The Community of Madrid’s decision to buy a high-end penthouse in Chamberí for Isabel Díaz Ayuso’s temporary office has sparked a fierce political row. Planifica Madrid, a public company attached to the regional Presidency department, paid €6.3 million for the property in April 2026; the transaction was formalized in a deed dated 14 April. The ninth-floor residence at Paseo del General Martínez Campos, 35, was described in the initial account as spanning 485 square metres, with a 199-square-metre terrace. Later reports citing cadastral information put the total at 481 square metres, including 382 square metres of dwelling space and 99 square metres classified as common elements.
Óscar López, Spain’s Minister for Digital Change and Secretary General of the PSOE in Madrid, sharply criticised the purchase, noting that public funds have been used for luxury real estate before. He cited the 2023 purchase of a chalet in Rascafría for €4.3 million, which, as reported by EL PAÍS, was also used by Ayuso and her family. López questioned the regional government’s priorities, pointing to cuts in fire prevention spending while millions go to exclusive properties. He called for immediate clarification during a live interview on La Hora de la 1 on RTVE.
Transport Minister Óscar Puente echoed the criticism, posting a blunt message on social media and accusing Ayuso of mocking the public with such spending. The controversy has also drawn in Más Madrid, whose parliamentary spokesperson, Manuela Bergerot, denounced what she called Ayuso’s “third penthouse in Chamberí.” Bergerot said that, unlike previous cases involving private healthcare group Quirón, taxpayers are paying for this purchase, including the expansive terrace intended for official receptions. She also referred to financial links between Ayuso’s partner and Quirón, citing a recent tax report that found €4.4 million in payments over three years.
The regional government initially said the property would give Ayuso a workspace during renovation work at the Real Casa de Correos, the seat of Madrid’s executive. Construction was scheduled to begin in August. Officials have since broadened the proposed institutional use to include a multipurpose space or residence. They have not confirmed whether the penthouse will ultimately serve as Ayuso’s office, leaving its future use uncertain. Rita Maestre, Más Madrid’s municipal spokesperson, said that at least the funding source is clear, but called on the government to disclose the exact cost.
After the acquisition became public, the property went on the market. The first sale process attracted no bids, and a second also ended without an offer. Planifica Madrid then opened an indefinite public-sale process, under which the property will remain available until it is awarded or the entity withdraws the offer. The stated asking price is €6,694,201, above the €6.3 million purchase price, before transaction expenses and taxes, along with maintenance and other holding costs. No completed sale has been reported.
The acquisition has also drawn institutional scrutiny. The Community of Madrid has asked Spain’s Tribunal de Cuentas to archive proceedings examining the purchase, arguing that it complied fully with the law. That request reflects the regional government’s position; it is not a final ruling by the audit court. Público has reported on the administration’s filing.
The Community of Madrid’s real estate decisions have faced scrutiny before. Earlier this year, a previous report detailed the Chamberí penthouse purchase, raising questions about transparency and budgetary oversight. The acquisition of high-value properties for official use continues to fuel debate over public spending priorities in the region.
The Real Casa de Correos is the historic headquarters of the Madrid regional government. Its renovation is expected to disrupt normal operations for several months. Chamberí, known for its exclusivity and high property values, has become a focal point in the dispute over public funds for government officials’ accommodation. Opposition demands for transparency and accountability reflect broader concerns about fiscal management and how Madrid’s administration allocates resources.
