Top Local Real Estate Agencies In Spain

Published on October 23, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Spain, with its sunny beaches, rich cultural heritage, and Mediterranean lifestyle, attracts numerous real estate investors from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home on the Costa del Sol, an apartment in the heart of Barcelona, or a luxury villa in Marbella, finding the right local real estate agency can make all the difference in your buying experience. In this article, we’ll explore the best real estate agencies in Spain, guide you through the selection process, and inform you about the fees to expect.

Spanish Real Estate Gems: Top Local Agencies

Spain is full of quality real estate agencies, each with its own specialties and areas of expertise. Here’s a selection of the best local agencies, with their strengths and unique features:

1. Estrellas Properties – The Star of Costa Blanca

Estrellas Properties has established itself as a benchmark on the Costa Blanca, offering a wide range of properties for all budgets and tastes.

• Multilingual team, including French
• Excellent knowledge of the region
• Highly praised customer service

• Primarily focused on Costa Blanca
• May have waiting times for viewings during peak season

2. StartGroup – Certified Expertise on the Costa del Sol

StartGroup stands out for its professionalism and certifications, offering a quality guarantee to its clients on the Costa del Sol.

• Certified and highly qualified staff
• Services in 14 different languages
• Member of several prestigious professional associations

• Mainly concentrated on Costa del Sol
• May be more expensive than some local agencies

3. Drumelia Real Estate – Luxury in Marbella

Drumelia has established itself as the undisputed leader in luxury real estate in Marbella, with an innovative marketing approach and exceptional properties.

• Specialist in high-end real estate
• Cutting-edge marketing strategies
• Multiple international awards

• Focused on the luxury market, not suitable for modest budgets
• Primarily active in Marbella and surrounding areas

4. GogoEstates – Expert in Murcia, Alicante, and Almería Regions

Established since 2001, GogoEstates offers deep expertise in the less known but equally attractive regions of southeastern Spain.

• Wide range of new and resale properties
• Experienced multilingual team
• Personalized approach for each client

• Less present in major cities and popular tourist areas
• May have a more limited catalog in certain areas

Each of these agencies has distinguished itself in its area of expertise, offering quality services adapted to different types of buyers and investors. However, the choice of the ideal agency will largely depend on your specific needs, your budget, and the region that interests you.

The Quest for the Perfect Agency: How to Find the Hidden Gem

Finding the best real estate agency in Spain may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can identify the ideal partner for your real estate project. Here are some effective strategies to guide your search:

1. Clearly define your needs and objectives

Before starting your search, take time to think about what you exactly expect from your real estate investment in Spain. Are you looking for a vacation home, a rental investment, or planning to relocate permanently? Your budget, the region that interests you, and the type of property you’re seeking are all factors that will influence the choice of the most suitable agency for your project.

2. Conduct thorough online research

The internet is a goldmine of information to start your quest. Check agency websites, read customer reviews on independent platforms, and explore expatriate forums to gather testimonials from buyers who have already taken the step. Social media can also be a valuable source of information about agencies’ reputation and professionalism.

3. Check accreditations and affiliations

In Spain, serious real estate agents are often members of recognized professional associations. Look for agencies affiliated with organizations such as API (Agentes de la Propiedad Inmobiliaria) or GIPE (Asociación Profesional de Gestores Inmobiliarios). These affiliations are a guarantee of professionalism and respect for the sector’s ethical standards.

4. Evaluate local expertise

Deep knowledge of the region where you wish to invest is crucial. The best agencies will have a detailed understanding of the local market, price trends, specific regulations, and even cultural subtleties that can impact your purchase. Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions about the area that interests you to assess their expertise.

5. Test responsiveness and communication

Customer service quality is an important indicator of an agency’s reliability. Contact several agencies with specific questions and evaluate their response time, clarity of explanations, and willingness to understand your needs. An agency that communicates effectively from the start is more likely to provide quality service throughout the buying process.

6. Compare services offered

The best real estate agencies in Spain often offer much more than just property listings. Look for agencies that provide complementary services such as legal assistance, help with administrative procedures, or even advice for local integration. These additional services can greatly facilitate your buying experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Spanish market.

7. Meet agents in person if possible

If you have the opportunity to visit Spain before finalizing your choice, try to personally meet agents from the agencies you’re considering. This meeting will allow you to assess their professionalism, market knowledge, and most importantly, see if you feel comfortable with them. The personal relationship with your agent can make all the difference in your buying experience.

8. Ask for references

Don’t hesitate to ask for references from previous clients, particularly foreign buyers like yourself. Quality agencies will be happy to put you in touch with satisfied former clients. These direct testimonials can give you valuable insight into the experience you can expect.

9. Evaluate transparency about fees

A trustworthy agency will be transparent about its fees and commissions from the start. Be wary of agencies that are evasive on this subject or that offer abnormally low prices compared to the market. Clarity on financial aspects is essential to avoid bad surprises.

10. Trust your instincts

Finally, after performing all these checks, trust your instincts. If you feel confident and heard by a particular agency, that’s often a good sign. Buying a property is an important decision, and it’s crucial to feel in sync with the professionals who are accompanying you on this adventure.

