The number of vertical property blocks owned by real estate giants in the Antiga Esquerra and Nova Esquerra de l’Eixample has increased by 28 units over the past twelve months. The study also identified 867 vertical property buildings with a single owner that are at risk of being acquired by these funds to convert them into co-living spaces or seasonal rentals.
“"In this study, things have names and surnames. This affects people with a decent salary and stable job; imagine what happens to those who are unemployed."
Neighborhood spokesperson, Xavier Riu, emphasized that these 867 blocks are a "tempting" financial asset for investors, as they allow them to purchase entire buildings. Riu noted that over 47% of the area's residents are renters, a dynamic dating back to the neighborhood's origins when builders often retained ownership of the properties.
“"This report confirms that the housing system is not designed for living but for making a profit. More and more people have to leave the place where they have lived all their lives, and the culprit is not the small or large owner; this is a structural problem."
The report presentation, held in front of the Papallona Block —a symbol of tenant resistance—, included participation from the Tenants Union (Sindicat de Llogateres) and the SHSC. Spokespersons criticized the administrations for failing to apply the sanctioning regime and for not enforcing the 30% affordable housing rule in any of the 68 identified properties.
“"There are thousands of people who cannot wait any longer. The owners know that we will be a thorn in their side."
