Welcome to the latest episode of the “La Piedra” podcast, where Sean Woolley from Cloud Nine Spain and Mark Stucklin from Spanish Property Insight come together to offer a comprehensive view of the Spanish property market. In this episode, we delve into the latest figures and trends shaping the landscape of real estate in Spain.

Sean and Mark kick off the discussion by providing insights into the property market, combining anecdotal evidence from the Costa del Sol with statistical analysis. They highlight the collaborative effort to offer listeners a balanced perspective on what’s happening in Spain’s real estate sector.

Key Points Discussed:
1. Foreign Demand in 2023:
Mark presents the figures from the registrars for Q4, allowing for a full-year analysis of foreign demand in 2023. Despite a 7% decrease from 2022, the year marked the second-best performance on record, reflecting a significant increase compared to 2019. Sean adds his observations from the Costa del Sol, emphasizing the strong demand, particularly from the UK.

2. Factors Influencing Demand:
Sean and Mark reflect on the factors influencing foreign demand, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. They note how the pandemic sparked interest in lifestyle changes, remote work, and property investments in Spain. However, they also discuss a shift in sentiment in the second half of 2023, with rising interest rates and inflation leading to a more cautious approach among buyers.

3. Nationality of Buyers:
Mark provides a breakdown of property sales by nationality, revealing interesting insights into the demographics of buyers. While the UK remains a significant contributor to foreign demand, other nationalities also play a role in shaping the market dynamics.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Sean and Mark offer a nuanced understanding of the Spanish property market, combining data-driven analysis with firsthand experiences. Despite fluctuations and challenges, the market continues to attract foreign buyers, driven by lifestyle choices, economic factors, and investment opportunities.

Stay tuned for more insights and updates on the “La Piedra” podcast as Sean and Mark continue to unravel the complexities of the Spanish real estate landscape.