Access to housing has become a real headache for many, but it seems that in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula they have decided to take decisive action. The Governing Council has given the green light to a new decree law that seeks to provide relief to those trying to buy their first home, focusing especially on offer much more favorable tax conditions for young people and families with middle incomes.
The initiative goes beyond a mere declaration of intent, as the stated objective is quite ambitious: to bring some 25.000 homes to market at reasonable prices over the next five years. To ensure this flagship project doesn't remain just a pipe dream, a political consensus has been reached that introduces the concept of rootedness, requiring a minimum registration period for applicants, which ensures that aid benefits those who already have a connection to the territory.
The 4% VAT relief: more beneficiaries than ever
Until recently, only people with very tight budgets could dream of paying a super-reduced VAT rate when buying a home. With the new regulations, the maximum income threshold has been raised to 5,5 times the IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income), which in practice means that citizens earning up to 2.400 euros per month They will be able to take advantage of this 4% tax benefit. This represents a significant leap, since previously the limit was just over half, excluding a large part of the working middle class.
This reduction in the tax bill is complemented by other measures for those who prefer the second-hand market. Those under 40 will be able to enjoy a 3% tax rate on Property Transfer Tax, a figure that contrasts with the general type which is usually around 7,75%. With this savings package, the total savings when purchasing a property can amount to several thousand euros that stay in the buyer's pocket.
Less bureaucracy and more support for the sector
The construction sector has also received good news, as the decree law declares all procedures related to these developments to be urgent. The idea is to prevent developers from becoming overwhelmed with paperwork and to ensure that the waiting time for licenses It will be reduced by half. By streamlining the administrative machinery, it is expected that the machines will start working much sooner and the supply of housing will actually increase in the neighborhoods that need it most.
Furthermore, building bonuses have been introduced that are very attractive to companies. Those that commit to dedicating an entire development to subsidized housing will be able to build up to 50% more than the original urban development plan allowed. This incentive aims to making affordable projects profitable, even allowing the energy rehabilitation of homes, industrial plots or buildings that were left half-finished during the previous crisis.
More modern homes adapted to the climate
One of the most striking changes is the way square footage is measured in houses. From now on, covered terraces will not be counted as part of the built area up to a limit of 30%, prompting architects to redesign larger and more livable outdoor spacesIt's a smart way to improve the quality of life inside homes, by focusing on sustainable housing without the price skyrocketing due to traditional building restrictions.
On the other hand, the construction industry association has welcomed this step forward, although they emphasize that there is still a long way to go before the central government adopts these tax cuts across the board. Despite the political debates surrounding the final prices, which are estimated to be between €160.000 and €170.000 in some areas, the intention is adjust the pricing modules so that they reflect the current reality of material and labor costs.
This set of legislative reforms aims to mobilize available land and provide legal certainty for both investors and citizens seeking stability. By simplifying processes and improving financial conditions, it is hoped that the real estate market will regain a balance that allows new generations to become independent with confidence.
