Andalucia the most popular for Brits buying second homes in Spain

Whether the purchase of a second home in Spain is for family holidays, couples and singles retreats or eventual retirement, Spain’s Andalucia province is al all-time favourite.

In a recent survey by a major international real estate construction firm, Mijas and Marbella came second and third, topped only by Torrevieja in Alicante, thanks to its affordable properties and stunning beaches. Marbella’s first-class year-round flight connections with the UK were a major cause of its success with Britons, and Mijas’s popularity was uniquely due to its range of golf courses.

Developers as well as holiday companies equate the attractions of the sea and easily accessible golf courses as the main reasons for the report’s soaring numbers of home-buyers. Fourth in the survey was Calvia on the island of Mallorca, yet another Spanish hotspot for second home properties. Tourism to Spain continues to break previous records, with 10.5 million arriving last July, an increase on 2016 figures of 10 per cent.

Unsurprisingly, the largest group of 2.3 million visitors came from Britain, with a good number looking to purchase holiday homes after spending free time in their chosen destination. Around 59 per cent of buyers have no intention of renting out their new properties, although 34 per cent aren’t averse to making money from their real estate investments.

It’s not just the British who’re looking to buy in increasing numbers – it’s also the Spanish who’ve now returned to purchasing seaside homes for their holidays or for investment. Inevitably, an increase in sales will lead to an increase in selling prices before long, which may explain the rush by Britons to get in while they still can. Another reason may be the creeping imminence of Brexit, especially for older buyers who’d rather become expats than watch the disintegration of their home country from a front-row seat.