Judy P. Says:
I’d like to rent in Spain for a year before I buy. What’s the best way to find long-term rentals?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Judy,
Great idea to rent for a year before making a more permanent decision. If you’re considering buying property in an area, it always pays to make sure it’s for you first..
The process for finding a rental in Spain is pretty similar to the way it is at home—albeit using different websites. One very useful website is Idealista.com. This aggregation site offers properties for sale and rent throughout Spain, Portugal, and Italy.
You can search the region you’re interested in and directly contact real estate agents offering long-term rentals. While the site has an English version (linked to above), be aware that not all the agents you’ll find through it will speak English.
In places like the Costa del Sol, and Costa Blanca—both popular with expats—you’re more likely to deal with English-speaking agents. But in other, more authentically Spanish parts of the country, some Spanish skills may come in handy.
Scan the properties available and create a list of potentials. Once you get to Spain, meet with your local contacts and tour the properties in person. It’s a good idea to let the property agency know your competence with the local language, so they can send a representative with reasonable English to meet you if needed.
I also recommend joining region-specific Facebook groups. Groups like Expats Costa del Sol, Expats in Málaga City, or Barcelona Expats can be great sources of rentals, as members often post looking to sublet or rent their places. These groups are also invaluable for connecting with people on the ground to ask practical questions.
The most important thing to remember is not to put down a deposit or send money without seeing the property.
Yes, this might mean the extra expense of staying in a hotel or an Airbnb while you narrow down your search. But better that than discovering the photos on the website don’t match up with reality… the supposedly “beachfront” property is anything but… or your neighbors play loud music into the night.
Most property managers and owners are honest folks, but better safe than sorry.
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