The big question: apartment or villa?
It's one of the first choices you make when looking for new build property in Spain: do you want an apartment or a villa? Both options have clear advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we help you make the right choice.
Apartment: the advantages
- Lower purchase price: a new build apartment starts from €130,000
- Lower maintenance: shared costs with other owners
- Amenities: communal pool, garden and sometimes gym
- Security: gated complex, neighbours nearby
- Easier to rent: simpler to let to tourists
- Ideal as holiday home: lock up and leave
Apartment: the disadvantages
- Less privacy: neighbours above, below and beside you
- Community fees: €50-€200 per month (whether you're there or not)
- Limited space: no private garden, smaller terrace
- Regulations: HOA rules on rental, pets, renovations
Villa: the advantages
- Maximum privacy: your own plot, no neighbours
- Private pool and garden: entirely to your own taste
- More space: larger living area, multiple bedrooms
- Value appreciation: land ownership, higher growth
- Freedom: no HOA, your own rules
Villa: the disadvantages
- Higher purchase price: new build villas start from €300,000
- More maintenance: pool, garden, terrace — all at your expense
- Higher running costs: water, electricity, insurance
- Rental more complex: higher daily management required
- Security: you need to arrange your own alarm system
Financial comparison
| Apartment | Villa | |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | €130,000 - €400,000 | €300,000 - €1,000,000+ |
| Community fees | €600 - €2,400/year | €0 |
| Maintenance/year | €500 - €1,000 | €2,000 - €5,000 |
| IBI (property tax) | €300 - €800/year | €800 - €2,500/year |
| Rental yield | 5-8% gross | 3-6% gross |
When to choose an apartment?
- You'll use the property as a holiday home (max 3-4 months per year)
- You want to rent out when you're not there
- You're looking for a lower budget with fewer worries
- You want amenities like a pool without personal maintenance
When to choose a villa?
- You're moving to Spain permanently
- Privacy and space are important to you
- You have a family with children who want to play outside
- Your budget allows it and you want your own pool
Our advice
For most foreign buyers seeking a holiday home, a new build apartment is the wisest choice. Lower costs, easy maintenance and better rental yield make it a more relaxed investment.
Those moving permanently to Spain with the budget will find the ultimate Spanish dream life in a villa.
Frequently asked questions
Why buy new build in Spain?
New builds in Spain offer modern finishes, energy-efficient construction, developer guarantees and often communal amenities such as swimming pools and gardens.
What is included in new build properties in Spain?
New build properties in Spain are typically delivered with kitchen, bathroom, flooring, air conditioning and often access to communal facilities.
How can Alistora help me buy property?
Alistora is an independent portal that aggregates new build projects in Spain. We connect you with local trusted partners who guide you through the entire purchase process.
