12 Tips on How to Find an Apartment in Madrid as an Expat
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Navigating the rental market in Madrid can be a daunting experience, especially for newcomers to the city. As soon as you start searching for a flat in Madrid you will quickly realized how competitive and fast-paced the process can be. However, through trial and error, and the experience I have gained over my six years living in Spain, I’ve developed a solid framework that has not only helped me find the perfect flat but can also guide others who are looking to rent in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a seasoned expat or new to the city, these tips and insights will provide you with a clear path on how to find an apartment in Madrid.
Is it Hard to Get an Apartment in Madrid?
The short answer is: yes! Finding an apartment in Madrid can feel a lot like trying to find a needle in a haystack—except the haystack is on fire, and there are about 50 other people also searching for that same needle. The demand for quality apartments is sky-high, especially in popular neighborhoods like Salamanca, Chamberí, and Malasaña. Prices can be steep, and competition is fierce, particularly during peak rental seasons.
But don’t worry—it’s not impossible! With persistence, a solid understanding of the market, and the right resources, you can find that needle (or in this case, the perfect apartment). Just be prepared to act quickly when you spot something you like, and you might just outsmart the haystack.
What is the Best Website to Find Apartments in Madrid?
Finding the right apartment in Madrid can be like searching for that elusive needle in a haystack, and just like with any search, the tools you use make all the difference. While Idealista might be the first site everyone mentions, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on your needs—whether you’re looking for a short-term rental, a budget-friendly option, or a roommate to share costs—different websites can offer more tailored solutions. To make your search more efficient and less overwhelming, it’s crucial to use the platform that best matches your specific situation. Here’s a guide to the top websites for finding a flat in Madrid, each suited to different needs.
Best For: Expats moving to Madrid from abroad who need to secure a flat before arriving.
Why: Spotahome offers virtual tours and detailed listings, making it easy to find and book an apartment remotely with confidence.
Best For: Budget-conscious expats who love animals.
Why: Trusted Housesitters provides free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting, a great option if you want to live in Madrid without paying rent.
How to Find an Apartment in Madrid
When searching for a flat in Madrid, several key considerations will help streamline your search and improve your chances of success.
1. Determine Your Rental Duration
Short-Term Rentals: If you’re planning to stay in Madrid for a few months, platforms like Flatio are ideal. Flatio offers fully furnished apartments with flexible rental periods, making it a great option for expats, digital nomads, or those on temporary assignments.
Long-Term Rentals: If you’re looking to settle in Madrid for an extended period, websites like Idealista are more suited to your needs. They offer a wide range of listings, from budget-friendly studios to luxury apartments.
Action: Define your rental duration and select the appropriate platform based on your needs.
2. Consider Your Budget
Roommates or Solo: If you’re on a tight budget, consider sharing a flat with roommates. Badi is a fantastic platform for finding flatshares, particularly in trendy areas like La Latina or Lavapiés, where living alone might be more expensive.
Flexible Budget: If you have more financial flexibility, explore platforms like Idealista, which cater to a wide range of budgets and offer both shared and private flats.
Action: Set a clear budget and decide if you’re open to sharing a flat to reduce costs.
3. Understand Madrid’s Neighborhoods
Central Locations: If you want to be in the heart of the city, consider neighborhoods like Chueca, Malasaña, or Lavapiés. These areas are vibrant and full of nightlife, but they can also be noisy and expensive.
Quieter Areas: For a more tranquil living experience, neighborhoods like Chamberí, Retiro, or Arganzuela offer a good balance between centrality and peace, with plenty of green spaces and family-friendly amenities.
Action: Research Madrid’s neighborhoods to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and needs.
4. Use Reliable Rental Platforms
Here are some of the best websites to find a flat in Madrid, tailored to different needs:
Spotahome: Best for expats who want a hassle-free rental experience. Spotahome offers video tours and detailed descriptions, making it easier to find a flat without needing to visit in person. This is ideal if you’re moving to Madrid from abroad and want to secure housing before arriving.
