Winkworth Spain Real Estate Blog

Planning to Buy a Holiday Rental Property on the Costa del Sol? Here’s Some Good News

Tourist Licences in Andalucía Remain Valid After a Property Sale

If you’re thinking about buying a holiday rental property in Marbella, San Pedro de Alcántara or anywhere within the Andalucía region, there’s a recent change that makes investing even more appealing.

The Junta de Andalucía has confirmed that when a property registered with a tourist rental licence is sold, the licence remains valid under the new owner’s name. That means no need for extra approval from the community of property owners, and no disruption to your future rental income.

What Has Changed?

Until recently, many assumed that if you bought a property with a tourist licence, you’d have to reapply or gain approval from the Community of Owners to continue operating it as a holiday rental. This was confusing, time-consuming, and often a dealbreaker for those looking for investment properties.

But thanks to a recent ruling from Spain’s Directorate-General for Legal Security and Public Faith, part of the Ministry of Justice, this has changed. It’s now been confirmed that the tourist licence is linked to the property, not the person. This means that when a licensed holiday rental property changes hands, the licence remains active, as long as the property continues to meet the required conditions.

What This Means for Buyers & Investors

This update makes the process of buying a holiday rental in Andalucía simpler, faster, and far more secure.

  • No barriers – You won’t need to apply for your licence or get community approval.
  • Immediate rental income – Start renting from day one.
  • Peace of mind – Legal certainty for your investment.
  • Increased property value – Homes with licences are more attractive and marketable.

Why This Is Great News for the Costa del Sol

Andalucía is already a hotspot for tourism and property investment, with over 86,000 registered holiday rentals in Málaga province alone, including more than 15,000 in Marbella. This new legal certainty strengthens the region’s reputation as one of the most stable, profitable and secure areas in Europe for short-term rental investment.

It’s also a major advantage if you’re looking to invest in properties that are already successfully running as short-term rentals. With no extra admin standing in the way, your investment starts working quickly and effectively.

Thinking of Buying a Holiday Rental Property?

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home on the Costa del Sol, having an experienced, honest team by your side makes all the difference. At Winkworth, we’ve been helping people make smart property moves in Marbella, San Pedro, and Guadalmina for years.

We know the area, we understand the paperwork, and we genuinely care about getting things right.

If you want straightforward advice and support from people who know what they’re doing, contact Winkworth today. Alternatively, pop into our offices in the Centro Comercial Guadalmina.