This is the property buying process with RH Privé Estates

Buying a property is much more than signing a contract. It is an important, emotional decision and, in many cases, the beginning of a new stage in life. At RH Privé Estates, we fully understand what this moment means for our clients, which is why we have designed a property buying process where personalised support is the true focus. From the very first contact to the handover of the keys, and even beyond, each homeowner is supported by a multidisciplinary team that guides them every step of the way. Our goal is not only to sell a property, but to offer a complete, transparent and close experience, aligned with the standards of excellence that define RH Privé Estates and RH Privé. With more than 30 years of experience in the real estate sector on the Costa del Sol, we have learned that the real value lies in people. That is why each department within our company is strategically involved throughout the home buying process to provide future homeowners with exactly what they need at every stage. A process designed to support you from day one One of the key differences at RH Privé Estates is that our clients never go through the purchasing process alone. Each phase is carefully structured to ensure that there is always a specialised team supporting the buyer. The process begins with the sales team and evolves with the involvement of other key departments such as the legal area, Client Services and the exclusive Owners Club. All of them work in coordination to provide a smooth, secure and fully personalised experience. This comprehensive support reflects our values of trust, empathy, innovation and service excellence. Step 0: welcome, the beginning of a personalised relationship Everything begins with a welcome. At this first stage, the future homeowner meets their advisor or sales agent, who becomes their main point of contact during the initial phases of the property buying process. More than a real estate agent, we are talking about a professional specialised in sustainable luxury homes and with in-depth knowledge of the Costa del Sol real estate market. Our sales team listens, understands and analyses each client’s needs in order to offer options that truly align with their lifestyle, preferences and goals. We do not believe in impersonal or automated processes: we believe in human connection and in building trust from the very beginning. In addition, we provide personalised service in more than six languages, allowing us to comfortably assist international clients from all over the world. Step 1: selecting the ideal property Once the client’s needs have been understood, the selection phase begins. At this stage, the sales advisor supports the buyer in finding the property that best matches their expectations. Whether it is a contemporary villa, a luxury apartment with Mediterranean views or a property within an exclusive community, our goal is to find a home that inspires. During this phase, the client receives detailed information about the property, the development, finishes, services and available customisation options. Because for us, a house is not just a property; it is a space designed for living fully. Step 2: property reservation and legal support When the client decides to take the next step, it is time for the reservation. This is where one of the most important features of the RH Privé Estates home buying process begins: the progressive involvement of specialised departments to support the future homeowner. From this stage onwards, in addition to the sales advisor, the legal department and the Owners Club are introduced. The legal department supports the client in all legal and administrative procedures related to the purchase of the property. From document review to reservation contracts, our team works to ensure maximum security, transparency and peace of mind throughout the entire purchasing process. At the same time, the buyer begins to discover the Owners Club, the exclusive private club for RH Privé homeowners designed to create community, connections and shared experiences among like-minded individuals. At this stage, the reservation contract is formalised and the corresponding deposit is paid. Step 3: contract and the beginning of a more complete experience Signing the contract marks a key moment in the property buying process. At this stage, various administrative and financial procedures are completed, including legal and regulatory compliance processes. In addition, a new essential department is introduced: Client Services. The Client Services team becomes a key ally for the homeowner throughout the development of the property. Their role is to provide ongoing communication, resolve queries, coordinate processes and ensure that every detail of the home buying process runs smoothly. This personalised attention is especially important for international clients or buyers who are looking for a fully guided experience. From this moment on, the client no longer feels that they are simply purchasing a property. They begin to truly experience RH Privé. Step 4: customisation and construction follow-up One of the most exciting moments arrives with the progress of construction and the customisation programme. RH Privé understands that each homeowner is unique and that their home should be as well. For this reason, we offer an exclusive customisation programme that allows different finishes and elements of the property to be adapted to the client’s tastes and needs. In properties under development, the homeowner can choose from different options for flooring, tiling, sanitary fittings, taps, kitchen finishes and other details that transform the property into a truly personal space. Meanwhile, the Client Services team and the sales advisor continue to support the buyer, keeping them informed about construction milestones and the progress of the development. At the same time, the technical and construction team works through the different stages of the project: licensing, foundations, structure, completion and final certification. This coordination between departments is what allows us to offer an organised, transparent and efficient purchasing process. Step 5: final milestones before handover With construction already well advanced, the property buying process enters its final stage. At this point, we complete the final construction milestones and the client continues to be supported by all involved departments: sales, legal, Client Services

RH Privé Estates27 de May de 2026

Sustainability in real estate: is it just marketing?

