Magazine · Spring 2021
Planting Roots: Marbella and Benahavís Real Estate Magazine, Spring 2021
The spring 2021 issue of our seasonal magazine, called Planting Roots. The market figures in it refer to the first quarter of 2021.
THIS ISSUE IN THREE FIGURES
IN THIS ARTICLE
THE MAGAZINE (PDF)
Spring 2021 edition
The full issue, with the quarter in review, the offers guide, the decor trends and the ten improvement tips.
Open the PDFMarbella and Benahavís in the first quarter of 2021
The market snapshot in this issue compares the first quarter of 2021 with the first quarter of 2020. Marbella recorded 832 homes sold against 682, at an average price of €2,511 per m² against €2,835. Benahavís recorded 143 sales against 109, at €2,597 per m² against €2,564. The table also lists a yearly change in home sales, which the magazine gives as -4.5% for Marbella and -5.2% for Benahavís in 2021.
| Q1 2021 (Q1 2020) | Marbella | Benahavís |
|---|---|---|
| Homes sold | 832 (682) | 143 (109) |
| Yearly change in home sales | -4.5% (-15.0%) | -5.2% (-18.2%) |
| Average sale price per m² | €2,511 (€2,835) | €2,597 (€2,564) |
Figures for the first quarter of 2021, as printed in the magazine.
How to keep calm in a multiple-offer scenario
For sellers, the magazine recommends settling four questions before comparing offers: the lowest price you would accept, the time you need to move out, which repair requests you are willing to address, and whether you care if the next owner plans major renovations. Price matters, but so do the buyer's flexibility on timing and the repair requests that would come out of your pocket. For buyers, it says the highest offer does not always win, because most sellers have a range in mind, and that incentives such as paying in cash, fewer contract contingencies or adapting to the seller's timeframe can tip the decision. In both cases it recommends an agent who keeps you on track.
Six home decor trends for 2021
The magazine picks six trends shaped by the time we spent at home the year before: a peaceful aesthetic that mixes Japanese rustic minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, arched doorways, kitchen storage and open shelving, and cloffices (closets turned into small offices) and home offices. It adds elevated home libraries and eco-friendly design, such as smart lighting and buying furniture second-hand. It also reminds you that trends come and go, so you can skip any that do not speak to you, and suggests asking your agent which ones appeal to current buyers if you plan to sell.
Ten low-cost tweaks to increase your home's value
The improvements section lists ten small projects: upgrading the kitchen with a new backsplash, painted cabinets or updated appliances, reinventing the closet, painting the walls, and refinishing hardwood floors. It continues with a new front door, mowing the lawn, planting perennials, mulching around trees and garden beds, adding a paver or gravel path, and landscape lighting. The idea is that a little effort and minimal cash can make a big difference to a home's value and to your enjoyment of it. For a broader view, see what to do to sell your home.
Recent sales and a note from the team
In his note to readers, Alfonso Lacruz presents the issue as a guide for buying, selling or finding renovation inspiration. The magazine mentions a recent sale in Montemayor at €950,000 and two success stories from 2021, one in Bahía de Marbella and one in Montemayor, Benahavís. The Montemayor client says we sold their villa in the middle of the pandemic.
About the author
Alfonso Lacruz
Naval engineer and market analyst. Over 25 years advising owners in Marbella and Benahavís. Publishes a monthly market analysis with Land Registry data.
The figures are indicative and every property is different: for a specific number, ask for a valuation of your home.
Sources: Alfonso Lacruz Team | KW magazine, Spring 2021 (market snapshot as printed in the issue). Last updated: 18 May 2021.
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