Over the past decade, the Costa del Sol has transformed from a well-kept secret for those in the know into one of Europe’s most dynamic property markets. Among the array of international buyers, Romanian investors have emerged as a significant and growing demographic.
In Marbella and its surrounding municipalities, interest from Romanian buyers has risen steadily, driven by lifestyle aspirations, economic confidence and the strong performance of the local property market. Within this trend, one preference stands out clearly: a marked inclination toward new developments over older resale stock.
Romanian buyers are increasingly choosing new‑build properties for reasons that go beyond aesthetics. These developments offer a blend of practicality, legal assurance and long-term value that resonates strongly with buyers investing from abroad, whether for personal use, relocation or rental income. At Kore Estates, we see this pattern continuing as more Romanian clients recognise the benefits of modern design, warranties and future-proof features that new developments deliver.
A shift in buyer profile
Recent years have seen a shift in the profile of Romanian buyers on the Costa del Sol. Whereas earlier generations might have focused on modest holiday homes, today’s purchasers are more likely to be entrepreneurs, professionals or families seeking a combination of lifestyle, security and investment potential. Marbella, Benahavís and Nueva Andalucía have become focal points for this group, thanks to their established infrastructure, international communities and long‑term capital growth prospects.
These buyers often cite quality of life as a primary motivation. The Costa del Sol’s climate, outdoor lifestyle and cultural affinity, particularly for Mediterranean living, mirror aspects of Romanian social values, making it a compelling choice. Whether the plan is to spend significant time in Spain or to use the property as a rental income generator, new developments provide an attractive entry point to the market.
Why new developments are preferred
There are several reasons why Romanian buyers lean toward new builds:
1. Warranty and legal protection
One of the practical advantages of buying new in Spain is the statutory warranty that developers must provide. Under Spanish law, new developments benefit from a 10‑year structural warranty and shorter warranties on finishes. This legal safeguard offers peace of mind to foreign buyers who may not be able to inspect every detail in person before purchase. Knowing that structural defects are covered for an extended period reduces the risk associated with cross-border investment.
2. Modern standards and lower running costs
New developments are built to the latest energy efficiency and construction standards. Double glazing, advanced insulation, modern HVAC systems and integrated smart home technology are often standard features rather than optional extras. This translates into lower day-to-day costs and better comfort, a decisive factor for Romanian buyers who value practicality and longevity.
3. Turnkey convenience
Whether the intention is immediate personal use or placing the property into the rental market, new builds provide a turnkey solution. There are no hidden renovation costs, unexpected maintenance issues or disputes over outdated systems. Buyers can move in, furnish and occupy or rent the property without delay, a clear advantage in both lifestyle and investment scenarios.
4. Strong rental and resale appeal
Properties in new developments often perform well on the rental market. Their modern layouts, facilities and finishes attract higher nightly rates and steady demand from tourists and longer‑term tenants alike. From an investment perspective, this translates into improved rental yields and robust resale liquidity, especially in sought‑after areas like Marbella and Nueva Andalucía.
5. Flexible payment structures
Many new developments offer staged payment plans that are particularly appealing to international buyers. A small initial reservation deposit secures the unit off‑plan, followed by milestone payments during construction and the final payment upon completion. This structure can make financing more manageable and assists buyers who are coordinating budgets across borders.
The Kore Estates perspective
At Kore Estates, we work with buyers from across Europe, and the preference for new developments among Romanian clients is clear and consistent. One of our co‑founders, Oana Zaharia, brings additional insight to this trend. As a Romanian native with deep professional experience in both interior design and real estate advisory, Oana understands the cultural and practical expectations Romanian buyers bring to the process.
“Romanian buyers know what they want,” Oana explains. “They value transparency, quality and long-term stability. New developments offer a defined product with guarantees, modern design and minimal surprises, and for many clients, that combination offers confidence and satisfaction. Seeing a property in Marbella not just as a purchase, but as a home or a strategic part of a portfolio, makes new builds particularly compelling.”
Oana’s perspective is shaped by her dual expertise in aesthetics and market strategy. She works closely with Romanian clients to not only identify the right developments but also to assess how each property aligns with lifestyle goals, rental potential and long‑term appreciation. This wide-ranging approach ensures that decisions are both informed and forward‑looking.
A growing pattern with purpose
The appeal of new developments among Romanian buyers reflects a thoughtful approach to property ownership that blends lifestyle, financial prudence and confidence in the Spanish market. With demand for new builds holding strong and the legal framework in Spain favouring structured warranties and energy efficiency, this preference is likely to continue.
If you are a Romanian buyer considering property investment on the Costa del Sol, or exploring how new developments can fit into your long-term plans, Kore Estates speaks your language.
Contact the Kore Estates team today to explore personalised opportunities in the most sought‑after developments across Marbella, Nueva Andalucía and Benahavís. Our expert advisors, including Romanian‑speaking specialists, are ready to help you find the property that matches your goals.