In the real estate sector, Build-to-Rent (BTR) and coliving concepts are revolutionizing the way people find and inhabit residential and housing spaces.
Coliving stands out as a residential phenomenon that has emerged in response to the difficulties of accessing housing in large cities.
Although they may appear similar at first glance, they have fundamental differences that make them unique solutions for specific needs.
In this article we will explore both concepts, their characteristics, costs and how they are transforming the market in cities such as Valencia, Madrid and Barcelona.
Table of contents
What are BTR housing?
Build-to-Rent (BTR) homes are residential developments designed specifically to be rented rather than sold. This model is gaining popularity for its ability to offer a streamlined rental experience for both tenants and investors.
Main features of BTR
Unified ownership: The entire building is managed by a single entity, making maintenance and administration easier.
Services included: Common spaces such as gyms, coworking spaces and leisure areas are common, although not mandatory.
Community Focus: May or may not encourage interaction between residents.
Rental flexibility: Contracts adapted to different needs.
How does BTR work?
In the BTR model, real estate developers design and build buildings for the exclusive purpose of renting them out. This approach benefits both investors, by generating constant income, and tenants, who enjoy quality services and integrated communities. A BTR project can have units that can be rented in a coliving format, so BTR is a type of business model that can serve as an umbrella for different types of rentals, contracts or services.
What is coliving for young professionals?
Coliving has emerged as a solution to the increasing difficulty of accessing housing, combining private spaces with shared areas and promoting a collaborative lifestyle. It is particularly attractive to young professionals, students and digital nomads. The different ways in which coliving works highlight its adaptability depending on the city and type of organization. The word 'coliving' comes from the combination of 'co' and 'living', emphasizing the act of living in community. Although there are similarities with student residences, coliving is aimed more at young professionals.
Definition and origin of coliving
Coliving is a shared housing model that originated in Silicon Valley, United States, more than a decade ago. This innovative concept combines communal living with individual privacy, offering residents a balanced mix of common spaces and shared experiences. In a coliving environment, residents can enjoy common areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and coworking spaces, while maintaining their own private space to rest and relax.
Since its inception, coliving has gained popularity and spread to different parts of the world, including Europe. Cities such as Barcelona and Madrid have adopted this model, attracting young professionals, students and digital nomads looking for a more collaborative and connected way of life. Coliving not only offers a housing solution, but also a vibrant and dynamic community where residents can interact and grow together.
Many of the large coliving projects in Europe and the United States have been born under the BTR model, where large developers and investment funds build buildings with services included and shared areas, to exploit residential land in the form of studios or room rentals.
Features of coliving
Shared spaces: Common areas such as kitchens, living rooms and coworking spaces.
Private rooms: With private or shared bathroom. Coliving residents live together in common areas while maintaining their privacy in individual rooms. There is also the option of choosing private studios.
Social Connection: Activities to foster interaction and community.
Flexibility of stay: From short stays to long-term rentals.
Advantages of coliving for young professionals
Coliving offers numerous benefits for young professionals seeking a modern and flexible way of life. One of the key benefits is access to communal spaces and shared experiences, which encourages socialising and networking. Living in a coliving environment allows residents to meet people with similar interests and make valuable connections on both a personal and professional level.
Another significant advantage is the central location of many coliving homes, situated in the heart of cities. This facilitates access to places of work, study and leisure, saving time and improving quality of life. In addition, coliving offers great flexibility in lease contracts, allowing residents to adapt to their needs and plans without making a long-term commitment.
Included services and amenities, such as housekeeping and laundry, are also a big draw. These services make daily life easier and allow young professionals to focus on their goals and activities without worrying about household chores.
Disadvantages of coliving
While coliving has many advantages, there are also some disadvantages that potential residents should consider. One of the main disadvantages is the lack of privacy, as residents share common spaces and may have close neighbors. This proximity can be uncomfortable for those who value their personal space and quiet, but it is also an opportunity for those who do seek to make connections with others on a personal or professional level. Many love stories and lifelong friendships have emerged at Haaus® Coliving!
Another potential disadvantage is the possibility of conflicts with other residents. Living in a shared environment can lead to disagreements and tensions, especially if they are not managed properly. It is important that residents are aware of this dynamic and are willing to communicate and resolve conflicts constructively. For this reason, at Haaus® Coliving we designate the role of Community Facilitator, to mediate when necessary and help ensure a peaceful coexistence in shared apartments.
