The New Wave of Real Estate in Marbella: Interview with Eric Ebbing, Co-founder and CEO of Homerun Brokers
The Costa del Sol, and especially Marbella, has been synonymous with luxury in southern Spain since the last century. The region is now attracting a new wave of international young entrepreneurs eager to make their mark. One example is Eric Ebbing, a young Swedish businessman who, after creating one of Sweden’s most renowned music festivals, moved to Marbella in search of sunshine and new opportunities. He opened a Lebanese restaurant and launched a real estate agency called Homerun Brokers, bringing a fresh approach to the luxury real estate market. This year, the agency has opened an office in Palma de Mallorca. Eric’s latest milestone is the debut of his own Netflix show, Making It in Marbella, which showcases the daily operations of Homerun Brokers and features his charismatic team.
How did a young Swedish entrepreneur end up moving to Marbella?
I had bought a holiday home in 2016 and started visiting Marbella to escape the Swedish winters. What began as a seasonal retreat quickly turned into a lifestyle choice. After selling BigSlap, the music festival I founded in Sweden, I realized that Marbella offered everything I was looking for: a perfect blend of sunshine, business opportunities, and an international environment. That’s when I decided to make the move permanent and start a new chapter here.
How would you describe life in Marbella for someone who has never been there?
Life in Marbella is like living in a little paradise. The city has an incredible microclimate that provides over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it perfect for outdoor living. It’s a luxurious yet laid-back place, where you can enjoy both high-end amenities and local Spanish culture. There’s a vibrant international community, and that mix of cultures keeps things dynamic and interesting. Whether it’s dining at world-class restaurants, enjoying the beach, or exploring the stunning mountains, Marbella really has it all.
People often misunderstand what Marbella truly is – many assume it’s only Puerto Banús, which is packed with tourists during the high season. But there are so many more areas in Marbella to discover. For a weekend getaway, you have amazing options nearby: skiing in the Sierra Nevada, just two hours away, surfing in Tarifa only 1.5 hours away, or exploring vineyards in Ronda. Marbella offers a diverse range of experiences beyond the well-known spots, making it a unique all-around destination for those seeking both luxury and adventure.
Marbella has been a world-renowned luxury destination for decades. How have you made a name for yourself in such a competitive market?
We’ve set ourselves apart in Marbella’s luxury real estate market by focusing on a client-centric approach, matching clients with properties that align with their desired lifestyle. Our recommendations are tailored to factors like location, proximity to the beach or schools, and tranquility. Our diverse team of international professionals, with deep market knowledge, has been key to our success. Their dedication to understanding clients’ needs, along with building long-term relationships based on trust, has been vital to our growth. Additionally, our investment in creative, high-quality marketing strategies, including social media and branding, has helped drive our rapid growth and recognition in a competitive market.
What specific qualities do you look for in properties that fit your brand?
When selecting properties for Homerun Brokers, we look for homes that offer more than just luxury; they need to have personality and uniqueness. Properties with breathtaking views, great architecture, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces are key. We also focus on quality craftsmanship and materials, ensuring that every home meets the highest standards. The properties should align with the Mediterranean lifestyle that Marbella is known for – comfort, elegance, and an ideal environment for relaxation or entertaining.
Why did you choose Mallorca as the location for the second Homerun office in Spain, after Marbella?
Mallorca has always been one of my favourite holiday destinations. The island offers a low-key, relaxed vibe while still providing the luxury lifestyle we associate with Homerun Brokers. I love the contrast between its natural beauty – rugged mountains, crystal-clear sea – and the refined architecture and high-end homes. It’s also a great destination for boating, which is something I personally enjoy. The balance between relaxation and luxury is perfect there, and it felt like the right place to expand the Homerun brand.
What main differences have you noticed between the real estate markets in Marbella and Mallorca?
