It's not a rational decision. Not at first.
Most foreigners who end up buying a "masía" (Catalan farmhouse) in Catalonia didn't plan it.
It begins with a getaway to La Garrotxa, a walk along country roads, or a conversation in a village bar.
And then something awakens.
A vague idea transforms into a concrete desire:
"I want this. I want to live here."
They can't explain it. But they feel it. And that's enough to start looking for masías for sale online or sending a message to Buscomasia.
And once they do... there's no turning back. Because when you see a masía for real, you can't "unsee" it.
It's not just ancient stone or beamed ceilings.
It's a type of space not found elsewhere.
We're talking about houses surrounded by their own land, dirt roads, abandoned chicken coops, convertible barns.
Some have centuries of history. Others, infinite possibilities.
Real examples?
This renovated masía in Sant Iscle with an orchard and fireplace. Or this estate in La Garrotxa perfect for creating a rural business.
A masía is not just a dwelling. It's a blank canvas with character.
It's not a trend or a whim. Those who do it, do it for something very specific.
Here are the most common reasons among foreign buyers:
1. Authenticity.
They want to escape the noise, the marketing, the "curated" lives for social media. They seek air. Earth. People who say what they think.
2. Creative freedom.
Many have projects in mind: yoga retreats, rural guesthouses, regenerative gardens, pottery workshops, or organic vineyards.
3. Real time.
They don't want more speed; they want more presence. Waking up to birdsong. Chopping wood. Slow cooking.
They're not hippies. They're not bored millionaires.
They are very different profiles... but they all have one thing in common: they're fed up with the old way.
Like Alice, a graphic designer from London, who now grows lavender and sells essential oils at local fairs.
Or Björn, from Germany, who converted his masía into a bed & breakfast with views of Montseny.
None of them knew at first that they would end up here.
If you're also starting to consider it, this guide for foreigners buying in Catalonia is for you.
Many start by searching "rural house in Catalonia" on Google.
But that's like saying "I want a car" without knowing if you need a 4x4 or an electric car.
Here are three steps to get started right:
1. Define your lifestyle.
Do you want total tranquility or connection with a nearby village? Agricultural projects or just relaxation?
2. Look at specific locations.
Areas like Ripollès, La Garrotxa, or Pla de l’Estany have very different profiles.
3. Talk to someone who knows the area.
Don't decide based on photos alone. Orientation, access, or regulations can change everything.
Buying a masía can be wonderful... or a very expensive mistake.
These are the three most common mistakes (and how to avoid them):
1. Falling in love before verifying.
A beautiful facade can hide a structure that costs €200,000 to repair. Always request a technical inspection before closing a deal.
2. Underestimating hidden costs.
Renovations, wells, access, permits. Here's a detailed guide to purchase and sale expenses.
3. Choosing a masía that doesn't fit your daily life.
If you need fast internet or a nearby school, make sure they are available.
There's no formula, but there are patterns.
At first, everything is new: sounds, rhythms, rituals.
Then comes the calm. And then, something even more interesting:
creativity.
People start creating.
Not just orchards or fireplaces. Life projects. Online stores, rural brands, books, bakeries.
And yes, there are days of mud. Of leaks. Of cold.
But there's also something that cannot be bought: the certainty that you have chosen the place where you want to be.
You don't need to have all the answers. Just clarity on one:
Do you want a real change?
If the answer is yes, here are 3 ways to move forward:
And if you're still unsure, save this article. Read it again in a week.
If you're still thinking about it... you know what that means.
Find your farmhouse, country house, town house or rustic farm.