Estamos buscando los mejores agentes inmobiliarios de Barcelona ¡Hasta un 50% de Comisión!

(English below) Buscamos incorporar agentes inmobiliarios nuevos a nuestro creciendo equipo. Por favor lea bien los requisitos y si crees que te encajan nos encantaría conocerte! REQUISITOS: - Buscamos perfiles de agentes inmobiliarios que tienen experiencia mostrable. O sea, son agentes activos que hacen operaciones cada mes y saben vender bien. - 2 año minimo de experiencia en compra venta de pisos en BCN. - Gente super motivada, independiente, orientada a resultados. - Como mínimo Español y nivel de Inglés decente. Si cumples con los requistos de arriba y te apaetece dar un cambio a tu vida, eres un TOP seller, o consideras que mereces ganar mas dinero, mándanos CV y cover letter a stefan@suitelife.com

Looking for the best real estate agents in Barcelona. Up to 50% Commission!

We are looking for super agents to join our expanding sales team. Please read carefully the requisites and if you think you'd fit well we'd love to meet you! REQUIREMENTS: - We're looking for agents who have proven experience. You should be an active agent that completes sales operations every month. - 2 years minimum experience in the residential sales market in BCN. - Must be super motivated, independent, and results oriented. - Spanish and English fluency mínimum. If the above points describe you well, you are a TOP seller, and you're not happy with how much money you are making, please send us your CV and cover letter to stefan@suitelife.com

For most investors, purchasing on the ground floor has long been a property industry taboo due to a number of buyer preconceptions. These ground floor apartments often take a good deal longer to sell, and appraisers estimate that they stay on the market approximately 70 days longer than the overall average. However, it may be time for you to reconsider your stance with this comprehensive guide of pros and cons to living in a ground floor flat in Barcelona.

Advantages to Living on the Ground Floor

Of course, the first obvious benefit to a ground floor apartment would be the convenience of less heavy lifting and hauling up flights of stairs. Avoidance of stairs is usually favoured by live-work situations, residents with disabilities, senior citizens, and possibly even for those who wouldn't be seen out of their high heels. Dog owners and families with small children may also have an inclination to the floor level, as there are no neighbours below to disturb. This aalso makes these flats ideal for renovation projects.

Some ground floors also have direct access to a backyard terrace or garden. This is a coveted amenity in Barcelona, a city with precious little outdoor space. Factors you may not have considered also include stronger water pressure and faster evacuation in case of emergency. Temperatures also remain cooler in the blazing Spanish heat as there is less direct sunlight, especially as not all flats in Barcelona are equipped with air conditioning units.

However, the most appealing factor of living on a ground floor in Barcelona is the cut-rate prices. You can probably get more bang for your buck, as real estate appraisers estimate that lobby-level flats are worth 10-20% less than an equivalent on the second floor, and 15-25% less than one on the third floor. On average, the sales price goes for around 28% below average on all apartments and is much less subject to fierce and competitive bidding wars. Rentals offer a similar discount as well, and the prospective tenants can find extra grounds for price negotiations in a ground floor unit to implement additional necessary security and privacy measures.

Disadvantages to Living on the Ground Floor

Despite these winning factors, a ground floor apartment also comes with problems as they can easily turn into potential drawbacks. For example, natural light is often the determining factor that can make or break the moving decision. Plant owners beware, as though the temperature is more easily regulated on lower floors, sunlight can be scarce and some properties even appear a bit cave-like! The higher floors which get much more light do not get overshadowed by other buildings. Also, comes the issue of the poor quality of the views, if there even are any, as they easily can be obstructed by trees and bushes.

Especially in areas that are busy or tourist heavy, there is less privacy from passer-bys who can easily peek into your flat if extra concealment efforts are not taken. Take care to estimate any additional financial and labor costs incurred through implementing measures to meet your individual security standards. This is beucase upstairs apartments are positioned further away from the street and generally have inaccessible windows.

Living at traffic level also brings dust into your apartment from passing cars and people. This territory also comes with wildlife and insects that crawl under cracks and crevices in ground-level windows and doors. Then, comes the disturbances from anyone within the vicinity of your flat. Noises produced by upstairs neighbors, and especially foot traffic from the lobby of your complex can be of huge concern. Other sources of loud sounds to stay aware of are from vehicle traffic, and even boiler noises.

Whether it be to invest or move to a new property, we hope this insight to the pros and cons of living on the ground floor will aid in your decision-making process when you're on the hunt for a new flat in Barcelona.

Up and coming neighborhoods in Barcelona is one of our favourite topics here in the office. If you're looking to invest in real estate in Barcelona then naturally you'll want to anticipate which neighbourhoods might have the best potential for capital appreciation. Buy low, sell high right? As the market continues to come back here everyone's jockeying to find the newest low hanging fruit. We'll start with what's already heating up in the markets, the districts that are up and coming right now, and we'll call that Stage 1. After that, in Stage 2, we will show you which which neighbourhoods  are on their way to getting more popular and valuable in the coming years.

Stage 1

The next paragraphs will show you the neighborhoods which are up and coming right now!

El Raval

Probably one of the areas you did not expect to make the list, but we can promise you that this is the Nottinghill of London. Nottinghill in the 19th century was an area  known to be a working class and immigrant area and so properties had lower value. However, London kept on growing and the housing prices kept on rising, thus converting Nottinghill into one of the most expensive and exclusive places to live in. With the property market slowly recovering, we think that Raval has the potential to become the Nottinghill of Barcelona. More specifically, we think it will become the next Borne over the coming two decades.

The properties in Raval vary a lot. Some buildings have to go through technical inspections and therefore they are well maintained. However, in much of Raval, the buildings do not have such a regular inspection therefore are left neglected. Most of the buildings are quite old and so don't have the convenience of a lift and if climbing long flight of stairs is an issue, unfortunately, due to narrow streets of Raval, you lose the luxury of having a light filled apartment by having to live in one of the lower floor apartments. It can also be quite difficult to find a flat with air conditioning and/or heating. But why Raval is such a desirable place to buy?

