Real estate market: soaring prices and housing shortage
In recent months, the issue of housing affordability in Spain has taken center stage for most of the population. According to recent surveys, this problem worries Spaniards more than political or economic challenges. Over the past year, anxiety over housing has doubled, and both rental and property prices continue to surge.
In large cities like Madrid and Barcelona, rental prices have reached 20 euros per square meter. This means that a significant portion of income is spent on housing, leaving little for other needs. The situation is worsened by a shortage of supply: experts estimate that the country is short by 400,000 to 700,000 apartments and houses to meet demand.
Alternative solutions: motorhomes and mobility
As conventional housing becomes unaffordable for many, Spaniards are increasingly considering alternative options. Some opt for modular homes, while others move into motorhomes. This lifestyle not only saves money but also enables mobility, which is crucial for those who frequently change jobs or want to avoid long commutes.
A good example is the teacher Antonio Doménech, who has been living for several years in a camper van with just 7 square meters of space. After graduating from university and getting a job through assignment, he realized that frequent relocations and high rental prices made traditional housing impractical. Living on wheels allowed him to stay closer to work and save up to four hours a day on commuting.
Safety and quality of life outside apartment walls
Despite the stereotypes, many camper van owners say they feel safe. Before choosing a place to spend the night, they carefully research the area and only park in quiet locations. In all his years on the road, Antonio hasn’t encountered any serious problems, and in summer he travels across the country without running into trouble.
Nevertheless, even those who consciously choose this lifestyle admit that finding a decent, reasonably-priced apartment has become nearly impossible. More and more Spaniards are facing a reality where even modest housing costs unjustifiably high, and the market doesn’t offer enough options.
Trends and prospects: What’s next for the housing market
While authorities discuss measures to increase supply and contain prices, more and more people are seeking their own solutions to the housing issue. Living in a camper van or modular home is becoming not just a necessity, but a new lifestyle for those who value freedom and mobility. In the coming years, this trend is likely to intensify if the real estate market situation does not change.
