Is buying a property in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

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

If you've appreciated the upscale lifestyle and green spaces of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, you may have thought about investing in property in this Barcelona district.

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 Sarrià-Sant Gervasi?

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, a district in Barcelona, has emerged as a highly sought-after location for property buyers, offering a blend of unique attributes that set it apart from other real estate markets in the city and beyond.

Firstly, the district's charm lies in its blend of urban sophistication and tranquil residential appeal. Unlike more bustling areas of Barcelona, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is known for its quieter streets, elegant homes, and an abundance of green spaces.

This combination is a rare find in a major city, providing an oasis of calm without sacrificing the conveniences of urban living.

Historically, this area began gaining popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As Barcelona expanded, affluent residents sought more peaceful outskirts, and Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, with its scenic beauty and spacious properties, became a prime choice. This trend has continued, with the district maintaining its reputation as a prestigious address.

Regarding its staying power, the enduring appeal of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi seems assured. The district's blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and natural beauty keeps it in high demand.

Moreover, the area's ongoing development, including improvements in infrastructure and amenities, suggests that its popularity isn't a fleeting trend but a long-term attraction for property buyers.

The type of people drawn to Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is diverse yet tends to skew towards those seeking a higher quality of life. Families are particularly attracted to the area for its safety, excellent schools, and spacious homes. Professionals also find the district appealing for its proximity to the city center while offering a more relaxed environment.

However, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks. The exclusivity of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi often translates to higher property prices, which can be prohibitive for some buyers.

Additionally, while the district is well-connected to the rest of Barcelona, it doesn't have the same level of vibrant nightlife or cultural diversity as other parts of the city. These aspects could be seen as downsides, depending on what you're looking for in a neighborhood.

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Why is Sarrià-Sant Gervasi a nice place to live?

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi stands out as a highly desirable place to live, offering a unique lifestyle and culture that appeals to many, including a vibrant expat community.

The lifestyle in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is often characterized by a blend of traditional charm and modern living. This district, with its historic streets and elegant architecture, exudes a sense of tranquility and exclusivity. It's a place where you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxed way of life, while still being part of a dynamic city.

Culturally, the area is known for its upscale ambiance, with a range of sophisticated dining and shopping options.

However, it still retains a local, community feel, with traditional markets like Mercat de Sarrià and numerous local festivals throughout the year that celebrate Catalan culture.

The expat community in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is quite significant, drawn by the area's high quality of life and excellent amenities. Many international families choose this district for its reputed schools, such as the Benjamin Franklin International School and the American School of Barcelona, which offer international curricula.

Living in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi does come with a higher cost. Property prices and living expenses are among the highest in Barcelona. This reflects the area's desirability, quality of housing, and the range of amenities available.

Safety is another strong point of this district. It is generally considered one of the safer areas of Barcelona, with lower crime rates and a strong sense of community security.

Regarding amenities and facilities, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is well-equipped. You'll find top-notch healthcare facilities like the Teknon Medical Center and Hospital Quirónsalud Barcelona. Shopping centers like L'Illa Diagonal offer a range of high-end shopping and dining options.

The quality of infrastructure in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is excellent. Roads are well-maintained, and utilities like electricity and water supply are reliable. Internet connectivity is generally strong, with various options available from leading service providers.

Accessibility is another plus. While Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is set away from the city's hustle and bustle, it's well-connected to other parts of Barcelona. The district is served by various metro stations (like the Sarrià station on the L6 line), numerous bus routes, and the Catalan Railways (FGC), making commuting relatively easy.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi?

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.

Buying a property in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, involves understanding the various types of residential properties available and their corresponding costs.

In Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, you'll find a diverse range of properties. This includes apartments, houses, and luxury villas. The area is known for its spacious, high-end apartments that often feature modern amenities and elegant designs.

Houses and villas, on the other hand, are prized for their privacy, gardens, and larger living spaces, making them especially popular among families and those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle within the city.

Properties in high demand in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi are typically those that offer a blend of luxury, space, and location. Apartments with terraces or views of the city are particularly sought after, as are houses and villas with outdoor spaces.

The demand for these types of properties is driven by the district's reputation for exclusivity, safety, and its blend of urban convenience with a more relaxed suburban feel.

Regarding the market, you'll find a mix of new developments and resale properties. While new developments are available, much of the area's charm comes from its well-established, often historic, properties. These resale properties often come with unique architectural features and are highly coveted.

The price range for properties in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi varies widely, depending on factors like size, condition, and exact location. Prices per square meter can range significantly.

For instance, a luxury apartment or villa in a prime location can command a much higher price per square meter compared to a standard apartment.

Over recent years, property values in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi have shown a trend of steady growth. This can be attributed to the area's continuous demand as a prime residential location, its limited space for new developments, and the overall appeal of Barcelona as a city.

Looking to future developments and city planning, any new projects in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi are likely to have a significant impact on property values. This could include new luxury developments, improvements in infrastructure, or enhancements to public spaces and amenities. Such developments usually contribute to an increase in property values in the surrounding areas.

Predicting the real estate market in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi in the coming years, one could expect a continuation of the steady growth seen in recent times. The district's desirability, limited new construction space, and the overall appeal of Barcelona suggest that property values are likely to remain strong or even increase.

Several factors indicate a potential increase in value. These include the ongoing demand for high-end properties, the limited availability of space for new developments, and the district's reputation as a prestigious and safe residential area.

Additionally, any improvements in infrastructure or public amenities are likely to further enhance the appeal of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, potentially driving property values even higher.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi?

When considering the best area to buy a property in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, it's important to understand the nuances of this diverse district.

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is known for its prestigious status and comprises various neighborhoods, each with its unique atmosphere, types of properties, and price ranges.

