The Absolutely Fabulous world of PR

by Charly United Kingdom AB Property Marketing

For ladies of a certain age (in the AB Property Marketing office it seems to be 35 and above), the image of PR was forever defined by Jennifer Saunders’ unforgettable performance as Edina Monsoon in Absolutely Fabulous.

Saffy: “I’m sorry, Mum, but I’ve never seen what you actually do”
Eddy: “PR!”
Saffy: “Yes, but…”
Eddy: “PR! I PR things! People. Places. Concepts.”

Patsy: “Lulu!”

Eddy: “Lulu! I PR them! I am, and if you’ve heard of me, I have PR. I make the fabulous. I make the crap into credible. I make the dull into…”

Patsy: “Delicious.”

Eddy: “Delicious! I PR, darling!”

As the long awaited new Ab Fab film hits UK cinemas this Friday 1^st July 2016, we cast our minds back to what the original series taught us about the world of PR and compare it with the reality we’re living today.

Sadly, the world of PR is not quite the endless whirlwind of lunches, Bolli-Stoli cocktails and designer shopping binges that us impressionable teenage girls were led to believe it would be. It turns out that sometimes you have to do some actual work – like writing press releases, going to meetings and arranging press trips.

Of course, working in PR does have its moments. Sometimes you actually get to go on said press trips. Plus the client liaison side of the business does seem to involve a touch more champagne drinking than many jobs entail. There are glitzy events to attend and fabulous outfits to select for them… but whereas Edina and Patsy drifted effortlessly from one event to the next, pausing only to fall out of the occasional taxi or drink their way through a flight to New York, the reality involves booking venues, arranging catering, managing lists (invites, attendance, maybes, drop outs on the day…) and a great deal of dashing around organising things with barely time to grab lunch.

The reality is that PR is a demanding profession. It’s hard work. Yes, it can also be great fun, but those companies that succeed are the ones that put work before play. Data from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) shows that there is a significant drop out rate once PR professionals reach their 30s. The CIPR’s public relations and policy manager, Andy Ross, observes,

“One thing I would say is that public relations definitely isn’t a lifelong career option for most. This is backed up by our State of the Profession data which shows that only 35 per cent of PR professionals say that PR is a career for life.”

The pressure of the industry isn’t for everyone. Many people who thrive on the pace when they first join do feel burned out by their early 30s. According to the Forbes Top Ten Most Stressful Jobs 2016, only enlisted military personnel, firefighters, pilots, police officers and event coordinators experience more stress in their working lives than public relations professionals.

But there are those of us who stick with it – the 35+ section of the ABPM office team who remember the original Ab Fab and still go into work every day with Edina Monsoon’s many formative pieces of advice firmly in mind. Who, despite the long hours, the ridiculous deadlines and the meetings cancelled at short notice when you’ve travelled for two hours to get there, believe that PR is an absolutely fabulous career.

Charlotte Ashton, Founder of property PR agency, AB Property Marketing and diehard Ab Fab fan, comments,

“I remember watching Eddy and Patsy in the original TV series back in the early 1990’s. As a young teenager I tuned into BBC2 each week from my bedroom, enthralled and appalled in equal measure by their antics but I distinctly recall thinking if this is what PR is, then I want to do it, it looks like fun!

“20 something years later my wish to work in PR has been fulfilled although it’s less Bolli filled and more bloody long hours filled than Eddy and her BFF made it out to be. That said, the appeal of ‘people, places, concepts’ hasn’t waned yet sweetie darling!”

Find out more about the absolutely fabulous ABPM Ladies at http://www.abpropertymarketing.co.uk/who-are-we/ or call 0845 054 7524.

Investing in the city that’s investing in itself – welcome to the Liverpool of the future!

by Charly United Kingdom Prime Centrum

Liverpool’s rental value expected to grow 5% per annum for the next several years (Sutton Kersch Rental Feasibility Report)
New build values shot up 4.6% in April 2016 (ONS)
Liverpool Mayor has pledged to build 6,500 homes since 2012
Brand new Parliament Residence apartments offer waterfront living from £109,900 (Prime Centrum)

It always adds a surge of confidence to a property investment when the city it’s located in is clearly committed to brightening its own future. Take Liverpool, for example. The city’s Mayor pledged in 2012 to add 5,000 new homes to Liverpool’s stock. That commitment is now ¾ of the way towards being fully met, with 1,144 new homes completed across the city from January to October 2015 alone.

