Real Estate Investment in Spain 2026: Leading Europe

Real estate investment in Spain 2026 has positioned the country as the most attractive market in Europe, according to CBRE’s European Investor Intentions Survey. This milestone reflects a structural shift in international capital preferences, with growing interest in Southern European markets supported by strong residential demand and sustained economic growth.

Following a particularly strong 2025, with more than €18.4 billion in real estate investment and a 31% year-on-year increase, Spain has outperformed the European average and consolidated its position as a priority destination for international investors. In markets such as the Costa Blanca and the Costa Cálida, this trend translates into greater interest in residential assets, second homes and projects linked to the “living” segment.

Real estate investment in Spain 2026 tops the European ranking

According to CBRE, Spain tops the European real estate investment ranking in 2026, ahead of the United Kingdom, Poland and Italy, while Portugal ranks sixth. This leadership is driven by a combination of structural factors such as economic growth, strong housing demand and limited supply in certain segments of the market.

The report is based on the outlook of nearly 700 investors across Europe and confirms a growing preference for Southern Europe, where Spain stands out for its market stability, liquidity and medium- to long-term return potential.

Strong investment growth after a record 2025

Spain’s leadership in real estate investment follows a particularly dynamic 2025. Investment reached €18.4 billion, the highest level since 2018, driven by the gradual return of international capital and more favourable financing conditions.

Looking ahead to 2026, CBRE’s Real Estate Market Outlook forecasts a further increase in investment of between 5% and 10%, placing total volume between €19 billion and €21 billion. This growth is supported by a more stable monetary environment and a gradual improvement in access to financing.

International capital shows strong preference for Spain

The study also highlights that nearly half of cross-border investors consider Spain their main destination due to its return potential. This preference is explained by several key factors:

• strength of the Spanish economy
• high housing demand
• limited supply in residential segments
• attractiveness of the tourism and residential market

In areas such as the Costa Blanca and the Costa Cálida, where international buyers play a structural role, this investor interest reinforces demand for both primary residences and second homes.

The “living” sector, the top investor choice in 2026

In terms of sector preferences, the residential or “living” segment has consolidated its position as the preferred asset class, chosen by 34% of European investors. It is followed by:

• Logistics (25%)
• Offices (13%)
• Retail (12%)

This is particularly relevant for coastal residential markets, where international demand and limited housing supply continue to drive investor interest.

Real estate market outlook for 2026

The report points to a scenario of moderate confidence. Around 89% of investors expect their acquisition activity to increase or remain stable in 2026, while 83% anticipate that selling activity will also rise or remain stable.

In addition, industry experts note that international capital has firmly established its presence in Spain, indicating a structural shift in investment preferences within the European real estate market.

Conclusion

Spain’s leadership as a real estate investment destination in Europe in 2026 confirms the strength of its property market and the growing interest of international capital, particularly in the residential sector. The combination of solid demand, limited supply and economic attractiveness positions the country as a strategic market in the medium and long term.

At Esentya Estate, we help international buyers and investors identify secure opportunities in the Costa Blanca and the Costa Cálida, offering professional guidance and in-depth local market knowledge.

Sources: CBRE, Idealista