Housing Market: New Rules, Old Problems
In November 2025, it was two years since Isabel Rodríguez took office as Minister of Housing Policy. During this period, housing affordability for Spaniards has become one of the most pressing issues. Young people and families are unable to buy or rent a home, and prices continue to rise despite all government efforts to stabilize the situation.
According to the latest data, the price per square meter on the secondary market has increased by a quarter, with record growth seen in Madrid and Barcelona. At the same time, the supply of homes for sale and rent has noticeably decreased, especially in major cities. As a result, families now have to spend a quarter of their income to buy an apartment, and in some regions, even more than a third.
Impact of New Laws and the Market’s Response
The introduction of new measures, including the right-to-housing law, has not delivered the expected results. Experts note that after tighter regulations were implemented, the supply of rental properties dropped sharply, and competition for the remaining apartments is at its peak. In Madrid and Barcelona, a single listing attracts dozens of potential tenants, and rental prices have jumped by almost a third.
Authorities tried to contain price growth through rent control and restrictions on property owners, but this had the opposite effect. Landlords became less willing to rent out apartments due to concerns about legal risks and reduced profitability. As a result, many tenants have been forced to look for rooms in shared apartments, where prices are also continuing to rise.
Government initiatives and construction statistics
The government actively touts the construction of new social housing, but its share in the market remains minimal. Most new units are built by private companies, while state projects often stall due to disagreements between the regions and the central government. In Madrid, despite tensions with central authorities, the pace of protected housing construction is the highest in the country.
Attempts to limit real estate purchases by foreigners and the abolition of ‘golden visas’ have not had a noticeable impact on the market. At the same time, new initiatives to regulate tourist and seasonal rentals have yet to increase supply for permanent residents.
Mistakes, scandals, and prospects
In just two years, the ministry has not avoided high-profile failures. A failed advertising campaign and a non-functioning housing advice hotline have drawn criticism even from government allies. Public approval ratings for the minister remain low, and experts point to a lack of real improvements.
In the coming years, the situation is unlikely to change: prices keep rising, and affordable housing is becoming increasingly scarce. Spaniards are looking for real solutions, not more promises, to finally find a place to call home.
