The Government is trying to change the Urban Leasing Law (LAU) regarding seasonal rentals so that they justify the reason why they opt for this type of contract and implement the Single Digital Rental Window.
The regulation aims to provide legal certainty to traditional rentals to curb the growing transfer to temporary rentals for months. Seasonal rentals are increasing exponentially since, currently, they have more profitability than long-term rentals.
Experts consulted by Idealista.com point out that there are much more effective measures to improve the situation and emphasize that the Government needs to increase the legal certainty of the owner against the tenant, but they also point out that depending on how it is done, it could reduce the general supply of rental apartments.
Most experts believe that the main problem is the shortage of housing for both buying and renting. They advocate for offering tax incentives to owners either with deductions or with property tax reductions.
They also believe that the construction of affordable housing should be increased through construction subsidies and through public-private cooperation.
On the other hand, they defend a better regulation of rentals and some are even in favor of price controls in cases of excessive speculation.
Empty homes are also part of the discussion. There is talk of incentives to rehabilitate and even taxes or penalties for owners of those homes that have been unoccupied for long periods of time.
Increasing the supply of public housing as well as restructuring existing ones so that they are in good condition is also among the main measures proposed.
Some experts also highlight the importance of facilitating financing for housing developers with low-interest loans or supporting the construction of housing only for rent.
Making urban planning regulations more flexible so that construction can take place in more areas and the conversion of offices and shops is also among the most discussed measures among experts.
Another proposed route is to promote new rental models with guaranteed income for owners and stability for tenants.
