Catalonia is on the verge of changes that could affect thousands of families and investors. Regional authorities are rushing to approve the budget by the end of March to avoid delays in social programs and infrastructure projects. At stake is a pressing issue for many: how to curb rising housing prices and make apartments more affordable for local residents.
The coalition led by Salvador Illa is holding intensive talks with left-wing parties to speed up the budget’s approval. The main condition for support from the Comuns party has been a temporary moratorium on speculative real estate transactions in areas with the most critical housing situations. This decision could set a precedent nationwide, as such measures have previously only been discussed at the municipal level.
Initiative details
Instead of the previously discussed tax restrictions, authorities have decided to focus on changes to urban planning legislation. The key element will be a bill proposed by Comuns that allows cities to independently introduce special rules to combat mass apartment purchases in market hotspots. According to councillor Sílvia Paneque, experts have confirmed that this approach does not contradict the Constitution, provided the restrictions apply only in certain areas and for a limited period.
The plan provides that municipalities will be able to develop their own regulatory schemes to limit bulk housing purchases for resale. Exceptions will be made for family transactions, purchasing a second apartment in another city, or acquiring entire buildings provided that rentals comply with official rates. This aims to help those who truly need housing, rather than those seeking quick profits.
Reaction and Expectations
In recent weeks, Comuns representatives expressed doubts about the government’s determination to follow through. However, after the executive council meeting, it became clear that authorities are ready to implement changes to stabilize the market. Paneke stressed that all steps would be coordinated with legal opinions and remain within the bounds of the law. Among other measures are a program to build 50,000 new apartments, temporary rent regulation, and the use of European funds to support low-income families.
The issue of housing affordability has long sparked debate in Spanish society. Rising prices and a shortage of apartments in major cities are forcing authorities to seek new solutions. Similar measures have already been introduced in other regions of the country, but such a large-scale initiative in Catalonia could set an example for all of Spain. It is important to note that authorities in other parts of the country also resort to emergency measures to address acute problems, as was the case recently when resources were mobilized to assist Andalusia after natural disasters — you can learn more about this in the article on government action in Andalusia.
Context and consequences
Work on the bill has been underway since December, and the authorities assure that all legal aspects have already been addressed. If the changes are approved, municipalities will gain more powers to independently regulate the real estate market. This could reduce speculative transactions and make housing more accessible to those who truly need it.
Introducing temporary restrictions on apartment purchases is not the only measure being discussed in Catalonia. Authorities are also considering expanding social rental programs and increasing funding for new housing construction. All of this is intended to help stabilize the market and ease pressure on low-income families.
In recent years, housing market regulations have become an increasingly frequent topic of discussion in Spain. Some regions have already implemented restrictions on renting and selling apartments, along with support programs for young families. However, large-scale initiatives like those in Catalonia are rare. Public attention to the issue remains strong, as housing affordability continues to be one of the main challenges for millions of Spaniards.
