Determine your location
Choosing the right place is crucial.

Consider the following factors:

• City or Town: Popular options include Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Malaga, and Seville.
• Neighborhood: Research local amenities, transportation, schools, parks, and safety.
• Lifestyle Preferences: Do you prefer a bustling city center or a quieter suburb?

 

Set your budget

Your budget will determine your options.

• Monthly Rent
  Understand what you can afford.

 

• The average rental cost varies: Studios start at €400-€600 in central Madrid.
  • One-bedroom apartments can cost from €800-€1,200 in Barcelona.
  • Waterfront houses can reach €2,000-€3,000.
    Additional Costs: Don’t forget to account for utilities, internet, and maintenance fees.

 

Timeline for apartment search

• Start searching for an apartment 1-2 months before your intended move-in date.
• Allow extra time for paperwork and approvals.
• Be ready to sign a rental contract as soon as you find the right apartment.

 

Where to search for apartment rentals

Use the following websites to find listings:

Idealista
One of the largest real estate portals in Spain, offering a wide range of rental options.

Fotocasa
A popular platform for apartment listings where you can filter by price, location, and property type.

Vivienda
Another option offering various listings in major Spanish cities.

Badi
A website dedicated to finding shared housing and room rentals.

Airbnb
Useful for short-term rentals while you look for a long-term apartment.

Social Media
Join Facebook and Meetup groups to connect with other expats and locals. They often have valuable information about available apartments and neighborhoods.
For expats or locals where rental listings are frequently posted.

Real Estate Agencies
Consider hiring a local agent for recommendations and access to exclusive listings.

 

Visiting apartments

• Schedule a visit
  Always visit the apartment in person before signing any agreement.
• Checklist during the visit:
  • Check the condition of appliances, plumbing, and furniture.
  • Inquire about noise levels in the area and safety.
  • Ensure all amenities are available or that any ongoing repairs are noted.

 

Signing the lease agreement

• Review the rental terms, lease duration, and renewal policies.
• Understand the deposit requirements (usually one or two months' rent).
• Ensure all necessary conditions according to your needs are included in the contract.

Ongoing Expenses

In addition to rent, consider other ongoing expenses:

Utilities
Water, electricity, gas, and internet can add €100-€200 to your monthly expenses.

 

How to leave the apartment

• Notice to Terminate Lease
  Review the notice periods (usually 30 days).
• Ensure the apartment is clean and undamaged to get your deposit back.
• Schedule an inspection with your landlord to address any issues before moving out.