Raval has already started the transformation. Without a doubt, it's becoming more cultural and trendy, especially with the famous MACBA (museums of modern art) and CCCB (exhibition centre) being built in the area. So what does that mean? This means that the area is attracting more interest from younger professionals, asy Raval boasts niche shops, small restaurants and unique bars with attractive prices. As time goes on, we can see Raval becoming the most trendy neighbourhood in Barcelona. Over the last two years prices have gone up fast. Two years ago you could buy for 1.000 a m2 now you're lucky to find something at 3.000 m2.

Location, location, location. Raval is probably one of the best located neighbourhoods in Barcelona. Wedged between el Gotico & Sant Antoni, it's close to the sea, port, train station, boasts chic restaurants and boutique shopping, but most importantly it has many transport links that make Raval a very convenient place to live as you can get from one side of the city to another without a problem. It also borders one of the most famous tourist attractions - Las Ramblas. This guarantese that the narrow streets of Raval will continue to buzz and that business will keep growing in the area as the tourists venture beyond the main streets. It is so well located that gentrification is almost inevitable!

Poble Sec

Part of the green district of Sants-Montjuic, this previously more quiet residential area is becoming a trendy place and is starting to attract real interest from property investors.

The neighbourhood is very well positioned as it benefits from the greenness of Montjuïc, the quick access to sea (15-20 min walk) and it even stretches all the way to Plaza España. This means that you can get to the airport in almost no time on the Aerobus, and the two main metro lines, L2 & L3, allow you to access parts of the city quickly.

The properties in this area tend to be relatively modern and sometimes resemble  the buildings in Eixample. The majority of them offer balcony or terrace space, however not all of them have the luxury of a lift. The streets are not as narrow as in Raval, therefore you can expect more light. Poble Sec has a bit more of a Catalan character as some of the properties have vaulted ceilings.

This area is really a place to buy for those who want to live in Barcelona away from all the touristic buzz but still want to enjoy the benefits of this incredible city. Also the return on your investment in this area is well worth considering.. Juste days of just a year and a half ago you could buy flats for under 100.000, now they sell for 3.000 a m2 and after renovating for 5.000 m2.

Sant Antoni

Sant Antoni is a part of one of the most modern and popular parts of Barcelona - Eixample. It is named after the famous Sant Antoni market which you can see in the picture below and is positioned between three different neighbourhoods. It's definitely one of the areas worth considering when looking for property.

Because it was one of the recent additions to Eixample, the buildings tend to be fairly new and not in huge need of renovation. The properties are likely to have better facilities than the ones in the older parts of town, such as lifts, outside spaces, balconies & terraces, air conditioning and heating. Since they're relatively modern, you are less likely to find Catalan uniqueness or something with a bit more character to it. Sant Antoni's location proves to be one of the most convenient ones as it is wedged it between three neighbourhoods - Raval, Eixample and Poble Sec - and it stretches all the way to Placa Espanya from which you have a quick access to the airport and also other transport links to get  you to other parts of Barcelona quickly and conveniently.

So apart from its location and its more modern buildings, why has it stood out so much? Of course, it's the lower price. According to Fotocasa, the property prices in Sant Antoni have been rising in the past year. The neighbourhood's lower prices compared to the rest of Eixample is what’s attracting so much attention. Lower property prices are promising increasing returns for the investors and bringing bigger value to invest, thus making the top of our up & coming neighbourhoods list. This area is getting quickly saturated though. It's a bit of a hipster haven really, very trendy with lots of cool restaurants attracting plenty of young people to the area.

Poblenou

Poblenou is the old manufacturing quarter of Barcelona in the district of Sant Marti. Therefore you can find a lot of industrial sites and old factories in this area. The development of the district is due to the increasing industrialization around Barcelona in the 18th century. Originally Poblenou was an independent suburb of the city of Barcelona and not connected with it. Due to its proximity to the sea, the district grew rapidly and reached, at the end of the 19th century, the highest density of industrial buildings in Spain. For this reason, it was also called El Mànchester Català ("The Catalan Manchester"). The former industrial zones with factories and warehouses are increasingly being transformed into residential districts with lofts, art galleries, schools, fitness clubs, etc.

The neighborhood is very well located since it is near to the center of Barcelona and also near to the beach. It is bordered by the Avenida Diagonal in the North and the beaches of Bogatell in the South. The metro line L4 goes directly through the quarter and has two stops at "Llacuna" and "Poblenou".

So why should you invest or settle down in Poblenou? The neighborhood is becoming more and more famous for providing awesome spaces for flats and lofts with an industrial touch. The area is very popular with young families, the creative workforce and a number of international companies that want to set up offices. Even though the place is close to the beach and the hustle and bustle of the city it is a really quiet neighborhood. All these aspects turned Poblenou from the industrial part of the city to one of the most in-demand neighborhoods in Barcelona!

Stage 2

Now we will go through the neighborhoods that will be up and coming in the future. So if you are looking for a new home or investment you should definitely consider to live in these areas to get ahead of the buying rush.

Sant Adria de Besos

Sant Adria de Besós is a city of 36.000 inhabitants in the Northeast of Barcelona. It is located at either side of the river Besós. Sant Adria has a long history which started in the year 1012 when its famous church was built. During the industrialization, a lot of factories were built around the city and it used to be a neighborhood for working people. In the picture below you can see the 3 towers of the Besos power plant which is not in use anymore but which the citizens voted to keep as an iconic building for the city in a referendum.

During the last few years Sant Adria de Besós has gotten more attractive. The government spends a lot of money these days to renew the suburban areas and it is well connected through streets and public transportation. There are several bus and metro lines which will bring you to Placa Catalunya within 15 minutes.

So why would you buy a home in a neighborhood which still looks pretty industrial? Because it's changing! The prices for properties in neighborhoods like Eixample or Gracia are exploding so a lot of people decide to live a little bit outside of the hustle and bustle of Barcelona's inner city. And Sant Adria is perfect since prices are still low and you are very well connected to Barcelona!

Glories

Another Up and Coming Neighborhood in Barcelona will be Glories! It's the neighborhood where the 3 big streets of Barcelona cross. The Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, the Avinguda Diagonal and the Avinguda Meridiana. It is wedged between Eixample and Sant Marti which means that it is very central.

