7 Best Websites to Find an Apartment in Spain in Under a Week
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Relocating to Spain is an exciting journey, but finding the perfect apartment can feel overwhelming—especially when time is of the essence. Whether you’re looking for a long-term rental, a short stay, or even a free place to stay, this guide is here to help.
We’ve curated a list of the best websites that can help you secure an apartment in Spain in less than a week, tailored specifically for expats. From options for those on a tight budget to the best platforms for urgent moves, this guide has got you covered. Keep reading to discover the top sites for finding your new home quickly and easily, no matter your situation.
Top Websites to Find an Apartment in Spain
1. Flat.io
Best for: Expats who need a fully furnished apartment quickly
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.6/5)
- Overview: Flat.io is a growing platform popular among expats for finding short to mid-term rentals, often fully furnished and in prime locations.
- Features: User-friendly search tools, verified listings, and a focus on high-quality properties.
- Why Use It? Flat.io is ideal for expats who prefer flexible rental terms and need a turnkey solution when they arrive in Spain.
2. Trusted House Sitters
Best for: Expats seeking temporary housing without the cost
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
- Overview: Trusted House Sitters is a unique platform that connects travelers with homeowners who need house-sitting services. This could be a great temporary solution for new expats.
- Features: Membership-based, offering opportunities to live rent-free in exchange for house-sitting.
- Why Use It? If you’re flexible and love pets, this could be an excellent way to explore different parts of Spain while you search for a more permanent home.
3. Spotahome
Best for: Expats who want to secure housing before arriving in Spain
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
- Overview: Spotahome is an online platform that offers mid to long-term rentals with a strong focus on providing accurate, video-verified listings.
- Features: Video tours, neighborhood guides, and English-speaking customer support.
- Why Use It? Spotahome is great for expats who want to secure a home before arriving in Spain, as it offers a transparent and safe renting process.
4. Badi
Best for: Expats looking to share a home and build a social network
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐⭐ ☆ ☆ (2.6/5)
- Overview: Badi is a platform designed specifically for finding shared accommodations. It’s ideal for expats looking to share an apartment or find a roommate.
- Features: A matchmaking algorithm that connects you with compatible roommates, detailed profiles, and a secure chat system.
- Why Use It? Badi is perfect for those seeking a more social living experience or looking to save on rent.
5. Idealista
Best for: Expats seeking a wide range of long-term rental options
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (1.4/5)
- Overview: Idealista is one of the most popular real estate websites in Spain. It offers a vast selection of apartments, houses, and rooms for rent and sale across the country.
- Features: Advanced search filters, detailed listings with photos and descriptions, and a mobile app for on-the-go browsing.
- Why Use It? Idealista is known for its comprehensive listings and user-friendly interface, making it a go-to resource for both locals and expats.
6. Fotocasa
Best for: Expats who want detailed insights into neighborhoods
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ (1.7/5)
- Overview: Fotocasa is another leading real estate platform in Spain, offering a wide range of properties for rent and purchase.
- Features: It provides detailed information about neighborhoods, including price trends, which can be particularly useful for expats unfamiliar with the area.
- Why Use It? Fotocasa's insights into local markets and extensive listings make it a great tool for finding the right home.
7. Habitaclia
Best for: Expats planning to live in Catalonia or regional areas
Trustpilot Rating: ⭐☆☆ ☆ (1.7/5)
- Overview: Habitaclia is a regional real estate platform with a strong presence in Catalonia but offers listings across Spain.
- Features: In-depth neighborhood information, detailed property descriptions, and easy-to-use filters.
- Why Use It? It’s particularly useful for expats looking to settle in or around Barcelona.
FAQs: Finding an Apartment in Spain as an Expat
1. Do I need a Spanish bank account to rent an apartment?
- While it's not always required, having a Spanish bank account can make the rental process smoother, especially for setting up utilities and making rent payments. Some landlords may prefer it, so it's a good idea to open one soon after arriving.
2. What documents do I need to rent an apartment?
- Typically, you'll need your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), proof of income (like a job contract or bank statements), and sometimes references from previous landlords. If you're employed, your contract will also be helpful.
3. Can I rent an apartment in Spain without speaking Spanish?
- While many listings and landlords prefer communication in Spanish, many platforms like Idealista and Spotahome offer English versions, and cities like Madrid and Barcelona have a significant number of English-speaking landlords and agents. However, learning some basic Spanish will certainly help you navigate the process more smoothly.
4. What are the average rental costs in Spain?
- Rental prices vary greatly depending on the city and neighborhood. In 2024, expect to pay around €1,000-€1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in central Madrid or Barcelona. Prices are generally lower in smaller cities or rural areas.
5. How long does it take to find an apartment?
- The time it takes to find an apartment can vary depending on the time of year and the city. Generally, starting your search a month or two before your move date is recommended. Platforms like Spotahome or Flat.io can help secure something quickly if you need something sooner.
Finding an apartment in Spain as an expat can be a daunting task, but with the right resources and a bit of preparation, you can secure a home that suits your needs and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the bustling city life of Madrid or the laid-back beaches of Valencia, these websites will help you find the perfect place to start your new adventure in Spain.
📜 Living in Spain Planning Guide 📜
Before Moving to Spain
🔍 Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.
💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator? Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.
💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.
🧑⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.
If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.
🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.
Once in Spain
🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15 or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.
Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST).
💸 Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.
🚗 Need a rental car? Use DiscoverCars to easily compare and find the best deals for car rentals in Spain.
💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?
The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.
