Real Estate in Spain
Last updated on Aug 03, 2025
Summary:
How do I find a place to live in Spain?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Through a relocation company. They are the right people to tell you what are the advantages and disavantages about the different areas with an orientation tour. Also to visit properties, I think they give you the best idea on what is on the market," explained one person living in Barcelona, Spain.
"There are many different ways to find a place to live in Spain. You could start by doing online research and utilizing resources such as rental websites like Idealista.com and Fotocasa.es. You could also consider reaching out to friends, family and colleagues from Spain who may have information on available properties. Additionally, local newspapers often advertise rental listings and are a great source of information, as well as a good way to get in touch with potential landlords. You can also contact real estate agencies that specialize in finding housing solutions. Finally, networking within the local community or expat groups can be a great way to get the most up-to-date information on potential rental options," said one expat in Spain.
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SJB GlobalSJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Spain?
"A top floor apartment of 1,850 square feet with two terraces totalling about 400 square feet. It is not typical because top floor apartments are very hard to find," said one person in Barcelona.
"I currently own. Most ex-pat friends rent small apartments or country rustic houses," said one expat who made the move to Palma de Mallorca.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What is the average cost of housing in Spain?
If you are thinking about moving to Spain, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Average 2 bed unfurnished apt would run you 700€ mo plus first mo, last mo and deposit," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Palma de Mallorca.
"We came in 2020 and the housing costs have increased at least 20% in Malaga and on the CDS since we arrived. We live in a town on the coast with population 75,000 and have read the average rent here is the same as Madrid average! Another thing to remember is the currency exchange rates, if your funds are outside the EU. Our rent went up $175 this month solely due to the exchange rate," explained one person living in Spain.
Should I buy or rent a home in Spain?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Spain, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Spain can be a good investment if you are planning a long-term stay there. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as taxes, maintenance expenses and any potential renovation costs, as well as your income and savings. Ultimately, renting is a better option if you are not sure how long you are planning to stay in Spain or if you are looking for more flexibility. Renting also offers potential tax advantages. You should carefully consider all these factors before deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Spain," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Spain.
"We rented an apartment. It was not difficult. We went to a rental agency, they showed us apartments and we chose the one we wanted. The agent gets a commission but that's the only way I know of to rent an apartment here in Salamanca," explained one person living in Salamanca, Spain.
What do I need to know when buying property in Spain?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Spain, they said:
"- Familiarize yourself with the Spanish legal system and the relevant rules for purchasing property in Spain. - Obtain independent legal and financial advice to ensure that the process of purchasing a property is completed fully and correctly. - Contact a qualified Spanish real estate agent and research the area you wish to purchase in. - Ensure that you consider the costs which you may incur in buying a property, such as taxes and property transfer taxes. - Determine what type of ownership you wish to have and research if you require any permission or licences to purchase the property. - Make sure you check the title deed and any other documents of the property and ensure everything is in order. - Ensure that the property complies with local building regulations. - Ensure that you know what type of insurance you require for the property. - Make sure you have adequate funds available in both your home and local currency in Spain to pay for the property," explained one person living in Spain.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Spain?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Spain, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Spain. You will need to obtain a NIE, which is the identification number of a foreigner in Spain. You can obtain a non-resident NIE to buy property, if you do not plan to reside in the country. You can also invest half a million euros in real estate in Spain, and obtain residency through the golden visa," wrote one expat who made the move to Spain.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Spain what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"When renting a home in Spain, it is typical for the rental property to include an oven, hob, refrigerator, washing machine, dishwasher, toaster, coffee maker and other small appliances. Heating and/or air conditioning might also be included, depending on the rental property," said one in Spain.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Spain:
We asked foreigners in Spain what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...
"Expats typically search for homes in Spain by researching online, consulting with real estate agents, and attending open houses. They can also look for rental properties through online listings, contact local expat groups, and ask for referrals from friends and family. Additionally, expats can look for homes in Spain through classified ads, newspapers, and magazines," explained one person living in Spain.
About the Author
Joshua Wood is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More
SJB GlobalSJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More
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