Whether you’re picturing a modern apartment by the sea or a countryside retreat to renovate, this guide will help you prioritise your requirements, narrow down your search and take the right steps to secure your dream home in Spain.
Knowing where to begin can be the hardest part of a property search – especially in a market as varied as Spain’s. From sleek new-build flats and beachfront villas to rustic townhouses, fixer-uppers and even cave homes, there truly is something for every budget and lifestyle.
The good news? With a bit of clarity and the right guidance, finding the home that ticks your boxes can be far simpler than you’d expect.
Contents
- How to search for property in Spain online
- Planning a viewing trip to Spain
- Types of viewing trip
- What to consider when searching
- Save time with a property consultant
How to search for property in Spain online
Your journey to finding the perfect property in Spain will likely start with an online search. Property portals are an excellent resource for comparing regions, property types and prices across thousands of listings. If you’re not certain where to buy, consider reading up on different areas and their characteristics.
Some reliable property portals to consider include:
- Your Overseas Home – features over 40,000 properties listed for sale across Spain.
- Zoopla – a UK-based site offering international property listings, including in Spain.
- Rightmove – another popular portal for overseas properties.
These portals allow you to filter your search by budget, property type (apartment, house, villa etc), and specific features (like rural settings or golf communities).
One of the biggest advantages of searching online is the ability to explore neighbourhoods remotely using tools like Google Earth, and to connect with locals through community groups on Facebook or Meetup.
Planning a viewing trip to Spain
A key part of finding your ideal Spanish home is visiting in person. While floorplans, photos and virtual tours help, there’s no substitute for stepping into a property and getting a feel for your surroundings first-hand.
Although property viewings happen year-round, many buyers travel in spring or autumn to avoid the heat and crowds of summer. However, if you’re buying with rental income in mind, visiting in peak season is smart, as it gives you a better sense of how busy the town or street is and the kind of rental potential you might expect.
How long your trip lasts depends on how many agents you’ll see, how spread out the properties are and how much exploring you want to do yourself. Leave time for solo research as well as your planned viewings. Give agents a few weeks’ notice so they can arrange access – resale properties may still be occupied and sellers need to be contacted in advance.
Download our free Viewing Trip Guide for expert tips and planning advice.
there’s no substitute for stepping into a property and getting a feel for your surroundings first-hand
Types of viewing trip
Viewing with an estate agent
By the time you arrive, you’ll have built a rapport with your agent over calls or emails. A good agent will arrange viewings based on your shortlist and may suggest new properties that fit your criteria. Many agents live locally – some might also be expats – and they’ll often show you around the area, pointing out amenities like golf courses or international schools.
If you’re ready to buy, you may end your trip by reserving your chosen property. But it’s also normal to take time to reflect, even after you’ve returned home. You can begin the purchase process from the UK too.
Inspection trip with a developer
Developers sometimes offer subsidised three-day trips to view their properties, with flights and accommodation included. These are efficient but can be restrictive – you might not get the chance to explore independently or see homes from other providers.
Planning your own trip
You can also book your own flights and accommodation, then contact agents or developers while you’re there. They’ll usually collect you from your hotel to show you around. It means more research on your part, but the pace and schedule are fully your own.
Whichever route you choose, planning ahead is key. Spain’s market moves quickly, so let agents know your travel dates and location in advance so you can make the most of your trip.
What to consider when searching
From online searches to in-person viewings, there are key factors to help you narrow your options:
- What type of property are you after?
- How many bedrooms do you need?
- Do you want outside space or a view?
- How far is the nearest airport?
- What are the local towns like?
- Do you need schools or medical facilities nearby?
- What’s the distance to the beach or shops?
Work with an agent before your trip to view as many suitable homes as possible. It helps to divide your list into must-haves and nice-to-haves so they can focus your time effectively.
Save time with a property consultant
If you’re struggling to find the right property or don’t have hours to spend online, our consultants can fast-track your search. With over 15 years of experience helping international buyers, they know the market and can match you with trusted agents and experts.
A short consultation can save you hours of research and help clarify your next steps. You’ll get personal introductions to local professionals, including estate agents, lawyers, visa specialists, tax advisors, currency specialists and more.
Email us at [email protected] or call 0808 252 7870 and speak to one of our friendly advisers.
How it works
Tell us your plans – location, property type, budget – and we’ll connect you with the right partners. For example, if you’re looking in Costa Blanca, we’ll introduce you to an agent who knows the area and regularly works with overseas buyers.
Your consultant can also link you up with legal and financial experts to help make your purchase smooth and stress-free. Even if you’re undecided – Málaga or Almería? Holiday let or personal use? – we can offer guidance to help you move forward.
