BMI Group - Podcasts

The Gibraltar property market has entered a phase of stability and recovery. In this detailed update, David Revagliatte sits down with BMI Managing Director Louis Montegriffo to explore what Q3 2025 means for buyers, investors, and the local community.They discuss:The latest Gibraltar property market insightsWhere to find opportunities for property investment in GibraltarTrends in the Gibraltar rental marketHow new developments are shaping real estate in GibraltarWhy confidence is returning to the Gibraltar housing marketWhether you’re considering buying property in Gibraltar, monitoring property values, or simply want a clearer picture of the Gibraltar real estate investment landscape, this episode gives you an expert perspective straight from one of the market’s leading voices.

In this in-depth Property Market Update, BMI Group’s Managing Director, Louis Montegriffo, joins David Revagliatte to explore the current state of Gibraltar’s property market and where it may be heading.From the long-anticipated Brexit agreement and its impact on confidence, to property price realignment, rental market trends and off-plan development strategies, this candid conversation offers timely, expert insight for buyers, investors, and anyone with a stake in Gibraltar’s real estate landscape.What’s covered in this update:- Why confidence is the key force shaping today’s market- How price realignment is opening up buyer opportunities- The performance of the rental market and what it signals- The future of off-plan developments like One Bayside and Europa Walks- Concerns over studio oversupply and buyer speculation- Why Gibraltar remains resilient and attractive to high-value clientsThe Gibraltar Property Update is a regular summary of Gibraltar's property update. Brought to you by BMI Group Estate Agents and delivered by Louis Montegriffo, it provides a market-wide snapshot for those looking to buy, sell and invest in real estate in Gibraltar. This update is produced by Motion Gibraltar.

In this third and final property update of 2024, Louis Montegriffo, Co-Founder of BMI Group Estate Agents, offers an in-depth analysis of Gibraltar’s property market's performance over the last two quarters. The property market in Gibraltar has experienced significant changes in recent months, reflecting a period of economic realignment influenced by external factors. This quarterly update explores these developments, offering valuable insights for investors, clients, and stakeholders.The past year has seen the market undergo a noticeable downturn, beginning around mid-2022. However, this downturn is better described as a "realignment" rather than a recession. The adjustment reflects a recalibration of property values to meet realistic demand. As stated in the discussion, "a lot of that also driven by an oversupply of properties coming on, people wanting to extract value on sales, which are no longer relevant."Despite this realignment, no dramatic changes are expected in the immediate future. The process continues steadily, and while fluidity in property sales has slowed over the past 18 months, the long-term outlook remains optimistic.Central to this optimism is the much-anticipated agreement. Although progress has been delayed, particularly due to the announcement of UK elections by Rishi Sunak, confidence remains high that a resolution will be achieved. As noted, "we still take the view now, months later, that that is still going to happen." The agreement is expected to stabilise the market and provide renewed confidence in Gibraltar’s long-term prospects.Gibraltar’s resilience in the face of challenges has been a recurring theme. Its ability to overcome political and economic hurdles over centuries demonstrates its strength and adaptability. Even amidst Brexit-related uncertainties, Gibraltar continues to offer stability and security to newcomers.The economy remains driven by key sectors such as e-gaming, online gaming, and financial services, which are vital to its continued success. Protecting and adapting these industries will be essential as any agreement may require adjustments in business models. From a property perspective, the agreement is likely to bring renewed energy to the market. However, as cautioned, "we don’t necessarily feel that we’re going to see a huge growth in property prices happen overnight."Expectations should remain measured. While the market is not anticipated to experience dramatic changes, the gradual return of fluidity in sales will signify progress. The current realignment, involving a 10%-20% downturn in values, is a necessary adjustment, positioning the market for sustainable growth.Gibraltar continues to demonstrate its capacity for reinvention, emerging stronger with every challenge. The property market’s evolution reflects this resilience, offering long-term promise for those invested in its future.The Gibraltar Property Update is a quarterly summary of Gibraltar's property update. Brought to you by BMI Group Estate Agents and delivered by Louis Montegriffo, it provides a market-wide snapshot for those looking to buy, sell and invest in real estate in Gibraltar. This update is produced by Motion Gibraltar.

