The city of Barcelona is under a strict rent cap (Ley de Vivienda 2023). For investors that means capped rents, higher letting risk and weaker returns. The Costa Brava (Girona province) is exempt — you can let at market rates, both long-term and to tourists (with a municipal HUTG licence).
Best locations
Lloret de Mar, Tossa, Begur
Lloret de Mar — an established resort with good rental demand. Tossa de Mar — historic character, premium segment. Begur and Cadaqués — exclusive, with high value stability. L'Estartit — marina setting, an insider tip. The city of Girona — cultural, lettable year-round.
Loan-to-value & terms
Up to 70% LTV
As everywhere in Spain: up to 70% loan-to-value for non-residents, 30% equity plus 10–13% purchase costs (ITP, notary, land registry, NIE). A Spanish mortgage with a fixed, variable or mixed rate — term up to 25 years.
Market
More stable returns than Barcelona
Rents freely negotiable. Tourist letting possible with a municipal HUTG licence. Seasonality more even than on the Costa del Sol.
Buyer groups
Germans & Dutch growing
After Mallorca, the Costa Brava is the second most important market for Dutch buyers in Spain. I advise both language groups.
Access
2 airports, 1 motorway
Girona-Costa Brava (GRO) and Barcelona-El Prat (BCN). The AP-7 connects the whole coast. A day trip from Germany is possible.
Tax
IRNR & wealth tax Catalonia
19% rental income tax (IRNR) for EU residents, with deductible mortgage interest. Wealth tax from approx. €500,000 of property (as of 2026, to be clarified with a tax adviser).