Choosing the right type of property is just as important as choosing the right location. Whether you’re looking for a brand-new apartment, a character-filled resale home, or the opportunity to build your dream villa from scratch, each option offers its own advantages, costs, and long-term investment potential.
At Mojo Estates, we help buyers evaluate every option based on their budget, lifestyle, timeline, and investment goals.
Key takeaway: New developments offer modern living and phased payment plans, resale properties provide established locations and renovation opportunities, while building your own home offers complete flexibility and personalisation.
Buying a New Development
New-build properties continue to be one of the fastest-growing segments of the Costa del Sol property market.
With more than 200 active developments, buyers can choose from contemporary apartments, penthouses, townhouses, and luxury villas designed to modern standards.
New developments typically offer:
- Contemporary architecture
- Energy-efficient construction
- Resort-style facilities
- Swimming pools and wellness amenities
- Modern layouts
- 10-year structural warranty
One of the biggest advantages is buying during the launch phase, where prices are often lower than those achieved once the development is completed.
Many developers also offer staged payment plans spread over approximately two to two-and-a-half years, making new developments attractive to both investors and lifestyle buyers.
At Mojo Estates, approximately 70% of completed property sales in 2025 involved new developments.
Building Your Own Home
For buyers seeking complete flexibility, purchasing land and building a bespoke home remains an attractive option.
Building plots are still available in areas including:
- Benahavís
- Mijas
- Estepona
- Eastern Marbella
Typical costs include:
- Building plots from approximately €300,000
- Construction from approximately €3,500 per m²
- Architectural fees
- Building licences and taxes
- Landscaping and external works
As an example, building a quality 300 m² villa can represent an overall investment of approximately €1.5 million, including both the land purchase and construction.
Our in-house Architecture & Design Studio manages the entire process, from concept and planning through to construction and completion.
Renovating a Resale Property
Some of the Costa del Sol’s most desirable homes were built decades ago and occupy exceptional locations that are difficult to replicate today.
Buying an older property and renovating it allows buyers to combine prime locations with modern design and functionality.
Typical renovation costs are approximately:
- €1,000–€1,500 per m²
As a guide:
- A 90 m² apartment renovation may range between €100,000 and €135,000
- A 200 m² villa renovation may range between €200,000 and €250,000
Professionally renovated properties can often achieve significant increases in value while allowing buyers to customise every aspect of the home to suit their lifestyle.
Our Architecture & Design Studio provides complete renovation services for projects of every size.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Each route offers different advantages.
A new development may be ideal if you value modern design, warranties, and phased payments.
A resale property can provide larger plots, established neighbourhoods, and renovation potential.
Building your own home offers complete freedom to design a property tailored entirely to your needs.
Our Property Advisors work closely with our Architecture & Design Studio to help you compare every option and determine which solution best matches your objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are New Developments a Good Investment?
Many buyers purchase during the early launch phase when prices are generally lower than completed market values. Combined with modern specifications and strong buyer demand, new developments remain a popular investment choice.
Is It Cheaper to Build Your Own Villa?
Not necessarily.
While building offers greater flexibility and personalisation, total costs depend on land prices, construction quality, permits, professional fees, and landscaping.
Are Renovation Projects Worth Considering?
Yes.
Many resale properties occupy exceptional locations and offer significant potential for value creation through well-planned renovations.
Can House of Mojo Help With Construction or Renovation?
Yes.
Our in-house Architecture & Design Studio provides support throughout the design, planning, renovation, and construction process, helping you create a home tailored to your vision.
Related Guides
- How Does the Buying Process Work?
- What Legal Steps Are Involved When Buying Property in Spain?
- Architecture & Design Studio