By following these steps, you significantly increase your chances of finding a reliable and competent real estate agency in Spain. Remember that the time invested in this research can save you a lot of stress and potentially money in the long term.

Behind the Scenes of Real Estate: Decoding Agency Fees in Spain

Understanding the fees charged by real estate agencies in Spain is essential for properly budgeting your purchase project and avoiding bad surprises. Unlike some countries, the agency compensation system in Spain has some particularities that are important to know.

Sales commission: the bottom line

In Spain, the sales commission is generally the seller’s responsibility. This commission typically ranges between 3% and 5% of the final sale price of the property, but can sometimes reach up to 10% for luxury properties or properties that are particularly difficult to sell. It’s important to note that these percentages can vary by region and agency.

Although this commission is theoretically paid by the seller, it’s often incorporated into the property’s sale price. As a buyer, it’s therefore wise to keep this element in mind during negotiations.

Property management fees: an à la carte service

For those considering buying a property for rental purposes or who wish to entrust the management of their property to an agency, additional fees should be expected. Property management services can include:

• Tenant search and selection
• Lease contract management
• Rent collection
• Property maintenance and repairs
• Management of property-related charges and taxes

Fees for these services vary considerably between agencies and the extent of services offered. Generally, you can expect fees ranging from 5% to 15% of rental income for full management. Some agencies offer fixed monthly packages, particularly for luxury properties or properties generating high rental income.

Administrative fees: pay attention to details

Besides the sales commission, some agencies charge additional administrative fees. These fees can cover:

• Preparation of sales documents
• Property viewings
• Translation services
• Assistance with obtaining the NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)

These fees vary greatly from one agency to another and may be either included in the overall commission or charged separately. It’s crucial to clarify this point from the beginning of your relationship with the agency to avoid any surprises.

Legal services: additional security

Although not systematic, some agencies offer integrated legal services or in partnership with local law firms. These services can include:

• Verification of property titles
• Assistance with opening a Spanish bank account
• Representation during the signing of the deed of sale

Fees for these legal services are generally charged separately and can represent between 1% and 2% of the property purchase price. While this may seem like an additional cost, legal expertise can prove valuable, especially for foreign buyers unfamiliar with the Spanish legal system.

Transparency: your best ally

The key to avoiding bad surprises is transparency. The best real estate agencies in Spain will be clear and detailed about their fees from the beginning of your collaboration. Don’t hesitate to ask for a written breakdown of all potential fees before committing.

It’s also recommended to compare fee structures from several agencies. However, keep in mind that the cheapest agency isn’t necessarily the best option. Service quality, local expertise, and the agency’s reputation are equally important factors to consider.

Negotiation and flexibility

In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate fees, especially for high-value properties or in less dynamic markets. Some agencies may be open to customized fee structures based on your specific needs.

In conclusion, understanding the fee structure of real estate agencies in Spain is essential for properly planning your investment. By being well-informed and choosing a reputable and transparent agency, you ensure a more peaceful buying experience and potentially more financially advantageous in the long term.

Conclusion: Your Passport to Successful Real Estate Investment in Spain

Buying a property in Spain represents not only a significant financial investment but also a rewarding personal adventure. Whether you dream of a villa with Mediterranean views, a pied-à-terre in the vibrant heart of Barcelona, or a peaceful country house in the Spanish countryside, the choice of the right local real estate agency will be decisive in the success of your project.

The best real estate agencies in Spain, such as Estrellas Properties on the Costa Blanca, StartGroup on the Costa del Sol, Drumelia Real Estate in Marbella, or GogoEstates in the Murcia, Alicante, and Almería regions, stand out for their deep local expertise, professionalism, and ability to provide personalized service to their international clients. Each of these agencies brings its own added value, whether through sharp knowledge of a specific region, specialization in luxury real estate, or a multilingual approach adapted to foreign buyers.

However, it’s crucial not to limit yourself to these well-known names and to conduct your own investigation. The search for the ideal agency requires time and patience, but it’s an investment that’s worth it. By following the detailed advice in this article – from checking accreditations to evaluating communication and transparency about fees – you give yourself the best chances of finding a trustworthy partner for your real estate adventure in Spain.

Remember that agency fees, although they may seem substantial at first glance, should be put in perspective with the value added that a quality agency can provide. A good agency doesn’t just show you properties; it guides you through the complexities of the Spanish real estate market, helps you navigate administrative and legal procedures, and even assists you in your local integration.

Finally, keep in mind that buying a property in Spain isn’t just a financial transaction, it’s also the beginning of a new life or a new adventure. Choosing the right agency means ensuring you have a trusted ally by your side, not only during the buying process but also to accompany you in your new life in Spain.

Whether you’re attracted by the sun of the Costa del Sol, the charm of the Costa Blanca, or the authenticity of less touristy regions, Spain offers a diversity of real estate opportunities for all tastes and budgets. With the right agency by your side, your Spanish dream is within reach.