The real estate market in Catalonia has started 2025 with a series of legal reforms that are set to reshape the rules of property purchase, investment, and rental.

With the implementation of Decree Law 2/2025 and Decree Law 5/2025, property owners, large landlords, and investors must now adapt to new obligations, tax thresholds, and administrative procedures.

At Bcn Advisors, experts in luxury real estate in Barcelona, we want to guide you through the key aspects of these new regulations so you can make informed and secure decisions.

New ITP Tax Brackets Starting in June

Decree Law 5/2025, published on March 27, introduces a new tiered structure for the Property Transfer Tax (ITP) applicable to property purchases in Catalonia. These brackets will come into effect on June 27 2025:

• Up to €600,000 → 10%
• Between €600,001 and €900,000 → 11%
• Between €900,001 and €1,500,000 → 12%
• Over €1,500,001 → 13%

Importantly, a 20% tax rate will apply to any purchase made by a large property holder. This represents a significant increase from previous years and acts as a strong fiscal deterrent for large-scale investors.

End of the ITP Discount for Real Estate Companies

As of March 27, the 70% ITP reduction for real estate companies—previously available for the purchase of properties intended for resale within a defined period—has been eliminated. This measure, previously stated in Article 641-8 of the Tax Code, has been abolished to level the playing field among different types of buyers.

New Requirement for Tourist and Seasonal Rentals

A new nationwide regulation has been introduced: Royal Decree 1312/2024, published in late 2024, which governs the Digital One-Stop Shop for Rentals. This law will become mandatory across Spain starting July 1, 2025.

What does it mean?

– A registration number will be required for all tourist accommodations (HUTs) and seasonal rentals (longer than 31 days) if advertised on platforms like Idealista, Airbnb, or Booking.

– Platforms will be required to: verify that listings include the registration number and remove or disable any listing associated with a registration number that has been suspended or revoked within 48 hours of notice.

Despite legal appeals underway, these do not delay enforcement. All owners or managers of short-term rental properties must obtain a registration number before July 1 2025.

Expanded Large Landlord Register

One of the most impactful elements of Decree Law 2/2025, in force since February 27, is the expansion of the Large Landlord Register. From that date, registration is required for:

– Individuals or legal entities owning more than 10 residential properties across Catalonia.

– Owners with more than 1,500 m² of residential built area (excluding garages and storage units).

– In officially declared high-demand residential zones, the threshold drops to 5 residential units or the same 1,500 m².

The aim is to monitor property concentration among large holders and provide the Catalan government with tools for greater market intervention.

What happens if you don’t register?

While the regulation that defines the registration process is still under development, owners must already notify the Catalan Housing Agency once they meet the criteria for large landlords. No penalties have yet been published, but they are expected in the final regulation, which is currently being drafted.

There are complex cases—like co-ownership, unrelated companies with dispersed properties, or non-subdivided buildings—that may require legal interpretation and expert guidance.

Generalitat Expands Its Right of First Refusal

Another key aspect of Decree Law 2/2025 is the expansion of the Generalitat’s pre-emptive purchasing rights. The administration may now acquire properties under the same conditions as a private buyer when it sees the purchase as strategic for housing access.

This now applies to:

1. Sales of any property owned by a large landlord in high-demand areas, unless it is newly built and sold to a private individual for personal use.

2. Properties awarded via judicial or administrative auction.

Homes acquired under this mechanism must be permanently designated as protected housing (VPO), meaning they will be subject to specific price and occupancy conditions.

This policy has major implications for funds, developers, and large property owners in high-demand areas like Barcelona and its metropolitan region.

What Do These Changes Mean for Buyers, Owners, and Investors?

These legal reforms reflect a clear intent to increase market regulation and curb speculative practices, especially by large landlords. However, they also bring increased complexity in both legal and tax matters, posing a real challenge for both individuals and industry professionals.

Trust Bcn Advisors to Help You Navigate This New Landscape

In such a dynamic and regulated environment, having a team of experts on your side can make all the difference. At Bcn Advisors, we’re by your side throughout every step of the real estate process—from buying and selling to rentals and regulatory compliance. Have questions about how these regulations affect you? Contact us today for a personalized consultation based on your profile and goals.