The rental market has served as a key indicator of Gibraltar’s overall property market performance. Over the past six months, rental activity has been a bright spot, with increasing volumes of transactions. Despite challenges in the broader property market, rental demand has remained strong, reflecting continued interest in Gibraltar as a destination.Comparison of Sales and Rentals While property sales have slowed significantly due to various market factors, rentals have performed well. This disparity suggests that although buyers are cautious in the current climate, demand for housing persists. The robust rental market underscores Gibraltar’s continued ability to attract high-value clients and residents.Shifting Rental Prices and Growing Demand Rental prices, which had dipped slightly in recent months, have begun to stabilise and even recover in some cases. Encouragingly, demand has surged for larger units, including two-, three-, and four-bedroom properties. This trend highlights the continued attraction of family-sized residences.Ongoing Concerns in the Studio Market The studio apartment market in Gibraltar remains a longstanding concern. With approximately 1,000 studios either built or under construction, this segment represents the majority of properties available for sale and rent. The abundance of studio apartments raises questions about long-term sustainability and balance in the market.The Impact of Speculative Investments Speculative investment in studio apartments has become a notable issue. Many young and inexperienced investors have purchased low-cost studios at high rates per square metre, drawn by quick profits. This speculative behaviour has led to many resales entering the market, reflecting potential over-supply and financial strain on these investors.Concerns Over Speculative BehaviourSpeculation in the property market is not inherently problematic if managed carefully. However, the prevalence of inexperienced speculators in the studio segment has amplified the availability of resales, creating concerns about market stability. This trend has been a consistent source of unease in the local property market.Looking Ahead: Updates and Market InsightsThis podcast concludes with a summary of recent trends and developments. Future updates will not adhere to a strict schedule but will instead be shared when there is significant news. Anticipation remains high for updates on the impact of a potential agreement on Gibraltar’s property market.Season’s Greetings and Future OutlookAs the year draws to a close, the team extends warm wishes for the Christmas season and expresses optimism for the year ahead. They look forward to continuing these discussions in the new year, sharing insights and updates on market developments.The Gibraltar Property Update is a quarterly summary of Gibraltar's property update. Brought to you by BMI Group Estate Agents and delivered by Louis Montegriffo, it provides a market-wide snapshot for those looking to buy, sell and invest in real estate in Gibraltar. This update is produced by Motion Gibraltar.

Quarterly Market Update: Navigating Realignment and Anticipated GrowthThe property market has undergone notable shifts in recent months, reflecting economic realignment and external influences. In this quarterly update, we explore key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the current landscape, providing valuable insights for investors, clients, and stakeholders.Market Overview: A Year of UpdatesOur quarterly market updates have become a cornerstone for tracking developments in the property sector. Since mid-2022, the market has experienced a noticeable downturn, prompting discussions on topics such as frontline properties and rates per square meter. These updates aim to contextualize these shifts for clients, applicants, and market enthusiasts.The Realignment ProcessThe market’s downturn is better characterized as a "realignment" rather than a recession. This adjustment, a natural economic process, reflects the recalibration of property values to align with realistic demand. An oversupply of properties, combined with sellers attempting to maintain inflated prices, has further driven this realignment. As a result, the market continues to evolve, with no significant deviations expected in the near term.The Role of the AgreementCentral to this period of realignment is the much-anticipated agreement that has been a focal point in recent discussions. Despite delays, particularly following Rishi Sunak’s announcement of UK elections, confidence remains high that an agreement will be reached. This agreement holds the potential to stabilize the market and renew confidence in Gibraltar’s long-term prospects.Gibraltar’s Resilience Amid ChallengesGibraltar’s ability to overcome political and economic hurdles has been demonstrated time and again over its long history. Despite Brexit-related uncertainties, Gibraltar continues to offer stability, security, and a forward-looking approach to newcomers. These qualities have positioned the territory as a resilient player in the face of adversity, enabling it to emerge stronger from every challenge.Key Economic DriversThe local economy is predominantly fueled by e-gaming, online gaming, and financial services. These sectors remain pivotal, requiring protection and adaptability to navigate changing circumstances. Any agreement is likely to necessitate adjustments in business models, ensuring these industries continue to thrive while aligning with new regulations.The Agreement’s Market ImplicationsFrom a property perspective, the anticipated agreement is expected to reinvigorate the market, albeit gradually. While an immediate surge in property prices is unlikely, increased fluidity in sales—absent over the past year—could signal renewed momentum. However, expectations of dramatic price increases should be tempered, as growth is likely to be incremental.The property market’s realignment reflects a 10%-20% downturn, yet this period of adjustment is paving the way for sustainable growth. As Gibraltar continues to navigate its economic landscape with resilience and adaptability, stakeholders can look forward to a market that emerges more robust and aligned with current realities.This update underscores the importance of staying informed and managing expectations as the market evolves. The future holds promise, but progress will be measured and deliberate, ensuring long-term stability.The Gibraltar Property Update is a quarterly summary of Gibraltar's property update. Brought to you by BMI Group Estate Agents and delivered by Louis Montegriffo, it provides a market-wide snapshot for those looking to buy, sell and invest in real estate in Gibraltar. This update is produced by Motion Gibraltar.