Lorraine Williamson
Squatting remains a pressing issue across Spain, and it is particularly affecting the luxury property market. In cities like Santiago de Compostela, high-end homes are increasingly being sold with minimal public exposure. This is due to the fear of squatters, or “okupas” as they are known locally.
The fear of squatting is prompting significant changes in how properties, especially those worth over one million euros, are marketed.
Legislation tackles squatting, but worries persist
At the end of 2024, Spain introduced an amendment to the Law on Criminal Prosecution (Lecrim), which now allows authorities to deport squatters within just 15 days. While this law offers a quicker legal remedy, concerns over property squatting continue to shape real estate practices. Many luxury property owners remain wary of attracting unwanted attention to their homes, even with the promise of a swift judicial process.
Discreet advertising in the luxury market
In response to these fears, real estate agents are opting for discreet advertising methods. Essential details, such as property addresses or exterior photos, are often withheld from listings. This not only reduces the risk of attracting squatters but also makes it harder for potential buyers to pinpoint the locations of these high-value properties. Some luxury homes are even removed from popular property websites like Idealista and Fotocasa altogether, with agents instead relying on a select list of interested buyers.
A prime example of this shift can be seen in a villa in Santiago, which is listed for €2.4 million. While agents acknowledge its luxury, they have chosen not to disclose the exact location or provide detailed photographs. The agency’s strategy is clear: avoid attracting unwanted attention and only engage directly with pre-qualified buyers.
Challenges in selling high-value homes
The impact of squatting on property sales is illustrated by the case of a villa in Teo, A Coruña. This one-million-euro home, which had already suffered from negative publicity, became uninhabitable after being squatted multiple times. Vandalism, including fire damage, rendered it unsellable, leading to further deterioration.
For many luxury home owners, this example has served as a cautionary tale. As a result, more and more high-value properties are being kept off the public radar to ensure they avoid similar fates.
Rise in home squatting cases in Spain