The progress in building new homes has been swift and decisive – Liverpool is clearly a city that is committed to its future development, not just with expensive public regeneration projects (though there are plenty of those going on too), but with joined up thinking about population growth and migration. In fact, the Mayor has already pledged a further £200m to build 1,500 more houses (in addition to the 2012 target of 5,000 homes) and bring 2,000 empty properties back to life.

Liverpool’s rental sector is thriving in the wake of demand for housing in the city. According to Sutton Kersh’s Rental Feasibility Report, rental values rose by approximately 1% during Q1 2016, with the rental market continuing to perform strongly and rental value growth of 5% per annum foreseeable for the next several years. Sutton Kersh, which is part of the UK’s largest estate agency network, Countrywide, has itself seen lettings increase by 8.5% within the city since Q1 2015.

The Liverpool Residential Development Update confirms the city’s focus on providing residents with a good choice of decent accommodation. It’s an emphasis that Stuart Johnson, Business Development Manager at Prime Centrum, applauds. He comments,

“Liverpool is taking a really proactive approach not just to building housing but to ensuring that it is housing that people really want to live in. The local authority is committed to an ideal of choice for residents, with the focus on high spec dwellings with contemporary décor, fixtures and fittings. Those working there are building a true city of the future, with some really inspirational developments under construction, particularly in response to the population migration patterns that we’re seeing, whereby more and more professionals and their families are looking to live in the city centre as well as work there.”

Parliament Residence is an excellent example. The smart one and two bedroom apartments are part of an exclusive development of just 44 contemporary, high end homes, with a private roof terrace lounge offering breath-taking views of the impressive UNESCO World Heritage waterfront. Within minutes’ walk of the trendy Baltic Triangle and Albert Dock regions, as well as the city’s central business district, Parliament Residents is just the type of development that is being cited as part of Liverpool’s bright future.

It’s also a particularly attractive investment thanks to a 22% early investor discount, with apartments available from as little as £109,900. With central Liverpool house prices below market value, Parliament Residence offers an excellent investment opportunity for those with a keen eye for healthy returns and likely capital growth.

Indeed, Liverpool’s property prices have risen by 5.5% over the last 12 months, according to the latest Hometrack House Price Index. Meanwhile, the newly released Office for National Statistics (ONS) House Price Index has shown that the North West region experienced the greatest monthly jump in values during April 2016, standing at 2.3% compared with a national average of 0.7%.

The ONS figures also highlight how new build values are rising faster than those of resale properties. During the year to April 2016, new builds increased in value by 10.2%, while existing resold properties lagged behind at 8.0%. The monthly comparison was even more pronounced, with new build values going up by 4.6% in April, compared with a resale property rise of just 0.3%.

Buying a new build property also comes with other advantages. According to the Home Builders Federation and YouGov Why Buy New survey, only 1% of homeowners found that they didn’t have to spend money on improvements when moving house. 51% of those buying a resale home said they had to make improvements to their kitchen and 52% had to pay for bathroom improvements. A full 70% of buyers said they had to redecorate.

For investors looking for a hassle free buy-to-let property, new builds make absolute sense. The cost and bother of repairs and redecorations can be taken out of the equation entirely and the property is ready for tenants from the moment it has been completed.

With prices in the North West rising faster than anywhere else, new build values outstripping resale property values, a city-wide focus on improving Liverpool’s housing offering and a superb managing agent available, Parliament Residence is ticking every box for investors at present. Those looking to invest in a city that’s investing in its future need look no further than Liverpool.

For further details please visit www.primecentrum.com, email enquiries@primecentrum.com or call 020 7183 6332.

Industry Professionals Party like a Fusion Student for One Night Only

by Charly United Kingdom Collegiate AC

Fusion Students launch new Fusion Tower residence in Bristol with a student inspired event
Industry professionals stay overnight to experience all that Bristol’s latest student accommodation has to offer
80% of Fusion Tower’s state of the art studio and apartment rooms have sold out for 16/17 academic year (Collegiate AC)

As another academic year draws to a close, Bristol’s new luxury student residence celebrated in style. This month saw the official launch of Fusion Tower, located at the heart of Bristol’s city Centre.