Let's start by exploring the different parts of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi. The district is broadly divided into several neighborhoods, each offering a distinct living experience. For instance, the area of Sarrià retains a traditional village feel, with narrow streets, quaint shops, and a slower pace of life.

Here, you'll find a mix of old and new properties, including charming townhouses and modern apartments. The prices in Sarrià can be quite high, reflecting its desirability and charm.

On the other hand, the neighborhood of Sant Gervasi is more urban and residential. It's characterized by elegant apartment buildings and is popular among those who seek a more cosmopolitan lifestyle.

This area offers a range of property types, from luxury apartments to more affordable options, making it suitable for a diverse range of buyers.

When it comes to up-and-coming areas within Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, neighborhoods like El Putxet i el Farró are gaining attention. Known for its lovely parks and modernist buildings, this area offers a balance of residential tranquility and accessibility to the city.

Property prices here are generally more moderate compared to the more established parts of Sarrià or Sant Gervasi, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for potential growth in value.

For those considering where to buy, areas like Sarrià and the upper parts of Sant Gervasi near Tibidabo Avenue are highly recommended. These areas offer a combination of beautiful settings, high-quality properties, and a strong sense of community. They are particularly appealing for families and those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.

Conversely, there are areas within Sarrià-Sant Gervasi that might not be advisable for certain buyers. Areas closer to the main roads can be busier and noisier, which might not be ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Additionally, the lower parts of Sant Gervasi, closer to the district of Gràcia, tend to be more bustling and might not offer the same level of exclusivity as the upper parts.

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
Sarrià	Traditional village feel, quaint shops, slower pace	Townhouses, modern apartments	High
Sant Gervasi	Urban and residential, cosmopolitan lifestyle	Elegant apartments, luxury to affordable options	Varied
El Putxet i el Farró	Residential tranquility, parks, modernist buildings	Modern apartments, some townhouses	Moderate
Upper Sant Gervasi (near Tibidabo Avenue)	Beautiful, quiet, family-friendly	High-quality apartments and houses	High
Lower Sant Gervasi (near Gràcia)	Busier, less exclusive, closer to nightlife	Varied, more compact living spaces	Varied

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Is there a strong rental demand in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi?

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, indeed exhibits a strong rental demand, but the nature and dynamics of this demand are quite specific to the area's characteristics.

Firstly, the rental market in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi tends to lean more towards long-term rentals. This is largely due to the residential nature of the district, attracting families, professionals, and expatriates who are looking for stable and high-quality living arrangements in Barcelona.

The area's tranquil environment, good schools, and excellent amenities make it a top choice for those planning to stay in the city for an extended period.

The target demographic for rentals in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is quite diverse. It includes expatriates, often associated with international businesses or diplomatic missions, affluent students from well-to-do families, and professionals working in Barcelona's business sectors.

These potential tenants typically look for properties that offer comfort, modern amenities, and a degree of exclusivity. Apartments with contemporary fittings, good security, and additional amenities like a balcony, garden, or swimming pool are highly sought after.

In terms of specific areas within Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, neighborhoods like Sarrià with its village-like charm and El Putxet i el Farró with its modernist buildings and green spaces are particularly popular. These areas offer a blend of tranquility and accessibility that is highly appealing to the rental market here.

Amenities that can help reduce vacancy and make a property more attractive include modern kitchens and bathrooms, high-speed internet, air conditioning, and dedicated parking spaces.

Properties that are well-connected to public transport and close to international schools or business areas are also more likely to attract long-term tenants.

Regarding potential returns on investment, properties in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi can yield attractive returns, although specific numbers can vary widely based on the property type and exact location. The district's high desirability and limited supply of rental properties can lead to strong rental prices.

However, it's important to note that the initial investment in properties here is also quite high due to the area's upscale nature.

Lately, there's a growing demand for smaller properties, like one or two-bedroom apartments. These types of properties are becoming increasingly popular among young professionals and couples without children.

They are often looking for a balance of comfort and convenience, and such properties in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi can potentially offer better yields given their lower entry price and strong rental demand.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi?

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 a property as a foreigner in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, Barcelona, is a process that, while relatively straightforward, does come with its unique considerations and potential challenges.

Firstly, in Spain, there are no specific regulations or restrictions that apply exclusively to foreign buyers. This means that foreigners have the same rights as local buyers when it comes to purchasing property.

However, there are some essential steps that are particularly relevant for foreigners.

For instance, you'll need to obtain an NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is a tax identification number for foreigners in Spain. This is a crucial prerequisite for any property transaction in the country.

The purchasing process in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, much like the rest of Barcelona, involves several key steps. After selecting a property, the buyer typically pays a deposit and signs a preliminary contract (contrato de arras).

This is followed by the due diligence process, where checks on the property's legal status and any outstanding debts are conducted.

Finally, the sale is formalized in a public deed (escritura pública) and registered in the Land Registry.

There are several risks associated with property investment in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi. These include potential legal issues related to property titles, debts tied to the property, or unexpected urban planning regulations. These risks underline the importance of thorough due diligence.

Common pitfalls for foreign buyers often involve navigating the legal and administrative aspects of the property market in Spain.

For example, underestimating the importance of local regulations regarding property transactions or overlooking the need for a comprehensive check of the property's legal status can lead to complications later on.

This is where working with a local real estate agent and particularly a lawyer becomes crucial. They can provide invaluable guidance through the local real estate landscape, ensuring all legal requirements are met and helping to avoid common mistakes.

As for exit strategies, property investors in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi often look at either selling their properties at a profit after a period of capital appreciation or renting them out. The area's high desirability can lead to substantial rental income or a good resale value.

However, it's important to consider the market dynamics and potential fluctuations in the real estate market, as well as tax implications associated with selling the property.