Average search interest figures show British buyers remain interested in Spanish property.

According to analysis by Enness Global, searches for “Buying in Spain” increased by 68.9 per cent from 2024 to 2025, while “Holiday Home Spain” rose by 66.1 per cent.

Islay Robinson, CEO of Enness Global, said: “Despite the political noise around restricting overseas buyers, British interest in Spanish property remains remarkably resilient and our analysis shows that demand hasn’t weakened — if anything, it has strengthened over the past year.

“For many UK buyers, Spain continues to offer an unbeatable combination of lifestyle, climate and relative value, particularly when compared to some parts of the domestic market.”

Spain abolished the Golden Visa scheme, which required a €500,000 property investment for residency, in April 2025.

Last year, Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez suggested a property purchase tax of 100 per cent on non-EU residents.

The idea has yet to advance, with legal challenges and a minority coalition government making any changes unlikely.

Robinson said: “While regulatory changes may alter how people buy, they are unlikely to change why people buy, and we are seeing many clients place a greater emphasis on structuring purchases efficiently based on the evolving landscape.

“Ultimately, Spain remains one of the most desirable second-home and relocation destinations for British buyers and, even in a tighter regulatory environment, demand for quality lifestyle property in the sun shows no sign of fading.”

Analysis of listings on Rightmove International showed more than half of available housing stock was in Andalusia (52.5 per cent), followed by Valencia (22.8 per cent), the Balearic Islands (8.5 per cent) and Murcia (8 per cent).

However, some advisers warn that property abroad is not all milk and honey, and should be considered as part of a broader plan.

Nouran Moustafa, IFA at Roxton Wealth, said: “My advice to clients is to treat an overseas purchase as a financial strategy, not just an emotional decision.

“Currency exposure, residency rules, inheritance tax, healthcare access and long term liquidity all need proper planning before committing.

“Cross border planning is where small mistakes become expensive, so professional advice is essential. Planning first, lifestyle second.”

hereward.mills@ft.com