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Why finding a long-term rental in Spain can be challenging
Terrasur Homes | Apr 26
The long-term rental market in Spain, particularly on the Costa del Sol, is highly competitive.
It’s not just about finding a property — it’s about being ready at the right time.
Landlords and agents typically prioritise tenants who are:
- Fully documented
- Financially prepared
- Ready to move forward quickly
If you are not prepared, you may miss out — even on properties that are a perfect fit.
Step 1: Prepare your documents before moving to Spain
If you’re planning to rent a property in Spain, preparation should start before you arrive.
Key documents include:
- NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
- Passport or ID
- Proof of income (employment contracts, payslips, or savings)
- Bank statements
- References (if available)
Having these ready allows you to move quickly when the right rental becomes available.
Step 2: Understand agency fees when renting in Spain
One of the most common questions when renting long-term in Spain is who pays the agency fee.
For long-term rentals (primary residence contracts), the agency fee is usually paid by the landlord
However, there are exceptions where tenants may be asked for an agency fee:
- Short-term or seasonal rentals
- Company or corporate lets
- Relocation or property search services
When an agency searches on your behalf and the property is not in their portfolio, in this case, the agency acts as a property finder, sourcing options across the wider market.
Typical agency fee:
Around 1 month’s rent + VAT
Step 3: What does rent include?
When looking at rental listings, it’s important to understand what is included in the price.
Most long-term rental prices in Spain include:
- The property
- Community fees
However, they usually exclude:
- Electricity
- Water
- Internet
At the start of the tenancy, you should also budget for:
- First month’s rent
- Security deposit (typically 1–2 months rent)
- Potential agency fee (depending on the situation)
Many tenants underestimate the upfront cost of renting in Spain, not the monthly rent.
Step 4: What landlords look for in tenants
When renting in Spain, landlords are assessing more than just your interest in the property.
They typically look for:
- Financial stability
- Long-term reliability
- Confidence that the property will be well maintained
Because of this, you may be asked for:
- Proof of income
- Additional guarantees
- Upfront payments in some cases
Understanding these expectations helps you position yourself as a strong tenant.
Step 5: How long does it take to find a rental?
One of the most underestimated aspects of moving to Spain is timing.
Securing a long-term rental can take longer than expected, especially in high-demand areas.
A practical approach is to plan for:
- 4–6 weeks of temporary accommodation
- Avoid high season period such as summer
- Flexible move-in dates
- Time to explore different areas
This reduces pressure and allows for better decision-making.
Step 6: How to avoid rental scams
Rental scams are a concern, particularly for international tenants unfamiliar with the market.
Common red flags include:
- Prices significantly below market value
- Requests for payment before viewing
- Owners claiming to be abroad
- Duplicate or inconsistent listings
- Pressure to transfer money quickly
Best practices:
- Never transfer money without verifying the property
- Always arrange a viewing (in person or verified)
- Ensure a formal rental contract is in place
- When in doubt, ask for more documents such as utility bills and nota simple.
A legitimate rental process should always feel clear and structured.
Step 7: Where to search for rental properties in Spain
Many people start with online portals such as Idealista — which is useful, but not always sufficient.
Not all listings are:
- Up to date
- Available
- Fully accurate
In addition, some rental opportunities are not widely advertised and are accessed through local networks.
Understanding this helps set realistic expectations during your search.
Step 8: Start your rental search before arriving in Spain
If you’re planning to move to Spain, starting your search early is one of the most effective strategies.
Before arriving, you can:
- Research different areas (Estepona, Marbella, etc.)
- Define your budget
- Identify your priorities
- Shortlist potential properties
- Contact one or two reliable agencies to help you
This allows you to use your time efficiently once you are in Spain.
Final thoughts: Renting in Spain with confidence
Finding a long-term rental in Spain doesn’t have to be stressful.
Most challenges come from a lack of preparation or understanding of how the market works.
By preparing in advance, understanding costs, and knowing what to expect, you can approach your move with clarity and confidence.
If you are looking for long term rentals in Estepona, check our portfolio of properties or get in touch for more information.
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