Guests were invited to party like a student for the evening, at this unique launch event, as industry professionals including property consultants such as Knight Frank, CBRE, and Savills gained an insight into university nightlife. Over 150 guests experienced an evening of food, drink and entertainment in the form of live music, a DJ & a top magician as well as typical student games including beer pong, table football and air hockey.

Confident in both the exclusive on-site facilities and the 5* service provided, Warren Rosenberg, Co-Founder of Fusion Students, tells of the company’s excitement at launching Fusion Tower with such an event. He explains,

“The Fusion experience goes beyond stylish buildings and luxury amenities; we strive to provide our residents with the new generation of design-led accommodation which is designed primarily around social spaces to appeal to the taste of modern day students. Our first priority is our communal areas and practicalities of promoting close community living.

Allowing our guests to stay overnight was a unique element to our invitation and they took full advantage of it with the vast majority experiencing first-hand all that Fusion Tower has to offer. We are delighted with the success of the evening and can’t wait to welcome students to their new Bristol home.”

With new and existing students now looking to confirm their accommodation for the 2016/17 academic year, Collegiate AC can confirm that over 80% of Fusion Tower’s studio rooms have already sold out in advance of September, further highlighting its fantastic appeal.

Fusion Tower has an incredible city-centre location, perfect for enjoying the wealth of culture and entertainment that Bristol has to offer. The project offers elegant and innovative student apartments, having been designed by Fusion’s team of leading architects, interior and graphic designers.

From only £130 a week, Fusion Tower provides exceptional student living accommodation that is both relaxing and spacious, boasting beautiful en-suite student rooms that have fully-fitted kitchens, flat-screen TVs and double beds.

As part of the leading edge design, on-site facilities include a stylish cinema, private gym, club lounge and a resident’s bar as well as a choice of generously-sized study rooms, along with high-speed broadband, Wi-Fi and 24-hour security, concierge and CCTV.

For more information, visit www.fusionstudents.co.uk or contact Collegiate AC on 01235 250 140.

“Liverpool is still setting property investors’ pulses racing” says Surrenden Invest’s Jonathan Stephens

by Charly United Kingdom Surrenden Invest

Liverpool still top of the props when it comes to investment
Waterfront area proving popular with investors and tenants alike
Stamp duty increase hasn’t dented buyers’ enthusiasm for Liverpool property

Liverpool’s property market has received a great deal of media attention in recent years. From being flagged up as the UK’s top property investment hotspot to the massive regeneration plans centering on the city’s stunning waterfront location, the city has drawn attention for its potential, its yields and its capital growth.

So is Liverpool ready to retire from the property scene and make way for the UK’s next property hotspot? Far from it, according to Jonathan Stephens, Managing Director of property consultancy Surrenden Invest. We caught up with Jonathan to find out why it is that Liverpool can still set property investors’ pulses racing.

Is Liverpool still the place to be so far as UK property investment is concerned?

Yes, absolutely! The North West of England, and Liverpool in particular, is enjoying a period of substantial growth when it comes to city economies. The Northern Powerhouse initiative has focused attention on the North West’s cities and Liverpool is one of those at the forefront of the boom. We’re seeing starts ups, creatives and tech companies flourish, alongside more established services industries, giving a really vibrant and exciting feel to what’s going on here in terms of economic potential.

And of course booming businesses go hand in hand with a buoyant property market. There’s a lot of demand from professional tenants for high end rental accommodation. They’re seeking a blend of great location and added extras like concierge services. With the UK’s private rented sector continuing to expand, I don’t believe we’re going to see demand from this kind of tenant drop off any time soon, so in cities like Liverpool investment in rental property definitely still makes sense.

Are there any particular areas of Liverpool that property investors should consider?

The UNESCO World Heritage waterfront area is the place to look. There’s a lot of money being poured into development work there right now, which will give new residents access to some of the city’s most celebrated features, right on their doorstep. It’s a really elegant district with real charm and provides easy access to the offices, retail establishments, eateries and other amenities of the city centre.

Strand Plaza is a great example. The beautiful apartments benefit from stunning views over the water, as well as premium features like a 24-hour concierge. Residents will be able to benefit from superb local amenities, with the whole of the city centre at their disposal.

After the stamp duty increase, is buy-to-let still an attractive option for investors?

