An Expat Talks about Moving to Barcelona, Spain

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Barcelona

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

I wish I had brought some cooking ingredients, some homeopathy pills (hard to find here)

Expat Estate
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Take the hassle out of buying property in Spain! Expat Estate is a bespoke buyer advisory firm helping foreign nationals purchase property in Spain. Providing end-to-end services from property search and acquisition to legals, mortgage broking, property management and support with Golden Visas, Expat Estate takes the stress out of home ownership in Spain.

Expat Estate

Take the hassle out of buying property in Spain! Expat Estate is a bespoke buyer advisory firm helping foreign nationals purchase property in Spain. Providing end-to-end services from property search and acquisition to legals, mortgage broking, property management and support with Golden Visas, Expat Estate takes the stress out of home ownership in Spain.
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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

If you don't know the country you are moving to, if you don't speak the language, then use a company specialised in relocation. You will avoid to have unfortunate experiences and you will make a much easier start in your new life. I can recommend the one I used: Easy Relocation.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

I live in a house in Gava Mar (south Barcelona). It is quite common for expats in this area. It is difficult to find a house in Barcelona, there are mostly flats. A house by the sea is perfect for a family with children.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

Through a relocation company. They are the right people to tell you what are the advantages and disavantages about the different areas with an orientation tour. Also to visit properties, I think they give you the best idea on what is on the market.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

Prices are higher than they are in my country but it is difficult to compare. Quality and services offered are different. A house here runs from 1500 to 3000 Euros depending o the size, the quality and the location.