5 Factors to Take into Account when Renting a Long-Term Apartment in Barcelona

So, you’re thinking of coming to live in Barcelona long term? Great choice! Whether it be to study, to work, or simply just to experience all that this amazing city has to offer, Barcelona is always the best decision. 

We know, however, with the ever-growing number of monthly apartments in Barcelona and the countless different neighbourhoods to choose from, places to rent from, the price differences, amongst so many other factors, making the choice of where to rent long-term can seem daunting. So, let us help make the decision a little easier, and read on to find out our 5 important factors to take into account when renting long term in our city, Barcelona. 

1. Neighbourhood

Which neighbourhood you prefer is influenced by a few different variables. Firstly, if you’re coming to work or study, it’s a good idea to check the location of your workplace/university on a map and check the distance from the apartments you’re checking out. AB Apartment Barcelona’s search allows you to view by map to make this method easier!

Another thing to take into account when choosing the neighbourhood is its proximity to the things you want to get up to in your free time. Choosing a neighbourhood like the Gothic Quarter places you near so many bars and restaurants, while being in Barceloneta means you can spend the evenings strolling along the seafront.  It’s all about preference, so we’d advise spending some time in the city first to find out what you like!

2. Website to find the apartments in Barcelona

We may be a biased source, but with over 500 long-term apartments in Barcelona to rent by month, and as a nominee for Spain’s best serviced apartment brand in the World Travel Awards 2020, we recommend AB Apartment Barcelona as your first port of call on your apartment search.

Our site allows you to get specific with your search, as you’re able to narrow down by things like does the apartment have a balcony, elevator, terrace, pool, and even if you can bring your pet along!

Even if you decide to search on other providers, the most important thing is to check the validity of the site, to ensure that it is both trusted and reliable.

3. Rental price

Whatever your personal budget for an apartment in Barcelona, there are a variety of different options to choose from. It can be helpful to write down what your essential criteria is for a new apartment, and then see what kind of price range comes up for these specifics. 

In comparison to other major cities of Europe, Barcelona is a relatively inexpensive place to live as a renter. Particularly as there are a lot of the rental options that are inclusive of bills and WiFi, it can make your life a lot easier to not have to think about setting up accounts. 

4. Spanish Law

Something fairly important to bear in mind when looking for apartment rentals here in Barcelona, is that the laws in relation to renting are somewhat different to other areas of Europe, and indeed the rest of the world.  

If you are intending to come to stay for a long period of time and sign a contract stating you would like to stay for 12 months, but then have to leave unexpectedly (not completely unlikely during these strange times!), you may have to continue paying rent until the contract ends, or lose your deposit. So, we would advise asking to rent for 6 months, and then have a rolling contract thereafter with monthly notice, so you don’t have to worry and have more freedom with what you would like to do!

5. Furnishings

Another key thing to consider on your apartment hunt, is whether you want your new home to come already complete with furnishings, or you want the freedom to shop for your new furniture and make the place your own.

 It is worth clarifying with the landlord or agency if an apartment comes furnished, and what specifically is included, so you have a clearer picture of what extra money you may need to spend buying the extras. 

Whatever you’re after for your stay in Barcelona, our top team at AB Apartment Barcelona are always on hand for advice and are more than ready to help you find your new home! Have a browse of our site to find your perfect apartment and contact one of our team for any assistance or visits you would like to make. Happy flat hunting!