When is the best time to buy a property in the Costa del Sol?

Timing is everything — also in the property market. But when is actually the best time to buy a home in southern Spain? Is it during the summer, while you're already here on holiday? Or is it better to wait until after the high season? And what about winter or spring?

If you're dreaming of owning a property on the Costa del Sol, it's only natural to ask: when is the right time to make a move? The answer isn’t as simple as “now or never.” The Spanish property market follows a clear seasonal rhythm — and as a buyer, you can use that to your advantage.

In this blog, you'll learn how the buying process changes throughout the year, what to consider in each season, and when you're most likely to make a successful purchase. We combine local experience with recent data to give you the full picture.

Summer: Many viewers, few sellers

Summer is when the Costa del Sol is at its liveliest. Tourists flock to the beaches, the sun is out in full force, and many people begin to dream about owning a second home. But is summer the best time to buy?

Not necessarily. Many homes listed as ‘for sale’ are rented out during the summer holiday season. Owners want to secure their rental income before considering a sale. As a result:

• The number of available properties is limited;

• Viewings are harder to arrange due to tenants staying in the homes;

• You’ll see lots of casual “browsers”, but fewer serious buyers.

In short: it’s a great time to explore, but not the best time to close a deal.

Autumn: More calm, more serious sellers

September to November marks the start of the “real” selling season for many agents. The summer crowds leave, tenants move out, and the market gets going again.

• More homes come onto the market — many owners wait until after summer to list.

• Buyers are more focused — those viewing homes in autumn are often ready to act.

• Easier to schedule viewings — there’s less pressure and more flexibility.

• Sellers are back — and often more willing to negotiate.

✅ Autumn offers calm, clarity and opportunity — an ideal moment for serious buyers on the Costa del Sol.

Winter: Quiet Season, with room for deals

December and January are traditionally the quietest months on the Costa del Sol property market. The holidays play a role, but so does the temporary absence of many owners, agents and contractors.

• Limited supply — some owners postpone their sale until spring.

• Fewer viewing opportunities — and slower legal or structural processes.

• Less competition — serious buyers may have more leverage.

• Occasional deals — motivated sellers with deadlines (e.g. fiscal) may lower their price.
  

🟡 Winter isn’t ideal for everyone, but if you’re flexible and well-prepared, it might be your window for a bargain.

Spring: Fresh start, new listings

February to May is — along with autumn — one of the most active periods of the year for buyers. The market picks up speed, there’s more choice, and both sides are eager to move forward.

• Plenty of new listings — many homes are prepared during winter and hit the market in spring.

• Active buyer market — people want to secure their purchase before summer.

• Faster decisions — viewings are easier, and sellers are more receptive.

✅ Spring offers fresh opportunities, real momentum and a motivated market.

What do the numbers say?

According to data from Idealista and Fotocasa, the highest volume of new listings and completed transactions is recorded between February–June and September–November.This is confirmed by the Q1 2025 report from Sur in English, which states:

“The strongest demand from international buyers is recorded in spring and autumn, when most serious purchasing decisions are made.”

Figures from Spain’s Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) also show that property transactions in Andalusia peak in spring and autumn, while summer and winter see significantly less activity.

📊 These trends match what local agents have experienced for years: Most serious buyers come after the summer and before the high season. It’s when people are focused, options are plenty, and deals are made.

Summary: When should you buy?

Season	Suitability	Why (or why not)
Summer	❌ Less Ideal	Many homes rented, difficult viewings, many tourists
Autumn	✅ Highly Suitable	More listings, calmer market, better negotiation conditions
Winter	⚠️ Somewhat Limited	Less supply, slow processes — but potential for good deals
Spring	✅ Highly Suitable	Fresh listings, active buyer market, quick decision making

Ready to Explore the Costa del Sol Market?

Check out our current listings in Mijas and surroundings, or contact us directly for personalised advice on your best moment to buy property on the Costa del Sol.

You can also download the free Buyer's Guide from our website – no strings attached.

📞 +34 658 188 318 | ✉️ stefano@lchpp.com