blends seamlessly with the overall design.
Many homeowners are also incorporating bespoke features that enhance both aesthetics and functionality. Under-stair sleeping nooks, window seats with hidden pet beds and built-in shelving for accessories offer clever ways to accommodate animals without disrupting the flow of a room.
Outdoor spaces deserve equal attention. Durable paving, pet-safe planting and shaded areas create gardens that are attractive and enjoyable for both people and pets. Artificial turf has become a popular low-maintenance option, while raised beds help protect flowers from curious paws.
Ultimately, successful pet-friendly design is about thoughtful planning rather than compromise. By selecting resilient materials and embracing smart storage solutions, homeowners can create interiors that are stylish, welcoming and built for everyday life.
ESTEPONA has quietly become one of the Costa del Sol’s most discussed relocation and property hotspots for 2026. Long regarded as Marbella’s calmer neighbour, it is increasingly seen by expatriates as a more liveable alternative, not because it is cheaper or trendier, but because it offers a stronger day-today balance.
Unlike resort-heavy destinations, Estepona feels designed for everyday life. The promenade is used year-round, the town centre stays active outside the summer season, and most daily essentials are within walking distance. For people relocating full time, this practicality often outweighs image. Buyers frequently find they can secure more space, newer homes, or better layouts for a similar budget to Marbella, without giving up coastline or climate.
The New Golden Mile between Marbella and Estepona has emerged as a key development area, with modern complexes aimed at international buyers. New builds typically offer energy efficiency and fewer maintenance issues, while resale properties closer to town provide character and more central locations.
Rental potential remains an important factor. Short-
term lets are regulated and depend on community rules, making careful due diligence essential. Midterm and long-term rentals are increasingly viewed as stable options, supported by growing remote work demand.
With Malaga Airport around an hour away and a year-round population mix, Estepona’s appeal continues to widen.
FOR years, the Spanish ‘jardin’ was defined by hard surfaces: terracotta tiles, wrought iron furniture, and perhaps a few sun-baked loungers, but a softer revolution is taking root. The ‘upholstered garden’ trend has officially arrived, blurring the lines between our elegant indoor salons and our sundrenched outdoor terraces. This isn’t just about adding a couple of scatter cushions; it’s about creating a fully furnished, plush sanctuary that treats the Mediterranean sky as its ceiling.
Why the sudden shift toward the ‘outdoor living room’? After years of functional, minimalist landscaping, homeowners are seeking emotional comfort. Psychologically, we associate soft textures - velvets, chunky knits, and deep foams - with safety and relaxation. By bringing these elements poolside or onto the balcony, we signal to our brains that the garden is no longer just a transit zone or a place for a quick tapas lunch, but a primary living space designed for long-term decompression. In the heat of a Spanish summer, a cushioned ‘daybed’ becomes a much more inviting prospect than a rigid plastic chair.
Achieving the upholstered look requires a strategic approach to layering. Start with an outdoor rug to define the zone; look for recycled PET fibres that mimic the feel of wool but can withstand a stray splash from the pool. The centrepiece of this trend is
the modular outdoor sofa, upholstered in high-tech, UV-resistant fabrics that won’t fade under the intense Andalucian sun. To keep the look ‘2026’, opt for curved silhouettes and rounded edges, which feel more organic and less clinical than sharp, modern lines.
Of course, living in Spain presents unique challenges for textiles. The key to a successful upholstered garden is breathability. Choose ‘solution-dyed’ acrylics that stay cool to the touch even at midday. For maintenance, look for quickdry foam interiors that allow moisture to drain through almost instantly after a rare rain shower or a cleaning.
Finally, accessorise with oversized floor pouffes and weighted throws for those cooler evening breezes. Whether you’re overlooking the Mediterranean or a courtyard in Sevilla, investing in an upholstered garden is the ultimate way to elevate your property’s footprint and your own daily well-being.
AS summer temperatures soar across Southern Spain, homeowners are facing a familiar, frustrating challenge. The long, scorching months can bring strict municipal water restrictions, leaving many traditional gardens looking parched. For years, luxury properties relied on emerald-green lawns to signal prestige, but under the blazing Andalucian sun, keeping those thirsty turf grasses alive is no longer sustainable, or socially responsible.
Property owners are proving that drought-proofing your paradise doesn’t mean sacrificing high-end visual appeal. By embracing the principles of xeriscaping - designing landscapes to eliminate the need for supplemental watering - the region’s finest gardens are being completely reimagined as water-wise sanctuaries.
The first step in this green transformation is breaking up with the water-guzzling lawn. Designers are systematically replacing sprawling grass patches with striking, climate-appropriate alternatives. Think sleek hardwood timber decking, wide gravel pathways that crunch satisfyingly underfoot, or resilient local creeping groundcovers like
Dymondia margaretae, which require a fraction of the moisture.
