Renting a house in Spain – everything you need to know before becoming a tenant

Renting a house in Spain is a complex topic that requires distinguishing between different types of rentals. Spain’s house rental offers three main categories: short-term (up to 2 months), mixed and long-term (over 6 months). Each type of rental has its specific rules, costs, and legal regulations. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right decision.

What are the costs of renting a house in Spain depending on the type of rental?

Vacation rental, short-term (up to 2 months)

Renting a house in Spain for vacation offers the highest prices due to seasonality and the short period. How much does it cost to rent a house in Spain for vacation? In summer, prices range from 100 to 3,500 euros per day, depending on location and standard. On the Costa del Sol, renting a house in Spain for vacation costs on average between 150 and 2,000 euros daily for a house with 3-4 bedrooms.

In premium destinations such as Marbella, Ibiza, or Mallorca, prices range from 500 euros to several thousand euros per day for luxurious villas with pools. Outside the season (October – May), prices drop by 40-60%, making house rental in Spain more affordable for budget travelers.

Additional costs for vacation rentals include a final cleaning fee (50 – 300 euros), refundable deposit (300 – 1000 euros), and possibly utility charges. These are usually included in the price, but in some cases, they may be charged additionally.

Short-term rental is a compromise between vacation prices and long-term prices. Prices are usually 20-40% lower than for vacation rentals. The monthly cost of short-term rental ranges from 1500 to 4000 euros for a house, depending on region and season.

This type of rental is popular among digital nomads, remote workers, or retirees spending winter in warm climates. Owners often offer discounts for longer stays — even up to 30% for monthly rentals compared to weekly prices.

Mixed rental (between 2 and 6 months)

Mixed rental is a compromise between vacation and long-term prices. Prices are usually 20-40% lower than for vacation rentals. The monthly rent costs between 2500 – 6000 euros, depending on region and season.

This type of rental is popular among digital nomads, remote workers, or retirees spending winter in warm climates. Owners often offer discounts for longer stays — even up to 30% for monthly rentals compared to weekly prices.

Long-term rental (over 6 months)

For long-term house rentals in Spain, the most favorable monthly prices are available. Costs range from 600 euros per month in smaller towns to 6000 euros in prestigious locations. In Madrid, Barcelona, and Marbella, prices start from 2500 euros and can reach several tens of thousands of euros for luxury properties.

The key advantage is price stability – no seasonal fluctuations and the possibility of negotiating long-term contracts. The deposit is 2 months’ rent, and utility fees (150 – 500 euros per month) are predictable throughout the year.

What to pay attention to when signing different types of rental agreements in Spain?

Vacation rental agreements

Vacation agreements are usually the simplest but require special attention due to cancellation clauses. Most platforms offer free cancellation until 24 – 48 hours before arrival, but conditions may vary. It is important to check whether the price includes all fees: cleaning, utilities, tourist taxes.

The agreement should clearly specify rules for using the pool, grill, air conditioning, and policies regarding pets and smoking. In the case of vacation rentals, complex legal formalities are rarely required, but you may be asked to show proof of identity and sign registration cards for all residents over 16 at check-in. This procedure, similar to that known from hotels, is required by Spanish law.

Mixed rental agreements

These agreements require more precision than vacation ones. They should include clear conditions regarding extension of stay, payment rules (often a prepayment for the entire period), deposit, and tenant obligations concerning property maintenance.

It is important to specify who bears the costs of utilities: for stays several months long, these can significantly impact the budget.

Long-term rental agreements

Long-term rental agreements are subject to the strictest legal regulations. Renting a house long-term in Spain requires an agreement that contains detailed conditions regarding the rental period, rent increases, maintenance obligations, and termination conditions.

It is crucial to specify the tenant’s right to extend the contract (up to 5 years) and rules for rent increases in line with inflation. The contract must also regulate issues related to minor repairs, which are usually the tenant’s responsibility in long-term rentals.

Can a foreigner rent a house in Spain? Differences depending on the type of rental.

Vacation rental for foreigners

Renting a house in Spain for vacation is the simplest for foreigners. All that is needed is a valid ID or passport and a credit card. Most reservations are made online through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO. No special permits or identification numbers are required.

The process is usually automated and does not require personal contact with the owner. Payment is typically made online, and keys can be collected from a keypad safe or from a local representative.

Mixed rental for foreigners

Mixed rental may require additional formalities, especially if the stay exceeds 30 days. EU citizens only need a valid ID, but for longer stays, obtaining a NIE number (identification number) is recommended.

Owners may require extra documents confirming financial ability or the purpose of stay. Some also request references from previous rentals or a guarantor.

Long-term rental for foreigners

Renting a long-term house in Spain for foreigners requires fulfilling more formalities. EU citizens should obtain a NIE number and register at the local town hall (empadronamiento). Non-EU citizens additionally need a valid visa or residence permit.

Owners often require a higher deposit from foreigners, a guarantor residing in Spain, or additional financial documents. The process can take several weeks and requires personal presence when signing the contract. It is advisable to consult the proposed agreement with a lawyer or trusted property broker.

What are the rights and obligations of the tenant depending on the type of rental?

Rights and obligations for vacation rentals

Vacation tenants have the basic right to use the property according to the description and photos. The owner must ensure functional utilities, clean rooms, and all amenities listed in the offer.

The obligations of vacation tenants are minimal. They should care for the property, follow community rules regarding the use of facilities, and leave the house in a condition that does not call for complaints. Most issues during the rental are handled by owners, their representatives on-site, or booking platforms.

Rights and obligations for mixed rentals

Tenants can demand repairs and have the right to peaceful use of the property. Owners cannot enter the house without prior notice.

Obligations include timely rent payments, property care, and reporting issues. Tenants may be responsible for minor repairs if the stay exceeds a month.

Rights and obligations for long-term rentals

Long-term tenants have the broadest rights protected by Spanish rental law. They can extend contracts up to 5 years, are protected against arbitrary rent increases, and have the right to make minor modifications (each scope defined by the contract).

Obligations are also the broadest: responsibility for minor repairs, timely rent and utility payments, yard maintenance (if applicable), and informing the owner of technical issues.

Summary

Renting a house in Spain in any of these categories has its advantages and challenges. The choice of the appropriate rental type depends on individual needs, budget, and planned stay duration. Regardless of the option chosen, Spain offers extensive opportunities for those willing to live in a beautiful environment and sunny climate.

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