For many expat property owners on the Costa del Sol, Christmas is one of the two or three times a year they actually get to use the property. Getting it properly ready after weeks or months of being empty makes the difference between a relaxing arrival and a stressful one.
Book the clean early
December is busy for cleaning services in Marbella and across Andalucía — both local families and other holiday homeowners are all preparing properties at the same time. If you’re arriving between 20 December and 6 January, book your pre-arrival clean by the end of November. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
What to ask for
- Full property clean — all rooms, kitchen, bathrooms
- Fresh bed linen on all beds
- Airing the property — windows open for at least an hour before closing up
- Check all systems: hot water, heating, AC
- Run all taps and flush all toilets
- Check for any damp, leaks, or storm damage — winter storms are common in November and December
Heating
Andalucía winters are mild by northern European standards — but December nights in Marbella can drop to 7–10°C, and an unheated property that’s been closed for months will feel cold on arrival. Ask your cleaner to run the heating for a couple of hours before you arrive if you can coordinate the timing.
Getting a quote
Post your pre-arrival job on SAM with your arrival date and property details. Specify if it’s been empty since summer — cleaners will factor in the extra time needed for a thorough airing and clean.