Dutch knock Brits off throne as biggest new-build buyers on Costa del Sol
Dutch new construction Costa del Sol: Every year, the Costa del Sol attracts thousands of Europeans who buy new construction there. Mainly the good weather, good food and high quality of life are responsible for this. In 2024, there was a sharp increase in the number of Dutch new construction buyers, even knocking the British and Belgians off the throne.
Strong evolution among Dutch people buying new construction
During the past two years, the Dutch bought more than twice as many new buildings as Belgians and British (second and third place respectively). They are followed by Poles, Swedes, Germans and Czechs.
In fact, José Carlos Pérez, the CEO of Magnum & Partners – Engel & Völkers, reveals that the number of new construction purchases by the Dutch tripled between 2022 and the first half of 2024. This would be another post-pandemic effect.
Telecommuting and tightened tax rules as cause
The advance of remote working since the pandemic has led to a world in which people can freely choose where to live, as long as the environment promotes their well-being. The coastal region of Malaga, with its mild climate and relaxed pace of life, has emerged as an attractive haven.
But why exactly has the number of Dutch buyers increased exponentially compared to other Europeans? According to Pérez, the reason lies in the tightened tax rules surrounding the purchase of second homes in the Netherlands. As a result, Dutch citizens are turning to alternative European destinations to enjoy their leisure time, with Spain, and especially the Costa del Sol, being the preferred destination.
Since these properties are often purchased as second homes, Pérez explains that Dutch buyers are mainly interested in “acquiring a second home on the Costa del Sol to enjoy it for a few months a year by themselves and rent it out for financial gain for the remaining time.” This illustrates how vacation enjoyment and investment strategy merge seamlessly.
The Costa del Sol’s greatest attractions remain its sun-drenched beaches, temperate climate and soothing lifestyle. These features come into their own most during the summer months, a period when foreign buyers are particularly active, according to the broker.
Pérez reports that sales of newly built second homes to Dutch buyers increased by as much as 150% between June and August 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This indicates a growing European interest in the charms of the Costa del Sol.
Within this region, certain areas have stronger appeal to foreign buyers. For example, analysts note that Dutch buyers prefer Estepona, Torremolinos and Mijas Costa, areas known for their unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.
Source: Idealista
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