What 400k Actually Buys in Marbella Right Now
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What €400,000 buys in Marbella today - areas, property types, and running costs for international buyers on the Costa del Sol.
People ask me this all the time when they find out we bought on the Costa del Sol. "What can we actually get for our budget?" It is a fair question and the honest answer varies a lot depending on which area you are looking at. Here is a grounded picture of what 400,000 euros looks like in different parts of the Marbella area right now.
In Marbella Town and the Golden Mile
At 400,000 euros in Marbella town or along the Golden Mile, you are typically looking at a two-bedroom apartment in a well-maintained urbanisation with community pool, gardens and parking. New development at this price point in the Golden Mile is largely not available. Resale is where 400,000 euros works in Marbella town. What you get: two bedrooms, around 80 to 100 square metres of living space, community pool and garden, underground parking, and often a decent terrace. Probably not sea views at this price unless you are looking at something older and further from the beach.
In Nueva Andalucia and San Pedro de Alcantara
This is where 400,000 euros starts to show more variety. Nueva Andalucia, just behind Puerto Banus, offers good value for families: larger properties, quieter streets, and golf course proximity. At 400,000 euros here you might find a three-bedroom townhouse with private garden, or a spacious two-bedroom apartment with mountain views. San Pedro de Alcantara is increasingly popular with families and buyers looking for a more authentic Spanish feel.
In Estepona
Estepona has changed significantly in the last five years. The old town has been beautifully restored and a major new development area has emerged to the east of the town centre. At 400,000 euros in Estepona, you are a competitive buyer: a two to three bedroom apartment in a quality new development, or a larger resale with private pool if you go slightly inland.
In Mijas and La Cala de Mijas
Mijas Costa and La Cala de Mijas offer some of the best value on the Costa del Sol at this price point. The beaches are excellent, the infrastructure has improved substantially, and the area has seen consistent interest from Northern European buyers. At 400,000 euros you are a strong buyer here: a well-positioned apartment with sea views, a three-bedroom townhouse with community pool, or in some cases a semi-detached villa with a private garden.
What to Budget Beyond the Purchase Price
Whichever area you choose, budget 10 to 14 per cent on top of the purchase price for taxes and fees. On a 400,000 euro property, that is 40,000 to 56,000 euros in additional costs. Factor this in from the beginning. PlanMarbella.com walks you through the complete cost structure in your free buying plan so your total budget is clear before you start viewing seriously.
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Check if it's still free - PlanMarbella.comFrequently Asked Questions
Is 400,000 euros enough to buy in Marbella?
Yes, at 400,000 euros you are a genuine buyer in the Marbella area. In Marbella town and the Golden Mile it typically gets you a two-bedroom resale apartment. In Nueva Andalucia, San Pedro, Estepona or Mijas the same budget buys more space. Remember to budget an additional 10 to 14 per cent on top of the purchase price for taxes and fees.
What are the cheapest areas near Marbella to buy property?
Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Mijas Costa, and Estepona all offer more space per euro than the central Marbella and Golden Mile areas. Estepona in particular has seen significant development and improved infrastructure while remaining more accessible than Marbella's prime locations.
Should I buy in Marbella or Estepona?
It depends on what you prioritise. Marbella offers a more established market and the strongest brand recognition. Estepona offers more space per euro, a beautifully restored old town, and arguably better value for the same budget. Both are on the same coastline with similar weather, infrastructure, and lifestyle.
What extra costs should I budget when buying property in Marbella?
Budget 10 to 14 per cent on top of the purchase price for: property transfer tax (ITP), notary fees, land registry fees, and your lawyer's fees. On a 400,000 euro property, that is 40,000 to 56,000 euros in additional costs.