UK buyers lead foreign property market in Spain
UK buyers lead foreign property market in Spain as golf homes surge in popularity
British buyers have reclaimed the top spot among international property purchasers in Spain, with golf homes in Andalusia emerging as one of the strongest lifestyle-driven trends of 2026.
According to the latest data from the Spanish Registrars (Registradores de España), UK nationals accounted for 7.93% of all home purchases by foreign buyers in Q4 2025 — more than any other non-Spanish nationality. The figures confirm what many agents on the ground have been reporting for months: British appetite for Spanish property is not only resilient, but evolving.
Andalusia dominates Spain’s housing market
The same data reveals that Andalusia leads Spain’s property market, representing 20.03% of all home sales nationwide — effectively one in five transactions.
With its sweeping Costa del Sol coastline, year-round sunshine and concentration of world-class golf courses, the region continues to attract both lifestyle buyers and long-term investors. For UK purchasers in particular, Andalusia offers a compelling mix of climate, connectivity and community.
But today’s British buyers are not simply searching for holiday homes.
Sales and Marketing Director at Taylor Wimpey España, has witnessed three decades of British demand in Spain. He notes that motivations have shifted significantly in recent years.
“Between hybrid and remote working arrangements, and interest in easing into retirement part-time, buyers’ motivations have shifted when looking at homes in Spain. Many UK buyers seeking property in Spain these days aren’t just thinking of a second home in the sunshine. They’re considering the potential of properties as permanent homes, either for now or for the future. Golf course homes, with their greenery, sense of community and on-site facilities, satisfy these buyers’ demands very well.”
The rise of flexible working has enabled more Britons to spend extended periods in Spain. At the same time, many are planning gradual retirement transitions — spending part of the year abroad before relocating permanently.
In this context, golf resorts are emerging as particularly attractive options.
Golf: a lifestyle and an economic powerhouse
Golf is far more than a leisure activity in Andalusia — it is a major economic driver.
According to Andalucía Golf:
- The region attracts 700,000 golf tourists per year
- Direct golf tourism spending reached €1.757 billion in 2024
- Golf-related real estate investment brings approximately €602 million annually
- Around 123,400 homes in the region are owned by golf tourists, with a combined value exceeding €30.1 billion
These figures underline why properties located within or near golf resorts continue to perform strongly.
For many buyers, golf developments provide more than proximity to the fairway. They offer landscaped green surroundings, controlled environments, on-site services and a built-in social network — key considerations for those planning longer stays or permanent relocation.
La Cala Golf: a case study in demand
One standout example is La Cala Golf in Mijas, Costa del Sol. The resort combines three championship golf courses with a hydrotherapy spa, restaurants, tennis and padel courts, football facilities, gym and wellness amenities.
Buyers purchasing through Taylor Wimpey España receive a Privilege Card offering discounts across resort services and facilities — an added incentive for lifestyle-focused purchasers.
Currently available properties include:
- Three-bedroom townhouses at The Meadows, with an ‘A’ energy efficiency rating
- Apartments and duplexes at Solana Village, overlooking the Europa Golf Course
All homes are designed to maximise natural light and views, with generous outdoor terraces and communal swimming pools — features that resonate strongly with British buyers seeking indoor-outdoor living.