The eviction of an 87-year-old woman from her flat in central Madrid has brought Spain’s housing crisis into focus, after she was unable to meet the cost of a higher rent imposed following the property’s takeover by an investment firm.
Maricarmen was living in the Retiro area of Madrid when the rent on her home was increased. The rise left her unable to continue paying, and she was subsequently evicted from the flat.
Her case highlights the difficulties faced by tenants when rents increase sharply, particularly those on limited incomes. It also draws attention to the role of investment firms in Spain’s housing market and the effect that rent increases can have on existing residents.
The eviction has become a focus of wider concern over housing affordability in Spain. The available information does not include further details about Maricarmen’s current circumstances or any subsequent response from the investment firm.
