Over the past two decades, the rural property market in Andalusia has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once a rustic and often overlooked part of Spain has become one of the most desirable regions for buyers seeking privacy, natural beauty, and a luxurious lifestyle. Let us take you through that evolution and explain what makes the country property lifestyle so appealing today.
Pioneering Country Property market
Villas & Fincas was founded in 2001 with a clear vision: to introduce buyers to the charm and potential of Andalusia’s inland areas, starting with Casares and Gaucín. At that time, these picturesque white villages were virtually unknown in the real estate world. There were no other agencies in the region, and rural properties were not yet seen as investment-worthy. We were the first to launch a website showcasing not just the homes, but also the lifestyle, scenery, and cultural richness of southern Spain. That early effort laid the foundation for a brand built on trust, local knowledge, and curated property offerings.
Over time, as demand grew, so did our scope. We gradually expanded across Andalusia, focusing on larger rural estates and high-end country homes. What began as a personal venture has evolved into a family-run business, now including our two daughters, who share our passion for countryside living.
Changes in the market
Back in 2001, most properties in the countryside were modest fincas. Off-grid, with limited comfort and very basic infrastructure. Buyers were adventurous, accepting imperfections in exchange for peace and space. But times have changed.
Today’s clients are seeking luxury rural estates in Andalusia with all modern comforts: reliable internet, good access roads, high-end finishes, and proximity to services. That shift didn’t happen overnight but followed major improvements in infrastructure and lifestyle expectations.
The COVID-19 pandemic became a key turning point. With the rise of remote work, many began prioritising space, privacy, and self-sufficiency. The countryside, once seen as remote, became an attractive alternative to busy cities. As a result, demand for rural luxury homes in Spain soared, particularly in areas with strong lifestyle appeal and accessibility.
A Boutique approach
What sets Villas & Fincas apart is our specialised approach. Unlike other agencies, we maintain a select portfolio up to 100 properties. Every listing is carefully vetted. Not just for quality and potential, but also for documentation and legal clarity.
We offer a pre-check service, thoroughly reviewing all property documentation before we include it in our portfolio. This ensures transparency and reduces risks for our clients. In fact, we turn down some listings if they do not posses the right documents.
Our entire team is knowledgeable about country living in Andalusia. We don’t just sell houses. We understand the lifestyle, the nuances of each region, and the dreams of our clients. Whether someone wants a horse property in Seville, a vineyard near Ronda, or a peaceful retreat closer to the coast, we tailor our service to match those aspirations.
Properties we represent
The homes in our portfolio are carefully selected to align with a lifestyle vision. We focus on clients who want to live in these estates, not just own them. That means properties with charm, privacy, natural surroundings, and often an added feature that contributes to a sustainable lifestyle. Think small vineyard, an olive grove, or space for a boutique B&B.
One example is an exclusive estate where we recently recorded an interview on this topic. This is a unique cortijo-style home in Estepona, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, yet only 10 minutes from the beaches. It includes a kitchen garden, direct access to hiking trails, mountain views, and luxurious living. All this within reach of city comforts. It’s exactly the type of property our clients dream of. And yes, they’re really rare!
We do not focus on agricultural investments or large-scale production (e.g. commercial olive farming or high-yield wineries). Instead, our clients typically want a manageable estate that supports their way of life, while offering some return to help cover the running costs.
Eager to explore the luxurious lifestyle with this country home in Estepona? Contact us today to arrange a private viewing of this extraordinary country villa.
David Verbaan | 23rd July 2025
