Spain’s Growing Appeal for International Buyers: How Poland, Germany, and the UK Are Shaping the Residential Tourism Landscape

Spain has long been a favorite destination for residential tourism, primarily as a second home for holidaymakers. However, 2025 marks a turning point in this trend, as international buyers increasingly view Spain not just as a vacation spot but as a permanent or semi-permanent home. The country has transitioned from a seasonal hotspot to one that attracts long-term residents, redefining the landscape of residential tourism and making Spain a more stable and resilient market.

A Surge in Long-Term Residential Tourism

Historically, Spain’s real estate market was driven by demand for second homes, where foreign nationals would spend a few months during holidays. In recent years, however, a growing number of foreign buyers have opted for Spain as a place to live year-round. According to the Residential Tourist Profile Report for 2025, this shift has been observed with increasing frequency. Buyers, particularly from northern Europe, are not just seeking seasonal homes but have shown a marked preference for longer stays and long-term investments.

This transformation is evident in the data, which shows a reduction in seasonality traditionally associated with tourist activity. Buyers are now seeking homes for up to half of the year, injecting a more consistent revenue stream into local economies, creating jobs, and enhancing the property market’s stability.

Expanding Buyers Demographic and Increased Purchasing Power

Spain remains an appealing destination for international buyers, with buyers from 36 different countries investing in residential projects across the country. Poland continues to lead, accounting for 21.4% of transactions in 2025. Germany has emerged as a key player, growing its share to become the fourth largest market for residential tourism with 8.2% of transactions, surpassing Belgium in the process.

Buyers from the Netherlands, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and Romania also feature prominently. Notably, the average age of residential investors in Spain is 51 years old, with 60% of them married. Interestingly, the youngest buyers come from Georgia, where the average age is 33, while those from countries like Iceland and Lithuania are typically over 60 years old.

Bigger Budgets, Higher Quality Demand

In 2025, the average budget for a residential property in Spain reached €560,000, marking an impressive 22.5% increase from the previous year. This increase reflects the growing purchasing power of international buyers who are now prioritizing quality, location, and design over simply securing affordable properties. Polish buyers, for instance, are spending an average of €685,000 (a 48% year-on-year increase), highlighting the increasing demand for homes suitable for long stays, featuring sustainability, premium amenities, and prime locations.

Moreover, a significant change has occurred in the way these international buyers are financing their purchases. 85% of transactions are now completed without the need for bank financing, reducing the real estate market’s reliance on fluctuating interest rates and providing greater resilience during economic uncertainty.

Costa Blanca: Spain’s Top Destination for Residential Tourists

Among Spain’s residential hotspots, Costa Blanca remains the most popular region for foreign buyers. This Mediterranean paradise, with its favorable climate, excellent connectivity, and strong healthcare system, accounted for 52% of residential sales in 2025. Other regions like Almería, Valencia, and the Costa del Sol are also gaining traction, further reinforcing Spain’s status as a leading destination for residential tourism.

In terms of property type, flats dominate the market, comprising 64% of demand, with the average flat size being 117 square meters. Among the most desired configurations, two-bedroom flats are particularly popular, especially with 60% of buyers. The increasing demand for larger properties is evident in markets like Iceland, Norway, and the Czech Republic, where buyers are looking for more spacious homes to accommodate family life or remote work.

Digitalisation: Making the Buying Process Easier for International Buyers

Another striking change is the role of digitalisation in property transactions. A growing number of buyers are now completing their property purchases online, with two out of ten transactions happening through remote channels. This is a game-changer for international investors who may not be able to travel to Spain frequently. Spain’s well-developed digital infrastructure and the growing use of virtual property tours make buying a home from abroad easier than ever before.

Residential Tourism: A Stabilising Economic Force

Residential tourism is more than just a trend; it is increasingly seen as an economic stabiliser for Spain. As the number of buyers choosing to live in their Spanish homes for more than four months a year rises, the resulting continuous occupancy reduces the seasonal peaks and valleys that typically characterize Spain’s tourism sector. This new model of residential tourism not only brings in higher property values but also benefits local businesses and communities by keeping the tourism economy active throughout the year, instead of just during the traditional high seasons.

The arrival of international buyers who view Spain as a long-term residential destination also contributes significantly to sustaining jobs within the real estate sector and the broader tourism industry. The rise of this residential tourism model has led to a substantial increase in employment, especially in regions like Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol, which are home to a large portion of Spain’s foreign buyers.

Embracing a New Era in Residential Tourism

Spain’s residential tourism market has evolved into a dynamic, sustainable, and economically beneficial segment of the country’s broader tourism sector. With more international buyers choosing to stay for extended periods or even make Spain their primary residence, the property market has transformed into a stable and resilient entity that continues to thrive despite potential economic challenges. Spain’s unique blend of quality of life, affordability, and excellent infrastructure ensures that it remains one of the most attractive destinations for residential tourists in Europe.

Travel Tips for Potential Buyers in Spain

• Research your destination: Before making any decisions, it’s essential to research the specific regions in Spain where you plan to invest. Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol are among the most popular locations for residential tourists, but regions like Almería and Valencia are also seeing growing interest.

• Leverage digital tools: Spain’s real estate market is now highly digitalised, so take advantage of virtual property tours and online consultations with agents to make your decision remotely.

• Understand the legalities: Familiarize yourself with Spain’s property laws and the process for acquiring a property as a foreign buyer. Seek legal advice if necessary.

• Consider long-term stay options: Many international buyers are looking for homes suitable for long-term stays. Be sure to check the local amenities and the quality of life in the area, such as healthcare and transport.

Spain’s shift from a second-home market to a year-round residential hub marks the dawn of a new era for the country’s tourism and real estate sectors. This long-term shift is helping to stabilise the market and is cementing Spain’s reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in Europe. For international buyers looking for more than just a holiday home, Spain is offering an attractive proposition – a stable, high-quality, and digital-friendly destination for residential tourism.