The Costa del Sol is one of the most attractive regions in Spain for home buying. The area has seen a price increase of 13.3% in 2024 and the luxury segment in particular is booming. But it’s not just the well-known areas like Marbella and Estepona that are attracting attention. Cities like Benalmádena and Mijas, closer to Málaga and the airport, are becoming increasingly popular with buyers looking for quality, proximity and tranquility – and this is where Five2one focuses its vacation rentals.
What should you know before buying a holiday home abroad?
Before you dive into the housing market abroad, you should consider the following key points:
- Popular areas such as Benalmádena and Mijas: These cities combine modern amenities, beautiful nature and a short distance to Málaga, making them ideal for both relaxation and investment.
- Property prices are on the rise: The Costa del Sol has seen significant price growth, with areas such as Benalmádena and Mijas offering great opportunities to find luxurious homes at a competitive price.
- The purpose of your home: Is it for your own use or as an investment? Both of the above cities have excellent potential for both private stays and short-term rentals.
- Legal requirements: Buying property in Spain requires a good understanding of taxes, fees and local legislation. Get professional help to ensure a smooth process.
- Administration and maintenance: Managing a vacation rental requires time and resources. At Five2one, we take care of all the practicalities so you can enjoy your vacation worry-free.
Step-by-step guide to buying a holiday home abroad
At Five2one, we specialize in making luxury homes in Spain accessible through a sharing concept where five families share ownership of a home. This allows you to own a luxury home at a fraction of the cost – without the hassle of administration and maintenance.
If you dream of buying a vacation home abroad and want to do it in a smart and economical way, this step-by-step guide is for you. Read also how Five2one’s sharing concept makes it possible to own a luxury vacation home in Costa del Sol at a fraction of the price.
1. Define your budget
Before you start house hunting, you should have a clear budget that includes:
- Purchase price including taxes and fees (typically 10-15% of the purchase price).
- Ongoing costs such as property tax, insurance and maintenance.
- Additional costs for possible renovation, furniture and administration.
Five2one makes home buying more affordable as you only pay a fraction of the price and share the running costs with the other owners.
2. Choose the right location
When investing in a vacation home, location is key. The Costa del Sol offers several attractive areas, with Benalmádena, Fuengirola and Mijas among the most popular choices. These areas combine fantastic beaches, modern amenities and authentic Spanish charm, as well as being close to Málaga Airport. Each city has its own unique qualities, whether you’re looking for a lively coastal town, an exclusive vacation area or a quiet Andalusian village.
3. Understand the legal framework
Buying a home in Spain involves several legal processes:
- Registration of ownership – requires a NIE (Spanish identification number for foreigners) if the property is purchased individually.
- Taxes and fees – including transfer tax and notary costs.
- Property contracts – legal documents must be properly drafted to protect your investment.
With Five2one, you get legal peace of mind as we handle the entire process in collaboration with experienced lawyers.
4. Consider a sharing concept as a smarter solution
Instead of buying a vacation home on your own, you can opt for a shared concept where several owners share costs and usage rights.
Benefits of Five2one:
- Luxury vacation rentals without the full cost – you only pay a fraction of the price.
- 10 weeks per year – with the flexibility to swap, rent or borrow your weeks.
- Professional management – we take care of maintenance, cleaning and operations.
- Easy exit strategy – you can always sell your share when it suits you – and since the share is owned through a Danish company, you don’t have to go to the Spanish notary.
If you want to minimize costs and administration, a sharing concept like Five2one can be a great solution. With our concept, five families share ownership of a luxury vacation home, saving up to 80% of the total cost.
5. Sign the agreement
Once you’ve found your dream home, it’s time to sign the contract. Five2one handles the entire process for you – from legal paperwork to interior design.
Benalmádena, Fuengirola and Mijas: A growing market
These areas have become popular alternatives to the more well-known cities like Marbella and Estepona. They combine luxury, quality of life and investment potential, making them attractive to families and investors alike.
- Benalmádena: Known for its family-friendly beaches, cultural activities and spectacular marina, which is one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. The area offers modern properties and a lively environment with a wealth of restaurants, shops and leisure options.
- Fuengirola: One of the Costa del Sol’s most vibrant coastal towns, combining one of the region’s longest beaches with a charming city center. The city offers a wide range of shopping, gastronomy and activities, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced lifestyle between relaxation and city life.
- Mijas: A postcard-perfect placethat combines traditional Andalusian charm with modern conveniences. Mijas Pueblo, the historic part of the city, is known for its whitewashed houses and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The area is popular with those seeking a more relaxed lifestyle but still want easy access to the attractions of the Costa del Sol.
Five2one has carefully selected luxury homes in these areas based on quality, investment potential and proximity to key amenities.
Why choose Five2one when buying a vacation home abroad?
Five2one makes it easy to buy and own a vacation home in Costa del Sol. Our sharing concept gives you access to luxury without the financial and administrative burdens that often come with ownership abroad.
What do you get with Five2one?
- Luxurious vacation rentals in attractive areas such as Benalmádena, Fuengirola and Mijas.
- 10 weeks of annual vacation in your luxury home with flexibility to swap, rent or borrow weeks.
- Professional management and maintenance to ensure your home is always ready for your stay.
- A secure solution with legal protection under Danish law.
Our team has over 20 years of experience in real estate, law and administration, and we guide you through the entire process.
Ready to buy your holiday home abroad?
Benalmádena and Mijas offer everything you could want from a vacation home abroad: luxury, proximity and investment potential. With Five2one, you can realize your dream in a smart and economical way, while enjoying a seamless experience from start to finish.
Contact us today at info@five2oneestate.com to learn more about our parts concept, or read more here on our website. Din drømmebolig i Costa del Sol venter på dig!