Marbella, renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and picturesque beaches, is set to implement new regulations on holiday rentals starting January 2025. With approximately 6,994 tourist accommodations, Marbella ranks fourth in Spain for the number of such properties, following Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga.
In response to the growing number of holiday lets and their impact on the local housing market, the Marbella Town Hall commissioned a study by the University of Malaga to assess the current situation. Mayor Ángeles Muñoz has indicated that the findings will be reviewed in January to inform the development of appropriate measures. Potential actions include introducing new taxes to offset the increased use of municipal services by tourists and incorporating these regulations into the forthcoming general urban plan.
The rise in holiday rentals has significantly affected the availability and cost of long-term housing in Marbella. A recent report by the Bank of Spain reveals that 70% of rental properties in the town center are designated for holiday use, leaving only 30% for long-term residents. This imbalance has contributed to a nearly 65% increase in rental prices over the past five years. For instance, the average monthly rent for an 80-square-meter apartment has escalated from €864 in 2019 to €1,424 in 2024.
These developments align with broader national efforts to regulate the short-term rental market. As of January 2, 2025, Spain has introduced a unified register for holiday and seasonal rentals, aiming for full implementation by July 1, 2025. This initiative seeks to control properties listed on platforms like Airbnb and Booking, ensuring compliance with regulations and addressing issues such as unlicensed accommodations and housing shortages in major cities.
Here’s a related article in Spanish El País
While the specific regulations Marbella will adopt are yet to be detailed, property owners and potential investors should anticipate measures that may include licensing requirements, taxation adjustments, and restrictions based on community decisions. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for compliance and for making informed decisions in the evolving landscape of Marbella’s real estate market.
I guess we’ll watch this space.
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