Talking about sustainability in real estate has become increasingly common. Today, almost every property development mentions terms such as energy efficiency, respect for the environment, responsible design or low environmental impact. However, the question is inevitable: are we witnessing a real transformation in the sector, or simply another marketing strategy? From our experience at RH Privé Estates, with more than 30 years of consolidated expertise, we believe that sustainability only makes sense when it translates into concrete, measurable and consistent decisions throughout the entire real estate process. It is not enough to communicate an intention; it must be demonstrated through design, construction, resource management, the relationship with the environment and the way a company operates on a daily basis. Our commitment is expressed through the concept of Eco Luxury Developments, a way of understanding luxury where quality, wellbeing, efficiency and respect for the environment do not compete, but reinforce one another. We lead the development of sustainable luxury homes through a plan that is continuously reviewed and improved, fully integrated into the design and construction process of our projects. What sustainability in real estate really means Sustainability in real estate should not be limited to installing a few efficient elements or using attractive language in a marketing campaign. A truly sustainable developer must act on three levels at the same time: environmental, social and economic. From an environmental perspective, this means reducing energy consumption, optimising water use, minimising waste, protecting ecosystems and using responsible materials. From a social perspective, it involves creating healthy, comfortable spaces designed to improve the quality of life of those who live in them. From an economic perspective, sustainability must also translate into durability, maintenance efficiency and long-term value. For this reason, when a developer claims to be sustainable, it is worth asking several questions: what measures are implemented from the initial design stage? How is water managed? What materials are used? How is the impact on the land reduced? What corporate commitments exist beyond each individual development? Only when there are clear answers can we speak of real sustainability in real estate. At RH Privé, we summarise it simply: it is not what we say, it is what we do. Sustainability must be present from the very first line of a project to the everyday life within the home. Actions a sustainable developer can take A developer aiming to be truly sustainable must begin with planning. Before building, it is essential to study the land, its orientation, vegetation, relationship with the climate and its impact on the community. This preliminary analysis allows for smarter decisions and reduces the need for artificial solutions later on. Energy efficiency One of the most important actions is committing to energy efficiency. This involves designing buildings with low energy demand, incorporating efficient heating, cooling and hot water systems, using LED lighting, improving thermal insulation, installing high performance windows and, whenever possible, integrating renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels. Water efficiency Efficient water use is also essential, especially in areas such as the Costa del Sol, where pressure on water resources is increasingly evident. A sustainable developer must install saving devices, consider reuse systems, design gardens with climate adapted species and avoid solutions that require excessive or inefficient consumption. Protecting the ecosystem Building should not mean imposing a project on the environment, but engaging with it. This means adapting design to the land, preserving the landscape identity, regenerating spaces when possible and choosing landscaping that is consistent with local vegetation. Bioclimatic design Bioclimatic design also plays a key role. Taking advantage of orientation, cross ventilation, natural shading, thermal mass, courtyards, light colours and traditional architectural elements helps reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort. Mediterranean vernacular architecture offers many solutions that are once again highly relevant today. Material and resource management Finally, a sustainable developer must address the management of materials and resources. This includes using sustainable materials, reducing waste, controlling erosion, preventing pollution, recycling inert materials and monitoring resource use to extend their lifecycle. How we apply it at RH Privé: Eco Luxury Developments At RH Privé, we understand sustainable real estate as a responsibility. We do not conceive a high-end home solely as a beautiful, exclusive and well-located space; it must also be efficient, healthy, durable and respectful of its surroundings. Through our Eco Luxury Developments, we integrate passive and active measures aimed at reducing energy consumption and improving wellbeing. These include high efficiency aerothermal systems for hot water and climate control, photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation, LED lighting, high performance windows with thermal break and advanced energy and acoustic performance, as well as monitoring and control systems. We also incorporate occupancy, lighting, ventilation and CO₂ sensors to promote smarter space management. Our goal is not only to meet regulatory requirements, but to move towards 360º sustainable construction, economically, socially and environmentally. In terms of water, we implement solutions designed to reduce consumption both indoors and in communal areas. We install efficient devices, promote the use of local or climate adapted vegetation, consider rainwater reuse for irrigation and other purposes, and opt for outdoor saltwater pools to avoid harmful chemicals. Regarding the ecosystem, our architectural team analyses the characteristics of the land to adapt to it whenever possible. We consider ourselves responsible for the environment in which our homes are located, working to generate a positive impact during construction and throughout the entire lifecycle of the project. Bioclimatic design: when architecture works with the climate One of the most interesting aspects of sustainability in real estate is that many of its solutions are not new. On the Costa del Sol, traditional architecture already understood the importance of protection from the sun, creating shade, natural ventilation and using materials capable of stabilising indoor temperatures. At RH Privé, we take vernacular architecture as a reference and combine it with contemporary solutions. We apply overhanging roofs to shade façades and openings, protect windows with shutters and curtains, incorporate vegetation in courtyards and surroundings, and use shading systems adapted to each orientation. We also pay special attention to