It is in a central location with a big open air shopping mall and the Torre Agbar which is a popular attraction. So why is it not one of the most popular parts of Barcelona? At the moment it is not the most beautiful area nor the most buzzing. There is a huge construction site around the Placa de les Glories Catalanes which has been there for several years. But the city of Barcelona has started a huge project to make Glories a nice, green, sustainable neigborhood. Click here if you want to see some interesting videos about the construction process.

When the construction is finished Glories will be one of the prime locations of Barcelona. More and more people will invest into properties and the prices will rise. So if you want to be part of the new Glories without spending huge amounts of money now is the time to look for a new flat!

L'Hospitalet de Llobegrat

L'Hospitalet de Llobegrat, with over 250.000 inhabitants it is the second largest town of Catalonia. It is located between the river "Llobegrat" and the southwestern city limit of Barcelona. Unlike its bigger brother, it has a skyline with at least thirteen buildings over 60 meters.

L'Hospitalet is still known as a run-down suburb so why do we think that it is an Up and Coming Neighborhood in Barcelona? Because the economy has improved recently and the government is working on the infrastructure. For example, there are  4 metro lines which connect L'Hospitalet to Barcelona (L1, L5, L8 and the L9 Sud).

Besides that you can enjoy all the benefits of living in Barcelona without paying huge amounts of money for your flat AND you can avoid the tourist hotspots.

The prime areas of Barcelona like Eixample or Gracia are so popular that buyers are being priced out of the market. More and more people are starting to move into the less popular districts of the city and attracting investment from international as well as domestic buyers What do you think about our selection of Up and Coming Neighborhoods in Barcelona? Did we miss any out? Let us know in the comments! Are you looking to buy or sell a property? We're here for you SuiteLifers! - Daniel

Are you about to buy your dream home? Then you should definitely know about all the types of property in Barcelona. From new builds to second hand flats, we will explain it all in this article! After reading this you'll have no doubts  about what kind of property is the one for you!

Types of Property in Barcelona

New build flats

A new build flat is built from the ground up, meaning that the old building is demolished and a new construction is built. They are perfect for families or couples who are looking for a modern flat, and want to be 100% sure that everything functions the way it should. Pros:

• All the installations are 100 percent new and you can be sure that everything in the flat works
• Everything is as new as it can be, meaning that you are the first one to live in it
• You can apply your own taste of interior design and make it your perfect place

Cons:

• The value of the property can be higher then the actual market price
• Traditional old features are not very common in new builds. The ones that do have traditional features are (obviously) not authentic
• The majority of newly built flats can be find outside the city center. However, it's not completely impossible to find a central newly built flat. Take for example the following newly built in Gotico

"Escudellers"

Off plan buying

Of all the types of properties in Barcelona, and in general,  off plan buying is the most risky. With off plan buying we mean buying without seeing the flat physically, so you would buy a flat solely based on the current existing plans. You are basically buying something that doesn't exist yet, all you have is the plan. There are multiple pros and cons of buying off plan. Pros:

• You'll save money as you have 15 to 20 percent discount on the price of these type of flats
• You'll be very involved in the process as you have the possibility to guide the development of the building
• You can put in your own wishes for the flat, as you can kind of lead the building process

Cons:

• They're not immediately available, you'll have to wait till it's finished. Keep in mind that this could take months or even years. Patience is a virtue!
• It's a little bit more of a stressful experience as there could be a delay in the building process, causing you to wait even longer
• There is also a possibility that they run into problems during the building process, forcing them to change some (minor) things. So be prepared that when you buy off plan, the final result might look (very) slightly different from the initial plan.

Second-hand flat

A second-hand flat is a flat that already has been lived in, it may or may not have been renovated. The majority of the flats offer on the housing market consists of second-hand flats. Pros:

• You're saving money! Second-hand flats are cheaper than newly built flats, renovated flats and buying off plan
• Second-hand flats can be found all over the city, you'll have more options finding second-hand flats in the city center than finding newly builds in the city center.
• You can renovate a second-hand flat and adjust it to your own taste, or you can even resell it to double its value
• Second-hand flats are more likely to be in older buildings, meaning you might be living in a old characteristic building that still has its' traditional features

Cons:

• The installations are often okay, but it's not brand new. It might be the case that you have to update/repair some stuff
• You might find issues related to building deterioration
• Some of the buildings don't have an elevator.  But then again, stairs keep you healthy!

"Picasso's Place"

Renovated flat

A renovated flat is a subdivision of a second hand flat, it has been fixed up completely to be used again as a living space. Investors often buy second hand flats to renovate and resell it as a modern flat to get a higher return. Let's take a look at the pros and cons and we will show you a perfect example of how a renovated flat looks like. Pros: 

• The flats are most likely situated in central zones, however, you can also choose for a location outside the city center. You basically have more locations to choose from
• The installations are in good state or maybe even completely new and there are no signs of deferred maintenance or deterioration
• All though your flat might be modern and updated, you could still live in an older building full of character. You can basically enjoy best of both worlds!
• Renovated flats are ready to move into immediately, so you can just pack your bags & go!

Cons:

• You can't really adjust the flat to your own personal taste, the seller already has decided on that. However, you can still add your personal taste of home decoration
• The flat can be in an older building without elevator, meaning that you might have to walk up some floors (Well.. at least you get your exercise done)
• You might end up paying more than the actual market value, because the person that bought it and reformed it resells it for a higher price

 "PALO ALTO"

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Don't forget to check out our amazing properties! What type of property suits you the best? Let us know in the comments. - Anna

Family Friendly Barcelona Neighborhoods: Your Guide to Family Living

Family friendly Barcelona living may have seemed unachievable what with the hustle and bustle of the Barcelona streets. Thankfully, I’m here to tell you family friendly neighborhoods not only exist but are some of the best neighbourhoods in Barcelona. Whatever your needs may be, there is surely a neighborhood for you. Check out our favorite family neighbourhoods below!

