Debating new restrictions in the real estate market
In Barcelona, Minister for Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and the 2030 Agenda, Pablo Bustinduy, has proposed banning the purchase of residential property for the purpose of resale or quick profit. He believes such transactions negatively impact housing availability for ordinary citizens and young families, while also driving up market prices.
City and parliamentary initiatives
During a meeting with representatives of the political movements Comuns and BComú, who are actively promoting similar initiatives in the Catalan Parliament and the Barcelona City Council, the minister highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach. He stressed that these measures should be implemented not just locally, but also on a national scale, involving the Congress of Deputies and the national government. According to him, buying property should be aimed at either one’s own residence or renting it out at affordable rates, in line with established indexes.
Housing market situation analysis
Bustinuy pointed out that a significant share of real estate purchases in Spain are made without mortgage loans. According to his estimates, six out of ten properties are bought with cash. The minister believes this reflects a high level of speculative activity. He argues that such transactions are not motivated by the real needs of families or young people, but are predominantly carried out by investors seeking quick profits.
The problem of property concentration and government measures
The minister noted that speculation in the housing market is not just an individual choice, but a consequence of the current market system, which leads to the concentration of housing stock in the hands of a limited group. He stressed that simply discussing the problem and supporting civil society is no longer enough—it is time for decisive action at all levels of government.
Additional measures to regulate the rental market
Within the Sumar government coalition, proposals include extending lease durations, freezing rent prices, and restricting the accumulation of large numbers of properties by individuals or companies. There is also discussion on introducing a direct ban on speculative purchases to prevent further deterioration of the market situation.
Consumer language rights and new legislation
During the discussion in Congress, the issue of supporting a law on customer service was also raised. The new regulation will require large companies to provide service in Catalan, Galician, and Basque in their respective autonomous communities. The minister expressed confidence that this law will be an important step in protecting consumer rights and will change the approach to customer service in Spain.
Prospects for the adoption of new regulations
Bustinduy expressed hope that, despite political differences, the interests of the majority of citizens will be taken into account, and the new measures will make the housing market fairer and more accessible. The initiatives are expected to be considered soon in parliament and at the government level.
