Why do Russians choose real estate by the sea in Spain?

According to a recent study on the issue of property acquisition abroad by Russians, 96% of realtors claim that the majority of our fellow citizens prefer housing on the coast of Spain. The most popular destinations for Russians have become the resorts of Andalusia, Valencia, and Catalonia. These regions are famous for their coastlines, known as "costas": Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Costa Dorada, and Costa Brava.

Features of the coastlines

Each of these coastlines has its unique features, including a comfortable climate, developed tourist infrastructure, and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. However, the differences between them are also significant, especially in terms of housing prices, food, and services. Let's take a look at the main characteristics:

• Costa del Sol:Located in Andalusia, it is known for its large number of sunny days, numerous golf courses, and lower living costs. Here, the drop in housing prices is accompanied by less significant changes compared to other regions of the country. The water temperature in this area is generally higher, and the beaches are more appealing to vacationers. It is also worth noting that the maintenance costs for properties in this region are quite low, and the sea is safe for small children due to the shallow waters.
• Costa Blanca and Valencia:The climate is somewhat milder. In these areas, summer temperatures do not reach the extreme levels seen in Costa del Sol, usually not exceeding +35 °C. The sea water here is comfortable and warm, making swimming enjoyable almost from May to September, and sometimes even in April or late autumn.
• Costa Brava and Costa Dorada:They are less sunny compared to the aforementioned regions and are characterized by a high level of precipitation. For example, in the summer on the Costa Brava, temperatures range from +25 to +28 °C, while in winter they can drop to +10 °C. The Costa Dorada is also known for having the coldest coastal waters; even in the height of summer, the sea temperature rarely exceeds 21 °C.

Advantages of Costa Dorada

One of the significant advantages of the Costa Dorada is the presence of the famous PortAventura amusement park — the most visited entertainment venue in Spain. This makes the region particularly appealing for family vacations with children.

Mediterranean climate

When it comes to the climate on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, summer temperatures range from 20 to 30 °C, while on the Costa del Sol, which is close to Africa, they can sometimes reach 40-50 °C. This coastline is considered the sunniest in the country, as it boasts clear weather for over 320 days a year, delighting tourists. However, the cool Atlantic current keeps the sea water relatively cold, and even in the summer season, the water temperature rarely rises above 21 °C.

Choosing a region for purchasing real estate

Thus, each of these regions has its own characteristics, making them attractive to different categories of buyers. The choice of location for purchasing real estate largely depends on the preferences and needs of Russian citizens, for whom Spain is one of the most popular countries for investing in housing. Ultimately, it is important to carefully consider all aspects to find a balance between a comfortable climate, reasonable prices, and necessary services. This is especially relevant for people looking to not only relax but also make long-term investments in foreignreal estate.

The climate in Catalonia

The climate conditions in Catalonia are notable for their mildness and stability. Small temperature fluctuations, especially on the Maresme and Garraf coasts, create ideal conditions for tourists to relax. As notedElena ZhabreevaAs a luxury real estate specialist from One House Group, these climatic factors have a positive impact on people's health, making their stay here not only comfortable but also enjoyable.

Beautiful beaches of Spain

When talking about the outstanding beaches of Spain, it's impossible not to mention well-known resorts like Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Costa Brava, and Costa Dorada.

High-speed railway

In June 2013, a new high-speed railway line was opened, connecting Alicante with cities like Madrid and Santander. Now, the journey from Alicante to the capital takes just two hours, covering a distance of 450 kilometers.

Advantages of Costa del Sol

Mary Dunn, the head of MP Dunne in Marbella, highlights the advantages of the Costa del Sol, stating that this region is distinguished by its convenient geographical location:

• Proximity to Morocco:easy access by ferry.
• Convenient access:the ability to quickly reach the Atlantic coast and Gibraltar.
• Sports opportunities:the opportunity to ski in the Sierra Nevada in the mornings and then relax on the beach later.

Comparison of transportation systems

When comparing three major coastal cities in Spain located on different coasts, it becomes clear that both taxis and public transport are more accessible in Alicante (Costa Blanca) and Malaga (Costa del Sol), while trips in Barcelona (Costa Brava) are significantly more expensive.

Let's break down the specific numbers:

• Taxi fare:In Malaga - 1.03 euros per km, in Alicante - 1.80 euros, in Barcelona - 1.03 euros, and in Tarragona - 1.07 euros.
• The price of a public transport ticket:In Alicante - 1.30 euros, in Malaga - 1.50 euros, in Barcelona - 2.15 euros, and in Tarragona - 1.50 euros.
• Monthly travel passes:In Malaga - 39.95 euros, in Alicante - 30 euros, in Barcelona - 52.75 euros, and in Tarragona - 50 euros.
• Refueling with gasoline:In Malaga, it's 1.22 euros per liter, in Alicante - 1.27 euros, in Barcelona - 1.33 euros, and in Tarragona - 1.16 euros.

The price of living

The cost of living analysis shows that expenses for goods and services in Malaga (Costa del Sol) are on average 50% lower than in Barcelona and Tarragona, and 40% lower than in Alicante.

For example, the prices of goods in Malaga are as follows:

• Milk:0.79 euros per liter.
• 500 grams of bread:0.86 euros.
• A kilogram of rice:0.88 euros.
• A dozen eggs:1.65 euros.
• A kilogram of cheese:8.11 euros.

Real estate market

When looking at the real estate market, housing in Catalonia costs an average of 2,071 euros per square meter, which is 25% higher than the national average. At the same time, housing prices on the Costa Blanca are significantly more reasonable — they are 50% lower.

However, on the Costa del Sol, the cost of housing, especially in places like Marbella and the Golden Mile, is significantly higher.

The choice of housing is also limited due to a lack of land. For example:

• In Costa Blanca, you can buy a small house with three bedrooms close to the beach for 150,000 euros.
• In Catalonia, you can only buy a small apartment for that amount.

Recent studies show that all three regions under consideration are facing the issue of declining housing prices.

Conclusion

In conclusion of this article, I want to emphasize that the choices of Russians when purchasing real estate in Spain have become more diverse and justified, thanks to many factors that I have discussed. Spain, with its magnificent climate, developed infrastructure, and cultural heritage, is undoubtedly an attractive place for investment. As interest grows in regions such as Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Costa Dorada, Russians are learning to appreciate not only the beauty of the beaches but also the wealth of cultural and historical attractions that can be found beyond the beaches.

Unique features of the regions

Speaking of preferences, I've noticed that each of the resort regions offers something unique:

• Costa BlancaIt delights tourists with its mild climate and pristine white beaches.
• Costa BravaIt attracts with its rich culture and picturesque landscapes.

Transport infrastructure

Equally important is the accessibility of transportation infrastructure, which makes traveling across the country much easier and more convenient.

Real estate prices

Real estate prices certainly play an important role in decision-making. However, I am confident that Russians are willing to consider various options, focusing on the price-to-quality ratio. In a changing market, nuances such as the standard of living, water temperature, and the number of sunny days per year become key factors when choosing the perfect place to live or vacation.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, I believe that life in Spain offers our compatriots numerous opportunities — from a peaceful beach holiday to a vibrant cultural life. I hope this article has been helpful for everyone considering buying property abroad and wanting to learn more about life on the sunny coast. Every year, more and more Russians are discovering the amazing corners of Spain, and I sincerely wish everyone good luck on this exciting journey.