Buy a House or an Apartment?

Buying a property is not an easy decision, especially a luxury property. It is a huge investment which requires a lot of planning and often saving. Among many of the aspects we need to consider is whether to buy a house or an apartment. In Spain, apartment living is very popular, especially in the city centres and beachfronts. So let us help you decide which the best option for you is.

Location:

If you wish to be in the centre of a city in Spain, you are going to have a hard time to find a house. Most city centres are full of apartment buildings of different size, age and style. If you’re set on living in a big home with lots of garden space or land, then be prepared to be further away from the hustle and bustle of city life. That doesn’t mean you have to compromise on luxury, but it may mean downsizing, as space is limited in cities.

On the outskirts you have more freedom. There’s the option to live in housing estates, hillsides, beachfronts, in either apartments or houses. There is obviously a lot more privacy the further away from other people you are. The good thing about the Costa Blanca is there are many options for all different wants and needs of buyers. 

Swimming Pool:

Do you want your own swimming pool? Then that’s a given in your own luxury home. Most apartments outside the city centre also have pool facilities, but they are often shared. If you want your own private pool and live in an apartment there are penthouses and rooftop options, but those are definitely limited. Living in Spain means enjoying the summer weather and cooling down in the pool, having a pool party, or even using it for exercise. Many people prefer the pool than the beach. The main issue here is how much importance you give to your property having its own private pool. If your answer is “a lot”, then a house will almost definitely be the choice for you.

Outdoor Space:

Your priorities change depending on your circumstances. If you have a large family, you’ll probably want a lot of garden space for your children, and possibly pets, to run freely around in. This is always limited when living in an apartment. If, however, you live alone, or with a partner, a large outdoor area may not be necessary if you have a big enough balcony to entertain guests. You may also prefer to be in close proximity to bars and restaurants, and an apartment closer to amenities which suit your lifestyle take precedence.

Security:

Undoubtedly, apartments are a safer option than houses. With most apartment blocks there are two locked entrances on the ground floor before even reaching your front door. Most luxury apartments have lift access available only with a key. Break-ins from the outside are almost impossible if you live higher than the first floor. Some high-end apartments also hire security to patrol the complex, and almost all shared swimming pools have a lifeguard.

Houses are much different. You are very much open to being the target of a robbery if you live in a non-gated community. Your impressive house screams money, and without a security system in place you are vulnerable. It’s definitely a worst case scenario, but also one you have to consider.

Rooms:

Whether you live in a house or an apartment, you’ll enjoy your beautiful living room, bedrooms and kitchen, to whatever style and design you choose. With an apartment, it’ll probably end there. You may have space for a gym room, or a rooftop bar, but a house is open to install so much more. Many luxury houses have basements, fit for cinema rooms, game rooms, bars, and gyms. There’s the option of a guest house, a pool house, a spa room. You’ll have your own private double or triple garage to not only park your cars, but potentially showcase them!

Neighbours:

We’ve all had negative experiences with neighbours. Like family, you can’t choose them, but you can avoid them! In a house you can be completely detached and, depending on the property, fairly far away from anyone. Even if your garden backs on to someone else’s, you won’t you need to hear their music through the walls, or furniture moving above, unlike in an apartment.

In the end, everyone has their own tastes, needs and wants. Weighing up the options, the more expensive house seems to tick more boxes than the apartment. Let us know if there is anything else we may have forgotten to consider!