Why Choose Málaga for Your Next Business?

In recent years, Málaga has established itself as one of the most attractive and dynamic cities in Europe. Its pleasant climate all year round and high quality of life have contributed to it being recognised internationally as one of the best destinations to live.

The city has undergone a structural transformation that combines business growth, technological positioning, and strong residential demand, both nationally and internationally.
For real estate investors, this context makes Málaga a market of particular interest.

1⃣ Business Growth and Economic Stability

According to data published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE), Andalusia maintains a solid business survival rate compared to other Spanish regions, with Málaga being one of the most active provinces in terms of company creation.

This growth is not cyclical but structural, which generates stability in housing demand, both for purchase and rental.

2⃣ Málaga as an International Technology Hub

For real estate investors, this means a market with qualified demand and medium-to-high purchasing power.

3⃣ Real Estate Market: Data and Trends

At the same time, the city’s tourist appeal and international projection have significantly boosted the real estate market in recent years, generating a notable increase in residents both in Málaga and on the Costa del Sol.

According to reports published by the real estate portal Idealista, Málaga is among the Spanish cities with the most sustained increase in price per square metre in recent years.

The combination of international demand, remote work, and climate makes for a tight but attractive market in terms of profitability.

4⃣ Factors Supporting Investment

Beyond economic data, quality of life, climate, beaches, mountains, gastronomy, and multiple leisure options make Málaga stand out as a preferred destination for establishing permanent residence.

These factors are not financial indicators, but they directly influence the decisions of entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors seeking to combine business development with personal well-being.

5⃣ Why Málaga Attracts Foreign Investors

This balance makes Málaga a market that is less speculative and more structurally attractive.

What You Should Know Before Relocating

● Know the areas and their location to determine which best suits your lifestyle and business.
● Conduct a market study and analyse the real estate sector if you are considering buying or renting a property.
● Assess the educational offer, both national and international, public and private. There is a wide variety in this regard. In the following link, you can see the educational offer on the Costa del Sol.

Conclusion

Get advice from professionals who can guide you and help you find your favourite spot in Málaga!

“Ready to invest in Málaga and find your ideal property? Contact us today and receive personalised advice to locate the best real estate opportunities in the city and on the Costa del Sol”

www.hellospainproperties.com

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In this complete and up-to-date guide, we explain how to get a mortgage in Spain in 2026 as a non-resident, what the maximum age limits are, what interest rate types exist and which is usually the best, which banks offer the best options, what the mortgage evaluation process looks like for foreigners, and what documents banks require.

What Is a Mortgage for Non-Residents?

A mortgage for non-residents is a loan granted by a Spanish bank to people who do not live or pay taxes in Spain, even if they buy a property in the country. This type of financing is mainly used by:

• International investors buying to rent or diversify assets
• People purchasing a second home in Spain
• Foreigners planning to move later but not yet Spanish tax residents

Banks consider this profile as higher risk, so they apply more conservative lending criteria.

How Much Financing Do Banks Offer to Non-Residents?

In 2026, typical financing conditions for non-residents are:

• Maximum financing: between 60% and 70% of the lower value between purchase price and appraisal value
• Minimum down payment: between 30% and 40% of the price
• Additional costs: approximately 10%–12% (taxes, notary, registration, appraisal)

This means that, unlike residents, foreign buyers must have a significant initial capital before applying for a mortgage.

Maximum Age to Apply for a Mortgage as a Foreigner

Spanish banks do not set only a maximum age to sign a mortgage, but a maximum age at the end of the loan. The usual maximum age is between 70 and 75 years, depending on the bank

Practical examples

• Buyer aged 45 → maximum term 25–30 years
• Buyer aged 55 → maximum term 15–20 years
• Buyer aged 65 → maximum term 5–10 years

This factor is key in defining the term and monthly payment.

Interest Rate Types for Non-Resident Mortgages in 2026

Foreign non-residents can access the same mortgage types as residents, although with slightly higher interest rates due to higher risk.

