Understanding Socimis and their role in Spain's housing crisis

Real estate investment trusts (Socimis) are increasingly at the center of Spain's housing debate, especially as the government implements new tax measures aimed at addressing the worsening housing crisis. While many may not be familiar with Socimis, they play a significant role in the property market, and foreign investors may be most affected by upcoming changes.

In recent years, the Spanish government has sought to tackle the housing crisis through various reforms, including the Housing Law of 2023, which has drawn criticism from experts for creating additional complications. In January 2025, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced twelve measures aimed at increasing affordable housing, enhancing regulations, and providing support for those in need.

One of the most notable proposals is a 100 percent tax on property buyers from outside the EU, effectively doubling their costs for homes in Spain. Alongside initiatives to build social housing and regulate seasonal rents, the government is now focusing on Socimis to improve housing access.

The proposed changes to Socimis’ tax benefits would limit incentives to companies managing affordable rentals. Importantly, this measure will only apply to residential Socimis, excluding those investing in commercial properties.

What are Socimis?

According to Delanto Chambers, a legal and tax advisory firm, Socimis (sociedades anónimas cotizadas de inversión inmobiliaria) are publicly traded companies designed to promote long-term investment in the Spanish property market. They function similarly to real estate investment trusts (REITs) in the UK, primarily investing in urban real estate for rent, including homes, hotels, and commercial spaces.

Socimis are seen as attractive investment vehicles due to substantial tax breaks on transaction costs and profits, allowing shareholders to maximize their returns. They are subject to a corporate income tax of 0 percent, provided they meet specific investment and dividend distribution requirements.

The government's plan for Socimis

The Spanish government's draft bill, if approved, could significantly alter Socimis' tax regime. Prime Minister Sánchez emphasized the need to ensure that investors do not pay less tax than ordinary citizens when purchasing properties.

In November, the government approved the elimination of the existing tax exemption for Socimis, which required them to distribute at least 80 percent of dividends to shareholders. The new proposal would impose a corporate tax rate of 25 percent, with potential tax breaks for Socimis that contribute to affordable housing—50 percent if over 60 percent of their portfolio is allocated to affordable rentals, and 100 percent if profits are reinvested in this sector within three years.

The criteria for affordable properties include rent not exceeding established indices, classification as protected housing, and rental costs not surpassing 30 percent of a tenant's income, or being below €26,400 per year.

These measures stem from the government's belief that Socimis have not sufficiently improved the availability of affordable housing. Experts suggest that the fiscal changes may disproportionately impact foreign investors, who have been significant players in Spain's real estate market, accounting for 61 percent of total investments since 2014.

In 2023, approximately 70 percent of Socimis' capital was held by international investors, drawn by favorable returns.