The Hidden Risks in Nerja's Real Estate Market
- nerjawithsanna
- Mar 6
- 4 min read
The current real estate market in Nerja is challenging—not just for buyers but also for real estate agencies. While demand remains strong, the real issue is the limited supply—many homeowners are holding onto their properties, reducing available listings. With fewer deals to close, some agencies are becoming increasingly aggressive in their sales tactics. Buyers should stay informed and cautious to navigate the market effectively.
Here’s what’s happening and how you can protect yourself.
The Reality: Desperation Among Real Estate Agencies
Right now, many real estate agencies in Nerja are struggling. With fewer properties available for resale, agencies are relying heavily on new developments, which come with long payback periods for commissions. This has led to a situation where agencies are desperate to sell whatever properties they have on their books—sometimes at the expense of transparency and honesty.
We’ve seen instances where buyers weren’t informed about critical issues related to:
Property renovations – Structural problems, unapproved modifications, or hidden costs.
Community organizations – Financial issues, legal disputes, or upcoming large fees.
Short-term rental regulations – Buyers being misled about their ability to rent out their property.
Misinformation is rampant. If you don’t know what to ask, you might end up making a costly mistake.
What Buyers Need to Watch Out For
If you’re looking to buy in Nerja, here are some key red flags to be aware of:
1. Community Fees & Legal Issues
Some communities in Nerja are not well-managed, leading to ongoing financial and maintenance problems. Before purchasing, you should:
Request the last two or three annual meeting reports from the community.
Check for major upcoming expenses, disputes, or even pending lawsuits. In many cases, lawsuits are filed against problematic neighbors causing issues but refusing to leave or against residents who have failed to pay their annual community fees. While these situations are usually manageable, a high number of unresolved cases could create a snowball effect, leading to financial strain on the community. It’s always wise to assess the overall stability of the property and its surroundings before making a decision.
Ensure there are no hidden costs that will surprise you after buying.
2. Renovation Pitfalls
Many properties in Nerja have been renovated without proper permits or in a way that hides serious underlying issues. Always:
Ask to see permits for any recent work done on the property.
Get an independent structural survey to avoid nasty surprises.
Verify that there are no outstanding fines related to illegal renovations.
3. Short-Term Rental Misinformation
There’s a lot of confusion about short-term rental regulations in Nerja. Many agencies tell buyers, “You can rent this out no problem”, without explaining:
Whether the community allows short-term rentals.
What new licensing laws might apply.
Any potential restrictions in the building or urbanization.
Yes, you can still legally rent short-term in Nerja, but only if you follow the proper regulations. Don't be misled by vague or outdated sales pitches. Many real estate agencies may not have the latest information, and it's not entirely their fault, keeping up with the frequent changes in rules and processes requires constant effort. To avoid any issues, make sure you fully understand the current legal requirements before making a purchase.
How to Safeguard Yourself & Find a Great Property
The good news? There are still fantastic properties available, and with the right approach, you can make a great investment. Here’s how:
1. Work With Experts, Not Just Agents
Many buyers come to us after they’ve been misled or felt something was “off” during their search. We specialize in helping international buyers navigate the market safely.
We investigate everything: Property history, legal status, and financial risks.
We negotiate aggressively: To ensure you don’t overpay.
We protect your interests: By ensuring you have all the facts before you sign.
Thinking of buying? Contact us here and let’s make sure you find a secure and valuable property.
2. Take Your Time & Ask the Right Questions
Don’t rush into buying, and always ask:
What’s the financial health of the community?
Are there any upcoming special fees?
Can I legally rent short-term if I choose to?
Has this property been properly renovated and permitted?
3. Be Prepared to Walk Away
If something feels off, trust your gut. Many buyers avoid making costly mistakes by reaching out for guidance before signing anything.
Want a second opinion? Let’s talk.
Final Thoughts: Stay Smart in This Market
The Nerja real estate market is full of incredible opportunities—whether you're looking for a dream home, a smart investment, or a holiday retreat. But like any market, navigating it wisely is key. With the right knowledge and expert guidance, buying in Nerja is not only rewarding but also a smooth and secure process.
At NerjaWithSanna.com, we help you buy smart, avoid pitfalls, and make the most of your investment. With local expertise and insider insights, we ensure you find the right property at the right price—without unwanted surprises.
And this is exactly why we founded this company. We’ve always felt that buyers in Nerja didn’t have the right support, someone who truly looks out for their best interests. While Property Shoppers are common in Spain and worldwide, Nerja lacked this service, until now. We’re here to change that, ensuring buyers have the expert guidance they need to make safe, smart, and confident property decisions.
Thinking of buying in Nerja? Let's make it happen—safely and successfully. Click here to get in touch!