The buy-to-let sector was certainly braced for the impact that the 3% increase to stamp duty on additional properties would have and we saw a huge rush in the first quarter of this year as buyers raced to complete their purchases before the rate increase in April. However, we’ve certainly not seen interest in buy-to-let investment vanish since then, at least not here at Surrenden Invest. Buy-to-let in areas with strong yields like Liverpool can still be a profitable venture and investors like the relative certainly that comes from investing in bricks and mortar.

Is the Liverpool market still undervalued?

Definitely. There were various predictions just over a year ago about how investors were going to send Liverpool property prices soaring because the market was so undervalued, but the reality is that we’ve seen a slow and steady increase rather than the promised spike in values. Zoopla’s latest data shows an annual increase in house values of 0.63%. That means that Liverpool’s market still has excellent potential for growth when it comes to prices. It’s still undervalued in my opinion, which is an exciting opportunity for investors in buy-to-let properties.

What are your predictions for Liverpool’s property market over the coming years?

I think we’re going to see the continuing of the current trends, with new homes being built in sought after areas accompanied by strong levels of demand from professional tenants. Liverpool’s city centre population is growing for the first time in 80 years and the surge in interest in city centre homes has been marked. Prices should continue to rise at a sensible pace, meaning investors can look forward to the potential for capital gains as part of their investment strategy.

Finally, what is it about Liverpool that makes the city so special?

For me, it’s the city’s combination of its shipping and manufacturing past with its more recent status as a centre for culture and creativity. There’s so much here to discover. Liverpool is not only a great place to work but also a lovely city for enjoying during your leisure time. That’s why so many people in recent years have headed back to the city centre to live and we’ve seen such a shift in demographic patterns. Liverpool is one of the UK’s most interesting and vibrant cities. Whether you’re looking to live here or invest in a property, it’s a wonderful place.

For further details, visit www.surrendeninvest.com, email info@surrendeninvest.com or call 0203 3726 499.

$How could UK fracking impact energy prices and the wider economy in the short and long term?$

How could UK fracking impact energy prices and the wider economy in the short and long term?

by Charly United Kingdom World easyMarkets

159 onshore block licenses issued in 2015 (Oil & Gas Authority)
Just 19% of Brits support exploration for shale gas (DECC)
UK shale producers would require £33 billion worth of infrastructure (EY)

Fracking – the process of drilling into the ground and then using high-pressure water to release trapped gas – has been one of the most controversial subjects in the energy industry for years, but the tale took a further twist in May 2016 when North Yorkshire County Council approved Third Energy’s application to frack a well in Ryedale. The decision has been hailed as an important step forward for the UK’s fledgling fracking industry by supporters of the process and as a betrayal of the environment by those who are against it.

But leaving aside the ‘should we, shouldn’t we’ debate, what could fracking in the UK do for energy investments and the wider economy in the short and long term?

Nikolas Xenofontos, Director of Risk Management at leading online trading services provider easyMarkets, comments,

“It’s no secret that the UK’s government has advocated for the production of shale gas, an industry it purports could help the world’s fifth largest economy strengthen its energy independence. However, with public support for hydraulic fracking at all-time lows, the Conservatives may have a few hurdles to clear before bringing this industry back online anytime soon.”

In 2015, 159 licences for onshore oil and gas fracking blocks were issued, a move that pushed the UK one step closer to establishing a viable fracking industry. The US shale boom of the past five years has brought fracking back into focus, with UK energy producers seeking planning permission to begin hydraulic drilling, hence Third Energy making headlines last month by formally seeking planning rights to begin the controversial process.

Economic prospects

For energy investors, a UK fracking boom is almost too good to pass up. If the US shale boom is any indication, shale production is an extremely lucrative enterprise that has the potential to disrupt the entire industry. UK energy companies have already identified billions of pounds’ worth of oil trapped beneath rock layers. Recent advances in fracking technology also mean that shale producers would be able to maintain output levels at competitive prices.

UK shale prospects are bright. There are about 1.3 trillion cubic feet of gas alone in the northern Bowland shale region. Extracting even a fraction of those reserves could be worth billions and the economic benefits wouldn’t stop there. Shale producers would also require an estimated £33 billion worth of infrastructure to effectively realise this market, according to accountants EY. Infrastructure development stimulates construction spending and employment, which have numerous multiplier effects on the economy.

According to the British Geological Survey, other regions with high shale gas opportunities include southern England’s Weald Basin and Scotland’s Midland Valley. Scaling up production capacity in these regions also means greater investment opportunities in field development, subsea technology and operations.

