Renovating a villa on the Costa del Sol is one of the most significant investments a property owner can make. This guide sets out realistic cost ranges, the factors that most affect the budget, and what to watch for when planning a villa renovation in Marbella, Benahavís, Estepona or the wider Costa del Sol area.
Typical villa renovation costs on the Costa del Sol in 2026
Costs vary significantly depending on property size, scope, zone and finish level. The ranges below are based on complete projects delivered in 2025–2026:
| Project type | Approx. cost range | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Full renovation — 150 m² villa | €80,000 – €150,000 | 4–6 months |
| Full renovation — 250 m² villa | €140,000 – €260,000 | 5–8 months |
| Full renovation — 400+ m² villa | €250,000 – €500,000+ | 7–12 months |
| Kitchen + bathrooms only | €40,000 – €90,000 | 3–5 months |
| Exterior + terrace + pool area | €30,000 – €80,000 | 2–4 months |
What drives villa renovation costs on the Costa del Sol
1. Property size and scope
The single biggest variable. A 150 m² villa and a 400 m² villa with the same specification have very different cost profiles. Full renovation (electrics, plumbing, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, plastering, painting) costs significantly more per m² than a surface renovation.
2. Zone
Labour and access costs in Marbella's Golden Mile and Benahavís are higher than in areas like Estepona or Alhaurín. Private urbanisations with restricted access, controlled working hours and permit requirements add to project logistics costs.
3. Current state of the property
Properties from the 1980s–1990s often have electrical, plumbing and drainage that needs complete replacement — adding significantly to the budget compared to a 2010s property that only needs a finish update.
4. Material specification
Mid-range porcelain tiles and standard fittings are one category. Large-format natural stone, custom cabinetry and premium sanitaryware are another. The gap between standard and high specification can be €20,000–€60,000 on a full villa renovation.
5. Structural changes
Layout changes requiring structural work add complexity and cost, and typically require a building permit (licencia de obra mayor) that needs to be factored into timelines.
How to get a reliable quote for your villa renovation
The only reliable way to price a villa renovation is an in-person site assessment. A professional renovation company should provide a fully itemised written quote before any work begins — specifying scope, materials, timelines and what’s included.
Renovation for non-resident villa owners
A large proportion of villas renovated on the Costa del Sol are owned by non-residents — British, German, Scandinavian and other European buyers. Managing a renovation from abroad requires a contractor who can coordinate access, supervise all works and provide regular updates in English.
Villa renovation budget summary
- Full renovation of a typical Costa del Sol villa (150–250 m²): €100,000 – €250,000
- Kitchen and bathroom update only: €40,000 – €90,000
- Exterior and terrace works: €30,000 – €80,000
- Timeline for a full renovation: 4–9 months depending on size and scope
For a detailed cost breakdown by service type and zone, see our Renovation Cost Guide Costa del Sol 2026.