Trusted Housesitters: Perfect for those who want to save on rent and love pets. Trusted Housesitters connects you with homeowners who need someone to look after their pets while they’re away, providing free accommodation in return.
Flatio: Best for mid-term rentals. Flatio offers fully furnished apartments with flexible stays from a few weeks to several months. It’s ideal for expats or digital nomads who need stability without committing to a long-term lease.
Idealista: Ideal for a wide range of budgets and rental types. Whether you’re looking for a luxury apartment in Salamanca or a budget-friendly studio in Tetuán, Idealista has a vast selection of properties.
Badi: Best for those looking for shared flats. Badi specializes in connecting people with roommates, making it a great option if you’re new to Madrid and want to save on rent while meeting new people.
Action: Start your search on these platforms based on your specific needs, and create alerts for new listings to stay ahead of the competition.
5. Visit Apartments in Person
While online listings provide a good starting point, visiting potential apartments in person is crucial. This allows you to get a true sense of the space, check for any potential issues like noise or lack of natural light, and meet the landlord or property manager.
Action: Schedule visits to your top choices as soon as possible. If you’re not in Madrid yet, consider using a trusted friend or a professional to view the properties on your behalf.
6. Understand Rental Contracts
In Spain, rental contracts typically last for one year, with an option to renew annually for up to five years. Make sure you understand all the terms before signing, including the duration, deposit, and conditions for renewal or termination.
Action: Have a lawyer or knowledgeable friend review the contract if you’re unsure about any clauses.
7. Be Aware of Deposit Requirements
Landlords in Madrid typically require a deposit of one to two months' rent. This deposit should be lodged with the Comunidad de Madrid, and you should receive proof of this lodging.
Action: Confirm the deposit terms with the landlord and ensure you receive proper documentation.
8. Check for Additional Costs
Ask the landlord about any additional costs not included in the rent, such as utilities (electricity, water, gas) or community fees. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses.
Action: Factor these costs into your budget before finalizing your rental agreement.
9. Be Prepared to Act Quickly
The rental market in Madrid moves fast. If you find a flat you love, be prepared to make an offer immediately. Delaying could mean losing out to another applicant.
Action: Have your documents ready (ID, proof of income, references) and be ready to act when you find the right place.
10. Consider Furnished vs. Unfurnished Flats
Decide whether you need a furnished flat or if you’re willing to buy your own furniture. Furnished flats are convenient but can be more expensive. Unfurnished flats give you the freedom to decorate but require an upfront investment.
Action: Choose based on your budget and how long you plan to stay in Madrid.
11. Negotiate Where Possible
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the rent, especially if the flat has been on the market for a while or if you’re willing to sign a longer lease.
Action: Don’t be afraid to negotiate, but be realistic about what the landlord might accept.
12. Get to Know the Local Rental Market
Keep an eye on the trends in the Madrid rental market. Understanding whether rents are rising or falling can help you negotiate better deals and choose the right time to move.
Action: Stay informed by following local real estate news and keeping track of rental price changes on the platforms you’re using.
How Much is an Average Apartment in Madrid?
The cost of renting an apartment in Madrid varies significantly based on the location, size, and amenities. On average:
One-Bedroom Apartment: In central areas like Salamanca, Chamberí, or Malasaña, you can expect to pay between €1,000 and €1,500 per month. In more affordable neighborhoods, such as Tetuán or Usera, rents range from €700 to €1,000.
Two-Bedroom Apartment: In central areas, prices typically range from €1,500 to €2,500 per month. In less central areas, you might find options between €1,200 and €1,800.
Shared Flats: If you’re sharing an apartment, expect to pay between €400 and €700 per month for a room, depending on the neighborhood and the quality of the flat.
These prices are averages and can fluctuate based on the specific features of the apartment and current market trends.
Finding an apartment in Madrid as an expat can be a challenging task, but it’s far from impossible. By starting your search early, using the right platforms, and understanding the local market, you can find a place that suits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a short-term rental or a long-term home, Madrid offers a diverse range of options for every type of renter.
If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out in the comments or contact us directly. We’re here to help you make your move to Madrid as smooth as possible!
📜 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.
