According to PortalPRO, Spain has become a frontrunner in sustainable real estate, boasting over 800 LEED-certified buildings – the globally recognised benchmark for environmentally responsible construction – completed by the end of 2023. These developments go beyond simply meeting regulatory standards; sustainability has evolved into a key factor influencing real estate decisions. Recent surveys reveal that more than half of buyers and tenants are now willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly properties.
For a long time, the primary considerations in real estate were location, layout, and price. Currently, however, both investors and tenants are increasingly prioritising properties that align with their values. As such, environmental responsibility has shifted from being a supplementary feature to a requirement.
“Tenants, buyers, and financial institutions seek clear evidence that assets are efficient and responsibly managed,” said Dalius Šimaitis, CEO of PortalPRO, a PropTech firm that focuses on property maintenance. “Sustainability is now a standard practice, contributing to risk reduction by lowering energy costs, avoiding regulatory penalties, and improving the long-term value of an object.”
Recent findings show that certified buildings can help owners save up to 70 percent on energy consumption and 40 percent on water usage. The asset values of these buildings are reported to be 7–10 percent higher, with ongoing demand in urban centres such as Madrid and Barcelona. This trend suggests that environmental responsibility is increasingly viewed as a competitive advantage in the real estate market.
For tenants in private residential properties, sustainability can signify reliability and a commitment to well-being. Many individuals and families are increasingly opting for eco-friendly homes, seeking spaces that reflect their values and lifestyle choices. “Tenants prefer to see their values represented in the homes they occupy,” notes Šimaitis. “When landlords invest in eco-friendly certifications and adopt sustainable practices, tenants feel a stronger sense of loyalty and are more likely to stay longer. This trust fosters stable rental income and reduces turnover rates.”
Spanish banks are also increasingly offering favourable financing for projects that meet ESG criteria, enhancing capital access for sustainable developers and property owners. In 2024, investment in ESG repositioning increased significantly, reaching €600 million. Furthermore, nearly 80 percent of Europe’s leading real estate funds anticipate that sustainable assets will outperform traditional investments over the next three to five years.
According to Šimaitis, the current financing landscape favours responsible business practices. Companies that take proactive measures can enhance their reputations, access more affordable capital, and achieve better long-term returns. In contrast, those who delay action may face the risk of holding stranded assets that decline in value. Šimaitis emphasises that acting responsibly is not only an ethical decision but also a strategic approach for real estate firms.