Fixed-rate mortgage

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps the same payment throughout the life of the loan.

Main advantages:

• Stability and predictability
• Protection against Euribor increases
• Ideal for income in currencies other than euros

Disadvantages:

• Slightly higher initial interest

In 2026, fixed-rate mortgages are the most popular option for non-residents due to security.

Variable-rate mortgage

A variable-rate mortgage is linked to Euribor + margin set by the bank.

Advantages: Lower initial payments

Risks: Uncertainty in future payments & greater impact if income is in another currency.

This type is recommended only for high-risk tolerance profiles.

Mixed mortgage

A mixed mortgage combines both models:

• Fixed rate for the first 5–10 years
• Then variable rate

It’s a good option for those seeking initial stability and greater long-term flexibility.

Which interest rate is best for non-residents?
In most cases, fixed or mixed mortgages are the safest and most recommended options for foreign buyers.

Banks Offering Mortgages to Non-Residents in Spain (Costa del Sol and Málaga)

Not all banks actively work with international clients. In 2026, the most common banks for non-resident mortgages are:

• BBVA – Strong international presence and digital processes
• Banco Santander – Competitive conditions with linked products
• Banco Sabadell – Specialized in mortgages for foreigners
• Openbank – Online alternative with attractive fixed rates
• Banca March – Wealth management focus for high-net-worth profiles
• MyInvestor and Coinc – Digital options depending on financial profile

Final conditions depend on country of residence, job stability, income, and assets.

Requirements to Get a Mortgage in Spain as a Non-Resident

Basic documentation

• Valid passport
• NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
• Tax residence certificate
• Bank statements from the last 3–6 months
• Employment contract or proof of income
• Tax returns from the country of residence

Additional documentation

• Certified translations into Spanish
• Apostille (depending on the country)
• Proof of assets or investments

Banks pay special attention to income stability, savings capacity, and currency risk.

Mortgage Evaluation Process for Foreigners (Step by Step)

1. Pre-financial assessment
   Analysis of income, debts, savings, and debt capacity
2. Mortgage simulation
   Comparing scenarios with different interest rates and terms
3. Submission of complete documentation
   Detailed review by the bank’s risk department
4. Property appraisal
   Conducted by a company approved by the Bank of Spain
5. Approval and binding offer
   Legal document with final conditions
6. Signing before a notary
   Signing of the mortgage and purchase contract

The process typically takes 6–12 weeks, but may take longer if documents come from abroad or if the appraisal is delayed.

Key Tips from a Real Estate Agency in the Costa del Sol (Málaga)

• Put down more than 30% if possible, especially in high-demand areas like Marbella, Estepona, or Málaga city
• Reduce or eliminate debts and avoid new financial commitments during the evaluation
• Provide complete and well-translated documentation to avoid delays
• Open a Spanish bank account and demonstrate savings capacity
• Work with a broker and a real estate agency specialized in Costa del Sol and Málaga for non-residents to negotiate better conditions and choose the bank that best fits your profile
• Consider properties with high liquidity (areas with strong international demand)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I buy in the Costa del Sol without being a resident?

Yes. A non-resident can buy property in Spain and apply for a mortgage, as long as they meet the bank’s solvency and documentation requirements.

Do I need a NIE to buy?

Yes, the NIE is mandatory for any real estate transaction in Spain.

The official website of the Spanish government where you can start the NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) process is the Electronic Headquarters of the National Police – NIE Assignment‎.

Sede Electrónica de la Policía Nacional – Asignación de NIE‎

How much does buying a property in the Costa del Sol cost?

Besides the down payment, you must consider additional costs of approximately 10%–12% of the purchase price (taxes, notary, registration, management, appraisal).

Which area is best for investing in the Costa del Sol?

It depends on the objective: investment, second home, or resale. Generally, Marbella, Estepona, Fuengirola, and Málaga city are the areas with the highest international demand.

