Buying a house to work remotely in Spain: ideal areas, prices, and practical tips

Changing priorities when buying property in Spain

The increase in remote work has led to a reassessment of buyers’ priorities in the real estate sector. More and more factors are now considered when purchasing a home.

Evolution of the real estate market in recent years

Over the past decade, the Spanish real estate market has undergone significant changes due to remote work. There has been an increase in demand for larger and more functional homes. People are willing to move to less urban areas in search of quality of life, which has had an impact on supply and market prices.

Impact of remote work on property demand

Many people are looking for homes located in quiet environments with good internet connectivity. The preference for houses with rooms that can be used as offices has grown significantly. This has led to a boom in the construction and sale of properties in rural and coastal areas, where new homeowners find a balance between work and quality of life.

At Engel & Völkers, our real estate agents adapt to the needs of our clients so they can enjoy this balance between professional and personal life.

Key features of a home suitable for remote work

Buyers prioritize features that provide a favorable environment for working from home. Key preferences include:

Layout and better use of space

The internal organization of a house is crucial. It is essential to have a layout that fosters an efficient and comfortable work environment, without forgetting areas for leisure and personal life.

Rooms designated as offices or home workspaces

Designating a specific room as an office helps minimize distractions. Having a space dedicated exclusively to work allows for better concentration and productivity.

Importance of natural light and good orientation

Natural light influences well-being and productivity. A well-lit home improves mood and focus. It is advisable to look for properties with large windows and good orientation to maximize natural light.

Soundproofing for an optimal work environment

Noise can negatively affect concentration. For this reason, it is crucial for homes to have good soundproofing or to be located in quiet areas.

Internet connection and technology at home

Connectivity is essential for remote work. It is vital to check that the home has access to a good internet connection before purchasing, as well as researching available providers, since quality will directly affect daily productivity.

Best areas to live and work from home in Spain

One of the advantages of remote work is the freedom to choose where to live. These are some of the best areas to buy a house and work from home:

Remote work in rural areas of Spain

Some regions are experiencing increasing demand from remote workers looking for spacious houses in rural areas, with gardens or orchards, and room for a home office. In addition, many of these regions have significantly improved connectivity thanks to the expansion of fiber optics and rural digitalization plans.

Residential areas near major cities

For those who don’t want to completely move away from urban centers, there are residential towns well connected to cities like Madrid or Barcelona. Places such as Majadahonda, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Sant Cugat del Vallès, or Castelldefels offer homes with all amenities, outdoor spaces, green areas, and excellent infrastructure.

This option is ideal for professionals who combine remote work with occasional in-person meetings or who want to remain close to schools, hospitals, and urban services. These areas are perfect for families seeking stability without giving up professional opportunities.

Coastal homes for remote work

The Mediterranean coast continues to be one of the favorite destinations for those looking for houses to work remotely while enjoying good weather all year round. Costa Brava, Costa Blanca, Alicante, Málaga, and the Costa del Sol offer a wide variety of properties with sea views, terraces, pools, and offices with natural light.

In addition, many of these towns have coworking spaces, cafés designed for professionals, and strong digital connectivity. The possibility of working with sea views is one of the great attractions for those who decide to change their lifestyle.

Islands with a digital ecosystem

The Balearic and Canary Islands have gained prominence in recent years as destinations for digital nomads and professionals seeking a more relaxed lifestyle without disconnecting from work. Mallorca, Menorca, and Tenerife, for example, combine unique landscapes, good weather, and an ecosystem that supports remote work: shared workspaces, international communities, reliable connectivity, and all kinds of services.

Engel & Völkers offers exclusive properties that have everything needed to work remotely from home.

Real estate tips for buying a house for remote work

Purchasing a property adapted for remote work requires considering several factors. Here are some essential tips to make the buying process easier.

How to find the best layout and square footage

The layout of the space is one of the most important aspects. It is crucial to have a functional design that allows you to define work and rest areas. When looking for the ideal home, it is advisable to prioritize:

• Open spaces that provide flexibility.

• Extra rooms that can be used as an office.

• Enough square meters to avoid a sense of confinement.

Evaluate the surroundings and community services

The environment where the house is located has a significant impact on quality of life. The presence of basic services and recreational areas can make a big difference. Some aspects to evaluate are:

• Public transportation and connectivity.

• Common areas, parks, or leisure spaces.

Importance of professional advice when buying

Having an expert advisor can make all the difference. At Engel & Völkers, we support buyers in finding the ideal property adapted to their new way of living and working.

Organize the professional space within the home

Proper organization of the workspace within the home is essential to maintain productivity and comfort. Creating an environment tailored to professional needs contributes to a more efficient remote work routine.

Separate work and personal spaces

Establishing a clear separation between the workspace and rest areas is vital to maintain emotional balance. Assigning a specific room as an office or using room dividers in shared spaces can help reduce distractions and allow for better focus on work tasks.

Incorporate rest areas and a change of scenery

Creating rest spaces within the home is essential to combat fatigue and recharge energy. Comfortable areas, such as a cozy armchair or a small reading nook, can provide the necessary break during long workdays.

Balconies, terraces, and outdoor areas as allies

Outdoor spaces play an important role. Using balconies or terraces for breaks offers the opportunity to enjoy fresh air, which can be revitalizing. Adding decorative elements that encourage use of these spaces can motivate a change of atmosphere during the workday.

Frequently asked questions about buying a house for remote work

What should a house have to work comfortably from home?A home adapted for remote work should have a good layout, a room that can be used as an office, natural light, soundproofing, and a stable internet connection.

What are the best areas to live and work from home in Spain?Rural areas with good communication, residential areas near major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, coastal destinations, or the islands are ideal for those seeking quality of life while working from home.

How can I know if internet connection in the area is good?Before buying, it is advisable to check with available providers in the area. Additionally, our agents at Engel & Völkers can help verify whether the area has fiber optics or other high-speed connectivity options, especially important in rural areas for remote work.

Does living outside the city affect housing prices?Yes. One of the advantages of buying in rural or less central areas is more affordable prices. You can find spacious properties for less than the cost of a small apartment in urban areas.

Find your ideal home for remote work

At Engel & Völkers, we have extensive experience advising buyers who are looking for properties where they can work remotely with comfort. Our catalog includes houses for remote work in urban, rural, coastal, and island locations.We offer:

• Personalized advice based on your needs.

• Access to exclusive and well-connected properties.

• National and international presence.

• Expert agents in flexible lifestyles.

If you’re looking to change your environment and improve your quality of life, Engel & Völkers will help you find the perfect house for you.