But whilst properties there are at their most affordable since 2006/7, the area continues to attract new investment and infrastructure improvement - a further attraction for home-hunters.
Marbella's "new golden mile" - the area between San Pedro del Alcantara and Estepona - will potentially benefit both the area's economy and the lifestyle of those living there.
Firstly, an investment of €400 million will be put into the new port Al-Thani at La Bajadilla in Marbella. This transformation will include a circular wall and exterior dyke and a 200-metre quay for cruise liners, plans for a five-star hotel on the marina, as well as bars, restaurants, shops and supermarkets that will revamp the eastern area of the city, bringing La Bajadilla in line with the famous Puerto Banus in the west.
It will potentially benefit both the area's economy and the lifestyle of those living there. It is planned that over the next four years, cruise ships will be able to anchor at the port and there will be more berths for private boats and yachts.
In terms of infrastructure improvements, The PGOU (Plan General de Ordenación Urbanística) contains plans for vital new amenities and services, such as schools, health centres, sports centres, parks and roads as well as the upgrading of the town's infrastructure for electricity, telecommunications, water supply and sewage plants.
In addition, the new railway terminus in Marbella will provide a high speed rail (AVE-Alta Velocidad Española ) connection to Madrid in two and half hours, to Barcelona in less than six - and provide local train connections giving access to Málaga city centre within 30 minutes, as well as Málaga airport together with the rest of the Costa del Sol.
It has been referred to as the most important urban development in Marbella's history and these improvements will enhance Marbella and make it a centre for tourism and commercial activities and increase property values in the future.
With the future looking so positive, one current project to consider is the Soto Serena development (pictured).
These stylish one and two bedroom apartments located in a privileged area between Marbella and Estepona on the New Golden Mile - just 300 meters from the beach and a 12 minute drive to Puerto Banus.
Also, they are 45 minutes from Malaga Airport or Gibraltar so easy access from most European destinations.
One beds are priced at €175.500/ £151,048; two beds are priced at €199.500 £171,710
There's a 110 per cent finance deal on offer so the owner has to put down €3,000 to complete the sale.
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With more exhibitors selling property in Spain than any other country, A Place in the Sun Live is a great place to start your journey to owning a home in Spain. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 27th-29th September, A Place in the Sun Live features two sessions per day on the A Place in the Sun Hub where A Place in the Sun magazine editor Liz Rowlinson is joined on stage by a panel of Spanish property experts to discuss issues surrounding buying a property in Spain and answering your individual questions.
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