In Spain, bare ownership is becoming one of the most interesting solutions for older adults looking for liquidity, wellbeing and stability — without giving up the home they have always lived in.
In this article we explain clearly what it is, how it works and answer the most frequently asked questions. We also walk you through a practical example to make it easy to understand.
What exactly is bare ownership?
A property has two distinct rights:
- Bare ownership — being the legal owner of the property.
- Lifelong usufruct — the right to use and enjoy the property for the rest of your life.
When someone sells only the bare ownership, they receive a significant payment for the property but retain the right to live in it forever. In other words: you sell the ownership, but you stay in your home.
It is a particularly useful option for people who want to ease their finances, improve their quality of life or strengthen their independence without giving up their home.
Main advantages
✔ You keep living in your home: no moving, no changes to your routine.
✔ You receive a substantial sum of money: in a single payment or monthly instalments, to cover care costs, improve your daily life or support your family.
✔ Stability and peace of mind: the lifelong usufruct legally protects your right to remain in your home.
✔ Complete transparency: the transaction is signed before a notary and is fully regulated.
✔ Flexibility: tailored to your situation, needs and expectations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep living in my home for the rest of my life?
Yes. The lifelong usufruct guarantees your right for life.
What happens with my children?
They would no longer inherit that particular property, but many family members support this option when it improves the quality of life of their parents or grandparents.
Can I rent out the property if I wanted to?
Generally, yes. The usufructuary can rent it out and receive the income (although each case is assessed individually).
Who pays the bills?
The usufructuary usually covers the running costs (council tax, utilities) and the buyer covers structural expenses. Everything is explained before signing.
Practical example
How you could benefit from selling bare ownership
María is 68 years old and owns a property in Valencia valued at €250,000. She lives alone, on a limited pension, and wants greater financial peace of mind without leaving her home, where she has lived for more than 40 years.
After looking at several options, she decides to sell the bare ownership while keeping her lifelong usufruct.
What does María get?
- A one-time payment of €140,000 (the amount varies depending on age and property valuation).
- The legal security of remaining in her home for life.
- The freedom to arrange her care, make improvements to the home or afford a more comfortable lifestyle.
- Greater peace of mind: she is no longer solely dependent on her pension to live.
What changes in her daily life?
In reality, very little. María continues living exactly where she wants, surrounded by her memories, her routines and her familiar environment. But now she does so with more resources, more independence and more serenity.
Bare ownership: a tool for living better
More and more older adults are discovering that this is not just a property transaction — it is a decision that can transform their wellbeing.
At Futurovital we guide you through the entire process with clarity, warmth and respect. Because every story is unique, and every decision deserves to be made from a place of peace of mind.
Would you like to explore your situation with complete clarity and no obligation?
At Futurovital we analyse your situation in a personalised way and explain, step by step, how bare ownership can help you live with greater peace of mind, wellbeing and financial freedom. Your home is your story. We help you keep living it the way you want.
Speak today with a specialist adviser and discover your options at no cost.