What type of mortgage is best for a non-resident?

In most cases, fixed or mixed for stability and predictability. Variable is recommended only if there is high risk tolerance.

How long does the mortgage process take?

Between 6 and 12 weeks, but it can be longer if documentation comes from abroad or appraisal is delayed.

We Summarize It for You

Here is a summary table with key points for getting a mortgage in Spain in 2026 as a non-resident, including bank types and which are best positioned in the Costa del Sol and Málaga for foreign clients.

Bank types and positioning for non-residents

Quick conclusion: For international clients buying in the Costa del Sol and Málaga, the best-positioned banks are those with experience in non-residents, especially in fixed-rate mortgages, and with processes adapted to foreign documentation.

Working with a real estate agency specialized in the Costa del Sol helps identify which bank fits your profile and negotiate better conditions from the start.

If you are considering buying on the Costa del Sol, we offer exclusive, no-obligation advice.
We help you calculate your mortgage, analyze your financial profile, and select properties with high investment or lifestyle potential.

Book your free consultation and discover your best options.

If you are considering buying on the Costa del Sol, we offer exclusive, no-obligation advice.
We help you calculate your mortgage, analyze your financial profile, and select properties with high investment or lifestyle potential.

www.hellospainproeprties.com

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How to Make Your Home Shine for a Real Estate Photo Shoot

At Hello Spain Properties, we bring you our top tips for preparing your home for a real estate photo shoot. Many of you have been or are currently in the process of selling a property, and high-quality photos are essential to capture the attention of potential buyers.

This advice is useful whether you are selling through an estate agency or taking the photos yourself. As a team with extensive experience in property photography, we’ve compiled some practical tricks to make your home look its best.

1. Cleanliness

A thorough deep clean isn’t always necessary; a general tidy-up is often enough. Focus on the key areas that will make the biggest impact:

Bathrooms and Mirrors

• Keep bathrooms spotless, with mirrors and shower screens free from limescale and splashes.

Kitchen and Countertops

• Ensure there are no dirty dishes or items drying on the counter. Remove any photos or magnets from the fridge where possible.
• A tidy kitchen helps reduce visual noise, making the space appear larger and more appealing in photos.

Windows and Glass

• Clean all windows to make the most of the Costa del Sol’s natural light, gardens, and sea views. High-quality images will show your property at its true potential.

2. Declutter and Reduce Visual Noise

This is one of the most delicate steps, especially if the property is still inhabited during the photoshoot. Personal items can distract viewers from the property itself.

• Remove as many personal belongings as possible: towels, toothbrushes, toiletries, books, mobile phones, and family photographs.
• Store items that are normally in the room, such as toys, chargers, or soft toys, in cupboards to keep spaces tidy.
• A well-ordered property conveys cleanliness and enhances the quality of the photos, requiring less editing afterwards.

3. Lighting

No one knows your home better than you, so help your estate agent identify the best times of day for photos. Lighting makes a huge difference.

• Open blinds and curtains to let in natural light and make rooms appear brighter and more inviting.
• In darker areas, switch on ambient or artificial lights to support natural light. Proper lighting ensures each room looks its best.

4. Plants and Greenery

Plants are a fantastic ally in property photography.

• If you have real plants, place them strategically to highlight warmth and homeliness.
• If you don’t have any, consider using small artificial plants. Greenery always adds life to a room without overwhelming the space.

5. Home Staging

Staging your home can make a huge difference to how potential buyers perceive it.

• Prepare a table setting on the terrace, arrange sofa cushions neatly, make the beds without wrinkles, and display towels hotel-style in bathrooms.
• Close toilet lids, cupboards, and the fridge to keep everything neat.
• The aim is to make your home feel like a warm, inviting hotel where buyers can imagine living comfortably.

Conclusion

We understand that not all properties have the same possibilities, but from our experience, the more care you put into preparing your home, the better the results. It’s all about highlighting the property’s charm and maximising its appeal.

