On December 24, 2024, Spain published Royal Decree 1312/2024 to set up a Unified Registry for short-term rentals in compliance with Regulation (EU) 2024/1028.

Starting July 1, 2025, all individuals and companies offering short-term rentals (for tourism, work, study, medical treatment, etc.) are required to obtain a unique rental number to list their properties on online platforms.

• When will it be compulsory to register?

From July 1, 2025. Although the process was already enabled on January 2, 2025.

• Which accommodations are affected?

The unique rental number is required for all short-term rental accommodations, including individual rooms or vessels, but not for hotels, hostels, campsites, or caravan parks.

• How can I obtain the unique rental number for my accommodation?

The number is obtained via the Land Registry or Movable Property Registry (depending on the type of accommodation). The registration process is available online or in person, costs €27 (VAT and charges not included), and is assigned automatically upon submission.

• Do I need to meet any criteria to obtain the unique rental number?

Applications require property details, legal permits, and a declaration of adequate furnishings.

• Does this unique rental number expire at some point?

The registration number shall be valid for 12 months and may be extended if one or more leases for the accommodation are entered during that period, provided that they are of the same category and type for which the initial registration was applied for.

1. Affordable Real Estate Compared to the U.S.

Property prices in Spain, especially outside major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, are often much cheaper than in the U.S.

Coastal areas, countryside homes, and smaller cities offer great value for money.

2. Retirement & Lifestyle

Spain is a top destination for retirees due to its mild climate, lower cost of living, and high quality of life.

The Mediterranean lifestyle, excellent healthcare system, and relaxed pace of life attract many Americans.

3. Vacation Homes & Second Residences

Many Americans buy homes in Spain as holiday properties for summer vacations, especially in Costa del Sol, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Costa Blanca.

Some rent them out as short-term vacation rentals when they’re not using them.

4. Investment Opportunities

Spain’s real estate market offers good rental yields, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

Buying property and renting it out on platforms like Airbnb can be profitable, although some regions have restrictions on short-term rentals.

5. The Different Residency  Program: Golden Visa, Non Lucrative Visa.

If an American invests €500,000 or more in Spanish real estate (without financing), they can qualify for a Golden Visa, which grants residency.

This is attractive to high-net-worth individuals looking for EU access.

6. Digital Nomads & Remote Work

Spain has become popular for remote workers, especially with the new Digital Nomad Visa, which allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in Spain.

Cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Málaga have thriving expat and digital nomad communities.

7. Family & Heritage Connections

Some Americans with Spanish or European ancestry buy property to reconnect with their roots.

Others move to Spain for a better work-life balance and a safer, family-friendly environment.

Are you thinking about buying property in Spain,

Moclín, a small village near Granada in southern Spain, became the surprise star of Google Trends in the UK yesterday. The buzz followed the premiere of the third season of Amanda & Alan’s Spanish Job, the BBC’s hit home renovation series, which aired its first episode on Friday. This season, titled Spanish Job, centers around the renovation of a property located in Moclín. They have taken inspiration from the intricate Moorish design in the Alhambra Palace

The featured house had been abandoned for 35 years and belonged to two families with a total of 15 heirs. The purchase was facilitated by Rafael Guerrero, our lawyer from: www.andalucia-lawyers.com, which specializes in real estate transactions, inheritance matters, and taxation. Our services covered every step of the process, including private contracts, public deeds before a notary, obtaining foreign identification numbers, and ensuring the smooth completion of the sale for the television company.

The rising interest in Moclín, highlights a growing trend: foreign buyers are increasingly drawn to empty villages in search of charm, natural beauty, tranquility, favorable weather, affordable housing, and a peaceful environment. Additionally, incentives such as tax reductions for properties in depopulated areas further enhance the appeal of these rural locations.