In Barcelona City

Sarrià- Sant Gervasi (Luxe Lifestyles)

Known as the “zona alta” of Barcelona, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is one of the most prestigious areas of Barcelona (and one of my personal favorites). In the North-West corner of the city, this area is the most expensive and exclusive on our list today. It is known for its quaint, village feel. Nowadays it is a quiet residential area but it was a medieval village in its former life. Its peaceful streets and many parks make it ideal for children playing outside. Since it is situated just outside the busier parts of Barcelona, the pace is slowed down while still remaining in Barcelona city.

This area contains lots of restaurants and shops and is also home to many of Barcelona’s best clinical and medical centers. An Italian international school, Instituto Italiano Statale Compresivo di Barcelona, offers pre school through secondary school in Sarrià in additional to local public schools. In short, when looking for a luxurious getaway within the city, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is the perfect option. You can’t go wrong with this area! For more information check out our detailed guide to this neighborhood.  

Les Corts (Sarrià’s Little Sister)

Les Corts is a slightly more affordable alternative to Sarrià-Sant Gervasi. This neighborhood is very close to Sarrià-Sant Gervasi but slightly more central. In addition to its great location, this family friendly Barcelona neighborhood is also more affordable than the previous area. Multiple international schools are located in Les Corts: St. Peters, St. Pauls and The Benjamin Franklin school just to name a few. With many shops, restaurants and parks within its limits, Les Corts is a great family option. And parents, don’t think I forgot about you! This area is close to the Barcelona financial district, making for an easy morning commute for those who work there. No more early morning alarms.

Also, Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, calls Les Corts home along with multiple restaurants and L’illa shopping center. If you want an area like Sarrià- Sant Gervasi but with a smaller price tag Les Corts may be the place for you!

Gràcia (Indie in the City)

Of all the neighborhoods in Barcelona City, this is the most central. Gràcia is much more in the heart of the city than previous areas. It is very well connected with public transportation and has easy access to the highway. This area is still very family friendly but boasts more of an eclectic, boho mood. Hipsters, rejoice! This is the neighborhood for you.

Gràcia is still fairly tranquil and quiet for being in the city center. The quieter atmosphere makes it a great family neighborhood. Gracia boasts numerous plazas with restaurants and shops as well as the iconic Park Guell. Gràcia is family friendly but still in the middle of the action! For the most central family friendly neighborhood, Gràcia is the best bet. Our Gràcia guide can provide you with a more detailed overview of the neighborhood.

Outside the City

Sant Cugat (Central to Schools)

At 20 kilometers from Barcelona City, this suburb creates just enough distance to get out of town while still remaining close by. And for those who work in the city, don’t worry! There is a direct metro connection to the city center, making morning commutes simpler. Sant Cugat is also home to multiple international schools: The Japanese School of Barcelona, Europa International School and Agora Sant Cugat International School. These schools make Sant Cugat an excellent area for foreigners or those wishing to raise kids in an international school system. Additionally, this neighborhood holds many restaurants, two cinemas and a shopping center. All these features make Sant Cugat an excellent option for families in Barcelona who want a little distance from the city.

Sant Just Desvern (Active Lifestyles)

Sant Just Desvern is an excellent neighborhood for families looking for space to grow. Only a 10 minute drive from the city, this area has lots of active and outdoor activities. Next to the Collserolas Natural Park, residents have tons of options for hiking, biking and spending time outdoors. There are also various gyms and swimming pools in the area. If you crave an active, outdoor lifestyle, Sant Just Desvern is your perfect spot!

Bellsoleig and La Miranda have larger homes, often with yards and pools. The amount of outdoor space available in Sant Just Desvern makes it desirable for families with kids. Not to mention it has TONS of both private and public schools. With many FC Barcelona players, politicians and expats calling this neighborhood home, you know it is an area not to miss.

Esplugues de Llobregat (Celebrity Suburbs)

The final neighborhood on our list holds over 20 beautiful parks and gardens. International schools like The German School of Barcelona and the American School of Barcelona are located in Esplugues. This suburb just outside the city also is home to many expat families, athletes and political figures. Shakira and Piqué call Esplugues their home. If it’s good enough for Shakira, it’s good enough for me!

Also, it is easily accessible to the city via the highway, bus and the Metro. Local shopping centers like Llobretacentre and Splau make shopping a breeze. Splau even has an excellent cinema. Being in the suburbs doesn’t have to mean less excitement. In Esplugues, suburban life never means going without!

I hope this article can guide you in your  search and help your family find the perfect family friendly Barcelona neighborhood for you. If you’re searching for a long-term rental or purchase in any of these areas, please check out our website and contact us with any questions. Happy hunting!

- Natalie

There are quite a few Property Developers in Barcelona.  We as a Real Estate Agency love them since they create beautiful new flats and buildings. This blog will be about the top architectural firms and developers that have had the greatest impact in Barcelona with their current projects!
Properties are always in demand in Barcelona; people are especially attracted to new developments for the easy, functional living spaces they provide. It is a beautiful feeling to step into a brand new flat knowing that you will be the first owner. But let's start with the introduction of those organisations who create these beautiful places!

Norvet Property DVLP.

This is a developer we already collaborate with... Norvet took its first steps in renovating and developing buildings in 2013. Although they are such a young company they are amongst the most established in Barcelona. They have their own in-house design studio from which their architects and interior designers work. Norvet focuses on luxury design paired with sustainable and modern elements. Minimizing energy consumption by using energy-efficient systems and new smart-home technology take the properties into the 21st century. Norvet is always working on new projects but currently they have some really interesting "new build" projects. We will present to you three of them now:

Escudellers °44

As you can see in the picture above the transformation is incredible! The building will be demolished and built up again. Here are some pictures of the interior.
The style of the interior is mid-century modern and it is very spacious and luminous. It is in a prime location since it is located close to the Ramblas in the Gothic quarter. It is a gateway to the nightlife, streetlife, cultural life and it is only short walk away from the sea.

Poeta Cabanyes 33-35

This before and after picture is also really impressive. It is based in in Poble Sec which is known as the "dry land of Barcelona"; named after its well known fertile ground decades ago. It is a great residential neighborhood with no big historical sights which means that there will be no tourists exploring the area. The street is quiet and next to one of Barcelona's biggest green spaces AND you can also explore the best cultural and culinary hubs.
The building offers modern flats with smart home technology. Depending on the flat it has a big garden or terrace which increases the living quality.

