Buying property in Costa del Sol – Why autumn 2025 is the smart time to start looking

Dreaming of a home in Southern Spain?

Then autumn might be the perfect time to take action. As summer fades and the tourist season winds down, the Costa del Sol property market begins to reawaken. But why is this particular moment so interesting for buyers?

In this blog, you’ll discover why starting your search in September, October or November gives you an edge — and how that ties into 2026. We combine market insights, current trends and local expertise into one clear story.

🏡 The market shifts after summer: more focus, better opportunities

During July and August, house-hunting on the Costa del Sol can be tricky:

• Many properties are temporarily rented to holidaymakers.

• Owners prefer to secure rental income before considering a sale.

• Scheduling viewings can be complicated due to full calendars and occupied homes.

But things change drastically from September onwards:

• Rental contracts end, and more properties become available for purchase.

• Real estate agents return to full speed.

• Buyers aren’t “just looking” while on vacation — they’ve often done their homework and are ready to act.

In short: the playing field shifts from casual summer browsing to serious buying, with fewer distractions and better conditions.

📈 More listings, more focus — better choices

Where summer stock is often limited, autumn brings a clear increase in options:

• Many owners intentionally wait until after the high season to list their homes.

• New developments launch second or third phases with attractive entry prices.

• There’s less competition than in spring, but buyer quality tends to be higher.

💬 Real estate agents often refer to September to November as the true sales season. There's more focus, less time wasted, and greater willingness among sellers to negotiate.

📅 Smart timing: buy before spring 2026

If you’re starting now, your timing is ideal. Here’s why:

• You’ll have time to explore locations, view homes, and discuss conditions at your own pace.

• You’ll avoid the busy spring rush (February–May), when competition intensifies.

• You can enjoy or rent out your new property by early 2026.

💡 Tip:

Want the keys to your Spanish property in spring 2026? Start orienting now — the purchase process in Spain typically takes 2 to 3 months.

📊 Backed by data: what the numbers say

Recent statistics from Idealista, Fotocasa and the Spanish Statistics Office (INE) show:

• The highest number of transactions occur between February–June and September–November.

• Most new listings also appear during these two periods.

• International buyer demand peaks during spring and autumn.

“The strongest demand from international buyers is recorded in spring and autumn, when most serious purchasing decisions are made.”— Q1 Market Report – Sur in English

These trends perfectly align with what we experience on the ground — every single year.

🔎 What can you do now?

Want to start your buying journey well-prepared? Then:

✔️ Explore locations — like Mijas, Fuengirola, Calahonda or Elviria

✔️ Determine your budget (including ~10% purchase costs)

✔️ Download our free Buyer’s Guide

✔️ Schedule a no-obligation consultation with our real estate office

Or browse our current property listings:

👉 View properties on the Costa del Sol

📘 Download the free Buyer’s Guide

Want to know what to look out for when buying a property on the Costa del Sol in autumn 2025? Download our free Buyer’s Guide and discover:

• The 7 essential steps in the buying process

• Legal and tax considerations

• Practical tips from the Mijas – Costa del Sol area

📩 Download the guide

🧭 Summary: Why starting now is smart

Advantage	Why it matters
✅ Quieter market	Fewer tourists, more space for viewings
✅ More listings	Rental period is over, new homes hit the market
✅ Motivated sellers	Willing to negotiate before year-end
✅ Great timing for 2026	Close your deal before spring and enjoy your home