How To Find Your Ideal Accomodation / Housing in Spain: Tips & Tricks

Finding a place to live in Spain is an exciting step, but it can come with challenges for newcomers. Spain has a diverse housing market, with options ranging from city apartments and beachside condos to rural houses and traditional Spanish townhomes. Whether you're an expat, student, or digital nomad, understanding the nuances of the Spanish rental market can save time, money, and stress. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you find the ideal accommodation in Spain.

1. Decide on Your Preferred Location

Spain’s regions are distinct, each offering unique lifestyles, climates, and housing options. Before diving into the search, consider where in Spain you want to live based on your preferences and work or study needs.

• Madrid and Barcelona: These are Spain’s two largest cities, offering vibrant urban life with plenty of job opportunities. However, housing costs here are some of the highest in Spain.

• Valencia and Seville: These mid-sized cities are popular for their affordable housing, culture, and warmer climate.

• Costa del Sol: Coastal towns like Málaga and Marbella attract expats for their beachside living, but rental prices can fluctuate with tourism demand.

• Rural Areas: If you’re seeking a quieter, traditional lifestyle, the countryside in Andalusia, Galicia, or Extremadura offers spacious, affordable housing.

Once you narrow down the location, you can start focusing on neighborhoods and housing types.

2. Set Your Budget

The cost of accommodation varies widely across Spain. On average:

• Madrid and Barcelona have higher monthly rents, typically ranging from €800 to €1,500 for one-bedroom apartments in central areas.

• Mid-sized cities like Valencia and Seville are more affordable, with one-bedroom apartments costing between €500 and €900.

• Smaller towns and rural areas offer lower-cost rentals, often under €500 per month for spacious homes.

Additionally, consider utilities, which can add around €100-€150 per month, as well as a budget for any necessary furniture if the property is unfurnished.

3. Know Your Housing Options

Housing options in Spain range from short-term rentals to long-term leases and shared accommodations. Understanding what each option entails will help you choose the right fit:

• Long-term Rentals: These contracts generally last 12 months, but many landlords offer contracts up to five years, especially in larger cities. Long-term rentals tend to be more affordable on a monthly basis than short-term or seasonal rentals.

• Short-term and Vacation Rentals: Ideal for tourists and short stays, these are typically more expensive but come fully furnished. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com are popular, though they’re best used for temporary accommodation while you search for a long-term place.

• Shared Flats (Pisos Compartidos): Sharing an apartment with other tenants is popular among students and young professionals, especially in large cities. This option can save money and provide a social network.

Each type of accommodation has its pros and cons, so choose based on your intended length of stay and budget.

4. Check Reliable Online Platforms and Resources

There are several popular online platforms for finding rentals in Spain, some of which cater to expats and English speakers:

• Idealista and Fotocasa are the two largest property portals in Spain, listing both private rentals and those managed by agencies.

• Habitaclia and Pisos.com are also widely used, with listings in various regions.

• Facebook Groups and WhatsApp Groups: Many local communities have groups specifically for rentals, where owners post listings directly to avoid agency fees.

• EasyMoveToSpain will help you to deal with all according to your needs.

Using these platforms gives you a broad view of the market and helps in comparing prices. Keep in mind that some listings might be posted in Spanish, so a translation tool may be helpful if you're not fluent.

5. Beware of Common Scams

Unfortunately, rental scams are a reality in Spain, especially in larger cities and popular tourist areas. Common scams include:

• Fake Listings: If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Scammers often post attractive listings at low prices to lure tenants.

• Requests for Payment in Advance: Never pay a deposit or rent in advance without first seeing the property in person and confirming the landlord's identity.

• Third-party Payment Platforms: Avoid using non-standard payment methods (like sending money via Western Union or MoneyGram) as these may indicate fraudulent listings.

When in doubt, consider working with a reputable real estate agency, particularly if you’re new to Spain.

6. Understand Lease Terms and Deposit Requirements

Before signing any lease, carefully review the terms. Leases in Spain can vary, but here are some key aspects to watch for:

• Deposit: The standard security deposit is one month’s rent for long-term leases, though some landlords may ask for two. This deposit is refundable, provided there’s no damage to the property.

• Additional Fees: Be clear on whether utilities are included or separate. Some rentals may also have community fees (e.g., for building maintenance) not included in the advertised price.

• Notice Period: Most contracts allow either party to terminate with 30 to 60 days’ notice after the first year. Make sure you understand the notice requirements if you’re planning a shorter stay.

Read the lease terms thoroughly, especially if they’re in Spanish. If needed, consider hiring a translator or a lawyer to clarify the details.

7. Visit the Property in Person

Whenever possible, view the property in person before making any commitments. This helps verify the accuracy of the listing and gives you a chance to inspect the condition of the property. During your visit, consider:

• Location and Neighborhood: Walk around the neighborhood to get a feel for the area’s amenities, public transport options, and general vibe.

• Condition of the Apartment: Check for any signs of damage or issues like mold, plumbing, and appliance condition.

• Noise Levels and Natural Light: Spanish cities, especially during tourist seasons, can be noisy. Make sure you’re comfortable with the ambient noise and lighting.

Virtual tours are an option for those unable to view in person, but they may not reveal every detail.

8. Consider Working with a Specialist

If you're finding the search challenging, especially in competitive markets like Madrid or Barcelona, consider hiring EasyMoveToSpain. With a very reasonable consultancy fee, EasyMoveToSpain is knowledgeable about the local market, can facilitate communication, and help you navigate legalities.

Our special consultant can also be a valuable resource if you’re unfamiliar with Spanish rental contracts or language, ensuring a smoother and faster process.

