In an ideal world, one lease would end on the same day the next one starts, and the new home would be ready the moment you sell the old one. In real life the dates often leave you with days, weeks or even months in between.
You then need somewhere to stay and a plan for your things. The notes below will help you choose a short stay in or near Barcelona without making the move harder than it already is.
Know the options
Unless a friend or relative can put you up, you will probably look at a short rental. Search for short-term housing in the area you need and you will usually find several types.
Short-term rentals. Ordinary flats or houses let for a set number of weeks or months. The shorter the stay, the higher the monthly rent often becomes.
Corporate housing. Similar to a short rental, originally meant for people travelling for work. A gap between two homes is one of the most common reasons people book them.
Sublets. Taking over someone else’s lease for a while, often with the landlord’s approval.
Holiday lets. Sites that list rooms or whole homes for short or longer stays. Many owners are open to longer bookings outside peak season.
Extended-stay hotels. A better fit than a normal hotel if you need more than a couple of nights, with rates that usually improve the longer you stay.
A local agent can gather options
An agent can compare price, area and what is included, and the property manager usually pays their fee. Most agents focus on short rentals and corporate flats, not holiday lets or extended-stay hotels, so you may still search those yourself.
Have a plan for your belongings
Some short stays are furnished or too small for everything you own. In that case you need storage as well as the rental. Even if you can bring your own furniture, storing part of it can save a lot of lifting. NorDecco Mudanzas can arrange storage in Barcelona while you are between homes.
Stay a little flexible
For a few weeks it may be worth widening the search to a nearby neighbourhood, as long as you can still reach work or school each day. Put safety and cleanliness at the top of the list and worry less about luxury extras you will barely use.
Match the stay to the length
A week and six months need different solutions. If you do not know the end date, choose something that can be extended.
Do not forget pets
If you are moving with a pet, check the rules before you fall for a flat. Some places allow animals, some only in certain units, and many charge extra.
Count every cost
Look beyond the monthly rent. Parking, utilities and small repairs can change the real figure. Ask what is included before you sign. Start the search early, and telephone as well as browse: the price and dates you need are often clearer in a conversation than on a listing.
If you would like help with the move itself, call Jesus on +34 657 484 863 or write to us through our contact form.