Catalan Government and Comuns Reach Budget Deal to Curb Housing Speculation

The 2026 budget agreement includes a ban on large landlords buying property in high-demand areas.

Generic image of the facade of the Palau de la Generalitat in Barcelona.
IA

Generic image of the facade of the Palau de la Generalitat in Barcelona.

President Salvador Illa and Comuns leader Jéssica Albiach are set to sign the 2026 Budget agreement this Thursday at the Palau de la Generalitat, focusing on housing rights.

The deal introduces a legislative mandate to prohibit large property owners —those holding five or more houses— from purchasing additional real estate in 'stressed' market zones unless they are used for rent-controlled housing. This measure aims to tackle the housing crisis in cities like Barcelona.
The budget also allocates 100 million euros for school meal grants and another 100 million euros for rent subsidies targeting families earning up to 36,200 euros annually. A new 25-euro voucher for menstrual products and condoms will also be available for citizens aged 12 to 25.
While the Government secures Comuns' support, negotiations with ERC continue to ensure the full approval of the accounts by the first quarter of 2026.