Rabassa 63-65

This property is located in Gràcia which is one of the most popular neighborhoods to live in. It used to be the space of a former factory but now it is located on a residential street. This rare combination creates an opportunity for a unique development: high-ceilings, spacious lofts with a lot of extravagance. With these characteristics the Rabassa 63-65 definitely stands out in its neighborhood.

You can find more information on their website: norvetbcn.com

ELIX

Another big property developer in Barcelona is ELIX. They also promote properties in Madrid. The company was founded in 2003 by Jorge Benjumeda and Jaime Lacasa. With nearly 15 years of experience in business they are one of the biggest and most established developing companies in Barcelona. They started over 15 new projects in 2016 and are always searching for new sites to renovate or develop. Since they have so much experience in the real estate market, their mission is to satisfy the needs of every individual customer and make modern homes affordable. The style of the company is really innovative and every project is unique. A lot of developers focus on renovating OR new constructions but ELIX does both! We will present you two of their current projects. ELIX Developments focuses on renovating properties while ELIX NEXT Developments stands for new constructions.

Tirso de Molina, 9

"Tirso de Molina, 9" is a charming rehabilitation project. It provides 9 beautiful homes in the heart of the Sants district. ELIX keep the best of the original construction like the Catalan ceilings and the brick walls and then they combine them with modern elements. As you can see in the picture below the result looks awesome. The place has a lot of natural light and welcoming spaces.
The "Project Encarnacio, 103" is the second new construction of ELIX! It consists of only 4 homes and is located in Gràcia. A duplex with a terrace, 2 standard flats and a penthouse with an integrated solarium. The design of the development is very minimalistic with white walls and bricks in sight. The layout of the flats is spacious, functional and invites the natural light to come in.
They also established a new brand in Barcelona. FHAUS has awesome projects in Barcelona! They focus on the industry's 4 basic activities: Property Acquisition, Design & Construction, Property Management and Commercialization.

You can find more information on their website: elix.es

Bonavista Developments

Bonavista Developments was founded in 2014 by Alex Miquel Molleví, Marcus Donaldson and Jacinto Roqueta and is one of the rising promoters in Barcelona. They have awesome projects like the Casa Burés. This house was designed by the Catalan architect Francesc Berenguer i Mestres who was one of Gaudi's closest collaborators. The house was constructed between 1900 and 1905 and  Bonavista keeps the historical spirit of the building allowing it to be restored beautifully.

"Barcelona is our city and we want the buildings we rehabilitate to bring value to the neighborhood and the city, so when we rehabilitate we demand from our builders the highest level of quality,"                       - Alex Miquel Molleví, Co-Founder of Bonavista

Besides the rehabilitation of historical buildings Bonavista is also working on "new build" projects. Saüc 12 is one of them. 6 completely new houses will be built there. The architect Damián Ribas is known for his really unique and modern style. The project is defined by clear spaces, light and the national environment. The houses are located in the highest part of the city and provide beautiful views over Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea. They're close to the old quarter of the Sarrià district which means that it is surrounded by the best schools, sports facilities and basic local services. The area is quiet and far from the hustle and bustle of the city which can be reached by car within a few minutes.
As you can see, the apartments of Bonavista are designed in a very modern way. They bring together luxury and efficiency. Glass, concrete, wood and stone represent strength and warmth.

You can find more information on their website: bonavistadev.com

Since they create such beautiful homes, they definitely belong to the best Property Developers in Barcelona. How do you like these developments? Would you like to live in one of them? Let us know in the comments! - Daniel

One of the first things you may notice when visiting Barcelona is the pervasive presence of balconies lining the streets of every single neighborhood. Bedrooms, living rooms, and sometimes even kitchens open up to large spacious terraces and tiny balconies just wide enough to pop outside for a cigarette. As balconies are very much a huge part of the Barcelona lifestyle, with a combination of the best climate and spectacular views of any European city, it's no brainer that you might want to find clever ways to make the most of your outdoor spaces. Here are a few ways that you can decorate your balcony and get more use out of it by using simple, budget-friendly hacks that can wow your guests.

Ideas to decorate your balcony:

1. From rainforest to refined

With the close proximity of many balconies in Barcelona, you may often find your neighbor peering over into your morning newspaper and coffee routine. Solve this by lining your balcony with bamboo mats to cover unwelcome views, with the added bonus of giving a charming rustic look to the space. Bamboo mats can also be repurposed to give a shady refuge from the blazing Spanish sun and heat.

2. Throw some shade

Similarly, breezy curtains can provide an alternative shady solution for a more polished look that extends your living room outdoors and provides extra privacy.

3. For the lazy gardener

Though many balconies in Barcelona are on the smaller side with limited space, your dream to be a cultivated gardener doesn't have to be dashed.  Use hanging shoe organizers or bookcases to nestle your plants to create a lush vertical garden which takes up no space at all.

4. Hanging around

Turn your balcony into the ultimate chill spot by putting up a hammock and spend your days maxin' and relaxin' away in the sun.

5. Getting sun light reading done ☀

Store all your novels and keepsakes on a bookshelf on your balcony for extra storage and easy access for when you crave some light summer reading in the sun.

6. May the forest be with you

Bring mother nature to your flat by growing some climbers for an immediate forest getaway right in the comfort of your own home. Vines can also double as a natural way to cover an unsightly wall and to shroud unpleasant views. You can decorate your balcony to your heart's content, with the benefit of helping the environment.

7. Make everyday patio season

Transform your balcony into an extension of your flat and turn it into a mini dining room to enjoy both the food and the views-- What could be better than that combo?

8. Getting lit

Who says string lights should only be used for Christmas? To make use of your balcony at night, string lights and mini lanterns can turn your balcony into a glowy and romantic setting perfect for any day of the year.

9. From trash to treasure

Got old crate boxes? Don't throw them away just yet! Crate boxes add a farmhouse aesthetic that immediately transports your balcony to the Provence countryside. Use them for storage, as a seating area or coffee table.... the possibilities are endless!

