Buying a home on the Costa Brava in winter: real advantages
When people think of the Costa Brava, they usually picture summer days, lively coves, and sun-drenched coastal towns. However, what many don’t realise is that winter is actually one of the best times to buy property in this region. With less competition, more open-minded sellers, and a calmer market, the colder months offer unique opportunities for those looking to buy wisely.
At Corredor Mató, we know the Costa Brava market inside out, and in this article, we’ll explain why winter might just be the smartest time to take the leap.
Why winter is the best time to buy property on the Costa Brava
During the summer months, high tourist demand shifts attention to holiday rentals and pushes perceived prices upward. In contrast, winter brings calm back to the market. Sellers become more receptive, agencies can offer a more personalised service, and buyers have more time and flexibility to evaluate each option carefully.
According to recent market data, the average listing price in the province of Girona (used as a proxy for the Costa Brava) was €2,405/m² in January 2025 and €2,587/m² in August 2025, a difference of around +6% between winter and summer (Idealista, Price Report 2025).
Although these figures represent listing prices rather than final sale prices, they clearly reflect a more dynamic market in the high season and a more flexible one in winter.
This shows that the true advantage of buying in winter lies not so much in the asking price, but in the negotiation potential. Buyers enjoy more room to adjust terms and access properties that are simply unavailable during summer.
Additionally, the quieter months allow you to discover the Costa Brava from another perspective: authentic villages, a vibrant local life, and a slower rhythm that reveals what it’s really like to live here year-round.
Lower demand, greater negotiation power
With fewer active buyers, negotiation margins increase noticeably. While average prices may not drop significantly, winter buyers often find sellers more willing to listen to offers, extend deadlines, or include upgrades as part of the deal.
Market data also shows that property listings tend to decline during the low season, especially for second homes and luxury villas. Furthermore, about 35% of homes in Girona take between 3 and 12 months to sell, according to Idealista—evidence that negotiation timelines are wider, especially outside the summer peak.
Exclusive properties
Another key advantage of winter is availability. Many properties that aren’t listed in high season—because they’re rented or used as holiday homes—return to the market between November and March. This opens the door to unique homes that simply don’t appear during the more touristic months.
In the Costa Brava, the vast majority of properties for sale are resales, while new developments represent only a small share of the market. This type of market encourages more personalised negotiation, particularly in the off-season.
How to make the most of it: practical steps before buying
Winter not only offers better market conditions but also the perfect context to prepare a well-thought-out purchase.
At Corredor Mató, we recommend:
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Assessing the property’s orientation and thermal insulation. Homes facing south and built with energy-efficient materials ensure year-round comfort.
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Seeking local advice. Understanding price trends by municipality and off-season demand is key to making a smart investment.
Our property consultants are experts in the area and can help you compare locations, evaluate returns, and anticipate annual maintenance costs based on the type of property.
Risks and considerations
Although winter brings clear advantages, there are also practical aspects to consider. During the colder months, natural light is reduced, and some properties may not show their full potential in terms of brightness or ventilation. In addition, some local businesses close temporarily, especially in highly touristic areas, which can influence your first impression of the surroundings.
For this reason, we always recommend visiting the property at different times of day and working with a local expert who can help you understand real living conditions throughout the year.
Buying with vision—beyond the season
Winter on the Costa Brava is not just a quieter season; it’s a strategic opportunity for those who see beyond summer. Buying a home at this time offers tangible benefits: more flexible pricing, greater availability, less competition, and the chance to experience the region as locals do year-round.
At Corredor Mató, we help our clients identify the best opportunities on the market, guiding them with transparency and local expertise every step of the way.
Explore our active listings this winter and find your perfect home on the Costa Brava.
