New initiative for the housing market
The authorities of Asturias have decided to encourage the use of vacant privately owned apartments. To this end, the Alquilámoste project has been approved, which allows such properties to be transferred to the regional administration for a set period. The process will be managed by the state company Vipasa, which specializes in real estate.
Conditions for owners and tenants
According to the terms of the program, owners can transfer their unused apartments to the region’s management for up to seven years and four months. During this period, they are guaranteed a fixed monthly payment, providing a stable income. In return, the apartments will be rented out at reduced rates, making them more affordable for people with lower incomes. Additionally, owners will be able to benefit from existing tax breaks.
Guarantees and support
When the agreement period ends, the apartments will be returned to their owners in the same condition, except for normal wear and tear. If any damage occurs during the rental period, it will be repaired by the administration. According to regional authorities, this approach should ease property owners’ concerns and encourage them to participate in the program.
Impact on the market and statistics
Alquilámoste is focused on supporting families and individuals struggling to find housing. The rent for new tenants will be at least 10% lower than the amount the region pays to the property owner. This will help more people find a suitable option on the market.
Vipasa will handle not only the selection of apartments but also the processing of all necessary contracts and ongoing property management. Strategic oversight of the program will remain with the relevant regional government department.
The problem of vacant apartments in the region
According to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), there are more than 100,000 vacant apartments in Asturias. The highest concentration is in Gijón, where there are over 8,000 such properties, making up more than 5% of all residential units in the city. Countrywide, the largest share of vacant apartments is found in small towns with populations of up to 10,000, which account for almost half of the total stock. In large cities with more than 250,000 residents, this figure does not exceed 11%.
Regional authorities expect the new program to not only improve housing affordability, but also revitalize the rental market and reduce social tensions caused by the shortage of available apartments.