10. Walking on sunshine

Turn cold concrete slab into a welcoming walkway by laying down tile flooring wood for a small balcony makeover. And voila! Hardwood floors for a fraction of the price.

11. Air your dirty laundry over here!

If you find that your washing machine an awkward eyesore that takes up too much space in your flat, your balcony can also double as a laundry room. This can free up extra room in your flat so you can focus on what's really important... like, you know, that dream walk- in closet you' ve always wanted.

12. Sleep under the stars

But if your space is seriously mini, consider just turning the whole thing into a cozy outdoor chair...
Need some inspiration for where to find some of these cool items? Check out our other posts about the best furniture stores in Barcelona here: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 . Also let me know if you have any cool DIYs or apartment hacks that you use for your own outdoor space! Post your comments and pictures of how you decorate your balcony below! Jodi

June 15, 2017. This is a milestone in the history of mobile communication, as roaming fees in the EU will finally come to an end. Everybody knows that annoying task when traveling of asking for the Wifi password at every cafe and restaurant just to stay connected. Yes, it seems too good to be true that European customers don't need to pay these extra fees anymore, but is there a catch?  Here are all the questions you may have and answers you need to know about the 'Roam Like at Home' legislation.

1. What does the end of roaming agreement of the European Union mean?

Thanks to the agreement realized by the European Commission, consumers will be able to call, send SMS, and surf on the internet within the 28 countries of the EU without paying more than at home. Starting Thursday, June 15, the roaming charges will disappear and when you travel throughout Europe you won't have to worry about extra costs for calls and data anymore.

2. Which countries does this rule apply to?

The agreement includes every country of the Europan Union: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

3. Will the "Brexit" affect the end of roaming for the UK?

The UK will leave the EU in a few years, but until then there will no roaming fees. Depending on the negotiations of the United Kingdom and the authorities of the EU, there will also probably no extra costs after.

4. How much will I pay in other countries?

This agreement only affects the 28 countries of the European Union. However, some operators that provide service in other countries have expanded their lists to better compete with the roaming offers in the EU. Examples include providers in countries such as the United States, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Albania, and Turkey. You can find detailed information on the website of your provider for your own country.

5. Couldn't I just look for the cheapest rate in Europe and use it in my home country?

No. The no-charge roaming rule is intended for occasional travel, not for long term roaming. The requirement for the customer is to reside (or maintain some kind of link) in the country where the mobile line is contracted. If you use your mobile abroad permanently, your operator will end up apply charges for roaming within the limits of the European Commission after a certain period of time. You will eventually receive an SMS when traveling to another country to remind you of the limits of this reasonable use policy. For example, if you are moving to Barcelona long term, you must use a Spanish provider.

6. And what are those limits of use?

According to the new regulations, there are no volume restrictions for voice calls or SMS abroad, but for the use of data. In order to prevent the permanent use of data abroad, phone companies will charge extra fees for customers who have used their mobile more abroad than at home for a period of four months. If it is your case, your operator will contact you and ask you to clarify the situation, and you will have 14 days to do so. If you continue to spend more time abroad than in your home country, and roaming continues to exceed your national consumption, then your operator could start applying a surcharge according to the limits of the agreement.

7. How much will I pay if I exceed the limits of the agreement?

The new regulations state that the additional charges when roaming will not exceed the wholesale prices charged by operators:

• 3.2 cents per minute for voice calls • 1 cent per SMS • EUR 7.7 per GB until June 15, 2017 • EUR 6 per GB as from January 1, 2018 • EUR 4,5 per GB as from January 1, 2019 • EUR 3,5 per GB from January 1, 2020 • EUR 3 per GB from January 1, 2021 • EUR 2.5 per GB from January 1, 2022 (These prices do not include VAT)

8. What if I live in one country and work in another?

If you are a cross-border worker, you will only need to connect once a day to the national network. This will count as a day of home country presence even if you go to the other country that same day. Therefore, you can choose a mobile plan in either of the two countries and benefit from roaming without surcharge as if you were an occasional traveler.

9. Is this for contract plans only or does it also apply to prepaid plans?

Customers who use prepaid plans also benefit from the new regulations: now the prepaid roaming rates are the same as the national ones. However, operators may apply a data limit. That limit will be, at minimum, the equivalent of dividing 7.70 € by the remaining credit amount of your prepaid card. That is, if you have a remaining credit of € 12 at the time you arrive abroad, you can spend 12 / 7.70 = 1.5 GB of roaming data.

10. Why have they taken so long to approve this? 

For the European Commission, this agreement lays the foundation for an ambitious Single Market for Telecommunications. As for consumers, the end of roaming provides endless benefits. However, this new regulation can be a huge headache for operators, especially for those operating in touristic countries such as Spain, as the new regulations will cause an increase in traffic by foreign users. This has forced several companies to improve their technologic infrastructures to avoid saturation of the networks.

11. Are national prices going to rise?

European operators have warned this could increase domestic prices to compensate for their reduced income from the eradication of roaming charges. In the past year, large Spanish operators increased their tariffs between 2 and 6 EUR on average.
What do you think about this new legislation? Do you think it's a good change for Europe? Let us know in the comments below! Moving to Spain? We can help you set up your new phone plan and more in Barcelona for your move to be entirely stress-free. Check out our relocation services for more info.

Running in Barcelona... All you need to know

Running in Barcelona is one of my favourite pastimes and within this blog, you will read all about the different running groups and applications that we recommend you don't miss. There are some absolutely incredible running routes in Barcelona that include all types of elevation, duration and scenery.

