Spain and Portugal continue to be two of the most desirable property destinations in Europe. In 2025, the international demand for Mediterranean real estate is stronger than ever. Buyers from Northern Europe, Central Europe, and even non EU countries are actively researching second homes, relocation options, and long term investments.

This article explains why foreign buyers are choosing these regions, which nationalities dominate demand, and how real estate agencies can attract and convert them more effectively.

1. Why International Buyers Choose Spain and Portugal

Both countries offer a blend of lifestyle benefits, economic stability, attractive tax structures and strong long term value.

Top reasons include:

• Better weather

• Lower cost of living

• High quality healthcare

• Attractive retirement options

• Remote work friendly environments

• Strong rental markets

• Good capital growth potential

Lifestyle buyers and investors find the Iberian Peninsula ideal because it delivers both personal enjoyment and financial value.

2. Top Nationalities Driving Demand in 2025

The strongest buyer groups in Spain and Portugal this year include:

German Buyers

Focused on documentation, safety, build quality, and long term market performance.
They prefer Costa Blanca North, Mallorca, Cascais and Algarve.

Dutch Buyers

Value transparency, clarity and straightforward communication.
Popular areas include Costa Blanca South, Malaga and Lisbon coast.

Belgian Buyers

Cautious but serious. They want reassurance and trustworthy agents.
They favor Costa del Sol, Costa Cálida and quieter Portuguese towns.

British Buyers

Often emotional buyers. They respond well to fast communication.
Popular areas include Marbella, Mijas, Albufeira and Lagos.

Polish Buyers

Rapidly growing segment. They look for lifestyle upgrades and holiday homes.
Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol attract them most.

Scandinavian Buyers (Norway, Sweden, Denmark)

High budgets, fast conversion, and prefer new build properties.
Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Algarve are top choices.

3. The Regions With the Highest Foreign Demand

Spain

• Costa Blanca North

• Costa Blanca South

• Costa del Sol (Benalmadena, Estepona, Marbella, Mijas)

• Alicante

• Murcia Region (affordable new build demand)

Portugal

• Cascais

• Lisbon coastline

• Algarve

• Silver Coast (emerging interest)

Both countries continue attracting international buyers due to strong infrastructure, quality of life and stable markets.

4. What International Buyers Expect Today

Modern foreign buyers expect agencies to provide a much higher level of service and structure than before.

They want:
✔ Fast response through WhatsApp
✔ Clear buying process explained
✔ Personalised property recommendations
✔ Virtual tours and videos
✔ Accurate information
✔ A sense of trust
✔ No pushy sales tactics

The agency that delivers clarity wins the buyer.

5. How Real Estate Agencies Can Attract More International Buyers

Build Multilingual Landing Pages

Buyers trust agencies who speak their language.

Use Buyer Survey Funnels

Qualify budgets, criteria, lifestyle preferences and timeline.

Send Personalised Top 5 Property Shortlists

This increases perceived value immediately.

Use AI for Follow Up

Instant WhatsApp, email and voice response increases conversions.

Provide Clear Educational Content

Guides, articles and videos reduce buyer confusion.

International buyers do not choose the best properties.
They choose the most trustworthy agency.

Conclusion

Spain and Portugal continue to dominate the European property market in 2025. International buyers are more active than ever and agencies that understand their motivations, expectations and behaviour will gain a significant advantage.

Attracting international buyers requires structure, speed, education and automation. Agencies that invest in these systems will flourish in the years to come.