When selling your home, you are selling the experience of living there. Showcasing its best version will help potential buyers fall in love with the space and increase interest.

Ready to showcase your property at its best? Contact Hello Spain Properties today for expert advice on preparing your home for professional real estate photography..

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1⃣ Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR)

• Applies to capital gains – the difference between the selling price and the purchase price, minus deductible costs such as notary fees, registry fees, property improvements, and agent commissions.
• Tax rate: 19%, same for EU and non-EU sellers.
• The buyer must withhold 3% of the sale price and pay it to the Spanish Tax Agency (Hacienda) using Form 211, within 1 month of signing.
• The seller must file Form 210 within 4 months of the sale (3 months after the withholding deadline).
• If the 3% withheld exceeds the final tax due, the seller can request a refund from Hacienda.

2⃣ Municipal Capital Gains Tax (Plusvalía Municipal / IIVTNU)

• Levied on the increase in the value of urban land between purchase and sale.
• For non-resident sellers, the buyer is responsible for paying this tax, though they can reclaim it from the seller later.
• Paid to the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento), usually within 30 working days of the sale.
• Following recent rulings, no tax may be due if there is no actual increase in land value.

3⃣ Other Taxes and Obligations

• IBI (Property Tax): Annual local tax based on cadastral value, usually prorated between buyer and seller.
• Form 720: Informative declaration for Spanish residents holding foreign assets over €50,000. Sellers who previously submitted this may need to update it after the sale.
• Wealth Tax (if applicable): Only relevant for very high-value properties; currently 100% exempt in Andalusia, but check for updates.

4⃣ Recent Developments

• The European Commission is reviewing Spain for potential discriminatory taxation of non-residents using Spanish property as their main residence.
• A new law proposal is under discussion to impose an extra tax on foreign buyers (e.g., a surcharge or VAT increase). This could affect future purchases if approved.

Quick Summary for Non-Resident Sellers on the Costa del Sol

Bottom line:
If you’re a non-resident selling property on the Costa del Sol, the main taxes to focus on are IRNR (19%) and Plusvalía Municipal, plus the usual transaction costs like agent fees, notary, and energy certificates.

Want to know more about the taxes for Non-Residents vendors?
Visit our next blog: 

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You’re a non-resident in Spain if:

• You live outside of Spain for more than 183 days per year.
• You do not pay income tax in Spain as a fiscal resident.

Non-residents can freely purchase property in Spain, but there are certain taxes and procedures to follow.

1. New Property (purchased from a developer)

If you’re buying a newly built property (directly from a developer or builder):

Taxes:

• VAT (IVA – Impuesto sobre el Valor Añadido): 10%
• Stamp Duty (AJD – Actos Jurídicos Documentados): 1.2% in Andalusia

Total taxes: 11.2% of the purchase price

2. Resale Property (from a private individual)

If you’re buying a second-hand (resale) property, VAT does not apply. Instead, you’ll pay:

• Transfer Tax (ITP – Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales): 7% in Andalusia (flat rate since 2021)

Total taxes: 7% of the purchase price

Additional Costs to Consider

Besides taxes, buyers should budget for:

• Notary fees: usually between €600 – €1,000 depending on property price.
• Land Registry fees: approx. €400 – €800.
• Lawyer fees: typically 1% (highly recommended for non-residents).
• Bank/mortgage fees: opening commissions, valuation (~€300–€600).
• NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero): mandatory to purchase, approx. €150–€300 if handled via gestoría.
• Ongoing costs: annual property tax (IBI), garbage collection, community fees, and non-resident income tax.

Tip: Always keep at least 10–13% extra of the property price as a buffer for taxes and expenses.

Want to know more about the full vendors Non-Residents?
Visit our next blog: https://hellospainproperties.com/taxes-for-non-resident-property-sellers-in-spain-costa-del-sol/

The post Purchase Taxes for Non-Residents Buying Property in Costa del Sol (Spain) appeared first on hellospainproperties.com.

