Is buying a property in Malasaña a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Madrid's property market is included in our pack

If you've admired the bohemian atmosphere and artistic culture of Malasaña, you may think about investing in property in this Madrid neighborhood.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for Spain, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Malasaña?

Malasaña, a vibrant neighborhood in Madrid, has garnered significant attention among property buyers, and for good reasons.

Its allure lies in a blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy, setting it apart from other real estate markets in Madrid and beyond.

Let's delve into what makes Malasaña so unique. Firstly, its historical roots are deeply embedded in the Spanish Movida movement of the 1980s, a cultural renaissance following the end of Franco's dictatorship.

This era infused the area with a spirit of freedom and creativity that persists today. This historical significance is not just a selling point but also a stark contrast to the more modern developments found in other parts of Madrid, like the financial district AZCA or the newer suburbs.

However, the appeal of Malasaña isn't just historical. It's a hub for the arts, indie culture, and vibrant nightlife, attracting a diverse crowd from young professionals to artists and entrepreneurs.

This cultural melting pot offers an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and galleries, which you won't find in more traditional or residential areas of Madrid, like Salamanca or Chamartín.

The popularity of Malasaña started to spike in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as people began to recognize its unique blend of history, culture, and lifestyle. This trend has continued, with property prices reflecting the growing demand.

The question of whether this hype will remain is tied to the neighborhood's ability to maintain its unique character amidst gentrification pressures. While it's difficult to predict the future, the enduring appeal of its cultural and historical roots suggests that Malasaña will likely retain its allure.

The type of people attracted to Malasaña is quite diverse. It's particularly appealing to those who appreciate its artistic and bohemian vibe, including young professionals, creatives, and expatriates. This demographic mix contributes to the neighborhood's dynamic atmosphere, making it a cosmopolitan and inclusive area.

Despite these strengths, Malasaña does have some weaknesses. The popularity of the area can lead to higher living costs, potentially pricing out some individuals.

Additionally, the bustling nightlife, while attractive to many, can be a drawback for those seeking a quieter, more residential environment.

Furthermore, the older buildings, while charming, may lack modern amenities and require renovation, posing challenges for some property buyers.

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Why is Malasaña a nice place to live?

Malasaña offers a lifestyle that's both vibrant and culturally rich, making it a sought-after place to live, especially for those who thrive in lively urban environments.

The lifestyle and culture in Malasaña are characterized by a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary cool. It's an area where the echoes of the Spanish Movida movement of the 1980s still resonate, blending with modern street art, trendy cafes, and eclectic boutiques.

This creates an atmosphere that's both artistically vibrant and historically rich, appealing to those who appreciate a neighborhood with character and flair.

For expats, Malasaña is a particularly welcoming area. Its cosmopolitan vibe, fueled by a mix of locals and international residents, makes it easy for newcomers to integrate.

The community here is known for being open-minded and diverse, which is a big plus for expats looking to build a life in a new city. English is widely spoken in the area, and there are numerous expat groups and international gatherings, making it easier to find a sense of community.

Living in Malasaña does come with a cost. Due to its popularity and central location, the cost of living here can be higher than in more peripheral areas of Madrid. Rent and property prices reflect the demand for this trendy neighborhood.

However, compared to other major European cities, Madrid, and Malasaña by extension, can still offer relatively good value for money.

Safety in Malasaña is generally good, but like any bustling urban area, it's wise to be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. The neighborhood's lively nightlife means streets are often busy, which can be reassuring for those concerned about safety.

In terms of amenities and facilities, Malasaña is well-equipped. For educational needs, there are several schools nearby, such as the IES Beatriz Galindo and Colegio Público Isabel la Católica.

Healthcare facilities are also accessible, with hospitals like the Hospital Universitario de la Princesa and the Clínica de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción in the vicinity. For shopping and leisure, the Fuencarral Market and the numerous boutique stores offer a unique shopping experience.

The quality of infrastructure in Malasaña is generally good. The area boasts well-maintained roads, reliable utilities, and excellent internet connectivity, catering well to modern urban living.

The historical nature of the neighborhood means that some buildings are older, but many have been renovated to offer comfortable living spaces while retaining their charming character.

Accessibility is one of Malasaña's strong points. It's incredibly well-connected to the rest of Madrid. The neighborhood is a short walk from Gran Vía, one of Madrid's main thoroughfares, making it easy to access various parts of the city.