RH Privé Estates27 de May de 2026

What is the difference between flat and apartment? Everything you need to know

When you start looking for a property, one of the most common questions is the difference between flat and apartment. Although it may seem like a simple matter of wording, in the real estate sector this distinction can influence how you interpret a listing, the expectations you create and even your final purchase decision. The truth is that they are often used as synonyms, and this is not incorrect. However, when we analyse the market more closely, we see that they do not always mean exactly the same thing. The difference may relate to size, use, location or even the commercial positioning of the property. If you are thinking about buying, investing or simply understanding the market better, this post will give you a clear and professional view of the difference between flat and apartment. At RH Privé Estates, with more than 30 years of experience in the sector, we support international clients like you in finding homes that match their lifestyle, always with transparency, trust and fully personalised advice. What is a flat and how it is understood in Spain When we talk about a flat, we generally refer to a home located within a shared residential building. It is the most common term in Spain and the one you will probably use naturally when thinking about a primary residence. A flat can vary in size, quality and style. It may be a spacious family home, a renovated property in a city centre or even a luxury residence with sea views. For this reason, it is a broad and neutral concept. In addition, the term flat is usually linked to the idea of a main residence. In other words, a place where you live on a regular basis, carry out your daily life and look for comfort and functionality. What is an apartment and what makes it different When analysing the difference between flat and apartment, the term apartment also describes a property within a building, but it usually carries a slightly different nuance. In many cases, it is associated with smaller, more practical homes, with compact layouts or designed for more flexible use. It is common to associate the word apartment with a second home, a holiday property or an investment. It is also widely used in modern developments and international markets. However, there is something important to keep in mind: an apartment does not have to be small or basic. On the Costa del Sol, for example, there are luxury apartments with large terraces, sea views, exclusive amenities and contemporary designs focused on wellbeing. Therefore, more than size, what changes is the perception and positioning of the property. The difference between flat and apartment in practice So, what is the real difference between flat and apartment? There is no strict rule, but there are several key points that can help you understand it better. On one hand, the term flat is more general and traditional. It describes a property without adding commercial nuance. On the other hand, apartment is often used to convey a specific lifestyle, more linked to leisure, investment or modern design. Context also matters. In traditional urban areas, it is more common to speak about flats. In coastal areas or international markets such as the Costa del Sol, the term apartment is used much more frequently. In short, a flat defines the type of property, while an apartment often reflects how that property is marketed. How this difference affects you when buying Understanding the difference between flat and apartment is essential when searching for a property. The name can give you clues about its positioning, but it does not define its real value. If you are looking for a home to live in all year round, you may feel more connected to the concept of a flat. If you are searching for a second home, a property to enjoy during certain periods or an investment, apartments may be more appealing. However, when considering the difference between flat and apartment, the key point is not to rely only on the label. Always analyse factors such as location, quality, layout, orientation and community features. These elements are what truly determine whether a property is right for you. At RH Privé Estates, this is exactly how we work: We listen to your needs and help you find the property that genuinely fits you. Our team provides multilingual advice, access to exclusive properties and full support throughout the entire process. If you are considering buying on the Costa del Sol, we invite you to contact us and discover homes that go beyond the conventional. Flat or apartment on the Costa del Sol On the Costa del Sol, the term apartment is widely used, especially in new developments and properties aimed at international buyers. Here, the concept of apartment is closely linked to a lifestyle: Sea views, large terraces, communal areas, design and sustainability all play a key role. It reflects a way of living that goes beyond the interior space. This approach reflects the philosophy of RH Privé, where luxury is combined with sustainability, innovation and attention to detail, creating homes designed to offer a complete living experience. For this reason, when you search for property in this area, you will see that the term apartment does not imply something basic, quite the opposite. What you should really consider Beyond whether it is called a flat or an apartment, there are decisive factors to consider. Project quality, location, how well it fits your lifestyle and sustainability are key elements. Today, a property is not just a place to live, but an investment in wellbeing and quality of life. That is why expert advice makes a real difference. FAQs about the difference between flat and apartment Are flat and apartment the same? Not exactly, although they are often used as synonyms. The difference between flat and apartment lies more in usage and commercial perception. Is an apartment smaller? Not necessarily. There are large luxury apartments and smaller flats. Which