Recent evolution of property prices in Málaga

• In August 2025, the average price in the province of Málaga reached €3,842/m², with a year-on-year increase of 13.8%. This is 42% above the national average, confirming the city’s appeal as both a residential and investment destination (idealista.com).
• During the first quarter of 2025, sales prices rose by 10.6%, reaching an average of €3,046/m². New-build housing surged by 20.3% in the quarter, while second-hand homes increased by 5.1% (cadenaser.com).

Record highs

• According to Fotocasa, in July 2025 property prices in Málaga city reached €4,145/m², which is 49% higher than at the peak of the 2007 housing bubble (fotocasa.es).
• Málaga is now the most expensive province in Andalusia, and one of the most overheated markets in Spain (vidaeconomica.com).

Are prices still rising?

• Although year-on-year growth remains high — above 10% during the first half of 2025 — there are early signs of a slight moderation in some areas (fotocasa.es).
• Nationally, house prices rose by 12.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, confirming the strength of the wider Spanish market (es.wikipedia.org).

Wider context

• In Spain as a whole, the average price of free housing reached €2,093.5/m² in the second quarter of 2025, up 10.4% year-on-year, the highest level in 17 years (elpais.com).
• The lack of housing supply, combined with solid domestic and international demand, is the main driver of these increases. Only about 120,000 new homes are being built in 2025, compared with the 600,000 needed according to estimates (elpais.com).
• The boom in short-term holiday rentals is also pushing prices higher. It is estimated that more than 30% of rent increases in Málaga are due to this phenomenon (elpais.com).

Conclusion for Málaga

• Yes, property prices in Málaga are still rising in 2025.
• While the upward trend remains strong, there are hints of a gradual slowdown, especially in the most over-heated areas.
• With demand still far outstripping supply, the market remains firmly on an upward trajectory.

Key figures

Challenges

Affordability is a growing issue, especially for younger households.

Greater public or social housing supply is needed to ease pressure.

Government measures, such as restrictions on holiday lets or rent control rules, will play a key role in stabilising the market (huffingtonpost.es).

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Join the fun from 22nd to 27th July at the local fairground – a celebration full of tradition, live music, family-friendly activities and summer energy!

Dates: 22nd–27th July (in honour of Saint James the Apostle)
Location: La Cala de Mijas fairground

Event Highlights

• 22 July (10:30 PM) – Fair lights switch-on and Children’s Day with reduced-price rides
• Daily (7:00–9:00 PM) – Quiet hours: reduced noise for individuals with autism (ASD-friendly)
• Senior Citizens’ Dinner
  • 22 July at 9:00 PM in the main marquee
  • Includes the Grandparents of the Funfair awards
• Daytime Funfair
  • 26–27 July at El Torreón: live music, local food, and family fun
• Free Videobooth Experience

Daytime fair at El Torreón (26–28 July): featuring Orquesta Rompeolas, Alejados, Kalima and Maníacos

Inclusion, Safety & Respect

• Quiet funfair hours: daily 7:00–9:00 PM for those with sensory needs
• “Punto Violeta” help point against gender violence: open 26–27 July (11:00 PM–3:00 AM)
• Over 100 officers (Local Police, Civil Protection, fire brigade, medics) will ensure safety throughout the event

How to Get There

• By car: A‑7 motorway, La Cala de Mijas exit
• By bus: Intercity buses to/from Fuengirola, Marbella and Málaga
• Taxis and ride apps available locally

The post La Cala de Mijas FunFair 2025 – 22nd to 27th July! appeared first on hellospainproperties.com.

For years, the Golden Visa was one of the fastest and most attractive ways to obtain residency in Spain through investment. But with the political and regulatory changes this year, the big question is: Is it still worth it?

What was the Golden Visa?
It was a residence permit for non-EU citizens investing in strategic assets in Spain. The most common route was purchasing real estate worth at least €500,000, although investments in shares, government bonds or business projects were also accepted.