Public transportation options are abundant, with Metro stations like Tribunal, Noviciado, and Bilbao. This makes commuting or exploring other parts of Madrid convenient.

Moreover, reaching major transport hubs like the Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is straightforward, with public transport and road links readily available.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Malasaña?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in Spain.

When considering buying property in Malasaña it's important to understand the types of residential properties available, their demand, and the current market trends, including prices and future predictions.

In Malasaña, the most common types of residential properties are apartments. These range from smaller studio apartments to larger, multi-bedroom units.

The neighborhood's historical and cultural richness means that many of these apartments are in older, characterful buildings, often with charming architectural features. Houses are less common in this densely populated urban area.

The high demand in Malasaña is primarily for apartments, especially those with unique architectural features or those located in buildings with historical significance. This demand is driven by the neighborhood's vibrant lifestyle, central location, and the charm of living in a historically significant area of Madrid.

In terms of property offerings, Malasaña mainly consists of resale properties rather than new developments. The neighborhood's historical status means there is limited space for new construction, and much of the charm of Malasaña comes from its existing, often historic, buildings.

Regarding the price range, properties in Malasaña can vary significantly depending on size, condition, and exact location.

Generally, prices per square meter can be quite high due to the area's popularity and central location. The cost per square meter in Malasaña can range from moderate to quite high, reflecting the neighborhood's desirability and the unique characteristics of its properties.

Over recent years, property values in Malasaña have shown a tendency to increase. This trend is influenced by the neighborhood's continued popularity, its cultural and historical appeal, and the overall real estate market trends in Madrid.

The increase in property values reflects the steady demand for living in an area that combines urban convenience with cultural richness.

Looking into the future, while it's difficult to predict real estate markets with certainty, Malasaña's enduring appeal suggests that property values are likely to remain stable or potentially increase. Any upcoming developments or city planning changes that might affect property values should be closely monitored.

For instance, any plans to enhance public transportation, renovate public spaces, or upgrade infrastructure could positively impact property values.

Specific factors that indicate a potential increase in value include the ongoing demand for properties in central Madrid, the limited availability of new developments in Malasaña, and the neighborhood's unique appeal as a culturally vibrant and historically significant area.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Malasaña?

When looking to buy property in Malasaña, understanding the nuances of different areas within the neighborhood is crucial.

Malasaña is not just a single entity; it consists of various parts, each with its own unique atmosphere, property types, and pricing trends.

Firstly, the heart of Malasaña, around the streets of Calle Fuencarral and Calle San Bernardo, is known for its bustling vibe. This area is filled with cafes, boutiques, and nightlife spots, making it ideal for those who thrive in a lively urban atmosphere.

Properties here are predominantly apartments, many of which are in older, characterful buildings. Due to the central location and the vibrant street life, prices in this part of Malasaña tend to be higher.

On the other hand, the areas closer to the Gran Vía, such as those near Plaza de España, offer a slightly more upscale and quieter living experience.

Here, the properties might be a mix of old and new, and the prices can be quite steep, reflecting the area's desirability and proximity to one of Madrid's main thoroughfares.

An up-and-coming area within Malasaña that buyers should keep an eye on is the vicinity around Conde Duque. This part of the neighborhood is becoming increasingly popular due to its slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to the very center of Malasaña, while still maintaining the distinctive cultural and historic charm of the area.

Properties here can offer a good balance between price and location, making it an attractive option for many buyers.

If you're considering where to look for a property in Malasaña, areas like Plaza Dos de Mayo and Calle Manuela Malasaña are good starting points. These areas are emblematic of the neighborhood's charm and are popular for their central location and vibrant surroundings.

Conversely, the areas bordering the outer edges of Malasaña, closer to neighborhoods like Universidad or Noviciado, might not be as advisable for those seeking the quintessential Malasaña experience. These areas can lack the same level of vibrancy and cultural activities that the central parts of Malasaña are known for.

Additionally, some parts along these edges might not have seen the same level of development or upkeep as the more central areas.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for Spain.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range
Calle Fuencarral & Calle San Bernardo	Bustling, vibrant, nightlife	Apartments in older buildings	Higher
Near Plaza de España	Upscale, quieter	Mix of old and new apartments	High
Conde Duque	Relaxed, up-and-coming	Varied, good balance of price and location	Moderate to High
Plaza Dos de Mayo & Calle Manuela Malasaña	Central, vibrant	Central location, popular	Higher
Bordering Universidad or Noviciado	Less vibrant, more subdued	Varied, potentially less maintained	Lower to Moderate

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Is there a strong rental demand in Malasaña?