RH Privé Estates30 de April de 2026

Golden Visa: current market situation

For years, the Golden Visa became one of the most frequently mentioned concepts when discussing international real estate investment in Spain. Its logic was simple: certain non-EU citizens could obtain residency in Spain through a significant investment, and purchasing a property worth €500,000 or more was one of the best-known options. What has happened since the end of the Golden Visa However, that framework has changed. Spanish Organic Law 1/2025 removed the content of articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013, and the elimination of this route came into force on 3 April 2025. At the same time, the Spanish Ministry of Inclusion clarifies that applications submitted before that date could still be processed under the previous regulations and that existing permits remain valid and can be renewed under the former framework. That said, the key question for the market is not only legal but also real estate related: has anything really changed in foreign property buying trends? Based on the available data, our reading is cautious but clear. We do not see a disappearance of international demand, far from it. What we do observe is a market reshaping, with less dependence on purely migration driven incentives and greater importance placed on factors such as quality of life, legal certainty, connectivity, climate, services and long-term asset value. In other words, foreign buyers are still present, but their motivation is increasingly linked to lifestyle and broader real estate investment rather than obtaining a specific permit. Legal changes after the Golden Visa in Spain The real estate Golden Visa has not been available for new applications since 3 April 2025, as the final provision of Spanish Organic Law 1/2025 removed the articles regulating investor visas and residence permits from Law 14/2013. This means that buying property in Spain no longer provides this specific residency pathway for new investors. However, it is also important not to create misunderstandings. The end of the Golden Visa does not automatically cancel acquired rights. The Ministry of Inclusion states that those who submitted their applications before the reform came into force can still be processed under the previous rules, and permits already granted remain valid for their duration, with the possibility of renewal under the regulations in force at the time of initial approval. This has softened the immediate impact of the measure and helps explain why we do not see a sharp and uniform drop in all statistics. For this reason, when analysing whether the market has changed, we must distinguish between the legal change, which has been clear, and the commercial change, which is proving much more gradual. The international residential market is not driven by visas alone. It depends on disposable income, interest rates, global mobility, comparative taxation, available supply and the attractiveness of the destination. Spain, especially its established coastal markets, continues to hold a very competitive position globally. Data shows that foreigners are still buying property Looking at the end of 2024, it is difficult to argue that foreign demand had disappeared. According to the Spanish Land Registrars, 14.6% of property purchases in 2024 were made by foreigners, close to the all-time high of 15% in 2023. In absolute terms, these purchases increased to around 93,000 transactions compared to approximately 87,400 the previous year. The same report highlights that 10.8% of purchases by foreigners exceeded €500,000, the highest level in the historical series. This is a key point. It shows that even before the Golden Visa was removed, the foreign market remained strong. Moving into 2025, the overall picture does not change dramatically. The 2025 annual report from the Registrars indicates that 13.82% of property purchases in Spain were made by foreigners, below the 2023 peak but still at high levels. In absolute terms, the volume rose to around 97,500 transactions compared to about 93,000 in 2024. In other words, the relative share decreases slightly, but the number of transactions continues to grow. The General Council of Notaries provides further insight. In the first half of 2025, property transactions by foreigners increased by 2% year on year to 71,155 transactions, representing 19.3% of the total. This growth was driven by foreign residents, whose purchases rose by 6.4%, while non-residents fell by 4.1%. In the second half of 2025, notaries did observe a 4.4% year on year decline to 66,629 transactions, representing 18.4% of the total. The most accurate conclusion is therefore not that foreigners have stopped buying. The data does not support that claim. Instead, foreign demand remains active but is evolving. It is losing some relative weight and moderating in certain segments, particularly among non-resident buyers, while gaining strength among international buyers who already live, work or spend extended periods in Spain. Has the cancellation of the Golden Visa cooled the market? Our answer would be no, not structurally, at least for now. It may have affected a specific segment of non-EU buyers who used property purchases as a direct route to residency. However, reducing the entire foreign market to that profile would be a mistake. The international buyer base in Spain is much broader and more diverse, including EU residents, European retirees, relocated professionals, digital nomads, investment-focused buyers, second home seekers and high net worth individuals who prioritise quality of life over administrative incentives. Looking at the regions with the highest international demand, Andalusia remains one of the leading areas. In the first quarter of 2025, Registrars placed Andalusia at 14.2% of purchases by foreigners. At a provincial level, Málaga continues to rank among the top regions in Spain for international buyers, with figures of 34.76% in the third quarter of 2024, 34.75% in the first quarter of 2025 and 32.8% for the full year 2025. These are very high levels compared to the national average. This aligns perfectly with the reality of the Costa del Sol. Here, purchase decisions rarely depend on a single factor. Lifestyle, international connectivity, premium services, security, climate and long-term value preservation all play a role. In established locations, the end of the Golden

RH Privé Estates30 de April de 2026