Pure Living Buyer's Guide

Marbella Buyer’s Guide

A finer way of life

Marbella is one of Europe’s most coveted destinations for luxury living, perfectly blending Mediterranean beauty with a sophisticated lifestyle. Known for its golden beaches, world-class golf courses, fine dining, and vibrant cultural scene, Marbella attracts discerning buyers seeking exclusivity and quality of life. From the historic charm of its Old Town to the elegance of the Golden Mile and the serene surroundings of Sierra Blanca, the area offers an exceptional variety of high-end real estate.

With years of experience and deep local expertise, Pure Living Properties specialises in sourcing and selling the finest luxury properties in Marbella, guiding buyers through every step of the process to ensure a seamless and informed experience. As an international team of experts passionate about the Marbella lifestyle, we are dedicated to supporting you in all your real estate projects — essentially, anything that includes the word PROPERTY.

Because our main mission will always be the satisfaction of our clients, we have become experts in making “Happiness Puzzles”. We match families with their ideal homes. We associate the best investors with the most profitable properties. We unite travelers with their dream holiday flats or villas. We bring together the most suitable team of professionals with the most urgent renovation project.

Think of us as the solution, because we will be by your side every step of the way.

Our services cover every aspect of luxury real estate in Marbella, offering a comprehensive and personalised approach for each client. From property sales and rentals to tailored investment opportunities, we provide expert guidance backed by deep market knowledge. Our team also oversees high-quality renovations, delivers strategic consultancy, and offers dedicated property management solutions to ensure your home is impeccably maintained. Whatever your real estate needs may be, we are here to support you with professionalism, discretion, and unwavering attention to detail.

Why invest

Why is so profitable to invest

in Marbella

Marbella, and the Golden Triangle in general, stands as a truly privileged destination, blessed with over 300 days of sunshine each year, spectacular beaches, and an exceptional standard of security. The region offers an impressive selection of exclusive properties and a unique lifestyle defined by elegance, leisure, and well-being.

A growing market

Far from reaching its peak, the high-end real estate market in Marbella continues to show remarkable dynamism. International demand, limited prime land availability, and the region’s strong lifestyle appeal support a highly optimistic outlook.

Increased Demand

Demand for luxury properties in Marbella has grown by 12% in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Price Increase

Property prices have risen by 9%, with notable increases in prime locations such as the Golden Mile,

Stability in Demand

Demand is expected to remain stable with a slight upward trajectory thanks to investor interest, strong infrastructure, political stability, and Marbella’s evolution in gastronomy, wellness, culture and premium services.

Marbella Guide:

The home of luxury living

Golden Mile

The Golden Mile is the undisputed heart of luxury in Marbella, linking the city centre with Puente Romano and the Marbella Club. It features exclusive villas, premium seafront apartments, and high-end gated communities. Its lifestyle includes world-class restaurants, legendary hotels, beach clubs, luxury boutiques and excellent connectivity.

Nueva Andalucía

Known as the “Golf Valley,” Nueva Andalucía offers leafy avenues, mountain views, and exclusive communities. It is ideal for year-round living with restaurants, gyms, cafés, markets, and excellent access to international schools and sports clubs.

Famous for its sandy beaches, dunes, and serene atmosphere, Marbella East offers contemporary villas, seafront apartments, private communities, quality beach clubs, chiringuitos, tennis clubs, and top golf courses. It has easy access to Marbella town and Málaga Airport.

Beyond Marbella:

The curated portfolio of Pure Living Properties extends well beyond Marbella. The Costa del Sol is home to some of the Mediterranean’s most prestigious residential destinations, and our collection includes exclusive properties in the prime communities of Benahavís, Estepona and Sotogrande.