Running groups

Barcelona 360 tours - this company offers some pretty strong guidance, and awesome routes to go in and about the city.  It is quite pricey, however, if you are paying as a one off experience to gain some knowledge about running in Barcelona, it is PERFECT. Have you ever heard of the Meet up app? Within this app, there are different running groups that are ideal to meet with others, and run in a bigger crowd. There are different ranges of levels; from beginner, intermediate to advanced, you will not feel uncomfortable or “behind” (as long as you don’t sign up to an advanced class, when you are a beginner).Here are a few of the most popular ones: - Barcelona Casual Runners - Moon Runners - Morning Runners Barcelona - madrugar y correr. - Nike+Run Club - Running Intervals (for this event, it is a paid class) - running/trailrunning/hiking principantes Whilst we are still on the subject of mobile applications, Strava is also another great way to find running clubs. It works the same way as the Meet Up App, the only difference is, Strava is specifically for running/cycling. You can search for different running clubs within your location, and you can choose to meet up with other runners. However in some cases, people don't actually meet, some people use it as a community to publish their training and achievements.  This is perfect if you enjoy solitary running, and still want to enjoy the sense of community a running club gives you.

Planned routes

Personally, I found that most of the evening groups are either too advanced or at an awkward time (if you work late), and so not all of us have the time to run on a schedule.  But then again, some of us simply prefer to run solo…  therefore, this section will give you some ideas on where to run and when to run in Barcelona. Let’s begin nice and easy… 1. The Ciutadella Park Run. The Ciutadella Park makes for a perfect 2km run, in which you can make the run as easy or as difficult as you like. You can make laps around the park, making the most of the flat ground, or you could run up and down the stairs to get some more intense cardio training. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the park. On a sunny day, every body is sunbathing, or having a picnic.
2. Les Ramblas If you want to kick up the mileage, then les Ramblas is the perfect running strip.  It is only 3km running down from Plaça Catalunya to Passeig de Colom and back.  It is the perfect run for beginners, or even for a nice high-speed, faster run. Take note: NEVER (I mean don’t even bother trying) run on les Ramblas during the day in high-season. I say from experience, it is way too stressful. There I was on a lovely summer’s day, when the spontaneous (not-so brilliant) idea arose in my mind to skip all the city traffic lights and go down les Ramblas. It was around 12 o’clock, and let me tell you, it was a bad bad idea. After almost getting run over by a bike and a taxi, then almost knocking over several people on the path… I decided to never repeat. And well, here I am telling you, so you don’t make the same foolish mistake. Although, you might be better at dodging crowds than me.  Either way, all runs on les Ramblas should take place before 9 o’clock in the morning.  Oh, and be careful not to slip! The Barcelona clean up crew have it against us runners. 3. The Waterfront If you are not an early riser, then the waterfront is perfect for you. It will be busy (in high season),  of course, but it is still possible to run.  You will master the art of weaving in and out of people (perfect for race training). The Waterfront is ideal for a versatile run, you can do from 3 km to 10km. What’s more, in the summer, you can leap into the sea to cool down. You could even combine Las Ramblas and the Waterfront into one big run. This is only for the brave or the master dodgers.
4. Parc de Montjuic Another awesome run (with a hell of a lot of incline) is the Parc de Montjuic -Barcelona’s Mirador. Again,  you can choose whether you want to do a nice 5km or an even nicer 10km.  There are some useful websites such as mapmyrun and strava, that you can use to create your own routes. They even have routes that have already been planned from other runners. Nevertheless, if you have a phone or a watch that can log your km whilst running, you should definitely bring it on your run. When you are running in Barcelona, you have to be flexible in order to avoid red traffic lights and oncoming tourists. 5. Nature Park of Collserola There are some really good routes that begin in the Nature Park of Collserola, and they are all KILLER runs. They all have high elevation, with some added incline, and to top it off an extra bit of hill. But, you can make the run as easy or as hard as you like. If you are as crazy as me, then you will most likely decide to do the full monty. I decided to walk/run the whole route from Plaza Catalunya to Carretera de les Aigües, so you can imagine just how many hills and incline I tackled.  Nevertheless, when you reach the top, the trail flattens out and you get to appreciate the absolutely breathtaking views! If you want to save your legs for the actual run, then you can take the Metro: from Plaza Catalunya you can get the S1 or S2, then you would get off at Peu del Funicular. From here, you can get the Funicular de Vallvidrera until Carretera de les Aigües (the journey is included within your original ticket that you would have used from the metro).
If you have a GPS watch, you can just go to the park and run freely until you reach your desired kilometres.  You could then follow the same route for your next run. Personally, I think this way is more satisfying as you can choose your own elevation, and difficulty. You decide whether or not to take a break. If you don't have a GPS watch, you can use the mobile application Strava. You can even use it without data, as long as you begin to log the run when you have internet initially.  If you are running on a weekend, you will pass by plenty of other runners. When you see your fellow runners,  it can boost your motivation by trying to keep up their pace (or maybe, that is just my competitive self). In reality, you can run any where and any time that you want, but this is just some of the routes that I personally enjoy running in Barcelona. However, if you have the time, don’t limit your imagination! Don’t seclude yourself to Barcelona …there are some really beautiful places surrounding Barcelona. If you love your trail running, you should really visit these following places that are on the outskirts of Barcelona... 6. Nature Park Montseny
This picture is absolutely gorgeous, and highlights why Montseny is such a beautiful place to run. You could run up to 30km (or, like in my case, you could stumble across 10km) and never get bored of the scenery. If you drive a car, it will be a lot easier for you to find the Nature Park. Nevertheless, you can still find trains and buses to arrive at the location. If you search on Google, you can find different routes that will suit you. 7. Sant Llorenç del Munt i l'Obac This is a fairly straightforward journey, you can get the S1 from Plaza Catalunya (Direction: Terassa) to Terassa Rambla. Then, from the FGC Terrasa station you would take the M11 (Direction: Matadepera - Mura) to L'Alzina del Salari. It will set you back 2 hours of travelling, but the trail is worth it! You can chose your path freely, and enjoy the iconic monastery and the natural landscape...
8. Cingles de Bertí It is an hour drive from Barcelona, however, if you don't have a car... You can alternatively take the metro and a bus from Plaza Espanya. It will take you approximately 2 1/2 hours. You can get the L1 to La Sagrera, of which you would then have to take the 323 bus from Avenida Meridiana to Ctra de la Parròquia (Direction: Torregassa. Parc de Joan Plumé).

