Second home in northern Spain: why interest is growing

Why is interest in buying property in northern Spain growing? 

Northern Spain brings together several factors that are attracting the interest of those looking to buy a property, from a second home to a property where they can spend longer periods of time —for retirement orremote working— and even those considering a future change of residence.Some of the main attractions include:

• Quality of life and nature: proximity to the sea, mountains and natural areas is part of the appeal of many areas in northern Spain.

• More moderate summer temperatures: for some buyers, climate has become another factor to consider when deciding where to buy.

• Variety of settings: cities, coastal towns and rural areas offer properties suited to different lifestyles.

• New ways of using a property: flexible working arrangements make it easier for certain buyers to spend more time away from their primary residence.

Climate is becoming more important in residential decisions 

Climate is increasingly becoming one of the criteria some buyers consider when deciding where to purchase a property. For those coming from areas with hotter summers, the generally more moderate summer temperatures in northern Spain can be a reason tobuy a second home or spend longer periods there.

This interest is not driven by temperature alone. The possibility of combining a milder summer climate with the coast, nature and services means that certain areas of Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia and the Basque Country are increasingly being considered as alternatives to traditional destinations.

Cantabria and the growing interest in second homes in northern Spain 

Cantabria is one of the markets where this growing residential appeal of northern Spain can be seen. In Santander, demand remains stable and selective, with particular interest in well-located properties with distinctive features. Alongside quality of life and the coastal setting, there is also growing interest associated with climate tourism.Data from the latest Engel & Völkers Market Report highlights several trends:

• Predominance of domestic buyers: 81% of transactions handled involve domestic buyers, compared with 19% from international buyers.

• Interest in spacious properties: in Santander, demand is mainly focused on apartments between 142 and 192 m², with three or four bedrooms.

• Terraces, orientation and sea views: these are among the features particularly valued in the city.

• More space outside the city centre: in surrounding municipalities, interest shifts towards larger detached homes with gardens and greater privacy.

• The coast broadens the range of options: Comillas, Santillana del Mar, Suances and Ribamontán al Mar each have their own market dynamics and cater to different residential profiles.

Santander and the Cantabrian coast: two ways of experiencing property in northern Spain 

Santander attracts more urban demand and has a high-value residential segment, particularly in areas such as El Sardinero, Puerto Chico and Paseo Pereda. Outside the capital, some coastal municipalities attract buyers who prioritise quieter surroundings, detached homes and a closer connection with nature.

This diversity helps explain why Cantabria can meet different ways of buying and using a property: from a second home close to the sea to a property intended for longer stays.

Beyond Cantabria: other areas in northern Spain 

Cantabria is not the only option for those consideringbuying a second homein northern Spain. Asturias, Galicia and the Basque Country offer different alternatives in terms of surroundings, property types, transport connections and lifestyle.

• Asturias: combines cities such as Oviedo and Gijón with coastal towns and areas close to the mountains.

• Galicia: offers a wide variety of options across cities, coastal areas and rural locations, from the Rías Baixas to the Atlantic coast.

• Basque Country: combines established urban property markets with coastal towns, services and good transport connections.

Rather than choosing an autonomous community in general terms, it is advisable to analyse each market at a local level. Budget, transport connections, property type and the intended use of the property will help determine which area is the best fit.

What to consider before buying a second home in northern Spain 

Before buying a second home in northern Spain, it is important to assess the property based on how it will actually be used, as well as factors such as location, transport connections, the condition of the property and the costs involved in maintaining it throughout the year.

Location and transport connections

The distance from your primary residence can affect how often you use the property. Choosing an attractive area is not enough: it is also important to consider travel times, road, rail and air connections, and the availability of services throughout the year.

Climate and property features

If climate is one of the reasons for buying in northern Spain, it is also important to consider how well the property is suited to local conditions. Orientation, insulation, ventilation, energy efficiency and the presence of damp can directly affect comfort and maintenance.

Intended use

A property used for a few weeks of holiday each year has different requirements from one that will be used for several months or could eventually become a primary residence. Defining its intended use helps determine what size, layout, services and location are actually needed.

Budget beyond the purchase price

In addition to the purchase price, buyers need to factor in the relevant taxes and expenses, as well as the property's recurring costs: community fees, insurance, utilities, maintenance and potential renovations.

If the purchase requiresfinancing, it will also be necessary to assess borrowing capacity and the financing conditions available for a second home before beginning the search.

Which area of northern Spain should you choose for a second home?

There is no single area of northern Spain that is right for buying a second home. As a starting point, it can be useful to consider what you are looking for in a property:

• Coast and proximity to the sea: for those who prioritise the beach, views or a lifestyle connected to the coast.

• City living and year-round services: an option for those who want to combine a second home with restaurants, culture, shopping and good transport links.

• Nature and tranquillity: rural areas or locations close to natural spaces can offer greater privacy and properties with more outdoor space.

• Ease of frequent travel: if the property will be used for weekends or short stays, connections with the primary residence become particularly important.

Rather than choosing solely between Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia or the Basque Country, it is advisable to analyse the market at a local level. Two neighbouring municipalities can have significant differences in property types, services, demand and prices, making a thorough understanding of the area particularly important before making a decision.

If you are consideringbuying a second home in northern Spain, understanding the characteristics of each market can help you make a more informed choice. At Engel & Völkers, our advisors are here to help you find the area and property that best suit your needs and lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions about second homes in northern Spain 

Why is interest in buying property in northern Spain increasing?

Northern Spain combines factors such as nature, the coast, quality of life and generally more moderate summer temperatures. These are complemented by new ways of using properties, including longer stays and greater flexibility to spend time away from a primary residence.

Where should I buy a second home in northern Spain?

It depends on the buyer's intended use and priorities. Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia and the Basque Country offer very different options across coastal areas, cities and rural locations. Before choosing, it is advisable to compare transport connections, services, property types, budget and frequency of use.

Is Cantabria a good option for a second home?

Cantabria offers coastline, nature and a variety of residential markets, from Santander to coastal municipalities and inland areas. Engel & Völkers data also shows active demand both in the capital and in various municipalities in the surrounding area and along the coast.

Why is northern Spain referred to as a climate refuge?

In a residential context, the term is used to describe the growing interest in spending the hottest periods of the year in areas with more moderate summer temperatures. This factor is leading some buyers to include climate among their criteria when deciding where to purchase a property.

What should you consider before buying a second home in northern Spain?

In addition to price, it is important to consider location and transport connections, the intended use of the property, services available throughout the year and property features such as orientation, insulation, ventilation and energy efficiency. Purchase and maintenance costs should also be taken into account.

What type of property should you look for as a second home in northern Spain?

This will depend on its intended use. For frequent stays, transport connections and services may become more important; if tranquillity is the priority, privacy and outdoor space may carry more weight. In coastal areas, it is also particularly important to consider the property's orientation and construction characteristics.