Benahavis

Benahavís has become one of Spain’s most exclusive municipalities — a natural mountain retreat just minutes from the coast, renowned for its prestigious private estates. Leading developments include La Zagaleta, considered one of the most select residential communities in Europe, offering exceptional security measures, two golf courses, clubhouse facilities, an equestrian centre and even a heliport; El Madroñal, with residences nestled among cork oak forests and boasting exceptional panoramic views; and La Quinta, a rapidly expanding area featuring high-end contemporary projects. Its tranquillity, privacy and proximity to Marbella make Benahavís an exceptional choice for those seeking large-scale homes and a sophisticated lifestyle surrounded by nature.

Estepona

Estepona has undergone an impressive transformation over the past decade, steadily evolving into one of the Mediterranean’s most desirable luxury residential destinations. Its historic centre has preserved the charm of an authentic Andalusian white village, while the town continues to advance through premium residential developments, new cultural facilities, an enhanced seafront promenade and a growing gastronomic scene. The arrival of new beachfront projects and contemporary private communities has raised the bar for quality across the area, attracting international buyers seeking a balance of modern living, authenticity and coastal quality of life.

Sotogrande

With more than sixty years of history, Sotogrande is synonymous with understated elegance and quiet luxury. This private enclave is a landmark destination for lovers of golf, sailing and, above all, polo, home to some of Europe’s most prestigious tournaments. Its wide tree-lined avenues, exclusive residential communities, marinas, international schools and private clubs create a lifestyle defined by serenity, security and a highly select international atmosphere. Sotogrande is the ideal choice for those seeking absolute privacy, generous open spaces and a relaxed pace of life without compromising on first-class services.

Marbella on the Rise Prime Property Market Expectations

Marbella is entering a pivotal moment in its evolution. International demand remains strong thanks to its lifestyle, legal certainty and prime residential offering. A diverse buyer profile—Northern Europeans, Americans, Latin Americans, and Gulf-region residents—continues to fuel demand.

Branded residences such as EPIC Marbella (FENDI Casa), Design Hills (Dolce & Gabbana) and Karl Lagerfeld Villas position Marbella alongside global luxury destinations. New landmark developments, improved planning frameworks, infrastructure upgrades, and expanding international connectivity (notably with new transatlantic flights) are strengthening the market even further.

Emerging areas such as East Marbella, La Quinta and Estepona are gaining importance thanks to improvements in services, infrastructure, and new development opportunities

Daily life

Welcome to Marbella

Education

Marbella hosts one of Spain’s strongest concentrations of international schools, including Swans, Aloha College, British School Marbella, Laude, Les Roches, MIUC, and the German School.

Gastronomy

Marbella has become a Mediterranean gastronomic hub with Michelin-starred restaurants (Skina, Messina), concepts by Dani García (Leña, Lobito de Mar), and major international brands (COYA, Gaia, Nobu, Cipriani). Puente Romano is a key culinary hotspot.

Sports

Marbella offers premier golf, tennis (Puente Romano Tennis Club), padel, sailing and outdoor activities with top clubs such as Las Brisas, Los Naranjos, Aloha, Santa Clara and Río Real.

Transport

Marbella has extensive private transport options and excellent global connectivity through Málaga Airport (AGP), with more than 134 direct destinations worldwide.

Beckham Law

Can I still benefit from it?

*Read disclaimer in last page.

The Special Tax Regime offers a flat tax of 24% on Spanish and international employment income up to €600,000 and 47% on excess amounts, applicable for five tax years.

Current situation

• Spain is reviewing possible changes to the law.

• Current beneficiaries are expected to retain status under transition rules.

• Buyers planning relocation should seek up-todate tax advice.

regime 2025

• No residency in Spain in previous 5 tax years

• Move due to employment, director role, entrepreneurial activity, or highly qualified professional services

• No permanent establishment income

• Income Tax: 24% up to €600,000; 47% above

• Capital gains/dividends generally taxed only if Spanish-sourced (1930%)

• Foreign dividends exempt

• Duration: 5 years

• Application: within 6 months

KYC and AML

How can they affect me?

*Read disclaimer in last page.

