Real estate trends: what every buyer wants in 2026

As we enter 2026, geopolitical uncertainty continues to paint an increasingly complicated picture, requiring investment strategies to be constantly reevaluated. At the same time, however, this instability means that cities with greater political and economic stability remain attractive to investors who are increasingly selective in their decisions regarding location and asset type. Among these, Madrid undoubtedly stands out, with a prime real estate market that continues to thrive, with prime clients, both national and international, who know exactly what they want and are willing to close the deal very quickly if they find that special property. For this reason, and increasingly so, a large part of residential transactions are closed off market, with agents and consultants specializing in this segment managing a portfolio of properties that are not generally accessible and who are in regular contact with large estates and family offices in Europe, the United States, and South America.

In both urban environments and recreational areas, national and international buyers, especially the latter, continue to seek not only location but also intrinsic property value, placing particular value on properties that reflect the passage of time and the history of the place, as well as respect for the local lifestyle and care for the environment.

Real sustainability

When promoting new construction, but also increasingly when carrying out renovations, passive construction strategies that reduce energy consumption are sought, combined with aerothermal energy and the use of solar energy, to optimize thermal comfort and minimize energy demand and the consumption of natural resources.

As an example, this 1,700 m² house in Ciudalcampo (a residential area north of Madrid) is structured around north-south oriented longitudinal sections, promoting optimal bioclimatic performance, the use of solar radiation, and natural cross ventilation. Its exterior, with a combination of exposed concrete, steel, metal, and large glass surfaces, creates a volumetric composition with excellent acoustic and hydrothermal performance.

The most premium Madrid and its micro-markets

Madrid is consolidating its position as a global destination for luxury residential properties, driven by international demand and projects that combine design, well-being, and exclusive services. The Spanish capital has created a premium ecosystem that combines culture, gastronomy, and exclusive services, blending authentic local and neighborhood life with the exclusivity of more than 40 five-star hotels, 32 Michelin-starred restaurants, booming international luxury tourism (10% growth in 2025), and more than 65,000 foreign students like no other European city.

According to Patricia García de Ponga, Executive Director and Head of Living at CBRE, despite the sustained growth in prime living in the city in recent years, with annual increases of between 4% and 6%, “Madrid still has room for growth and remains relatively affordable compared to the ultra-prime European segment in London, Paris, or Milan.”

And although the lack of available land within the M30 remains a problem in the capital, there are currently more than 100 new-build homes on the market within the M30 ring road with prices exceeding €3 million. In 2026, we will continue to see units that broke the €20 million barrier in the previous year, figures previously reserved for London or Paris.

Let’s not lose sight of the fact that

the growth in branded residences and the conversion of historic buildings reinforce Madrid as an option for those seeking a unique property with exclusive services. Four Seasons Canalejas paved the way, followed by Mandarin Oriental. There are currently four projects in the execution or active development phase.

Premium neighborhoods and microzones: The Salamanca neighborhood, one of the most elegant and prestigious residential areas on the European continent, has attracted the highest foreign demand for high-end housing in the last ten years, and the truth is that Salamanca still accounts for 57% of the premium living supply. It is followed by the Center (20%), Chamartín (13%), and Chamberí (11%). However, the map of Madrid is not only organized by districts but also by neighborhoods, which not only mark the municipal administrative distribution but also the real estate showcase. Thus, we have particularly attractive areas such as Almagro in Chamberí, Salesas or Cortes (Barrio de las Letras) in the Center, and Prosperidad in Chamartín. Other neighborhoods further south, such as Legazpi-Delicias, are also beginning to attract the attention of investors who are looking to purchase properties with a view to renovating them into modern housing.

Outside the urban environment

The real estate market in Spain’s coastal cities continues to be a very attractive area for investment, both for Spaniards and foreigners. With sustained growth in areas such as the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca, as well as several parts of the Balearic and Canary Islands, northern Spain has undoubtedly been the rising star in recent years. Rising temperatures, but above all the many charms offered by communities such as Cantabria, Galicia, and Asturias, have accelerated demand for housing and land for construction and growth. Whereas demand used to be essentially domestic, foreign buyers are increasingly joining the fray: “Indeed, in recent years we have detected growing international interest, especially from European buyers seeking authenticity, a temperate climate, green landscapes, and a more leisurely pace of life,” says Silvia Hengstenberg, partner at The Sibarist.

We would describe the new international buyer as someone sophisticated, who values traditional architecture, sustainability, the natural environment, privacy, and our cuisine. They are not looking for a crowded destination, but rather a refuge with character and authenticity.

The growth in sales throughout northern Spain is widespread. In other words, although there are some locations where it is particularly noticeable, the reality is that demand has been growing steadily since 2021, especially in the prime sector, where demand is growing faster than supply and available land. Prices are therefore expected to continue rising in the coming years.