Madrid is one of Europe’s most attractive prime residential markets: legal security, quality of life, international connectivity, and strong demand from both local and international buyers. In 2026, the luxury market in Madrid continues to operate according to a clear logic: qualified demand + limited supply of truly premium properties (high-end new builds, impeccable renovations, and single-family homes in established residential areas).
This guide is designed for international buyers (residents or non-residents) and investors who want to enter the high-end segment with a clear understanding of the market. We focus on Pozuelo de Alarcón, Boadilla del Monte, Las Rozas, and central Madrid, and explain the buying process with a practical approach.
Outlook 2026: What to consider before buying
In 2026, the international buyer typically seeks one of these two goals:
- Housing for own use (family, expatriation or second residence).
- Residential investment (capital preservation, corporate rental, or wealth strategy).
In both cases, the critical point is the same: real value is concentrated in micro-location, property quality, and resale potential (liquidity) rather than in the “name” of the area. In the luxury market, two homes 10 minutes apart can have completely different market behaviors depending on the plot size, privacy, orientation, quality, or community/development.
Note for non-EU citizens: The Golden Visa for real estate investment stopped accepting new applications in April 2025. Buying is possible, but immigration planning must be done through alternative channels, on a case-by-case basis.
The best areas to buy luxury goods in Madrid (northwest and center)
Pozuelo de Alarcón: the residential “blue chip” of the northwest
Pozuelo boasts some of the most sought-after residential developments for families and international buyers. It’s a particularly solid option if you prioritize privacy, large plots of land, security, and convenient access to Madrid.
Ideal for: primary family residence, corporate relocations, stable investment property.
What typically works best: single-family homes with a practical layout (large living area, 4–6 bedrooms, garden and pool), good orientation, and consistent quality.
Checklist Ketier (Pozuelo):
- Security and maintenance of urbanization
- Real privacy (not just “feeling”)
- Natural light and orientation
- Verifiable premium renovation (installations, insulation, carpentry, etc., we take care of it or you can send an independent specialist)
Boadilla del Monte: space, modernity and green life
Boadilla is an ideal choice for those seeking quality of life and a residential environment with high-end single-family homes. Many buyers value the balance between tranquility and amenities.
Ideal for: families, remote work, and a garden living lifestyle with amenities.
What to look for: established residential developments with efficient access, and homes with energy efficiency and optimized maintenance.
Typical opportunity: assets with good foundations (location + plot + structure) where an aesthetic or technical update adds value without urban planning risks.
Las Rozas: a well-established residential area with high family demand
Las Rozas combines high-end single-family homes with gated communities and a stable family market. It’s attractive both for personal use and for investment in family/corporate rentals when the selection is right.
Ideal for: buyers who want spaciousness, amenities, and reasonable connections to Madrid.
What to look for: micro-zone (very important), level of privacy, and potential for future liquidity.
Key: In Las Rozas, the “address” matters, but the micro-location (noise, access, immediate surroundings, orientation, community) defines the final value.
Central Madrid: urban luxury, heritage and liquidity
The premium center thrives on a lifestyle narrative and exceptional product (prestigious building, top-notch renovation, natural light, layout, and services). Here, the quality of the building and the renovation are just as important as the location.
Ideal for: buyers seeking a walkable lifestyle, second homes, and highly desirable trophy properties.
What typically sells/rents best: homes with genuine (not superficial) complete renovations, high ceilings where applicable, a good layout, and, if possible, a parking space or nearby parking solution.
International purchasing process in Spain (step by step)
1) Define objective, deadlines and risk tolerance
Before viewing properties, define your criteria:
- Personal use or investment?
- Do you want to renovate or is it ready to move into?
- Purchase deadline (30/60/90 days) or leisurely search?
- Priority: plot, schools, city center, security, views, architecture?
- What budget can I allocate to this purchase?
This prevents unproductive visits and protects you from emotional purchases.
2) Documentary and operational preparation
To shop smoothly:
- NIE (highly recommended for procedures and taxation).
- Bank account and documentation of origin of funds (KYC/AML).
- Legal advice and, if you are buying remotely, representation structure/powers of attorney.
