Barcelona, one of the most iconic cities in the world, is experiencing a notable increase in the prices of flats for sale. This trend is particularly marked in properties in the Eixample, with significant increases in neighbourhoods such as Dreta (right side) and L’Antiga Esquerra (left side). This trend is already taking place in the prices of properties to be refurbished, which also increases the selling price of these flats once they have been renovated.
Many factors, from the improvement in the political situation to the influx of international buyers, are driving this dynamic. In this blog, we will explore in depth the causes and implications of this price rise, with a particular focus on the areas most affected.
Factors contributing to the price rise
1. Improving political situation
Political stability is a crucial component of any property market. In recent years, the political situation in Barcelona and Catalonia has shown signs of improvement, which has restored the confidence of both local and international investors. The decrease in political tension has created a more predictable and secure environment for real estate investments, attracting buyers who were previously hesitant to enter the market.
2. Maintaining traditional clients and increasing American clients
Traditionally, Barcelona has been an attractive destination for English and French buyers. These clients remain a significant force in the market, but recently, there has been a notable increase in the arrival of American clients. This new group of buyers, attracted by the quality of life, vibrant culture and Mediterranean climate, are willing to pay premium prices for property in the city.
Francisco Nathurmal, founder and CEO of real estate agency Bcn Advisors, notes: “A few weeks ago I talked to an American client who wanted to buy a property in Barcelona with a budget of between 2.5 and 3 million euros. This client commented that Barcelona seemed to him to be a very cheap city, which seems a paradox in the price increase we are experiencing”. Regarding the short-term future, Francisco Nathurmal summarises that “this is the dynamic that awaits us in the coming months. If things remain politically stable, there will be more of these types of clients and prices will continue to rise because they are willing to pay to live in Barcelona”.
3. The America’s Cup
Barcelona’s hosting of the America’s Cup has generated a great deal of international interest, putting the city in the global spotlight. This event not only attracts tourists but also high net worth investors and buyers looking for exclusive properties in the city.
Rising prices in Eixample
The Eixample, and in particular the areas of Dreta del Eixample (right side) and L’Antiga Esquerra del Eixample (left side), have seen a significant increase in the prices of properties to be refurbished. According to recent data and the market experience of the real estate agency Bcn Advisors, prices have risen from between 3,800 and 4,200 euros per square metre to between 4,500 and 4,800 euros.
This increase is partly due to the growing demand for properties in these areas, known for their modernist architecture, wide streets and central location. The availability of properties to refurbish offers buyers the opportunity to personalise their homes and investors the opportunity to make a considerable profit, which adds to their attractiveness.
Other Affected Areas
1. Uptown: Turó Park
In Barcelona’s uptown (known as “zona alta”), especially in Turó Park, price increases are also notable, driven largely by demand from international clients. These areas offer a combination of luxury, tranquillity and high quality services, attracting high net worth buyers.
2. Sant Martí, Poblenou, Diagonal Mar and Vila Olímpica
Emerging areas such as Sant Martí, Poblenou, Diagonal Mar and Vila Olímpica are also experiencing an increase in property prices. These areas, which have seen significant development in recent years, offer particular appeal to young buyers and families due to their proximity to the sea and new infrastructure.
Impact on the market and society
Rising prices have various implications for the property market and society in general. On the one hand, it benefits existing owners who see their properties increase in value. However, it also poses significant challenges in terms of affordability for local residents and first-time homebuyers.
The future of Barcelona’s real estate market will largely depend on the evolution of the political and economic situation, both locally and globally. If political stability is maintained, it is likely that the city will continue to attract international buyers, which will continue to drive prices upwards.
The rise in prices of flats for sale in Barcelona is a complex phenomenon influenced by a number of interrelated factors. From the improving political situation to the arrival of international buyers and high-profile events, these elements are reshaping the city’s property market.