Why International Buyers in Spain Are Choosing Larger Resale Homes

International buyers in Spain are not only purchasing more property. They are also showing a clear preference for larger homes and established residential buildings.

According to the 2025 data, almost 36% of homes purchased by foreign buyers had more than 100 square metres of floor space. A further 20.3% measured between 80 and 100 square metres.

At the same time, 78.5% of foreign purchases involved resale properties, while new-build homes accounted for just 21.5% of transactions.

For buyers considering Barcelona, the Costa Brava or other parts of Catalonia, these figures make sense. Larger resale homes are often found in established neighbourhoods, offer more generous layouts and may provide better value per square metre than newly built properties.

However, they can also require more careful investigation before purchase.

Why larger homes remain attractive

Space has become a more important priority for international buyers.

Many are no longer purchasing a small apartment simply for occasional visits. They may be relocating permanently, working remotely, moving with children or planning to spend longer periods in Spain.

That changes the property search.

An additional bedroom may be needed as a home office. Outdoor space becomes more valuable. Storage, natural light, lift access and flexible room layouts can matter as much as the address itself.

The report also shows clear differences between nationalities. More than half of American buyers purchased homes above 100 square metres. Larger properties were also especially popular among Dutch, British and German buyers.

This does not mean that every buyer from these countries wants the same type of home. But it does reflect a broader tendency among higher-budget international buyers to prioritise space, comfort and long-term usability.

Why resale properties dominate

Spain’s most established neighbourhoods are largely made up of resale housing.

In Barcelona, buyers looking in Eixample, Gràcia, Sant Gervasi, Les Corts or the historic centre will usually encounter older residential buildings rather than new developments. These properties may offer high ceilings, balconies, original floors, larger rooms and locations that are difficult to reproduce in new construction.

Resale homes can also offer more choice. New-build supply in central Barcelona is limited, and newly constructed properties are often smaller or located farther from the most established districts.

For many buyers, the trade-off is worthwhile. They gain more space or a better location, even if the property requires updating.

But an attractive renovation or elegant façade should never replace proper due diligence.

The registered floor area may not match what you see

One of the first issues to check is the property’s official size.

The square metres shown in an advertisement may refer to built area, usable area, cadastral area or a figure provided by the owner. These measurements are not always identical.

Older properties may also include enclosed balconies, converted storage areas or internal alterations that do not appear correctly in the Property Registry or Catastro.

This matters because the registered surface can affect the valuation, mortgage, future resale and legality of previous works.

Before agreeing on a price, buyers should understand exactly which measurement is being used and whether the physical property corresponds with its legal documentation.

The building can matter as much as the apartment

When buying a resale apartment, the condition of the entire building must be reviewed.

A beautifully renovated interior can still sit inside a building facing expensive structural or maintenance works.

Important checks include:

• The building’s Technical Inspection, known as the ITE.
• Planned façade, roof, lift or structural works.
• Outstanding community debts.
• Recent and upcoming special assessments.
• The financial position of the owners’ community.
• Restrictions contained in the community statutes.

These issues are especially important in larger apartments because the owner’s contribution to community expenses may be higher, depending on the participation coefficient.

A property that appears competitively priced may become significantly more expensive if major building works are approved shortly after completion.

Renovation quality should be verified

Many resale homes are marketed as fully renovated, but the quality and legality of the work can vary considerably.

Buyers should ask who completed the renovation, whether professional invoices are available and whether the necessary licences were obtained.

Particular attention should be paid to changes affecting the layout, structure, terraces, installations or building façade.

Energy efficiency is another factor. Larger older homes can be expensive to heat and cool if windows, insulation or climate-control systems have not been upgraded.

A stylish renovation is valuable, but it should also be technically sound, legally documented and suitable for year-round living.

New build or resale: there is no universal answer

A new-build home may offer modern installations, better energy efficiency, warranties and fewer immediate maintenance concerns.

A resale property may provide more space, architectural character, a stronger location or greater renovation potential.

The better option depends on the buyer’s priorities, budget and tolerance for risk.

For international buyers, the key is not simply to choose between old and new. It is to understand what sits behind the property being purchased.

The 2025 figures show that larger resale homes remain the preferred choice for a significant part of Spain’s international market. They can offer exceptional value and quality of life, particularly in established areas of Barcelona and Catalonia.

But the more complex the property and building, the more important it becomes to verify the details before signing.

Source

This article is based on the report Relationship of Nationality in Housing Purchases and Mortgage Financing 2025, published by FIABCI España and the API professional associations using data from the Association of Registrars, the General Council of Notaries and the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and orientational purposes only. We cannot guarantee that all details remain fully accurate or up-to-date, as local regulations and market conditions are subject to constant change. This content does not constitute formal legal, financial, or tax advice. For current and specific information, we recommend consulting a professional advisor. We are happy to put you in touch with a trusted local expert in Spain.