Buying a home in Marbella usually starts with a viewing trip. In just a few days you explore neighbourhoods, visit properties and get a feel for what suits you. But without good preparation you waste time on homes that aren't right, drive back and forth unnecessarily and go home with more questions than answers. In this article we share how we organise a viewing trip and how you can get the most out of it.
Before you travel: preparation
Define your search profile
The more specific your wishes, the more targeted our selection can be. Think about:
- your budget, including 10 to 13% in buying costs;
- the type of property: villa, penthouse, apartment or new build;
- the number of bedrooms and bathrooms;
- your top priorities: sea views, golf, walking distance to the beach, privacy, a garden;
- how you will use it: second home, letting, wintering or living here permanently.
Let us draw up a shortlist
Based on your profile, we put together a selection of properties, including homes that are not listed online. You receive photos and information in advance, so you can tell us which properties you definitely want to see and which you don't. That way, once you are here, you only visit homes that are genuinely in the running. See also Off-market property in Marbella.
Sort out your finances and paperwork
If you want to be able to decide quickly, make sure the basics are in place: an idea of your financing options, perhaps an agreement in principle from the bank, and ideally an application already submitted for your NIE number. Read more in A mortgage in Spain.
How many days do you need?
For a first exploratory trip we recommend three to four days. That gives you time to see different neighbourhoods, view properties at your leisure and revisit your favourites. If you already know which area it will be, two days may be enough.
A sample itinerary
| Day | Programme |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Málaga, introductions and an orientation drive around the neighbourhoods on your list |
| Day 2 | Viewings in your first-choice area, lunch locally, second area in the afternoon |
| Day 3 | Viewings in other areas or the Golden Triangle: Marbella, Benahavís and Estepona |
| Day 4 | Second visit to your favourites at a different time of day, and a chat about the next steps |
We plan around your flight times. You can read all about the airports in Airports near Marbella.
When is the best time to come?
You can view properties all year round. Spring and autumn are ideal: pleasant temperatures, less traffic, and you see how a home feels outside the high season. July and August are busier and hotter, but you do see how lively an area is in summer. See also What is the weather like in Marbella?
During the viewings: what to look out for
- Light and orientation: where is the sun in the morning, at midday and in the evening?
- Noise: is there traffic, a motorway, a beach club or a building site nearby?
- Views: are the sea views protected, or could something still be built?
- Condition of the property: roof, windows, pool, damp patches, installations.
- Surroundings: how far is it to the supermarket, the beach, the school or the golf course?
- Community: what are the community fees and what is included?
Take photos and brief notes at each property. Otherwise, after ten viewings, your memories quickly get muddled.
After the trip: deciding and securing it
Found your dream home? Then comes a reservation, a legal check by an independent lawyer and the private purchase contract. Still unsure? Then we continue a targeted search based on what you learned during the trip. Our full step-by-step guide to buying a home in Marbella will help you along.
Your trip refunded when you buy
We believe so strongly in a well-prepared viewing trip that we refund the full cost of your trip if you buy a property through us. So you can come to Marbella with peace of mind to look, compare and decide. You'll find the conditions on our page Free travel and viewings.
Your viewing trip with Imagine Marbella
We tailor your viewing trip entirely to you: shortlisting, planning, on-the-spot guidance in your own language and practical tips for your stay. Tell us when you're coming and what you're looking for, or take a look at our Prestige collection and new developments.
Practical tips for your stay
- Stay central: a hotel or apartment between Marbella and Puerto Banús is ideal if you want to look across the whole Golden Triangle. If you are only searching in Estepona or Benahavís, stay there instead.
- Hire car or driver: we drive you to the viewings, but a hire car gives you the freedom to drive around on your own in the evening and explore the area.
- Plan some free time: take time to have lunch in the area you are considering, go for a walk along the beach or play a round of golf. It helps you sense whether you really want to live there.
- Come together: deciding with your partner or family? Make sure everyone involved in the decision attends the viewings. It saves a second trip.
- Bring your documents: a copy of your passport and, if available, your NIE number. That way you can reserve straight away if you find your dream home.
Remotely, too
Can't come to Marbella straight away? We are happy to start the search remotely, with video viewings, detailed photo reports and honest advice on the location and condition of each property. That way you only come to Marbella when there are a few properties that are genuinely worth the visit.
Frequently asked questions
How many properties can you view in a day?
Four to six properties a day is ideal. Any more becomes tiring and hard to remember.
Do I need an NIE number before the viewing trip?
It isn't compulsory, but it speeds up the purchase if you want to reserve quickly.
Can you view a property for me if I can't be there?
Yes. We visit properties for you via video call and send detailed photos and information.
What does a viewing trip with an estate agent cost?
Our guidance during the viewings comes with no obligation. If you buy a property through us, we refund your travel costs. You'll find more information on our page Free travel and viewings.
