Complete Guide to Property Management Services in Barcelona

Trust-based property management is a key solution for asset owners who wish to preserve and grow the value of their property without being involved in daily operations. This is especially relevant for international investors, non-residents, and owners of hotels, apartments, commercial premises, or secondary real estate.

In this guide, we explain how property management works in Spain, the standards we follow at GG Real Estate Barcelona, the key steps of the process, and what to consider when choosing a management company.

What is Property Management?

Trust-based property management (gestión patrimonial o administración de fincas en régimen de gestión delegada) is the transfer of property operations to a professional company under an official agreement, with the aim of:

• Generating regular rental income
• Maintaining the property in sound technical and legal condition
• Increasing capitalization and liquidity
• Minimizing tax and operational risks

The management company acts on behalf of the owner but always in the owner’s interest. It must comply with Spanish legislation, including the Spanish Civil Code, tenant protection laws, and local tax regulations.

Property Management Process with GG Real Estate Barcelona

Initial request from the owner

The process begins with a detailed form or briefing in which the owner specifies:

• Type of property: apartment, villa, office, restaurant, hotel, etc.
• Location
• Management goals: rental, preservation, renovation, sale
• Specific preferences (e.g., corporate tenants only, long-term leases)

We help clarify objectives, prepare an income forecast, and propose an optimal management strategy.

Property inspection and owner consultation

This stage includes a site visit and assessment of:

• Technical condition
• Legal documentation
• Rental and investment potential
• Need for renovation or modernization
• Current expenses and potential market return

We also discuss the management model: the owner's desired level of involvement, delegated tasks, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Signing the property management agreement

The official contract includes:

• Management powers (e.g., signing leases, ordering services)
• Scope of services: rental, maintenance, cleaning, reporting
• Compensation (fixed, percentage-based, or hybrid)
• Liability clauses for loss or legal noncompliance
• Insurance coverage and responsible party
• Contract duration, termination terms
• Force majeure protocol (pandemics, economic crisis, etc.)

The contract can be registered in the Property Registry if required.

What Does Property Management Include?

Administrative management

• Tenant acquisition (long-term and short-term)
• Marketing, advertising, professional photography
• Lease signing and oversight
• Income and expense management
• Reputation management and review response (especially for tourist properties)
• Access control to platforms (Booking, Airbnb, CRM systems)
• Check-in, tenant communication, conflict resolution
• Bill payments, taxes, utilities
• Representation of the owner before HOAs, city hall, and tax authorities

Technical maintenance

• Inspections, photo documentation, inventory
• Preventive and urgent repairs
• Monitoring of engineering systems and equipment
• Safety and hygiene compliance
• Fire safety, elevator inspections, ventilation systems, etc.

Financial and legal support

• Monthly or quarterly reports on all operations
• Occupancy, profitability, and ADR (average daily rate) reports
• Filing of tax returns, including IRNR (non-resident tax)
• Pricing control and discount strategies
• Approval of major expenses
• Legal support in contracts, disputes, and property transactions
• Guidance on property sales or changes in legal ownership

Regional Considerations in Catalonia

Catalonia has specific legal and regulatory features:

• All long-term rental contracts must be registered with INCASÒL
• Rental price caps are regulated under Law 11/2020 (especially in Barcelona)
• Energy efficiency certification (CEE) is mandatory
• Short-term rental restrictions apply in high-demand areas
• Tax reporting obligations apply to both residents and foreign investors

Our team closely monitors legal changes and informs property owners in advance.

Who Can Benefit from Property Management?

• Foreign owners living outside Spain
• Owners of multiple properties who prefer professional oversight
• Investors focused on commercial property rentals
• Owners of aparthotels and hostels seeking to delegate operations to experts

We tailor our management model based on the property type, client profile, and goals.

Compensation and Transparency

GG Real Estate Barcelona follows a clear and transparent pricing policy:

• 10% of rental income – for residential properties
• Up to 20% – for tourist rentals (due to higher turnover and operational complexity)
• Fixed fee – for commercial properties (€500–1,500/month depending on complexity)

All fees and terms are outlined in the management agreement. We provide full financial reporting with no hidden charges.

Conclusion

Trust-based property management with GG Real Estate Barcelona offers a professional and strategic approach that ensures:

• Steady income
• Preservation and appreciation of property value
• Minimal owner involvement in day-to-day operations
• Legal security, full transparency, and operational flexibility

We take full responsibility for all operational and legal aspects so you can focus on your goals — whether you're in Barcelona or anywhere else in the world.

GG Real Estate Barcelona — Your Partner in Property Management

Handing over your property to a management company is a step toward stability, freedom, and capital growth. Our team at GG Real Estate Barcelona handles everything: from the initial assessment and contract signing to daily supervision, reporting, and transaction support.

Contact us to receive a personalized consultation, discuss your management strategy, and learn how we can help you protect and grow the value of your property in Barcelona and Catalonia.