¡Hola a todos! I’ve been a long-time lurker, but I’ve finally secured my own little place in Madrid after a roller-coaster process. Today, I want to talk about a very practical topic that many newcomers wonder about: when you buy a house in Spain, does it actually come with furniture?
To put it simply, there’s no single standard; it all depends on whether you’re buying a new build or a resale property. I bought a resale home this time, so I have some first-hand experience. Most of the resale listings you see on portals like Idealista rarely look empty in the photos; many are presented as move-in ready.
Furniture in Resale Homes
When buying a resale property, it’s very common for it to be sold furnished. The upside is that it saves you time and money; you can move in right after a quick clean-up. However, the downside is also obvious: the style and condition of the furniture might not be to your taste. For example, one place I viewed had a sofa that was practically an antique, and the color and style were… questionable. So, when viewing a property, it’s crucial to ask exactly what furniture will be left and what will be taken. Make sure to get this all in writing as an inventory list attached to the contract to avoid any disputes later on.
What to Expect with New Builds
New builds are a completely different story. Properties delivered by developers are almost always empty, giving you a blank canvas. But there’s one major exception: the kitchen! In Spain, new build kitchens are typically ‘amueblada y equipada,’ which means they come with fitted cabinets, countertops, a sink, and some basic appliances like an extractor hood, a hob (stovetop), and an oven. However, appliances like the refrigerator, washing machine, and dishwasher are not always included; it really depends on the developer’s specific offer.
I’ve made a simple table to make it clearer:
| Property Type | Furniture Situation | Kitchen Setup |
|---|
| Resale Home | Mostly furnished, depends on negotiation | Usually includes all major and minor appliances |
| New Build | Generally unfurnished | Standard cabinets & hob, some basic appliances included |
So, in summary, if you want to avoid the hassle and move in quickly, a fully furnished resale home can be a great option for buying a furnished property in Spain. If you dream of creating your perfect home from scratch, then a new build or an unfurnished resale is the way to go. Whatever you choose, the most crucial step is always communication and confirmation. Don’t be shy—ask about every single detail to ensure a worry-free purchase. I hope my experience helps you all! Feel free to share your own home-buying stories too!
