Buying a house in Andorra: parishes and types of purchase

The seven parishes of Andorra and their respective average prices

In total, Andorra is made up of seven parishes, each with its own particular characteristics and costs in terms of housing. Below, we briefly describe each parish and their average selling prices:

• Andorra la Vella: It's the country's capital and known for being the commercial and financial center. Prices range from 3000€ to approximately 4500€/m².

• Escaldes-Engordany: Located north of the capital and famous for its thermal waters. Prices in this parish range from 2750€ to about 4000€/m².

• Encamp: Situated in the heart of Andorra, it's an ideal parish for outdoor activities lovers. Prices vary from 2500€ to approximately 3500€/m².

• Canillo: To the north of the country, this parish offers numerous ski resorts. Prices in Canillo range between 2250€ and about 3250€/m².

• La Massana: Ideal for expatriates as it is close to the capital and has educational, health, and sports services. Prices are around 2750€ to 4000€/m² approximately.

• Ordino: Known for its scenic beauty and recreational options. In this parish, prices range between 3000€ and approximately 4500€/m².

• Sant Julià de Lòria: Located to the south, it stands out as a peaceful place with plenty of natural routes. Its prices go from 2000€ to about 3000€/m².

These values are general estimates and can vary according to multiple factors such as the type of housing, exact location, dimensions, age, and condition, so it's wise to thoroughly investigate before settling on a specific locality.

Buying modalities in Andorra: how to purchase a house?

Next, we present the most common purchasing modalities in Andorra. It should be noted that it is always advisable to have the support and advice of local experts to guarantee a simpler and more successful transaction.

Direct acquisition

Direct acquisition involves searching, negotiating, and buying a home without the intervention of an intermediary. Although this could mean significant savings on commissions, it also implies more effort in terms of searching and contacting sellers, real estate agencies, or banks. Moreover, without the experience of a professional, you might miss the opportunity to find well-priced homes or overlook important legal aspects during the operation.

Real estate agencies

A very common option to buy a house in Andorra is to turn to a local real estate agency. With professionals knowledgeable about the Andorran market, they will facilitate the process of searching for and selecting properties according to your preferences and needs, as well as manage all the necessary documentation during the purchase. In addition, agencies have extensive product portfolios and can show you homes from individuals as well as banks and promotions.

Bank properties

In cases where owners cannot sell their homes or in situations of non-payment, there are agreements with financial institutions that take over these properties and put them on the market. Acquiring real estate through this modality is often a way to find houses at lower prices than the market rate, since many banks seek to encourage sale with financing facilities and discounts. Nevertheless, it's crucial to inform yourself about these options and consider the specific conditions before making a decision.

Shared flats

If you are looking for a more economical option, considering the acquisition of a shared flat might be useful, where several people organize to buy a property together and distribute its expenses. This modality requires clear agreements regarding financial responsibilities, maintenance, and cohabitation among the parties involved. Furthermore, it's necessary to verify local regulations regarding the multiproperty regime in Andorra.

In conclusion, buying a house in Andorra can be an excellent option if you're looking to improve your quality of life or just enjoy your holidays in a calm environment filled with natural beauty. For this, it is essential to understand the characteristics and average prices of each Andorran parish and carefully review the different purchasing modalities available. The success of the transaction will largely depend on the support and advice received by local real estate sector experts.