Buying property in rural areas: the new luxury of the 21st century

Why are more and more buyers interested in living in rural areas?

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the perception of rural areas as desirable places to live. This trend has been driven by various factors that have transformed the appeal of this type of property.

The influence of remote work on rural housing demand

Remote work has broken the traditional geographical dependence on big cities, allowing more professionals to choose rural environments without giving up their professional activity. This shift has increased the value of properties offering space, privacy, and good connectivity, making rural living a real option for those seeking a balance between personal and professional life.

Profile and motivations of the new rural buyers

Today’s rural buyers are not just looking for a second home—they often aim to live between the city and the countryside, or in many cases, to make it their primary residence. Mobile professionals, families prioritising quality of life, and long-term investors value properties with character, a natural setting, and long-term potential. More than just square metres—which matter too—they seek authenticity, tranquillity, and exclusivity.

Evolution of the Spanish rural real estate market

The Spanish rural market has evolved towards greater specialisation and increased demand for unique properties—something we at Engel & Völkers are highly aware of. Locations with scenic or heritage value are attracting growing interest, and the supply now ranges from restored buildings to estates with hectares of land, or even contemporary homes integrated into the landscape. Buying in the countryside or mountains is no longer an alternative decision, but a strategic one.

Advantages of acquiring property in rural areas

Investing in rural properties offers multiple benefits, translating into both economic and lifestyle opportunities. Below are some of the main reasons to consider this option.

Investment with potential for appreciation (and diversification)

The rural property market is undergoing a transformation, with growing demand and still-limited supply in certain high-value areas. This makes rural properties assets with room for medium- and long-term appreciation. They also allow investors to diversify their real estate portfolio beyond the urban environment, in locations with greater price stability.

Quality of life, healthy environment, and privacy

Living in a rural setting offers benefits that are hard to replicate in the city: natural surroundings, low population density, and peace. Privacy and contact with nature become everyday luxuries, especially valued by families, professionals, and those who prioritise physical and emotional well-being.

Spacious homes with unique character

Rural properties—whether in the countryside or mountains—stand out for their size, architectural uniqueness, and customisation possibilities. From stately homes to historic farmhouses or charming estates, these properties offer a distinctive value that goes beyond functionality: they express lifestyle, rootedness, and exclusivity.

Opportunity to live and work remotely

The boom in remote work has opened the door to a new way of living: being able to live where you want without giving up your professional life. Rural areas with good connectivity—which are increasingly common—allow the combination of home and office in one space, in an environment that fosters focus, creativity, and personal balance.

In fact, towns with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants have grown by over 170,000 residents since the pandemic (according to the INE), demonstrating the growing interest in less urbanised areas and the high rate of remote work that makes it possible.

Investment opportunities in rural housing

In addition to representing a lifestyle in harmony with nature, rural housing has consolidated its position as an investment option with strong potential. A property in the countryside can yield good returns—provided the location, type of property, and its potential (both for use and for value appreciation) are chosen wisely.

Whether seeking a main residence, a second home, or a property for holiday rentals, the rural market offers many advantages.

Second home with holiday rental potential

Many rural properties combine private use with seasonal rentals, generating income without sacrificing personal enjoyment. In areas with tourist or natural appeal, this approach can deliver stable returns and a growing demand for accommodation with its own identity—especially when design and guest experience are prioritised.

Extended stays and new ways of living

The concept of a second home has evolved towards more flexible uses: long stays, hybrid seasons, or alternating residences based on work schedules. This trend expands the functional value of rural housing, allowing residents to spend several months a year in a privileged setting without professional or logistical disconnection.

Properties with heritage or historical value

Homes with history—such as masías, manor houses, cortijos or pazos—are especially appreciated by buyers seeking a unique property with soul and legacy. Their restoration or preservation not only increases market value but also adds an emotional and identity-rich component that cannot be replicated in new urban builds.

Key considerations before buying in rural areas

Buying property in the countryside involves taking into account specific considerations that differ from urban transactions.

Beyond the charm of the surroundings or the architectural appeal of these unique properties, it is important to analyse practical, legal, and technical factors that can affect the use or profitability of the property.

Accessibility, connectivity, and basic services

A good rural location is not just about scenery or peace. It is essential to assess the intended use of the property and, based on that, consider access to infrastructure: well-maintained roads, proximity to towns with healthcare or educational services, and—more and more—the availability of high-speed internet connection. These factors have a direct impact on quality of life and medium-term property appreciation.

Land use and urban planning regulations

Before purchasing a rural property, it is crucial to understand the land classification and applicable planning restrictions. A rural plot is not the same as an urban one, and not all land allows construction, renovation, or tourist activity. A prior analysis will prevent setbacks and ensure the property matches your intended use.

Urban planning restrictions are set out in the current municipal plan and fall within the urban regulations of the corresponding autonomous community. This is why professional advice from Engel & Völkers can help avoid legal issues and mistakes. To learn more about the full process of purchasing a rural property, you can consult our guide.

Condition of the property and renovation needs

Many rural homes require some level of work—from full restoration to technical or energy upgrades. Assessing structural condition, installations, and regulatory compliance is key to avoiding unexpected extra costs. A professional inspection will ensure an accurate estimation of total investment and reveal the property’s true potential. And if you value efficient renovation, you can opt for a Passivhaus as a model of sustainable housing.

Professional advice at this stage not only provides legal security but also supports long-term decision-making.

Why buy a rural property with Engel & Völkers?

Acquiring property in a rural setting is much more than finding a house in the countryside. It means identifying a location with potential, understanding its legal, technical, and heritage aspects, and assessing its future prospects. At Engel & Völkers, we offer a highly personalised approach with experts in each rural area.

Our team of real estate consultants has in-depth knowledge of the rural market, including specialised advice for international buyers who wish to purchase property in Spain.

It’s not just about finding properties—it’s about selecting homes with character, unique value, and optimal conditions for investment or residential use.

We also accompany our clients through every stage of the process: from the initial search and selection to negotiation, legal validation, document management, and signing before a notary.