3) “Intelligent” selection: micro-location + product + liquidity
In luxury goods, don’t just buy by location. Buy by:
- Light/orientation
- Privacy
- Technical quality of the renovation
- Community/Urbanization and Maintenance
- Resale potential (who would buy it later and why)
- Adapting the area to your lifestyle
4) Due diligence (the step that protects your investment)
Before you commit, with a reservation or a deposit:
- Request the property’s simple note and registered encumbrances.
- Urban planning situation and licenses (key in single-family homes)
- Community status, assessments and inspections (in buildings)
- Technical verification of installations, insulation and dampness
At Ketier we will take care of everything and deliver the final report to you.
5) Closing: reservation, earnest money, deed
The flow is usually:
- To secure the reservation, a small payment is usually required.
- A deposit agreement (Arras) with clear terms regarding purchase/sale dates, payment, etc. The usual deposit amount is 10% to 20%. If the sale falls through due to the potential buyer’s fault, they forfeit the deposit. If the reason for the failure to close the sale is the seller’s fault, they are obligated to pay the potential buyer double the deposit amount.
- Sign the purchase and sale agreement at the notary’s office. Ketier will inform you of all the necessary procedures depending on your country of origin.
- Registration and after-sales service (changes of supplies, etc.).
Costs and taxes when buying a home in Madrid (quick overview)
In addition to the price, you’ll need to budget for taxes and expenses. For real estate transactions in Spain, a common guideline is to estimate an additional 8%–13%, depending on whether it’s a new build or a resale, and the specific circumstances.
- Second-hand: ITP (in Madrid, the usual general rate is 6%).
- New construction: VAT (generally 10%) + Stamp Duty (in Madrid, general rate 0.75% in most cases).
- Other services: notary, registry, management/lawyer, and if there is financing, appraisal, etc.
Tip: In luxury, the cost of good due diligence is marginal compared to the risk of an urban planning or technical issue.
Investing in luxury in Madrid: how to think like an “asset selector”
Prime investing is not about a high price, but about buying better than the market:
- Exceptional product (verifiable qualities, in-demand distribution)
- Clear demand for rental (corporate, diplomatic, family)
- Resale narrative (why it will be desirable in 3–7 years)
- Maintenance and efficiency (total cost of ownership)
In the northwest, premium family rentals thrive when the property is immaculate and the location is perfect. In the center, corporate and long-term rentals excel in turnkey properties with premium, comprehensive renovations.
Ketier as a real estate personal shopper (international buyers)
At Ketier, we work as personal real estate shoppers for international clients: we filter, validate, and execute properties from start to finish. We also have numerous off-market properties that may be of interest to investors, including not only high-end homes, but also hotels, buildings, land, estates, and more.
What we do for you:
- Definition of the brief (own use or investment)
- Curated selection (only assets that pass filters)
- Live virtual tours and guided tours (for secure remote shopping)
- Offer and negotiation strategy
- Coordination with legal/tax/technical partners, if applicable
In this case, we do charge the buyer fees, which will depend on the services required. Please contact us for more information.
Conclusion
Buying luxury property in Madrid in 2026 is a significant financial decision: it’s all about method, not haste. If your goal is to buy in Pozuelo, Boadilla, Las Rozas, or Madrid city center, and you want to avoid wasting time and taking risks, Ketier can act as your personal shopper and organize virtual tours so you can make informed decisions from anywhere in the world.
Would you like us to send you a selection of premium opportunities in Madrid (northwest and central areas)?
Write to us and tell us your goals, budget, and timeframe. At Ketier, we can act as your personal real estate shopper and organize live virtual tours.
Mini-FAQs
Can a foreigner buy a luxury home in Madrid without being a resident?
Yes. Buying does not require residency, but it is advisable to plan for NIE, taxation, banking compliance and legal structure.
Which is better: northwest (Pozuelo/Boadilla/Las Rozas) or central Madrid?
It depends on the objective: the northwest stands out for space, privacy and family life; the center for urban lifestyle and trophy assets with high demand if the product is excellent.
How much should I budget for taxes and shopping expenses in Madrid?
As a reference, between 8% and 13% additional on the price, depending on whether it is new construction or second-hand and the specific case.
Can Ketier help if I buy from abroad?
Yes. We can act as your real estate personal shopper, including live virtual tours, curated selection, negotiation, and full coordination.
