The dream is finally coming true: you’ve received your student visa, made a budget based on the cost of living in Spain, and your bags are packed! There are still a few things on your to-do list after arriving in Spain (like getting your NIE), but right now you’re filled with excitement. You’re imagining the Spanish adventures to come when a realization strikes you: you don’t have an apartment yet! Don’t get anxious, as few people set up a place to live before they arrive. If you’re reading our guide on how to find an apartment in Spain, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.
Tips for Finding an Apartment in Spain
There’s a certain trial-and-error component with any apartment hunt. However, we don’t have time for that. There are beaches to be laid on and sangria to be drunk; why not find an apartment by the beach? Before you start the search, take note of these tips:
- Always call if there is a phone number on an apartment listing in Spain. Apartments/rooms go very quickly, so call (in Spanish) as soon as you find one you like.
- Never agree to wire anyone money for an apartment in Spain without seeing the apartment and meeting the landlord first.
- Make sure you’ll be getting a rental contract in Spain, as you’ll need it to register for the empadronamiento, NIE or TIE.
Websites to Find an Apartment in Spain
If you’re going to find an apartment in Spain, you need to look in the right places. There are five popular websites to find an apartment in Spain. The most common sites to use are Idealista, Spotahome, Fotocasa, and Mil Anuncios. The best places for students to look for an apartment in Spain are Idealista and Spotahome, as they let people search for single rooms in an apartment as well.
After you find the apartment for you, call or send a What’sApp message to the phone number listed. Never email a landlord and expect a speedy response (or any response at all). Most landlords won’t appreciate it very much if you don’t make an effort to speak Spanish, so prepare what you will say beforehand. Request a visit at the apartment then see for yourself if you can stop looking for a Spanish apartment!
Facebook Groups to Find an Apartment in Spain
There isn’t always a huge availability of single rooms on websites to find an apartment in Spain. Luckily, there are other places to look! If you’re looking for an apartment in Madrid, join this Facebook group to see posts about available flats and rooms. There’s a similar Facebook group in Barcelona as well. These posts are often made by other students living in the flat, so you’ll have a chance to check out your roommates before the visit!
