Look for and pick the right property

 Once you have a clear idea of your budget and have obtained your NIE, one of the most important moments in the process comes: finding the right property .

Although today it is possible to find thousands of listings on the Internet, it is not a good idea to make a decision based solely on the photos or the property description. Taking the time to compare options and analyze each property in detail can prevent future problems and help you negotiate a better price.

Looking on your own or with a real estate agent?

There are two common ways to find a place to live in Spain.

Real estate portals

Real estate portals allow you to access a wide range of properties across the country and compare prices, areas, and features from anywhere in the world.

Among its main advantages are:

• Wide variety of properties.
• Filters by price, location, and features.
• Ability to save favorites and get alerts.
• Quick comparison between different options.

However, the information published is not always completely up to date. Some properties may have already been sold or reserved, and the photos might show a more attractive image than reality. Also, the advertised price doesn’t always match the final sale price, since in many markets there is room for negotiation.

Local real estate agents

If you live outside of Spain or aren’t very familiar with the local real estate market, having a trusted real estate agent can make the process a lot easier.

A good professional can help you with:

• Select properties that really fit your budget.
• Schedule several visits in a few days.
• Negotiate the price with the seller.
• Coordinate the necessary paperwork.
• Resolve questions about the area and the local market.

If the agency charges fees to the buyer, ask in writing for the amount and the services included before signing any document.

What to check during the visit

When you visit a property, try to analyze much more than just its aesthetic appearance.

Overall condition of the property

Look closely:

• Dampness or stains on walls and ceilings.
• Significant cracks.
• Condition of doors and windows.
• Quality of thermal insulation.
• Condition of the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Electrical installation.
• Plumbing.
• Age of the boiler or the HVAC system.

A small flaw can turn into an expensive repair if it goes unnoticed.

Check the water pressure

Turn on all the taps and the shower.

That way you can check:

• Water pressure.
• Possible problems in the pipes.
• The condition of the drains.

Check the insulation

Good insulation means significant energy savings.

Check:

• If the windows close properly.
• If air comes in through the joints.
• If there are double-glazed windows.

A simple test is to close a window with a sheet of paper: if it comes out easily, the seal might not be completely airtight.

Listen to the noises

Stay silent for a few minutes.

Rate:

• Traffic.
• Nearby bars or terraces.
• Elevator.
• Neighbors.
• Schools.
• Nearby trains or roads.

Whenever possible, visit the property at different times of day (morning, afternoon, and night) and also on the weekend. A quiet neighborhood during the week can be very different on a Friday night.

Check out the building

When you buy a property, you don’t just buy the property

You also buy a part of the building and the homeowners’ association.

Check this out:

• Condition of the facade.
• Roof.
• Entrance.
• Elevator.
• Garage.
• Common areas.

A poorly maintained building can mean future special assessments for the owners.

Documentation that it’s good to request

If you’re interested in the property, before giving any money, ask or request to have the following documents reviewed:

• Simple note from the Property Registry.
• Cadastral reference.
• Energy efficiency certificate.
• Latest property tax (IBI) receipt.
• Certificate of being up to date with payments to the homeowners’ association.
• Information about any approved special assessments.
• Licenses or urban planning documentation when necessary.

The simple note allows you to check who the owner is and if there are any mortgages, embargoes or other liens on the property.

Warning signs

During the search, it’s wise to be extra careful if you notice any of these situations:The seller avoids providing documentation.

• There are differences between the visited property and the registry information.
• There is pressure to sign a reservation immediately.
• The price is much lower than similar properties without a clear explanation.
• The property has significant dampness or structural cracks.
• There are conflicts in the homeowners’ association or large approved fees.
• There are occupants, tenants, or unclear legal situations.

In any of these situations, it’s recommended to stop the process until all the information is clarified.

Visit several homes before deciding

It’s common to fall in love with the first property that seems to meet all the requirements. However, making a hasty decision can cause you to overlook more interesting options.

Whenever possible:

• Visit at least three similar properties.
• Compare prices per square meter.
• Check out different neighborhoods.
• Take photos and notes during each visit.
• Ask for some time to think before making an offer.

The more properties you see, the better you’ll understand the market and the easier it’ll be to spot when a property is priced competitively or when there’s room to negotiate.