Diana Morales Properties presents its Marbella Real Estate Market Report 2026 in La Zagaleta

Diana Morales Properties | Knight Frank’s Marbella Real Estate Market Report 2026 was presented to leading representatives of the real estate sector during Marbella Luxury Residential Leaders, the annual event organised by DOM3 at Villa Hermes, one of the properties currently for sale exclusively with DM Properties in La Zagaleta.

A market moving into a new phase

The Marbella Real Estate Market Report 2026 was presented by Mariano Beristain, Managing Partner of Diana Morales Properties | Knight Frank, who analysed the recent evolution of the residential market in the Golden Triangle.

The report’s findings show a market that continues to be supported by strong international demand, although there are signs of greater stabilisation after several years of exceptional growth. Prices remain at historically high levels and continue to rise in certain locations, while transaction volumes show a normalisation compared with the peaks reached in the years following the pandemic.

Rather than pointing to a worrying slowdown, this evolution reflects a more mature and balanced market. Buyers continue to show strong interest in Marbella, Benahavís and Estepona, although they are analysing prices more closely and placing greater emphasis on quality, location and property features.

The report also confirms the continued appeal of the Costa del Sol for international buyers from Europe, the Middle East and the Americas, consolidating the Golden Triangle as one of the most desirable residential destinations in Europe.

The international buyer is younger and more demanding

Following the presentation of the report, a round table discussion was moderated by Charly Simon, President of DOM3. Participants included Mariano Beristain, Managing Partner of Diana Morales Properties | Knight Frank; José Antonio Mena, Mayor of Benahavís; Miguel Manzanares, CEO and founder of Manzanares Lawyers; and Álvaro Botella, President of LPA, Leading Property Agents of Spain.

One of the main topics discussed was the changing profile of the high-end homebuyer. Participants agreed that today’s buyer is significantly younger than a decade ago and, in many cases, uses Marbella as a main or semi-permanent residence rather than solely as a holiday destination.

This shift is changing buying priorities. Build quality remains essential, but buyers are also looking for homes that help improve their quality of life and wellbeing.

Spaces dedicated to fitness, recovery, health and wellbeing have become increasingly important. High-level gyms, spas, health treatment areas, private sports facilities and spaces designed to support longevity are now among the features most sought after by high-net-worth international buyers.

Security and privacy also remain a priority. Gated communities and protected settings continue to be among the most valued factors for those choosing to settle on the Costa del Sol.

DOM3, a platform for residential excellence

The event highlighted the role of DOM3 as a platform for collaboration between leading companies in the high-end residential sector.

The association brings together companies specialising in development, architecture, construction, interior design, technology, legal services and real estate marketing. It encourages the exchange of knowledge and collaboration between professionals who contribute to the international positioning of the Costa del Sol.

For Diana Morales Properties | Knight Frank, being part of DOM3 provides an opportunity to take an active role in the discussion about the future of the sector and to share market analysis with companies that work every day to raise quality standards in high-end residential property.

Villa Hermes, a reflection of new market trends

The setting chosen for the event perfectly reflected many of the topics discussed during the day.

Villa Hermes, a villa for sale exclusively with DM Properties in La Zagaleta, brings together some of the attributes most sought after by today’s international buyer: privacy, security, contemporary architecture, extensive wellness areas and a close connection with nature.

The property is also an example of the level of specialisation and collaboration found among companies on the Costa del Sol, as several DOM3 member companies were involved in its development. This reflects the sector’s ability to deliver residential projects to the highest international standards.

The event concluded with a guided tour of the villa, giving attendees the opportunity to see first-hand one of the most representative residences in today’s market and the ideal setting to discuss the trends shaping the future of luxury real estate in Marbella and the Costa del Sol.

Pia Arrieta, 19 Jun 2026 - News