Downside risks

There are many downside risks associated with fracking. The first and most obvious is the environmental degradation that is associated with this unconventional drilling practice. Greenpeace has cited concerns over frack fluid, a highly toxic chemical compound that is needed to make this method of drilling viable. Frack fluid is further contaminated by the heavy metals and radioactive elements naturally found in shale rocks. This is a major cause for concern because a large portion of the frack fluid returns to the surface, where it could contaminate rivers, streams and even underground water supplies.

Greenpeace also notes that in the US alone, up to 10 million gallons of water are needed each time a well is fracked: an enormous drain on resources.

A negative public backlash is the last thing a UK shale industry needs in order to be successful and sustainable. Four out of five Brits have a negative view of the practice, with the strong majority favouring renewable energy sources. Only 19% of Brits support exploration for shale gas, according to a recent survey conducted by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC). That’s down from 29% two years ago.

While oil prices have recovered in recent months, they remain well below pre-crisis levels. What’s more, the latest rally has been driven mainly by hopes of a production freeze among OPEC producers and supply disruptions in places like Canada (wildfires), Nigeria (militant attacks), Libya (war) and Venezuela (economic collapse). All of these countries would pump more crude oil if they could, which suggests the latest rally is anything but sustainable.

In other words, spending billions of pounds on a cyclical industry with an uncertain future may not be the best way to grow the economy. With electric cars becoming even more affordable, some analysts are concerned about a final death blow to the oil and gas industry by the turn of the decade. While this is certainly speculative, it raises a lot of questions about the future of oil and gas, especially in the current context of a slowing Chinese economy. Beijing has made it abundantly clear that it is prioritizing consumption-led development over export and investment-led growth, as it seeks to steer its massive economy in a way that mirrors its advanced industrialized peers.

Regardless of your stance, the UK government appears poised to give oil and gas companies the political backing to pursue fracking: it seems the fracking conversation has come full-circle over the past five years.

For further details visit www.easymarkets.com, email pr@easymarkets.com or call +44 203 1500 748.

Risk warning: Forward Rate Agreements, Options and CFDs (OTC Trading) are leveraged products that carry a substantial risk of loss up to your invested capital and may not be suitable for everyone. Please ensure that you understand fully the risks involved and do not invest money you cannot afford to lose. Our group of companies through its subsidiaries is licensed by the Cyprus Securities & Exchange Commission (Easy Forex Trading Ltd- CySEC, License Number 079/07), which has been passported in the European Union through the MiFID Directive and in Australia by ASIC (Easy Markets Pty Ltd -AFS license No. 246566).

easyMarkets weathers the Brexit storm and keeps its promise to clients

by Charly United Kingdom easyMarkets

The Brexit referendum result is in and the UK public has spoken – 48.1% voted to stay in the European Union and 51.9% voting to leave meaning a BREXIT will take place. The GBP fell to 1.3250 – an 11.42% drop and the lowest since 1985.

Leading up to the Brexit referendum, easyMarkets announced to its traders that it would not alter its trading conditions. Leverage would remain at 1:200, No Slippage, Fixed Spreads and Free Guaranteed STOP LOSS.

Following the Brexit event easyMarkets can confirm that client orders were executed at the requested prices and that no clients suffered from negative account balances. CEO, Nikos Antoniades says “Our goal is to keep traders safe especially when trading in such volatile conditions. The Brexit event was the perfect scenario for us to show that we honour our promises to our traders”

easyMarkets has positioned itself as one of the easiest and safest brokers to trade with. Promises are easily made when the markets are predictable however easyMarkets has again honoured its commitment to traders under even the most adverse market conditions.

For more information please visit www.easyMarkets.com.

For PR information please contact:

Charlotte Day

Head of Content & Social Media, easyMarkets

charlotte@easy-forex.com | T: +35725828899

Risk warning: Forward Rate Agreements, Options and CFDs (OTC Trading) are leveraged products that carry a substantial risk of loss up to your invested capital and may not be suitable for everyone. Please ensure that you understand fully the risks involved and do not invest money you cannot afford to lose. Our group of companies through its subsidiaries is licensed by the Cyprus Securities & Exchange Commission (Easy Forex Trading Ltd- CySEC, License Number 079/07), which has been passported in the European Union through the MiFID Directive and in Australia by ASIC (Easy Markets Pty Ltd -AFS license No. 246566).

