If you have any doubts about your move to Spain, renting in the short term can be a good option. The kind of property you choose for your first year may be different to where and what you live in when you have become more acclimatised. 

Good quality rental property is plentiful, so there is lots of choice. And prices can be negotiable. Rental property is mostly furnished, but it’s possible to find unfurnished property too. The renting process is relatively simple, although there are checks you need to carry out on title. The maximum term you will find is 11 months renewable. (This, combined with a statement in the contract that the property is for temporary residence only, is applied to avoid squatters rights).

How the Spanish rental system works:

• The landlord will usually take the equivalent of one month's deposit if the property is unfurnished and at least two months deposit if furnished.
• If the property is managed by an agent it will be the agent who will take care of organising maintenance and checking the property
• If there is no agent, the landlord will make an appointment to view the property.
• If an estate agent is involved, this agent will charge a fee at the beginning of the contract which is usually equivalent to one month's rent and paid by the landlord. Some agents charge half to the landlord and half to the tenant, others even charge a full month from the landlord and the same amount from the tenant. Also if the contract is renewable some agents may charge another fee – although most do not, it is best not to take this for granted.This is something to be aware of and to check to avoid unwelcome surprises.