Leaving home to live independently has long been a real challenge for Spanish youth. The average age at which people in Spain move out of their parents’ home has now passed thirty—significantly higher than in most European countries. The reason is simple: property prices are rising faster than incomes, and rent often eats up most of the paycheck. Nevertheless, there are real estate offers on the market that can surprise even the most skeptical.
First Steps to Independence: How to Choose Your Home
When planning to buy your first apartment, it’s important not to get carried away by emotions. Financial calculations must come first. You need to know in advance how much you can realistically spend, taking into account not only the price of the apartment itself but also extra costs: taxes, paperwork, renovation. Banks offer various mortgage options, and comparing these can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
It’s also worth thinking about the future: will the apartment be comfortable if you start a family, or is it suitable only for one person? It’s equally important to visit several properties to avoid falling for misleading photos in advertisements. Attention to detail and clear-headed calculation are your best allies on this journey.
Real Opportunities: Apartments at the Price of a Car
In small towns and provinces across Spain, you can find apartments that cost less than a year’s rent in Madrid or Barcelona. For example, in Bembibre, located in the province of León, a spacious penthouse of 75 square meters is for sale for just 35,000 euros. The apartment features a large bedroom, a modern kitchen combined with the living room, and a terrace overlooking the city rooftops.
In Galicia, in the city of Narón, housing with an area of 40 square meters is available for 35,840 euros. The apartment is on the ground floor and includes a parking space in the price. The nearest beaches are just twenty minutes away by car, making this option especially appealing for sea lovers.
Seaside living: affordable options on the coast
If you dream of living by the water, consider opportunities in Castellón. Here, you can buy a 54-square-meter apartment for 40,000 euros. The property needs a little cosmetic renovation, but its location and price make it an excellent starting point for independent living.
In Valencia, in the municipality of Bellreguard, a compact loft is for sale for 60,000 euros. The apartment is move-in ready and south-facing, providing plenty of natural light. Inside, there is one bedroom, a bathroom, and built-in wardrobes. This is the ideal choice for those who appreciate comfort and don’t want to spend time on renovations.
Opportunity map: where to find the best deals
Spain’s real estate market is diverse. Each region offers interesting properties if you look beyond just the major cities. Housing prices in the provinces are noticeably lower, and the quality of life is often higher thanks to the peace and proximity to nature. More and more young people are choosing these options to gain independence sooner and avoid overpaying for rent.
Buying an apartment is not just a step towards independence, but also a long-term investment. Even if you decide to move in a few years, you can always rent out or sell the property. The key is to make an informed choice and not rush your decision.
As RUSSPAIN previously reported: on the real estate market and the idealista platform
As RUSSPAIN previously reported, idealista has long been one of the main tools for finding housing in Spain. Founded in 2000, the company quickly earned users’ trust thanks to its user-friendly interface and vast listings database. Today, idealista covers not only Spain but also Portugal and Italy, offering millions of options for buying and renting property. The platform actively collaborates with real estate agencies, banks, and private sellers, making it easy to find both exclusive and budget listings. Over the years, idealista has become a kind of market barometer: the company’s analysts regularly publish reports on prices, demand, and trends. As a result, the platform is popular not only with buyers but also with investors tracking market dynamics. In recent years, idealista has been actively introducing new technologies, including virtual tours and online property valuation tools. All this makes the service an indispensable assistant for anyone looking for housing in Spain, regardless of budget or preferences.
