A Cuban couple who emigrated to Spain over twenty years ago is now facing a predicament that threatens the very foundation of the life they painstakingly built through years of hard work.
The story came to light on Instagram through Spanish entrepreneur and real estate advisor Jorge Danés, who shared the tale of this couple. After 22 years of continuous labor, they managed to purchase two homes in the Community of Madrid to secure their future and that of their only daughter.
Danés explained that the family arrived in Spain with their young daughter and, for more than two decades, they avoided luxuries and unnecessary expenses to focus on saving. Through these efforts, they acquired one apartment in Madrid and another in Aranjuez, both intended as assets for their daughter when she reached adulthood.
While the young woman was still studying and did not yet need her own place, one of the properties was rented out. This apartment was leased to a foreign couple who have been occupying it for six years.
Throughout this period, the owner—identified as Jesús—kept the rent at 550 euros per month, without raising it, despite the rising cost of living and real estate market.
The issue arose when their daughter announced her wedding and expressed her wish to move into the family-owned residence.
Upon requesting the tenants to vacate the property, they not only refused but, according to Danés' account, they stopped paying rent and invoked their legal "vulnerability" status, guided by a lawyer, to halt any eviction attempts.
The Cuban couple, known for fulfilling their financial and work-related responsibilities, now find themselves caught in a draining emotional and financial struggle.
Danés detailed that the owners have even considered selling the property below its market value, simply to bypass the lengthy and costly process of reclaiming their home, while their daughter is forced to seek alternative housing.
He emphasized that the family fled Cuba to escape a political system that disregarded individual effort and private ownership. Now, they encounter a situation reminiscent of the same injustice in a country where they hoped for stability and legal security.
This case joins a growing list of complaints from property owners who feel unprotected against prolonged occupation and the inability to utilize their own homes, a contentious issue that continues to spark debate in Spain over balancing social protection with the rights of those who have invested their savings in real estate.
Understanding Spain's Property Laws and Tenant Rights
What legal avenues can property owners in Spain pursue if tenants refuse to leave?
Property owners in Spain can begin eviction proceedings through the courts if tenants refuse to leave. However, this process can be complex and prolonged, especially if tenants claim legal protections such as vulnerability status.
How does Spain define "vulnerability" in the context of tenant protection?
In Spain, "vulnerability" is a legal status that tenants can claim to delay eviction, often due to financial hardship or personal circumstances. This status is intended to provide temporary protection while alternative housing solutions are sought.