Known for its Mediterranean charm, rich culture, and incredible investment opportunities, Spain is fast becoming a favorite for international property seekers, particularly in the Costa del Sol region. This region offers a unique blend of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant lifestyle, and pleasant climate, drawing visitors from around the globe each year.
Positioned to the northeast of Gibraltar, the Costa del Sol is roughly a 180-kilometer stretch of coast located in southern Spain. It includes Manilva, Casares, and Estepona on the west with Torrox, Frigiliana, and Nerja on the eastern side. There are numerous cities in between, including Malaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso.
Investing in Spain
As a locale that draws expats and tourists alike, rental properties in Spain and, particularly the Costa del Sol, are in high demand. These properties are much more affordable compared to other European hotspots, creating a high return on investment and significant property appreciation.
Spain’s Golden Visa program, which offered residency through property investment, helped Americans, Canadians, and other global investors begin to consider Spain as a long-term investment option. Although the Spanish government announced the end of the Golden Visa program in April 2024, no end date has been established, leading many to believe that the program will be reformed rather than eliminated.
Whether buyers are seeking luxury villas, beachfront apartments, or traditional Andalusian homes, the Costa del Sol offers a wide range of investment opportunities.
Why the Costa del Sol?
The Costa del Sol is one of Europe’s most glamorous yet accessible regions. From Marbella to Estepona, the area boasts a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Estepona, often dubbed “The New Marbella,” offers the same high-end lifestyle but at a more affordable price point, making it a smart investment.
The region boasts a pleasant climate year-round and has a substantial expat community where English is commonly spoken. With a mix of high-end restaurants and shopping, plentiful waterfront properties and coastal views, the Costa del Sol provides an appealing and affordable option in comparison to coastal cities in the US and other countries.
Additionally, the region’s strategic location near major international airports, including Málaga-Costa del Sol and Gibraltar, ensures excellent connectivity to Europe and beyond. This has driven interest from international investors and holiday home buyers alike. Whether for a second home or short-term vacation rentals, the Costa del Sol presents an opportunity for both capital appreciation and rental income.
Connecting with an International Property Specialist
When searching for investment opportunities abroad, it is wise to look for realtors that have completed the Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS®) designation. This designation prepares real estate agents to manage complexities in international transactions such as market conditions, tax issues, financing laws, and more.
In Spain, where real estate agent regulations are more relaxed than in the United States, it is essential for international investors to collaborate with a professional who understands the market and can provide timely insights.
Meet Ghada “GG” Benitez
As a Certified International Property Specialist and licensed Realtor® with Realty Executives Dillon in San Diego, California, Ghada “GG” Benitez brings a globally minded approach to real estate investments. Recently, her real estate journey has taken her to Spain’s stunning Costa del Sol to open the market for her investors.
Expanding from Dubai to Spain
Benitez’s work in Dubai, through The Dubai Connect Podcast™, focuses on providing expert insights into the dynamic property market in the UAE. Dubai, with its tax-free advantages and booming global business hub, has attracted many international investors, particularly from North America and Europe.
While Benitez’s business expands to Spain, The Dubai Connect Podcast™ remains a cornerstone of her work. Through this platform, she shares exclusive interviews with global investors, industry leaders, and developers who shape Dubai’s real estate future. It’s a space where she discusses market trends, future opportunities, and the most lucrative investments in Dubai.
Now, with setting up shop in Marbella, she aims to create similar connections between Spain and Dubai. Both markets offer unique opportunities, and she can help investors diversify their portfolios across these two exciting regions.
“Opening an office in Marbella feels like a natural progression of the work I’ve been doing in Dubai,” says Benitez. “And with Spain’s increasing appeal, I’m excited to help clients discover the incredible opportunities in the Costa del Sol.”
In Spain, her goal goes beyond simply finding properties for clients and creating a referral network. She helps investors build strategies that align with their long-term goals, whether it is securing rental income or acquiring a dream vacation home. With Spain’s growing appeal among American and Canadian investors, she aims to make the investment process seamless and tailored to each client’s unique needs.
A New Chapter in Global Investment
As Benitez embarks on this new chapter in Spain, her mission is clear: to empower global investors with expert guidance and access to top international markets. Whether buyers are drawn to the modern energy of Dubai or the timeless beauty of the Costa del Sol, her goal is to help them make informed real estate decisions that shape their financial future.
For more information on investing in the Costa del Sol or to discuss your real estate investment goals, reach out to GG Benitez.