A Collegiate home isn’t just for term time; students can enjoy 5* service during their summer break too

by Charly United Kingdom Collegiate AC

Collegiate AC 2016 Summer Lets programme increases by 45.5% vs 2015
Collegiate AC provide Summer Lets in 9 different locations across the UK
Room prices start from just £105 a week

With promising moments of glorious sunshine and Wimbledon just around the corner, British summertime has definitely arrived. As lecture halls and common rooms close their doors for the holiday, the majority of students will be saying goodbye to their university family and moving back home. However, an alternative option is now available, a way of continuing the student lifestyle into the summer season and making the most of the holidays.

As the leading provider of luxury student properties in the UK, Collegiate AC have announced their 2016 Summer Lets programme. With a 45.5% increase in the locations available in comparison to last year, there are now 16 Collegiate AC properties offering Summer Lets across 9 different UK cities Students are now able to stay where they are for the summer without the upheavel of moving home again or finding alternative accommodation.

From Edinburgh’s celebrated Fringe festival to London’s British Summer Time gig series in Hyde Park, Collegiate AC’s summer lets are available to all students, even if you are not currently a Collegiate AC resident, with prices starting from just £105 a week.

Heriberto Cuanalo, CEO of Collegiate AC, explains the advantages of Summer Lets and comments on their growing popularity,

“Whether students have enrolled on summer courses, found a job in the local area or just want to remain close to friends, Summer Lets give them the option to stay in their present accommodation. At Collegiate, we have certainly noticed rising demand for this service and now even students who are not currently Collegiate AC residents can experience the benefits of the luxury service, outstanding facilities and prime locations that our residences offer.

“Another option available through our Summer Lets scheme is to visit a city, different to your university, and explore all that the UK has to offer this summer. With international students comprising the majority of our residents for the 2015/16 academic year, it was important for us to provide an opportunity for those students to choose familiar accommodation during the summer months, if they wanted it.”

Located in the leafy Newington Green area of North London, Charles Morton Court provides the perfect base for those looking to discover the capital. The residences is beautifully designed, offering a range of bright, stylish student accommodation, from classic en-suite rooms with shared kitchen and lounge facilities, to premium studios complete with individual fully fitted kitchens. The property benefits from a range of features including secure bike storage and Wi-Fi throughout, along with thoughtful touches to enhance the student experience such as a spacious common room and on-site laundry.

Further north, and set in a peaceful and elegant enclave, Gateway Apartments offer a range of contemporary studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments to the students of Edinburgh. Gateway Apartments are well served with a variety of retail outlets creating an almost ‘village’ feel about the area, whilst only a 5 minute walk away from the vibrant city centre. The high-specification and beautifully designed student apartments are equipped with contemporary high-gloss kitchens, individual en-suitefacilities, flat-screen TVs, double beds and ample storage space. The development also offers a private cinema, gym, common room and reading rooms, high-speed broadband and Wi-Fi, CCTV, an electronic entry system and on-call support for any queries residents may have.

For more information, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or contact Collegiate AC on 01235 250 140.

It’s game, set and match to the Algarve as Portugal’s popularity booms

by Charly Portugal Ideal Homes Portugal

Holiday bookings to Portugal up by 29% (ABTA)
Algarve climate is perfect for tennis lovers (Ideal Homes Portugal)
Villa with own tennis court and heated pool available for €1.2 million (Ideal Homes Portugal)

The grass is being manicured, the outfits pressed and the racquets strung as the UK prepares to be gripped by Wimbledon fever once more. Every year, The Championships, Wimbledon, showcase the world’s best tennis in a setting that is one of the most recognisably and traditionally English events of the year.

It’s not just the professionals who are getting excited as the Wimbledon Championships approach. Interest in properties with tennis courts always surges at this time of year, even overseas, as Chris White, Founding Director of boutique Algarve estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“We see a lot of excitement from buyers about homes in the Algarve sunshine that include their own tennis courts or are near to tennis centres and academies at this time of year. The Algarve’s 300 days of sunshine per year mean that it’s a great place to practice the sport, with a long season that’s perfect for honing your skills.”

Portugal has just been revealed as the overseas destination that is most swiftly increasing in popularity when it comes to bookings made through UK travel agents. According to the ABTA travel association, bookings to Portugal have risen by 29%, beating Spain’s 26% rise and Cyprus’ 18%.

