What is social housing and why is it important in Castellón?
In the search for affordable housing solutions, public housing (VPP) has emerged as a viable alternative for many families.
But what does living in a VPP actually mean, and how does it differ from social housing (VPO)?
Although both share the same aim—to provide access to decent housing for those who need it most—current regulations in the Valencian Community have officially replaced the term VPO with VPP.
Therefore, if you hear or read both terms, please note that today we are referring specifically to Public Housing, as regulated by the Consell’s new Decree 180/2024.
In this article, we explain everything clearly, focusing on Castellón, and provide useful information if you are considering applying for one of these homes.
And what about social housing?
Although many people still refer to them as such, the truth is that social housing (VPO) no longer exists as such in the Valencian Community.
Today, they are officially known as public housing (VPP), and are regulated by the new Regional Government Decree 180/2024, which unifies the entire legal framework and sets out clear conditions regarding access, price and use.
Who is eligible for a VPP home in Castellón?
Financial, legal and personal requirements
To be eligible for a VPP property in Castellón, you must meet certain criteria that ensure these properties go to those who need them most:
- You must be of legal age or an emancipated minor. This requirement ensures that applicants have the legal capacity to purchase or rent a property.
- You must be a Spanish national or legally resident in Spain. This includes both Spanish citizens and foreign nationals with legal residence in the country, ensuring compliance with current regulations.
- Demonstrate that your income does not exceed a set limit, which varies according to the number of members in the household. This criterion ensures that homes are allocated to those who genuinely need them, prioritising families with the lowest financial means.
- Not own another property in Spain. This requirement ensures that VPPs are allocated to those who have no other housing options, preventing the hoarding of resources by those who already own property.
How does the allocation process for VPP flats work?
Those interested must register on the social housing applicant register.
The developer proposes the list of successful applicants. They must check that applicants meet the legal requirements (age, income, not owning a property, etc.).
Once the developer proposes you as an allocated tenant and the authorities approve this, the next step is to sign the purchase contract.
From then on, you have six months to move in, unless you can provide a valid reason and are granted an extension.
Advantages of choosing a VPP property in Castellón
Reduced prices and favourable terms
One of the main attractions is the price, which is well below the open market, allowing people to access decent housing without having to make an unaffordable financial commitment.
Legal certainty and government oversight
As they are regulated by the government, they offer an additional guarantee that the terms of sale or rental will be upheld.
Social inclusion and community cohesion
VPP homes promote social inclusion by integrating people from diverse economic backgrounds into a cohesive community environment.
Affordable housing in Castellón: who develops and finances it?
Public and private participation
The financing of VPP housing often involves collaboration between public and private entities.
The Castellón council has developed specific programmes covering the construction, refurbishment and allocation of social housing.
Local economic impact
These homes not only benefit individuals, but also have a positive impact on the local economy, by freeing up resources that families can allocate to other needs and promoting sustainable urban development.
Challenges and the future of social housing
Funding and construction quality
Funding and maintaining quality are two of the major challenges facing social housing.
The initial investment must be balanced against the need to keep prices affordable.
Innovation in public policy
To address these challenges, new forms of funding and more efficient construction technologies are being promoted, alongside the encouragement of public-private partnerships.
Marina d’Or Construcciones: committed to affordable housing in Castellón
At Marina d’Or Construcciones, we are committed to making access to decent, affordable housing a reality.
We are currently the only developer building social housing in Castellón, with a firm commitment to providing real housing solutions for those who need them most.
Our projects include:
Lledó Auditorium
A modern and efficient development situated in an established area, which meets all the requirements for social housing.
Sensal Viewpoint Building
Located in one of Castellón’s most up-and-coming neighbourhoods, it combines design, sustainability and accessibility within the framework of the VPP housing scheme.
Through these initiatives, we are reaffirming our role as a leader in the promotion of social housing in Castellón, helping to build a fairer, more cohesive and accessible city for everyone.