In Malasaña the rental market is indeed robust but the nature of this demand, along with the characteristics of potential tenants and properties, varies within the area.

Firstly, the demand for rentals in Malasaña is strong, encompassing both short-term and long-term rentals.

However, the area is particularly popular for short-term rentals due to its vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and historical significance. This makes it a favored destination for tourists and short-term visitors.

In contrast, long-term rentals are sought after by professionals, students, and expatriates drawn to the area's lively atmosphere and central location.

The target demographic for rentals in Malasaña is quite diverse. Short-term rentals mainly attract tourists and casual visitors, while long-term rentals are popular among young professionals, creative types, and students. The neighborhood's artistic and bohemian flair appeals to those who appreciate a vibrant urban lifestyle.

Additionally, the area is also appealing to expatriates, who are often looking for a culturally rich and conveniently located place to live.

When it comes to the profiles of potential tenants, they tend to be individuals or small families who value the unique, dynamic environment that Malasaña offers. They're often looking for properties that are not only comfortable but also have character - think apartments in historic buildings or those with unique architectural details.

Studio or one-bedroom apartments are particularly in demand for short-term rentals, while larger apartments are sought after for long-term stays.

Specific areas within Malasaña, like around Plaza Dos de Mayo or streets like Calle Fuencarral, are particularly popular. These areas embody the quintessential Malasaña vibe with a mix of trendy shops, cafes, and nightlife spots, making them attractive for potential tenants.

Amenities that can help reduce vacancy in rental properties include modern fittings, high-speed internet, and proximity to public transport.

Given the neighborhood's appeal to a younger demographic and professionals, having a well-equipped kitchen and a comfortable, stylish living space is also advantageous. Properties that offer these amenities are likely to be more in demand, thus reducing the time they remain vacant.

In terms of potential returns on investment for properties in Malasaña, they can be quite promising, especially given the high demand for rentals. While exact figures vary, properties in prime locations within the neighborhood can yield good returns.

This is particularly true for well-maintained and strategically located properties that cater to the preferences of the target demographic.

Looking at the types of properties gaining increasing demand and potentially better yields, smaller apartments, especially those suitable for short-term rentals, are becoming increasingly popular.

Their appeal lies in their affordability for tenants and their potential for higher turnover rates, which can translate into more consistent rental income for property owners.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Malasaña?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in Spain.

Buying property as a foreigner in Malasaña, Madrid, is generally straightforward, but there are certain considerations and steps that are important to understand.

Firstly, in Spain, there are no specific regulations or restrictions that uniquely apply to foreign buyers. People from outside Spain can purchase property just like Spanish citizens.

However, there are some administrative steps that are specific to foreigners. You'll need to obtain an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is a foreigner identification number required for any financial transaction in Spain.

This process can be straightforward but does require dealing with Spanish bureaucracy, which can be time-consuming.

The purchasing process in Malasaña, like in the rest of Madrid and Spain, typically involves a few key steps; identifying a property, agreeing on a price, signing a preliminary contract (contrato de arras), and then proceeding to the final deed (escritura de compraventa) which is signed in front of a notary.

The process usually also involves a deposit of around 10% of the purchase price at the preliminary contract stage.

One of the primary risks associated with property investment in Malasaña is the potential for fluctuating property values. As with any real estate market, values can go up or down based on a variety of factors, including economic conditions and changes in the neighborhood.

Additionally, because Malasaña is a historical area, some properties may require significant maintenance or renovation, which can add to the cost.

Classic pitfalls or common mistakes in buying property in Spain often include underestimating additional costs such as transfer tax, notary fees, legal fees, and registry fees.

These can add a significant amount to the overall cost of the purchase. Another common issue is not thoroughly checking the legal status of the property, such as ensuring there are no existing liens or debts attached to it.

Working with a local real estate agent or lawyer is highly recommended, especially if you're not fluent in Spanish or unfamiliar with the local real estate market and legal procedures.

A local expert can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the buying process, negotiating the best price, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Malasaña include renting out the property, either for short-term or long-term leases, or reselling it at a later date, hopefully for a profit.

The choice of strategy will depend on your personal investment goals, the market conditions, and how the Malasaña neighborhood evolves in terms of popularity and property values.