Blog
The property market, real opportunities.
How off-market works, what happens with fees and why the people who live in a neighbourhood have the edge.
How to buy a flat away from the portals (off-market): a buyer's guide
The best opportunities never reach Idealista: they close earlier, in private. What the off-market market is, what you gain as a buyer and how to get access by registering your search so you hear about properties before anyone else.
Read article →Is your home in a flood zone? How to check for free
Flood risk affects a property's value, its insurance and the decision to buy — and many owners don't know their building is in a flood zone. We explain how to check it with the official maps (SNCZI) in minutes.
Read article →Aluminosis: how to tell if your building has it before you buy or sell
If your building was built between 1960 and 1975, it is worth ruling out high-alumina cement before closing any deal. What aluminosis is, how to gauge the risk from the year of construction in the Catastro, and what to do.
Read article →What your flat is worth: the real price per m² by neighbourhood in Barcelona
The average price per square metre varies enormously between Barcelona neighbourhoods — from ~€3,400/m² in la Marina to ~€7,800/m² in Pedralbes. How to use the neighbourhood's €/m² to tell whether your flat is priced correctly.
Read article →Off-market vs traditional portals: what's the difference and why it matters
Idealista, Fotocasa and Habitaclia only show part of the Spanish property market. We explain what moves away from the portals, why owners choose that route and what role you play as a collaborator.
Read article →How to spot an empty flat in your neighbourhood (without looking suspicious)
Shutters always down, a full letterbox, no lights at night for weeks. The signs of an unoccupied property are there for all to see, but few know how to read them. A practical field guide.
Read article →Estate agency fees in Spain: what agencies and platforms charge
Estate agency fees range from 2% to 7% of the sale price. We compare the classic models (franchised agencies, MLS, selling privately) with the La Llave model: 3.6% only if the property sells, no exclusivity.
Read article →What 'off-market' means and why there are so many opportunities in Barcelona
Flats that sell without ever appearing on Idealista or Fotocasa. How to identify them, why they appeal to owners and what opportunity they offer collaborators who know the area.
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