It’s Time for Canadian Investors to Look Beyond Borders — Why Europe, and Málaga, Spain, Should Be on Your Radar
For much of the past decade, Canadian real estate development and investment thrived. Strong demand, easy access to capital, and steady growth made domestic projects a reliable way to build wealth. But over the past 18 months, the tide has shifted. Developers and investors across the country are facing a sobering reality:
- Traditional lenders are tightening their purse strings.
- Interest rates have risen, eroding margins.
- Municipal approval timelines continue to drag.
- Construction costs remain elevated.
The result? Fewer projects are breaking ground, and many that are shovel-ready remain stuck in neutral. For developers and investors used to a robust pipeline, the slowdown has been frustrating — and costly.
But while the Canadian market cools, other regions are heating up. For those willing to think globally, Europe — and specifically Spain — offers a compelling alternative.
Why Europe, Why Now?
Europe’s real estate and tourism sectors have seen a post-pandemic resurgence, bolstered by pent-up demand, favorable borrowing conditions (relative to North America), and government incentives for international investors. Spain, with its thriving tourism economy and investor-friendly environment, is particularly appealing.
Several key factors make Spain — and the Andalusian region in particular — stand out:
- Tourism demand is surging: Spain is on track to exceed pre-pandemic visitor levels, with Andalusia leading the charge as a hotspot for both leisure and wellness travel.
- Favorable cost structures: Development and operating costs, while rising, remain competitive compared to Canada, especially when paired with local incentives.
- Year-round markets: The Costa del Sol enjoys a temperate climate with over 340 days of sunshine annually, making resorts and retreats viable year-round.
- Strong exit potential: Properties catering to tourism and wellness continue to command healthy valuations, supported by international demand.
The Málaga Wellness & Health Retreat — An Opportunity for Canadian Investors
One project now seeking investment exemplifies the potential Europe holds for Canadian capital: a 29-hectare wellness and health retreat located just 20 minutes from Málaga city center and beaches, and 25 minutes from the international airport.
This development-ready property includes:
- A 1,800 m² main building and a 280 m² residence already on-site.
- Full permits to build up to 23,000 m² of hotel, wellness, and rental space.
- Panoramic hilltop views, a natural temperate microclimate, and easy access to major transport hubs.
With demand for wellness tourism surging, projected revenues for the completed retreat are expected to exceed €4.5 million annually, with net operating margins approaching 40%. Over a 10-year horizon, the combined property and operational valuation is forecast between €18–21 million.
For Canadian investors, this is not just a real estate play. It’s an entry point into a high-growth European sector, offering diversification, currency exposure, and returns that many stalled Canadian projects simply can’t match.
Why The Coterie Group is Bringing Canadians to Europe
At The Coterie Group, we’ve seen firsthand how challenging the Canadian market has become for developers and investors. Our focus has always been on finding creative solutions — whether that means structuring non-traditional financing for local projects or opening doors to international opportunities where the fundamentals are stronger.
Europe, and Spain in particular, offers our clients access to projects with:
- Established demand and growth potential,
- Clear exit strategies, and
- Partnerships that reduce risk while maximizing upside.
The Málaga retreat is one of several opportunities we’re currently presenting to our network. For Canadian investors looking to diversify their portfolios and access higher-growth markets, this is the time to explore what lies beyond our borders.
Let’s Talk
If you’re an investor or developer ready to expand your reach, we’d be happy to share more details about the Málaga wellness retreat and other international opportunities we’re curating.
Reach out to us at info@thecoteriegroup.com to schedule a call and explore how we can help you grow globally.
