I’ve been house-hunting recently, but not in big cities like Madrid or Barcelona. Instead, I’ve turned my attention to some of the surrounding small towns and satellite cities. The main reason is that property prices in the major cities feel a bit out of reach, and I’m also looking for a quieter, slower-paced environment. After viewing several new developments, I found that the prices for first-phase properties in these towns are much more affordable than I expected, and I wanted to share my observations with you.
Just How Good Are the Prices?
It’s no joke to say that the money for a bathroom in a big city could get you a two-bedroom apartment with a terrace in a small town. I’ve been following a few towns within a one-hour commute of a major city and found many new developments offering two-bedroom, one-living-room apartments with a garage and storage unit for a total price between €150,000 and €250,000. Of course, the specific price heavily depends on the location, the developer’s brand, and the amenities. But overall, this price range is much less pressure for those looking to get on the property ladder.
A Comparison of a Few Areas I’ve Visited
To give you a more direct feel, I’ve put together a quick rundown—my own personal Nota Simple, if you will—of the places I’ve recently seen. These locations are generally on the outskirts of major cities, connected by train or highway, making them relatively convenient for transport.
| Area | Layout | Starting Price | Community Amenities |
|---|
| Town near Guadalajara | 2 Bed, 1 Bath | From €160k | With pool, children’s area |
| Northern Toledo province | 3 Bed, 2 Bath | From €180k | Community garden, Padel court |
| Satellite city near Valencia | 2 Bed, 2 Bath | From €200k | Close to the beach, convenient public transport |
Of course, affordability comes with its own ‘price’. The convenience of living in a small town certainly can’t match a major city center. For example, choices for Asian supermarkets and Chinese restaurants will be much more limited, and public transport schedules might not be as frequent. (Speaking of paperwork, it’s also crucial to understand the difference between a Nota Simple and the final deed, or Escritura). Additionally, in new development areas, surrounding amenities might be lacking at first and need time to catch up. However, in exchange, you get more spacious living areas, fresher air, and a more peaceful community environment. Whether it’s worth it depends on your personal priorities.
If you, like me, are feeling a bit tired of the hustle and bustle of big cities, or if you’re on a limited budget but still dream of owning your own new home, I’d recommend broadening your horizons and checking out the surrounding towns. You might find some unexpected surprises. I wonder if there are any forum members here who already live in a small town and could share their actual living experiences? Things like commute times, community atmosphere, and children’s education would be great topics. Everyone is welcome to join the discussion!