What is coliving and cohousing?
Although both models share principles of community living, they have key differences:
Coliving: Focused on integrated services, convenience and dynamic communities.
Cohousing: Self-managed communities where residents actively participate in the design and management of the space.
Key differences between BTR and coliving
Aspect | BTR | Coliving |
Property | Building managed by a company. | Individual buildings or apartments managed by a company. |
Approach | Streamlined rental experience with few included services. | Streamlined rental experience with more amenities included. Community-focused. |
Length of stay | Medium or long term rentals. | High flexibility, medium term, and even short stays in some units. |
Services | Newly built buildings, large common areas, little personalized service. | Services specific to the hotel industry, social activities and coworking. |
Coliving homes in large cities such as Valencia, Madrid and Barcelona
Major Spanish cities are leading the adoption of coliving as an innovative alternative:
Coliving housing in Valencia: Emerging city in the coliving sector. With great geographical and cultural attractions (the beach, paellas, the Fallas, the City of Arts and Sciences...). Ideal spaces for students and young professionals, with a focus on community and cultural exchange.
Coliving homes in Madrid: One of the poles of attraction for national talent. It usually attracts both a local and international public due to its geographic center with Spain, the fact that many institutions move their headquarters because it is the capital, and a good offer of leisure and academic activities. Options designed for digital nomads looking for comfort and social connection with a good quality-price ratio.
Coliving homes in Barcelona: The most attractive city in Spain for coliving: urban and wild beaches all along the Catalan coast, some of the most beautiful buildings in the world such as La Sagrada Familia, some of the best universities in the world such as IESE or ESADE, as well as having exceptional public universities such as the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Universitat de Barcelona (UB) or the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), it is also the technological hub in Spain with the largest number of startups, it has within its borders the best restaurant in the world and many other renowned restaurants with a wide gastronomic offer, you can watch Fútbol Club Barcelona (FCB) matches, and it is and has been the birthplace or host of great visual artists such as Dalí, Miró, Picasso, or more recently from the world of music such as Rosalía or Bad Gyal.
Coliving has been successfully adopted before in other places such as the United Kingdom, San Francisco or New York, influencing housing trends among young professionals around the world.
Coliving in Spain: trends and growth
Coliving in Spain is experiencing significant growth, especially in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. This housing model is consolidating itself as an attractive alternative for young professionals, students and digital nomads looking for a more flexible and communal way of life. According to experts, the coliving sector in Spain will grow exponentially in the coming years, reaching 15,000 beds in a short time.
In addition to its expansion in large cities, coliving is also beginning to spread to rural areas. This trend seeks to offer residents the tranquility and quality of life found outside of urban environments, without sacrificing the community and amenities that characterize coliving. This growth reflects the growing demand for innovative housing solutions adapted to the needs of a constantly evolving society.
How much does coliving cost?
The price of coliving varies depending on the city, location and services included:
In Valencia, costs range between €300 and €900 per month.
In Madrid, the range can be between €400 and €1,200.
In Barcelona, prices range from €500 to €1,300, depending on the facilities and the neighborhood.
Tips to improve coexistence in a coliving
To improve cohabitation in a coliving unit, it is essential to follow some guidelines that promote a harmonious and respectful environment. First of all, it is important to respect the privacy and spaces of other residents. Although common areas are shared, each person needs their own space to relax and recharge.
Effective communication is key to resolving conflicts constructively. If any disagreements arise, it is essential to approach them with empathy and a willingness to find solutions that benefit everyone. Participating in community activities and events is also a great way to encourage socializing and networking, strengthening the sense of community.
Finally, following coliving rules and regulations is crucial to maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for all residents. These rules are designed to ensure orderly and respectful coexistence, and compliance contributes to a positive and enriching coliving experience.
BTR or coliving?
Both models offer modern solutions adapted to urban lifestyles. BTR is ideal for those seeking stability and premium services, while coliving offers flexibility, community and a more collaborative experience. The options for coliving homes and BTR buildings are growing rapidly, responding to the needs of a constantly evolving society.
If you want to book a room in a coliving apartment, visit this page .
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