Seasonal Rentals vs. Tourist Rentals in Spain: Differences and Regulations
Seasonal and tourist rentals are contractual leasing modalities that, despite sharing similarities, are subject to different regulations in Spain.
Seasonal and tourist rentals are contractual leasing modalities that, despite sharing similarities, are subject to different regulations in Spain.
Contractual breach in real estate sales in Spain can occur during the pre-contractual phase due to non-compliance with the conditions and circumstances of the property or due to the delivery of a property that does not conform to the agreed terms.
In real estate transactions in Spain, the legal consideration of hidden defects is crucial to protect buyers and preserve market integrity. These defects, not visible to the naked eye, raise legal questions about the rights and obligations of buyers and sellers.
In Spain, shared ownership of real estate can pose challenges due to diverging interests among co-owners. The Spanish Civil Code provides solutions in Article 400 et seq. for these situations.
The LAU does not impose restrictions on additional guarantees in commercial leases in Spain, thus allowing the parties to negotiate the terms on a personalized basis.
In Spain, it is usual to sign an earnest money contract or “contrato de arras” as part of any real estate transaction. The figure of the arras or depostis, confirmatory, penal and penitential give legal security to the deal and reflect different levels of commitment.
The operation of holiday tourist rentals in Spain requires careful consideration of the existing restrictions. Public authorities, especially the Autonomous Communities and Town councils, and the communities of owners can impose obligations, limitations and prohibitions on these activities.
Although ownership has traditionally been the predominant form of housing tenure in Spain, the demand for rental accommodation is rapidly growing, giving rise to new models of rental property investment. Build to rent, rent to rent, coliving, and senior living are clear examples.
In Spain, commercial leases are not subject to strict regulations like residential leases, and it leaves a central role to the parties’ will when formalizing the corresponding contracts. However, the LAU contemplates some specific provisions worth considering.
On 25 May, Law 12/2023 was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE), introducing significant changes to the housing sector in Spain. Highlights include the removal of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for annual rent reviews, rent control in stressed areas and modifications to eviction and foreclosure procedures, among others.