Buying apartments to renovate in Barcelona, is it a good option?
Buying an apartment to renovate in Barcelona has become a popular alternative due to the city’s high housing prices. This option allows buyers to access more affordable properties, which can then be transformed into personalized homes. At OAK , we’ll tell you about the advantages of buying a property to renovate in Barcelona and showcase some of the complete renovations we’ve carried out.
Which is cheaper, building or renovating?
Renovating is usually cheaper than building from scratch . This is because building a new home involves not only the cost of materials and labor, but also acquiring the land, obtaining building permits, and other related expenses.
On the other hand, buying an apartment to renovate in Barcelona can be cheaper, since the land has already been acquired and only the renovation work is needed.
Advantages of buying apartments to renovate in Barcelona
Buying a flat to renovate in Barcelona has several advantages:
Increase in property value
A well-executed renovation can significantly increase a property’s value . This is because it not only improves the aesthetics but also the functionality, layout, and efficiency of the home. If you decide to sell in the future, you could obtain a good return on your investment, as a renovated apartment is much more attractive on the market.
More affordable price
Buying an older or run-down apartment in Barcelona is generally cheaper than buying a new one . This allows you to access areas of the city that would otherwise be inaccessible on a limited budget. Although you’ll need to invest in renovations, the lower initial price offsets the cost of the refurbishment.
Possibility of choosing location
You have the option of choosing a location in Barcelona that might otherwise be out of your reach. Apartments in popular or central neighborhoods can be more affordable if they need renovation, giving you the chance to live in a prime area at a lower price than a newly built property.
Full customization
When renovating an apartment or house, you have the freedom to completely personalize it. From the layout of the spaces to the choice of materials and finishes , you can adapt the property to your tastes and needs. In this way, you can create a home that reflects your personality and is comfortable for you.
Improved energy efficiency
A complete renovation offers improved energy efficiency for your home. You can install solutions such as double-glazed windows, thermal insulation, or more efficient appliances. These improvements, in addition to reducing energy consumption , enhance sustainability and lower long-term costs .
Examples of comprehensive renovations in Barcelona
Below are some of the outstanding comprehensive renovations that OAK has carried out in Barcelona:
Sant Gervasi Comprehensive Renovation
This comprehensive renovation in Sant Gervasi involved a 350 m² apartment located on Passeig de Sant Gervasi and lasted 10 months. The work carried out on the apartment involved restructuring the existing space by creating a continuous and unifying corridor around the entrance core.
Complete renovation in Balmes – Family Apartment
This comprehensive renovation in Balmes involved a family home with 112 m² of living space and a 55 m² wraparound terrace (176 m² in total) and took 11 months to complete. The property was completely renovated for a family of five, with all rooms facing outwards.

Comprehensive Renovation in Ronda Sant Antoni
This comprehensive renovation on Ronda de Sant Antoni, located in a century-old 120 m² building, took eight months to complete. The interior space was opened up, from the central entrance towards the Ronda façade.

At OAK, we help you make the best decision
At OAK, we have the experience, technical team, and tools to bring your project to life. We are committed to efficient, sustainable solutions tailored to your lifestyle.
Contact us and we’ll help you explore all your options clearly and without surprises. You can also find out how to calculate a realistic renovation budget in Barcelona to make a better decision from the start.