Articles about life and property in Spain
Answers to the questions we're asked most often before moving, investing or retiring in Spain
What does it cost to own a property in Spain?
IBI, community fees, utilities and insurance — here is the full breakdown of what it costs to own property in Spain.
Is it expensive to live in Spain?
Spain is markedly cheaper than most of Northern Europe on most everyday expenses — but not on everything. See the full comparison.
What do you need to know before moving to Spain?
NIE number, local registration, health insurance and a bank account — here is the full checklist for your move.
What counts as a good salary in Spain?
Spanish salaries are lower than in Northern Europe — but so are the expenses. Here is the calculation that actually matters.
Pros and cons of an investment property in Spain
High return potential and your own holiday home at the same time — but also tax, maintenance and currency risk. Here is the honest trade-off.
What can you earn from renting out a property in Spain?
From gross rental income to net return — see what is actually left once tax, management and expenses are paid.
Why is Spain so popular with foreign buyers?
Climate, price and just a short flight from home. Here are the seven reasons Spain tops so many wish lists.
Can you move to Spain as a retiree?
Sunny winters and a lower cost of living — but what about your pension, your health insurance and your residence permit?
How long can a foreign buyer stay in Spain?
The Schengen 90/180-day rule explained — and what you need to do if you want to live in Spain longer than that.
The healthcare system in Spain — what should foreign buyers know?
Public or private? EHIC, S1 or private insurance? Here is what foreign buyers should know about healthcare in Spain.
Do you need to speak Spanish to live in Spain?
In the major expat areas you can get by well in English — but Spanish opens doors no translation can.
Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca — which should you choose?
Two coasts, two personalities. See the direct comparison and find out which one matches what you are looking for.
Weather in Spain — where is the climate best year-round?
Andalusia or the Valencia region? See temperature and sunshine hours month by month and find your ideal climate.
What does it cost to move to Spain?
From removal company to deposit and furnishing — here is the realistic budget for the move itself.
Can you work in Spain as a foreigner?
A local job, freelancing, or remote work for an employer back home — see your options as an EU citizen in Spain.
The 10 best towns in Spain for foreign buyers
Marbella, Torrevieja, Fuengirola, Alicante and more. Here are the 10 towns that top the list for foreign buyers in Spain.
Spain vs. Portugal — where is it best to buy property?
Two popular sunshine coasts — but only one is right for you. See the honest comparison of prices, taxes and lifestyle.
What types of property exist in Spain?
Villa, apartamento, adosado, bungalow, finca or penthouse? Here is what the Spanish property types are called and what they mean in practice.
What do buyers who have already bought property in Spain say?
What surprised them most? What would they have done differently? Here is the experience buyers share after purchasing in Spain.
What taxes do you pay as a property owner in Spain?
IBI, plusvalía, capital gains tax and imputed income. Here is the full tax overview for property owners in Spain.
What is a NIE number, and how do you get one?
Without a NIE number you cannot buy property, open a bank account, or take out insurance in Spain. Here is the complete guide to getting yours.
Tourist license in Spain — requirements, price and process
Without a tourist license you cannot legally rent out your Spanish property short-term. Here is what you need to know about the rules region by region.
Resident vs. non-resident in Spain — what does it mean for your tax?
Do you spend under or over 183 days a year in Spain? The difference has major tax consequences you should know about.
How much do you need as a down payment for property in Spain?
Typically you need 30-40% of the property price ready as a non-resident in Spain. Here is the complete review of what you will need.
What does an estate agent cost in Spain?
Agent commission in Spain is typically paid by the seller — but there are important nuances you should know as a buyer.
The arras contract explained — what binds you, and what does not?
The arras contract is the first major legal step in a Spanish property purchase. Here is what you commit to — and when you can withdraw.
Checklist for buying property in Spain — 15 things to have in order
From NIE number to keys in hand — here are the 15 steps you go through when buying property in Spain, in the right order.
Ready to take the next step?
Once you've got the practical details sorted, we're happy to help you find the right property.