Former Dragon’s Den star Duncan Bannatyne and his fellow Dragon Peter Jones are both keen tennis players who recently enjoyed a week of sharpening their on-court skills at the tennis centre in Portugal. The visited the Val de Lobo resort, best known for its stunning golf courses, but also boasting top quality tennis facilities. More than one international tennis star owns a home in the area.

Duncan Bannatyne purchased his own dream Algarve villa through Ideal Homes Portugal in 2014. Those looking to do the same – and to take advantage of the area’s fantastic tennis amenities – have a wide range of options available to them.

At Alcantarilha, near Silves, a luxurious four bedroom villa with private gardens, infinity pool, BBQ and terraces costs €997,400. The prestigious golfing development on which it is located includes not just two championship golf courses and a gold academy, but also six tennis courts, a sports club and a clubhouse bar.

At the world-renowned golfing haven of Quinta do Lago, this spacious villa with panoramic views and lovely heated pool and terrace area is just a short walk from Jim Stewart’s tennis centre. On the market for €1,995,000, it would make an ideal first or second home for those who are keen to enjoy easy access to a top class tennis academy.

But for those who are really serious about their love of tennis, it has to be this five bedroom luxury villa in Carvoeiro, complete with its own on-site tennis court. Incredibly reasonably priced for a villa of this quality (the asking price is €1,200,000), the villa boasts sea views, covered barbecue area, heated pool, mature garden with automated irrigation, underfloor heating, electric gates and plentiful terraces and balconies. That’s game, set and match for those looking for an ultra luxurious Algarve property in which to pursue their passion for tennis!

For further details call Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email enquiries@idealhomesportugal.com or visit www.idealhomesportugal.com.

Spain tipped as tasty foodie destination as nation celebrates World Tapas Day!

by Charly Spain Taylor Wimpey Espana

Spain declares third Thursday in June as official World Tapas Day (Turespaña)
Solo UK travellers name Spain as top destination for a foodie getaway (TourBar.com)
Test your Spanish culinary skills in your own kitchen with a luxury second home from Taylor Wimpey España

As Spain’s tourism sector prepares for what could be its busiest summer yet, agency Turespaña have declared that the third Thursday in June will officially be World Tapas Day. Their most recent data revealed that food tourism alone attracted over 9.5 million tourists to Spain in 2015, and this day has been designed to capitalise on this success.

World Tapas Day will offer attractive, tapas-focused events in Spain, and build the reputation of Spanish cuisine in other countries. According to the latest Turespaña figures, more than 20 countries around the world have already signed up to participate in World Tapas Day when it arrives for the first time this summer.

This global celebration of Spanish cuisine is set to enhance Spain’s ranking as the perfect location for a foodie getaway. New statistics released by leading travel dating website and app TourBar.com discovered that solo UK travellers have named Spain as the top destination for a solo foodie holiday. A significant 19.6% of TourBar.com’s UK members, who plan to travel this summer, have named the home of sangria and chorizo as their top destination to visit for a gastronomic adventure.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey España, is delighted Spain’s culinary achievements are being recognised on a global scale.

He explains,

“Tapas has become a symbol of Spanish culture and is enjoyed by diners all over the world. The variety of dishes means there is something for everyone, from the traditional favourites to new, more daring creations. When visiting Spain, those with access to their own kitchen facilities can take full advantage of the local produce available, in order to create a personalised tapas menu. Both locals and visitors alike are always keen to sample all that the myriad local markets have to offer.”

Dining out is still a popular option for those wanting to experience a tapas meal, and the Costa del Sol is fast becoming a foodie destination in its own right, with Marbella alone home to 16 Michelin starred restaurants.

One of Taylor Wimpey Espana’s latest additions to the Costa del Sol skyline is the picturesque La Floresta Sur. Set in beautiful surroundings declared a natural biosphere reserve by UNESCO, this new phase of La Floresta Sur is situated only a short drive away from Elviria and its beach, close to Marbella and Malaga.

Designed in a typical Mediterranean style, from just €202,000 +VAT, the 2 and 3 bed apartments and penthouses include an Italian-designed integrated kitchen with Silestone worktops, perfect for experimenting with traditional and more challenging tapas recipes, thermal and acoustic insulation and air-conditioning included. Benefitting from stunning views towards the oak and pine forest as well as towards the sea, the resort boasts communal swimming pools, landscaped gardens and external private parking.

