Swedish buyers are an important segment of the Spanish real estate market, particularly in sought-after coastal areas like Marbella & the Costa del Sol. However, key differences between the Swedish and Spanish property markets can create misunderstandings and challenges. Understanding these differences can help agents better serve Swedish clients and manage their expectations.
- Swedish Buyers Expect High Transparency
The Swedish real estate market is highly transparent, with easy access to property information, historical sale prices, and a regulated system. In Spain, the lack of transparency and unregulated market can be surprising and frustrating for Swedish buyers. - Technical Inspections Are a High Priority
In Sweden, technical inspections are conducted before a property is listed, and sellers must disclose all known issues. Swedish buyers often expect this in Spain, but here, inspections are typically optional and vary by property type (houses vs. apartments). - Agents in Sweden Are Licensed, Unlike in Spain
In Sweden, real estate agents must be licensed, ensuring a minimum level of expertise. In Spain, anyone can become an agent, leading to significant variation in knowledge and professionalism. Swedish buyers may need to do extra due diligence when choosing an agent. - Swedish Buyers Spend the Most Per Square Meter
Swedish buyers tend to purchase high-quality, newly built, or renovated properties, which drives up their average spending. They prefer homes that meet the standards they are used to in Sweden. - Swedish Market Conditions Influence Buying Decisions in Spain
When Sweden’s property market is weak, buyers may assume the same applies in Spain and delay purchasing, expecting price drops. Agents should be prepared to educate Swedish buyers about local market conditions. - Bonus: Dual Agency and Non-Exclusive Listings Confuse Buyers
In Sweden, listings are exclusive to one agent, and bidding is fully transparent. In Spain, multiple agents can sell the same property, and there is no formal bidding system, which can be surprising for Swedish buyers.
Watch the video with Peter Franke and I discussing the above on the Franke & de la Fuente YouTube channel here