The true magic, however, lies in selecting the coast’s “hero plants.” These are robust, architectural varieties that actively thrive in arid conditions while delivering maximum luxury drama. Vibrant, cascading purple bougainvillea frames white-washed walls, while structural agaves and architectural palms provide striking geometric focal points. Beneath them, clouds of fragrant lavender and ancient wild olive trees root the garden deeply into the natural landscape.
Furthermore, luxury is now synonymous with efficiency. Smart irrigation technology is a massive selling point for eco-conscious buyers. Modern systems use underground soil moisture sensors and hyper-local weather data to deliver water directly to the roots via drip lines, only when absolutely necessary, eliminating evaporation waste entirely. By blending cutting-edge smart tech with nature’s most resilient flora, it is entirely possible to cultivate a breathtaking outdoor oasis. These modern gardens do more than just survive the brutal summer heat: they celebrate it, offering a sustainable blueprint for life on the coast.
ONE of the first questions prospective buyers ask when looking at a business opportunity on the Costa del Sol is, “How do I know if the asking price is fair?”
Unlike residential property, there is no simple price-persquare-metre formula for valuing a business. Two restaurants with the same size premises and similar locations can have vastly different values depending on profitability, reputation, lease terms, customer base and growth potential.
A common misconception is that turnover determines value. In reality, buyers should focus on profits, cash flow and the effort required to operate the business. A business generating modest profits with strong systems and loyal customers can be worth more than one with high turnover but low margins.
Other factors influencing value include the length and terms of the lease , condition of equipment, staffing, licences, online presence and the overall strength of the market.
In Spain, many business transfers (traspasos) also include goodwill, reflecting the value of an established trading history and customer base. The price reflects financial strength, tangible assets, location and goodwill.
At Mind Your Own Business®, we help buyers assess opportunities objectively, identify potential risks and determine whether a business represents genuine value. After all, the right business at the right price can be the foundation for a successful new life on the Costa del Sol.
SINCE day one Propertissimo has been focusing on closing deals. Not on a shiny corporate image, not on branding nor on bragging about our latest achievements. In contrast to many competitors we decided not to ‘fake it ‘til we make it’ but we set a goal to close a deal every business day. The goal was ambitious and the logic behind it is simple but strong.
To be successful in the real estate market you need to attract sellers, buyers, developers and last but not least the best professionals in the business. We could not come up with a single more important attribute to achieve this than that we close more deals than others. Every day! We don’t list properties, we sell them.
We set out to achieve this goal first and then spread the word. To not start with promises without substance but to reach our goal through hard work and activity in the marketplace.
This hard work has now paid off and we have achieved that goal and it is time
ONCE regarded as little more than a practical way to move between floors, the modern staircase has stepped confidently into the spotlight. Today, architects and interior designers are transforming these everyday structures into striking works of art that define the character of a home.
Statement staircases combine form and function, creating an immediate visual impact from the moment you enter a property. Floating timber treads, sculptural spiral designs and elegant steel-andglass constructions all demonstrate how innovative engineering can become a centrepiece rather than a necessity.
In contemporary villas across Spain, open-plan living has fuelled the popularity of these architectural features. Without enclosing walls, staircases naturally become focal points, connecting spaces while adding height, texture and movement. Materials such as natural oak, polished concrete and tempered glass complement the Mediterranean preference for light-filled interiors, allowing staircases to enhance rather than dominate a room.
Lighting plays an equally important role. Integrated LED strips beneath each step or subtle wall illumination can create a dramatic floating effect, turning a functional feature into an evening showpiece. Combined with
to start telling others about our track record that we have until recently kept to ourselves. To do so we have launched the hashtag #ADealADay (follow us on social media) and the duck you can see in our advert to draw attention. Regarding goals, we are far from finished and have set higher targets for the coming years.
Also we have launched our own magazine that is distributed by 10,000 copies in 360 distribution points along the coast. The HOT Properties Magazine features our clients’ properties, offers market analysis and forecasts and debates about the property market.
Now as the time has come we are proud to establish that we have more than 1,941 properties listed, we generate over 4,000 leads and over 1,000 viewing tours a year and we execute ADealADay.
Now, if you are in the market as a buyer, seller, promoter or looking for a job, who you gonna call? propertissimo.com
carefully chosen finishes, a staircase can bring warmth, sophistication or minimalist elegance to suit every style of home.
For property owners considering a renovation, investing in a bespoke staircase can significantly elevate perceived value. Buyers increasingly seek homes with distinctive design elements, and a beautifully crafted staircase offers an instant sense of quality and individuality. It also provides an opportunity to personalise a space through
The appeal extends beyond luxury residences. Compact townhouses and duplex apartments can also benefit from imaginative staircase design, with integrated shelving, hidden storage or cantilevered steps maximising both style and practicality. Clever use of space ensures that every square metre works harder without
compromising aesthetics. Ultimately, a statement staircase is more than a route from one floor to another. It guides the eye, shapes the atmosphere and reflects the personality of the home itself. In an era where design is increasingly valued alongside location, this once-overlooked architectural feature has become a true piece of functional art - proving that sometimes the most memorable part of a property is the journey through it.