What changed in 2025?
On 3 April 2025, the Spanish Government officially abolished the Golden Visa following the approval of Organic Law 1/2025. This move aimed to curb property speculation and address rising housing costs, particularly in regions like Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.
Additionally, the European Union had expressed concerns over such programmes due to security and transparency issues.

What does this mean for investors?

• No new Golden Visa applications have been accepted since 3 April 2025.
• Applications submitted before this date will continue to be processed, and existing permits can be renewed under the previous regulations.

What alternatives are there now?
Although the Golden Visa is no longer available, Spain offers other legal routes to residency:

1. Non-lucrative residence visa
   Suitable for individuals with sufficient passive income or savings, without the need to work in Spain.
2. Digital nomad visa
   Designed for professionals working remotely for companies or clients abroad.
3. Entrepreneur visa
   Targeted at innovative projects that create jobs and add value to Spain’s business ecosystem.

Be aware of new taxes
Some regions are proposing additional taxes on non-resident buyers, which in some cases could reach up to 100% of the property value. This makes expert legal and tax advice essential.

In summary:

• The Golden Visa has been officially abolished.
• Visas granted before 3 April remain valid.
• Alternative routes like non-lucrative, digital nomad or entrepreneur visas exist.
• Property investment no longer guarantees residency, so a careful strategy is required.

Looking to Secure Residency in Spain After the Golden Visa Was Abolished?

Get in touch with us today for a free, personalised consultation.
Our expert team will help you navigate the best legal pathways tailored specifically to your needs.

Contact us now and take the first step towards making Spain your new home!

The post Golden Visa Spain 2025: Is It Still Worth Investing for Residency After Its Abolition? appeared first on hellospainproperties.com.

Thinking about moving to the Costa del Sol but don’t speak Spanish? Discover whether it’s possible, the realities of daily life, and why learning the language might still be worth your while.

Life on the Costa del Sol: Multicultural, Modern, Cosmopolitan and Welcoming

The Costa del Sol isn’t just a tourist hotspot — it’s a thriving international community. From seaside cafés to local schools and property communities, the region has evolved into a melting pot of languages and lifestyles.

Since the 1950s, when luxury tourism began to flourish, this sunny stretch of southern Spain has been attracting expats from all over Europe — especially Britons, Germans, and Scandinavians — many of whom now call it home either part-time or year-round.

A Region Built for International Living

As more foreigners settled, the Costa adapted. Today, it’s common to find:

• Supermarkets stocking British, German and Nordic products
• Doctors and clinics offering services in multiple languages
• International schools following British or Scandinavian curriculums
• English-speaking estate agents, lawyers, and builders
• Residential communities where meetings are held entirely in English

Areas such as Fuengirola, La Cala de Mijas, Calahonda, Marbella, and Estepona are particularly popular with foreign residents — and are among the easiest places to settle without Spanish.

So, Can You Really Live There Without Speaking Spanish?

Yes — you absolutely can.
Whether you’re retiring, working remotely or just spending the winters in the sun, daily life can be navigated in English. Apps, multilingual staff, and the familiarity of fellow expats mean you’ll rarely feel lost.

However…

Not speaking Spanish can limit your experience.

Learning the language — even at a conversational level — allows you to:

• Connect more deeply with Spanish neighbours
• Understand local culture, news and humour
• Avoid relying solely on expat communities
• Handle paperwork, emergencies or healthcare with greater confidence

Insider Tip: Learn Spanish in a Fun, Social Way

Take advantage of local language exchanges, free online tools, or join a Spanish class. Many expats say it’s the best decision they made — not just for communication, but for feeling truly at home.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can… But Should You?

The Costa del Sol is perhaps the easiest place in Spain to live without speaking Spanish. Its services and society are built with international residents in mind.

Connecting with the language means connecting with the people

The post 🌞 Can You Live on the Costa del Sol Without Speaking Spanish? appeared first on hellospainproperties.com.