9. Plan for Moving In

Once you’ve signed the lease, there are a few additional steps before moving in:

• Utility Transfers: Depending on the rental, you may need to set up utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) in your name. Ask the landlord or agent for guidance on this.

• Tenant’s Insurance: While not mandatory, tenant’s insurance (seguro de alquiler) can cover belongings and protect against unexpected costs.

• Furniture and Household Items: Some rentals in Spain are unfurnished, so you may need to purchase essential items. Second-hand stores and online marketplaces like Wallapop and Milanuncios are affordable options.

Finding accommodation in Spain is an exciting journey with plenty of options for every lifestyle and budget. By choosing your location wisely, setting a clear budget, and staying vigilant with online listings, you can navigate the rental market with confidence. Whether you’re aiming for a cosmopolitan city apartment or a quiet home near the beach, Spain has something for everyone. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-prepared to find a comfortable and welcoming place to call home in Spain.

The Biggest Concern of Landlords in Spain: Tenant Non-Payment

For landlords in Spain, tenant non-payment of rent is one of the biggest concerns. This issue affects landlords across the country, particularly in larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona, where rental demand is high but the potential for tenant disputes is equally significant. Let’s delve into the core issues and why non-payment is such a major worry for Spanish landlords.

1. Spain’s Legal Process for Evictions is Lengthy

In Spain, evicting a tenant who fails to pay rent can be a time-consuming and costly process. Spanish law favors tenant protections, which can lead to drawn-out legal proceedings for landlords. When a tenant stops paying, the process to evict can take anywhere from six months to a year—or even longer in some cases. This delay can significantly impact a landlord’s financial situation, especially if the rent is their primary income source.

Key Points:

• Legal proceedings can take several months, leaving landlords without rental income.

• Even after a court decision, actual eviction may be delayed due to backlogs or appeals.

2. The Financial Impact of Non-Payment on Landlords

Rental income often represents a substantial portion of a landlord’s monthly budget, covering everything from mortgage payments to maintenance costs and property taxes. When a tenant fails to pay, landlords may be left covering these costs out of pocket. Some landlords rely on rental income as a primary or supplemental source of income, meaning that non-payment can lead to financial strain.

Key Points:

• Landlords with mortgages on rental properties may struggle with payments during a non-payment period.

• Maintenance and repair costs continue regardless of tenant payment, placing additional burdens on landlords.

3. Limited Access to Rent Guarantee Insurance

Rent guarantee insurance, which helps protect landlords from non-payment risks, is available in Spain but remains underutilized. Some landlords, especially private owners, may not be fully aware of these policies or may find them too costly. Additionally, insurance providers have specific criteria for tenant profiles, often excluding high-risk renters. This limited access to effective insurance options leaves many landlords exposed to the financial risks of non-payment.

Key Points:

• Rent guarantee insurance can be expensive, and landlords often avoid it due to costs.

• Certain tenant profiles may be excluded from coverage, making it difficult to insure against risk fully.

4. Tenant Protections Make Screening Crucial but Challenging

Spain’s tenant protection laws mean that landlords need to carefully screen potential renters to minimize the risk of non-payment. However, background checks are not always straightforward. Private landlords may not have the resources to conduct thorough background checks, and privacy laws can sometimes limit what information landlords can access. This increases the risk of renting to individuals who may not have the financial stability to reliably pay rent each month.

Key Points:

• Tenant screening can be difficult for private landlords due to limited access to information.

• Screening processes that are too rigorous could narrow the pool of prospective tenants, particularly in competitive markets.

5. Alternatives and Solutions for Landlords

To mitigate risks, Spanish landlords are exploring various options. Some prefer short-term rentals, such as renting to tourists or business travelers, although this often requires additional licensing. Other landlords work with property management agencies, which can handle tenant screening, maintenance, and legal proceedings if needed. Additionally, the use of rent guarantee insurance is gradually increasing as more landlords seek financial security.

Key Points:

• Short-term rentals offer an alternative but come with regulations and potential costs.

• Property management agencies can assist with tenant-related issues but charge fees, impacting net income.

For landlords in Spain, tenant non-payment is a complex issue with serious financial implications. The combination of lengthy legal processes, high costs, and limited insurance options contributes to this major concern. By carefully screening tenants, considering rent guarantee insurance, and exploring alternative rental options, landlords can protect their investments and minimize risks associated with tenant non-payment. However, balancing protection with accessibility in Spain’s rental market remains an ongoing challenge for many property owners.

To overcome landlords' concerns about non-payment, expats in Spain can take proactive steps to demonstrate reliability and build trust. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Provide Documentation: Offering proof of income, employment contracts, or savings demonstrates financial stability. For self-employed expats, tax returns or bank statements can also reassure landlords of steady income.

2. Offer a Higher Deposit: Proposing a higher security deposit than required can give landlords additional security and show a commitment to maintaining the rental.

3. Consider Rent Guarantee Insurance: If available, expats might offer to pay for rent guarantee insurance, ensuring landlords are covered in case of non-payment. This can help in markets where landlords are hesitant due to past non-payment issues.

4. Build a Strong Reference Portfolio: References from previous landlords or employers can speak to an expat’s reliability and commitment to fulfilling lease agreements. Good references make a significant impression in competitive markets.

5. Consider Short-Term Leases Initially: Offering to sign a shorter lease can give the landlord confidence without a long-term commitment. Once trust is established, extending the lease may be easier.

These steps not only protect the landlord’s investment but also make the rental process smoother for expats, fostering a trustworthy tenant-landlord relationship.