Foreign homebuyers continue to play an increasingly important role in Spain’s real estate market. While overall home sales have shown signs of slowing down during 2026, international buyers have reached record levels. Today, from Quinta Avenida Real Estate, we look at how international demand is evolving and the important role played by destinations such as the Valencian Community.
During the first half of 2026, Spain recorded 346,030 home sales, 1.9% fewer than during the same period a year earlier. However, foreign buyers purchased more than 51,600 homes, a record figure for a first half of the year, representing 14.9% of all property transactions registered in Spain.
Foreign Homebuyers Reach a New Record
The performance of international buyers contrasts with the overall evolution of the Spanish real estate market. Between January and March, foreign buyers accounted for 13.92% of all home purchases. During the second quarter, their share increased to 15.98%, with more than 26,800 homes purchased.
In total, around 51,630 homes were purchased by foreign buyers during the first six months of 2026. This represents an increase of 3.8% compared with the same period in 2025 and 8% compared with the previous six-month period.
These figures highlight the importance of international demand for the Spanish property market, particularly in areas with strong tourism appeal, attractive climates and established international communities.
The Valencian Community Remains a Top Destination for International Buyers
The Valencian Community continues to be one of the main destinations for foreigners looking to buy property in Spain. During the first half of 2026, foreign buyers accounted for 29.6% of all home sales in the region, with almost 15,300 transactions.
Only the Balearic Islands recorded a slightly higher percentage, at 30.5%. The Valencian Community was followed by the Canary Islands, with 25.8%, and the Region of Murcia, with 22.7%.
Within the Valencian Community, Alicante stands out in particular. Foreign buyers accounted for 45.5% of all home sales in the province during the first half of the year, with more than 11,340 transactions.
Valencia province also maintains a significant international presence, with almost 2,900 homes purchased by foreign buyers, while Castellón recorded more than 1,000 transactions.
British, Dutch and Moroccan Buyers Lead the Market
In terms of nationality, British buyers continue to lead the ranking of foreign purchasers in Spain. Between January and June 2026, they completed more than 3,510 property purchases, representing 6.8% of all transactions made by foreign buyers.
They were closely followed by buyers from the Netherlands, who purchased more than 3,430 homes. Moroccan and German buyers were also particularly active, with around 3,125 and 3,100 transactions respectively.
Other important international markets include Romania, Italy, France, Poland and Belgium. Buyers from the European Union accounted for almost 58% of all home purchases made by foreigners during the first half of the year.
International Buyers Are Also Purchasing Higher-Value Properties
The data from Spain’s Property Registrars shows significant differences in the average prices paid depending on the buyers’ geographical origin.
North American buyers paid the highest average prices per square metre during both quarters, with figures above €4,300 per m². They were followed by buyers from the European Union, whose average prices ranged between €3,085 and €3,149 per m².
This trend confirms that international demand is not only significant in terms of transaction volume, but also particularly relevant in certain segments of the real estate market, from second homes to properties located in coastal areas and major cities.
Conclusion: International Demand Gains Importance in the Spanish Real Estate Market
Although home sales have begun to show some moderation during 2026, foreign buyers continue to increase their presence in Spain and reached a new record during the first half of the year.
The Valencian Community remains one of the country’s major international property hotspots, particularly Alicante, where almost half of all transactions involve foreign buyers. This situation continues to reinforce Spain’s appeal as a residential and investment destination for buyers from around the world.
At Quinta Avenida Real Estate, we understand the particular characteristics of the local market and the growing importance of international demand. If you want to sell, buy or rent your property, get in touch with our team and discover how we can help you find the right real estate opportunity.