Running events

You can quite easily find running calendars online for any upcoming events in Barcelona.  But,  these are some of the most popular running events in Barcelona that occur every year: The Barcelona Half-marathon "La Mitja" - Around 15,000 runners. Barcelona Marathon - Around 17,000 runners, such a great vibe. Cursa Bombers 10km - Very popular route around the city, usually takes place in May. Cursa Merce 10km - Around 17,000 runners can take part. And, it usually happens around September time. New Years 10km - I think you can guess when this run takes place... Hopefully, you can use all of the different running routes that we have shown you to train for one of these running events ?.

We would love to hear about your running experiences in Barcelona.

And let us know if you try any of the running routes ? !

HAPPY RUNNING!

Phoebe (Runner, Barcelona Enthusiast and SuiteLifer).

Unusual museums in Barcelona? They're all over the place! As you might know culture and history play a big role in Barcelona. There are actually over 60 museums in this city! Some of them are tourist traps and you have to pay tons of money to check out some unimportant relic or sculpture. In this blog we will show you the Top 7 unusual museums in Barcelona. These are not big fan favourites like the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya but more off the beaten path or just plain off beat.

7. Fire Station Museum (Espai Bombers-Parc De La Prevenció)

This museum is super small and not very well known, which is such a shame because the exhibition is modern and really interesting. It is all about the history of firefighters in Barcelona. Various vehicles and equipment from different eras are displayed. This museum is educational, fun for the whole family, and great for school trips.

Espai Bombers-Parc de Prevenció Mon-Fri: 10-14h Sat: 10-14h, 15-20h Sun: 10-15h Website

6. Perfume Museum (Museu del Perfum)

This one is an oddball and different from most museums here in Barcelona. It doesn't display paintings and mosaics but instead the total evolution of perfume bottles and flasks over the years and decades. There are about 5.000 containers from the past and also the most modern creations of today's perfumes. The exhibition also shows stuff like old catalogs, labels and advertising material. The museum is divided into two well-defined parts. One part shows the glasses and containers of ancient cultures in a chronological order and the other part shows the flasks of the industrialised perfumery. If you can't visit the museum you can check out the website. There is a lot of information and you can do a "mini visit".

Museu del Perfum Mon-Fri: 9:30-20:30h Sat: 10-20:30h Sun: - Website

5. Chocolate Museum (Museu de la Xocolata)

This museum is definitely something for people with a sweet tooth. It is located very centrally in the Borne inside the former Sant Agustí monastery. It shows the history of chocolate in Europe and how it found its way to us. The Chocolate Museum is one of the smaller museums in Barcelona but also has one of the most fascinating exhibitions. The smell of chocolate is always with you and you also get a piece of chocolate at the entrance. If you want to have more chocolate you can buy it in the shop at the entrance of the museum. The "museu de la xocolata" offers a wide range of activities and workshops for children and adults. It is all about tasting and learning about chocolate!

Museu de la Xocolata Mon-Sat: 10-19h Sun: 10-15h Website

4. Erotic Museum (Museu Eròtic de Barcelona)

The Erotic Museum of Barcelona is really famous. It was opened in 1997 and is now one of the best known museums in Barcelona. It is situated at La Rambla, opposite La Boqueria, which is known as one of the best markets in Europe. The exhibition contains about 800 pieces and offers a fascinating tour through the history of eroticism. You can learn something about sexual records, sexuality in different cultures or discover the private erotic video collection of King Alfonso XIII. You may think that this museum is kind of dirty and filthy but in fact it is really informative and impressive. The museum is privately owned and run which means that the tickets aren't that cheap. As an adult you have to pay 9€. If you want to have an audio guide or book a guided tour through the museum you have to pay more. But it is definitely worth it! You can check out the website for more information.

Museu Eròtic de Barcelona Mon-Sun: 10-23:30h Website

3. Magic Museum (El Rei de la Magia)

If you like the power of magic you have to visit the "Magician King - El Rei de la Magia". You can find him in the Borne district. You can't miss the remarkable red door on Carrer Princesa. The original shop was established in 1881 and with a history of over 135 years it is one of the world's oldest shops and museums specialising in magic. The shop and the museum are divided. The museum is situated in Carrer Jonqueres just a few steps away from the original shop. The exhibition is small but it shows the history of magicians with old books, outfits and tools of magicians from earlier eras. There is also a original costume of Joaquim Partagas who is the founder of the museum. If you visit the museum you can also buy tickets for magic shows. The Magician King also offers workshops for both kids and adults.

El Rei de la Magia Wed-Fri: 16-20h Sat-Sun: 11-14h, 16-20h Website

2. Hash, Marijuana & Hemp Museum

This museum is quite a... let's say, relaxed one. Yes you heard it right. It is about hash, marihuana, hemp, weed, dope, green, maryjane or whatever you want to call it. The exhibition is displayed in the Palau Mornau which is a wonderful building in the heart of the Gothic quarter. The director of the museum, Ben Dronkers, found the building in really bad shape. Accompanied by the local architect Jordi Romeu he restored the Palau Mornau. In 2012 the restoration was finished and the muesum opened on the 11th of may. There is another location of the museum in Amsterdam and and together they count over 2 million visitors. The exhibition is about cannabis, how it was used in different cultures and the inspiring effect of consuming. It is really one of the most Unusual Museums in Barcelona.

Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum Mon-Sun: 10-22h Website

1. Museum of Funeral Carriages (Museu de Carrosses Fúnebres)

This museum is a really special one which you should definitively visit. It is located at the Montjuic Cemetery. The exhibition is the only public one in Europe which contains a large collection of funeral carriages. It was set up in 1970 and to be honest it seems like a creepy idea for a museum but as soon as you enter you will like it. You can admire 13 carriages and 6 coaches which were used to transfer the relatives to the church and cemetery. All of these vehicles are beautifully decorated and look very historic. There are also 3 motor hearses which complete the collection. There are boards next to every hearse which give you information about the era and the function. The whole exhibition is really interactive and augmented reality is used to make the experience more lifelike. You can combine your stay at the museum with a visit at the funeral library. This is one of the most important ones in Europe and it contains over 3600 publications over funeral customs.

Museu de Carrosses Fúnebres Sat-Sun: 10-14h Website

What do you think? Have you seen other Unusual Museums in Barcelona? Let us know in the comments! - Daniel