Spain applies strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations to all real estate transactions, particularly at prime price levels.

As part of this process, buyers will be required to provide:

• Valid identification and proof of residence

• Documentation confirming the lawful origin of funds

These procedures are standard within international transactions and are designed to ensure transparency, legal certainty and protection for all parties involved.

Our team coordinates this process alongside your legal advisors to ensure a smooth and confidential experience.

Aproximate costs and taxes of buying in Marbella?

*Read disclaimer in last page.

Property Transfer Tax (ITP)

• 7% on all resale properties

VAT & Stamp Duty (AJD)

For new builds:

• Villas/apartments/garages: 10% + 1.2% AJD

• Land/commercial units (first sale): 21% + 1.2% AJD

Notary & Land Registry Fees:

• Approx. €3,000.

Legal fees

• Approx. 1% + VAT.

New for 2026 (Investors)

• The reduced 2% “Flip Tax” for professionals now only applies to properties valued under €500,000, with a mandatory resale window of 2 years (previously 5). Properties above this value pay the standard 7%.

OWNERSHIP TAXES

The costs of holding your Spanish asset.

Wealth Tax (Patrimonio)

Andalucía maintains its 100% tax relief. While you may still be required to file an informative return if your assets exceed €2M, the payable tax is effectively zero.

Solidarity Tax (Large Fortunes)

This state-level tax only affects net wealth exceeding €3,700,000.

• Note: Any amount paid under this tax is deductible from local wealth tax obligations (which are zero in Andalucía), meaning it only starts “biting” after the €3.7M threshold.

Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR)

• Rental Income: 19% for EU/EEA residents (on net profit) and 24% for Non- EU residents (on gross income).

• Imputed Tax: If the property is not rented, a small annual tax is calculated based on a percentage of the Cadastral value (usually 0.1% to 0.2% of the cadastral value).

The buying process

Your guide to buying in Marbella

*Read disclaimer in last page.

SUPPLY AND MARKET WITHDRAWALS

NEW STEP: Offer & 1% Reservation Deposit

Once an offer is accepted, a reservation agreement is formalised and a 1% deposit is placed to secure the property and remove it from the market.

PRIVATE PURCHASE CONTRACT + LEGAL REVIEW

Deposit & Guarantees.

At this stage, your appointed lawyer conducts comprehensive legal due diligence, including verification of title, charges and encumbrances, planning compliance, licences, community status and any outstanding debts associated with the property.

The parties formalise the transaction through a Private Purchase Contract (Contrato de Arras).

At this stage, a deposit — typically 10% of the agreed purchase price — is paid, and the key terms of the transaction are contractually defined, including completion date, payment structure and any agreed conditions.

In most cases, this agreement takes the form of Arras Penitenciales, which legally binds both parties and establishes financial consequences should either side withdraw without justified cause.

Your legal advisor will review and negotiate the contract to ensure your interests are fully protected prior to signature.

Additional clarification

• Arras Penitenciales: 10% deposit with penalties if either party withdraws.

• Option to Purchase: 10% premium granting an exclusive purchase right.

FINAL STEP — COMPLETION & KEY HANDOVER

Settle the remaining balance and complete the final formalities. Upon completion, the keys to your new home will be handed over, marking the official transfer of ownership. Congratulations — you are now a Pure Owner.

Welcome to a new chapter of refined living with Pure Living Properties.

Owner?

Let us manage your property

Whether you are planning to sell, rent or invest, our team assists owners in maximising the value and potential of their property through tailored strategies and professional management.

TO LET BUY TO SELL ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENTS (co-ownership, crowdfunding)

Hotel Puente Romano , 20 · 29602 - Marbella (Málaga)

info@purelivingproperties.com

+34 952 868 945

*This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. No reliance should be placed on this guide as a substitute for obtaining independent professional advice. Buyers are strongly advised to seek independent legal and tax advice from qualified professionals prior to making any investment or relocation decision in Spain.