Outrage Over Sofa Rental in Shared Flat on Costa del Sol
A landlord on the Costa del Sol has sparked controversy by renting out a sofa in a shared flat. The advertisement, which was posted on Facebook Marketplace, was shared by local complaints page, @Marbellasequeja.
Details of the Unusual Rental
The ad featured a blue three-seater sofa with the caption: “Renting a sofa in a shared flat, Puerto Banus area.” The monthly rent for the sofa was listed as €400.
Public Reaction to the Sofa Rental
The post triggered a wave of shock and anger among social media users. One user questioned whether the sofa was for exclusive use or if it had to be shared when housemates wanted to watch TV. Another user expressed disbelief that such a situation could occur in a country as beautiful as Spain.
Speculations and Jokes About the Situation
Some users humorously speculated about the cost of renting the terrace or floor and questioned the practicality of living in such a situation. They wondered about the implications of having a friend over or dating someone while renting a sofa.
Rising Rental Prices in Spain
Despite the absurdity, this practice is not uncommon in Spain due to the high demand for rentals. Rental prices are expected to increase by at least 5% this year. In the first half of 2023, the highest rental price in Spain was recorded at €11.69 per square meter, surpassing the previous record set during the 2007 real estate bubble.
Exclusion of Potential Tenants
According to Fotocasa, the rising rents are leading to the exclusion of many potential tenants from the market. Up to 40% of potential tenants can only afford lower prices.
Sofa Rentals on Popular Websites
On Milanuncios, one of Spain’s most popular rental websites, The Olive Press found four sofas for rent on the first page of results. These ranged between €150-300 per month. One listing, described as a ‘living room in central Madrid’, cost €200 per month with all bills included, while another in Barcelona was priced at €250.
Legal Implications of Sofa Rentals
Property experts have raised questions about the legality of renting a sofa and how a contract for such a ‘property’ would be drawn up. The Olive Press could not find any legal basis to justify such a rental agreement. No sofas were listed for rent on another popular rental platform, Idealista.
Property Prices Soaring in Cadiz
In related news, a city in Cadiz popular with Brits is experiencing a surge in property prices. A recent study found that homebuyers in Spain are seeking cheaper alternatives to the major capitals.