Phase IV of the development is due to be completed this summer and the remaining units are now available with an exclusive special offer. Taylor Wimpey España are including a fully equipped kitchen, shower screen and lighting furnishings within the purchase price

With large terraces on which to enjoy the beautiful sea views, idyllic for all day dining, La Floresta Sur is a ten minute drive from two of the best known golf courses on the Costa del Sol, La Cala Golf Resort and Santa Maria Golf, and has direct access to El Soto Golf Club. It is also just a few minutes from the exclusive Nikki Beach Club.

For more information, contact Taylor Wimpey España on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call +0034 971 706 972.

Why are there so few apartments to rent in Liverpool city centre?

by Charly United Kingdom Prime Centrum

70% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050 (UN)
A new home needs to be built every 4 minutes in the UK (UKIP)
New waterfront homes helping to cope with re-urbanisation in Liverpool (Prime Centrum)

The ongoing EU Referendum debate has led to some fascinating figures being bandied about regarding the UK’s lack of housing. Ex-Cabinet Minister and ardent Leave campaigner Liam Fox has stated that,

“At current levels of immigration, the Office for National Statistics project that our population will continue to grow by around half a million a year – a city the size of Liverpool every year.

“This will mean that, in England, we will have to build a new home every six minutes, or 240 a day, for the next 20 years to accommodate just the additional demand for housing from new migrants.”

By the time of the televised debate on 7 June, UKIP leader Nigel Farage had increased the figure to a home being required every 4 minutes.

Regardless of the politics and scaremongering, the UK does definitely need more homes, thanks to a growing population and a trend towards urbanisation. The theme is the same in cities around the world, with the UN projecting that 70% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050.

In UK cities like Liverpool, re-urbanisation is leading to intense demand for housing. From a peak of 846,101 recorded in the 1931 Census onwards, the city’s population has been in decline, but the most recent Census (2011) showed a reversal of the trend, with Liverpool’s resident numbers increasing for the first time in 80 years, to 465,700.

Yet despite the increased appetite for city centre living, and in particular for rental accommodation in recent years as the private rented sector has grown to account for 19% of homes, decent apartments to rent in Liverpool are hard to find. A search on Zoopla reveals only 83 two bedroom apartments available to rent in the sought after L1 postcode area and just 42 one bedroom apartments. In neighbouring Toxteth (L8), the situation is much the same, with 63 two bedroom and 53 one bedroom apartments available across the entire postcode area.

Toxteth makes for an interesting case study. The once notorious area has seriously smartened up its image in recent years, with swanky bistros and artsy coffee houses spilling over from L1 into L8. The gentrification has in fact been so pronounced that Toxteth’s ‘Granby 4 Streets’ was nominated for the Turner art prize in 2015.

In light of Liverpool’s re-urbanisation then, why is so little housing available to rent in the L1 and L8 areas? And what is being done about it?

Stuart Johnson, Business Development Manager at Prime Centrum, explains,

“Liverpool’s re-urbanisation seemed to come as something of a surprise to city planners, so the city is playing catch up in terms of providing new, decent homes in areas where demand has spiked. The timing of the population increase was also a factor. Developers in 2011 were still coping with the economic hangover from the previous decade, so there weren’t many cranes on the move in Liverpool. Professionals were flocking to the city to work and demanding smart, new waterfront homes but the supply just couldn’t keep up.”

The situation is now beginning to improve. Prime Centrum is one of those companies working to tackle the shortage head on. Their new Parliament Residence development will provide 44 high end one and two bedroom apartments in what is being hailed Liverpool’s most iconic waterfront development. The apartments have been released for sale to investors (prices start at £109,900 with
7% NET income per annum assured for the first 3 years) and will be available for rent to professional tenants and families working and living in the city centre.

Given that Zoopla is currently listing just 36 two bedroom new build apartments for sale in the L1 area, Parliament Residence will come as a welcome relief both to investors looking for a quality buy-to-let property in Liverpool city centre and to tenants looking for high spec homes with views of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage waterfront. No wonder then, that Parliament Residence had sold more than 25% of its apartments less than two weeks after the building was launched to investors.

The re-urbanisation of cities such as Liverpool has become the new reality for city planners. Gone is the ‘managed decline’ approach, with regeneration projects capturing the interest of everyone from large tech companies to business start-ups. City living is on the up once more and the UK’s cities are racing to catch up.