While both Marbella and Mallorca attract luxury buyers, the markets have distinct personalities. Marbella is more international and fast-paced, with a vibrant social scene and a focus on modern, glamorous properties. Mallorca, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed, understated luxury. Buyers there are often looking for privacy, nature, and the charm of traditional architecture combined with modern comforts. The pace of life is different too – Marbella thrives on its year-round buzz, while Mallorca has a more seasonal feel.
How important do you see financing for luxury homes, and what value do you find in partnering with Lionsgate Capital?
Financing is crucial in the luxury real estate market, as it allows buyers to take advantage of opportunities they might not have with cash-only deals. Partnering with Lionsgate Capital gives our clients access to tailored financing solutions that meet their unique needs. Lionsgate Capital’s expertise in securing competitive rates and structuring financing options adds real value to the purchasing process, making it easier for clients to acquire their dream properties while optimizing their financial situation.
Having grown so quickly, what are the ultimate goals for Homerun Brokers?
Our goal is to continue expanding while maintaining the personalized, high-quality service that sets us apart. We’re looking at opening offices in other luxury destinations, both in Spain and internationally. But beyond growth, we want to build a brand that represents more than just real estate – we want to be synonymous with a luxury lifestyle, providing a complete experience from start to finish. Ultimately, we aim to be the go-to agency for anyone looking to buy or sell luxury properties in the most sought-after locations.
Now that you are on Netflix with "Making It in Marbella", what can viewers expect to see from Homerun Brokers on the show?
Viewers can expect to see the inner workings of a luxury real estate agency, from high-stakes property deals to the relationships we build with our clients. It’s not just about showcasing beautiful homes – it’s also about the people, the challenges, and the excitement that comes with running a business in such a vibrant and competitive market. The show captures the essence of what makes Marbella so special and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the personalities and teamwork that make Homerun Brokers successful.
Of course, it’s a reality TV show, so a lot has been filmed, but only a small percentage made the final cut! It’s all part of the fun, and what you see is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the work and dedication that goes into what we do every day.
How has this experience been for you personally, and how does it tie into your business ventures?
Being on Netflix has been an incredible experience. It’s been both challenging and rewarding to open up our lives and business to the cameras. It’s also been great exposure for Homerun Brokers, putting our brand in front of a global audience. But beyond that, the show beautifully showcases Marbella itself, highlighting this incredible paradise we live in. It’s not just exposure for our brand, but also for the amazing lifestyle and community that make Marbella so special. The show has boosted our profile and solidified our position as one of the leading real estate agencies in Marbella.
How do you manage to run a real estate agency, a Lebanese restaurant, and now star in your own Netflix TV show?
It’s a balancing act, but I love every part of it. The key is having an amazing team around me, both at Homerun Brokers and OCCO. Delegating and trusting my team is essential. And while it’s a lot to juggle, I’m passionate about each venture, and that keeps me motivated. Filming for Netflix was a whole new experience, but it ties into what we do at Homerun Brokers – telling stories, building connections, and showing the world what Marbella has to offer.
There’s also an exciting new project coming up: we’re opening Astoria, in collaboration with world-renowned Swedish chef Björn Frantzén. I am thrilled to be part of a project that will elevate the dining scene in Marbella to an international level.
What is your favourite Sunday plan in Marbella?
Sundays are all about relaxing and spending quality time with family. I like to start the day with a peaceful walk in the mountains with my wife and our dogs, followed by a healthy breakfast at one of my favourite spots. After that, a game of padel with friends is a great way to stay active. Then, I’ll enjoy a long nap to recharge, and in the evening, I unwind by watching an ice hockey game – the perfect way to wrap up the weekend and get ready for the week ahead.
Interview by Juanita Casanas and Drew Aaron
President and Chairman of Lionsgate Capital
Their goal at Lionsgate Capital is to create unparalleled solutions for the most demanding clients and create value through service, making Lionsgate Capital the major player for financing in the Balearic Islands and mainland Spain.
