Brand Beylikdüzü: ‘The Republic of Shopping’ and Istanbul’s top investment hotspot

by Kate Turkey Universal21

Over 50% of brand product sales in Turkey are made in Istanbul (Ecco footwear)
‘The Republic of Shopping’ Beylikdüzü witnesses impressive brand expansion
Transport project expansion, of Istanbul New Airport and Kanal Istanbul, to positively effect Beylikdüzü property prices in line with Metrobus impact of 21% growth (Reidin)

Situated in Istanbul’s European quarter, the predominantly middle class district of Beylikdüzü though benefitting from ancient Byzantine roots is in fact a relatively modern area, with an enviable host of amenities and newly constructed properties, perfectly designed to host the expanding moneyed population.

With Istanbul home to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest shopping malls in the world, founded in 1461, the city has always been synonymous with shopping and the predominantly middle class pastime of browsing the plentiful, colourful wares on offer therein. In today’s booming commoditised marketplace, and with Istanbul’s growing focus as one of the world’s top tourist destinations – with Trip Advisor revealing it to be the top European destination to visit according to their ‘2015 Travellers’ Choice awards for Destinations’ – the city has readied itself as a go-to shopping location.

Beylikdüzü itself is playing a major part in putting Istanbul on the shopping map, with a great expansion in the stand-out brands on offer in recent years. Adil Yaman, Director of Universal21, the leading property agency in South-West Istanbul, explains more,

“Often referred to as ‘The Republic of Shopping’, Istanbul’s sophisticated neighbourhood of Beylikdüzü has the highest number of malls in the city and is already home to many well-known designer brands. This is noticeably on the increase, with well-known names such as US lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret and popular Spanish fashion brand Zara recently joining the wealth of designer names to be found in the neighbourhood.

“With Danish footwear brand Ecco, who are rapidly expanding their presence in the city, recently claiming that over 50% of brand product sales in Turkey are made in Istanbul, the future is bright for further growth of interest in shopping malls and greater wealth expansion in key areas such as Beylikdüzü.”

As Yaman indicates, this important indication that Beylikdüzü is a destination of wealth, the principally middle-class population are in turn seeking out living solutions to reflect their ever-evolving lifestyle. With sleek, high-rise apartment buildings and luxurious environmentally-conscious villa designs emerging in answer, this provides excellent opportunities for savvy investors to be part of the solution and in return, to themselves benefit financially from this cash-rich populous.

Yet it is not just the growing spotlight on Beylikdüzü as a shopping destination of choice that is propelling it forwards as an investment hotspot, key transport link improvements are also having a substantial knock-on effect. The development of Istanbul New Airport, in answer to the deluge of passenger traffic passing through Atatürk Airport, the current airport serving the European side of the city, will provide far greater options for overseas visitors and economic growth in general.

Alongside this, Kanal Istanbul, an impressive and revolutionary project that will relieve a large amount of the current transportation pressure felt by the Bosphorus, is set to also impact positively on the location, driving increased expenditure and investment.

With the development of the Metrobus route in the city resulting in an impressive 21% increase in property prices, according to Reidin, the effects of improved transport links are clear to see, signalling great things for the future. And with the Istanbul Chamber of Real Estate Brokers and Consultants revealing that property prices have near-on doubled in Beylikdüzü in recent years, it is clear that this is an important destination of focus for shrewd investors in light of these expansions.

One project that is drawing such attention is Anfa Life Residence, from Universal21, a masterpiece in construction, with finishes of the highest quality, located in the very heart of the district of Beylikdüzü. With 13 floors of residential apartments, and due to open in a matter of weeks as the ideal middle-class living solution, the development boasts a range of shops as well as an array of excellent facilities, including a cinema, Hamam, spa, sauna, health and fitness club, cafeteria and a children’s play area.

Properties span one and two bedroom apartments, each luxuriously planned and taking full advantage of the space. All apartments are beautifully finished with high standard kitchens and granite-style worktops, with sunken spotlights throughout and with stunning bathrooms, ensuring that finishing standards for Anfa Life are some of the best seen in Istanbul, with special attention paid to all details, making them the perfect investment choice. Rental yields are up to 7%, with a 5-year rental guarantee, and prices for one bed apartments start at $102,000, with two bed apartments priced from $163,000.

Alternatively, for those looking for a luxurious home that also offers stand-out eco features, Universal21’s Oceanic Bayview Villas are the principle choice. Just outside of Beylikdüzü, 20 minutes from Ataturk International Airport and only five minutes from Buyukcekmece Marina, the range of villas are each built across three floors with a minimum of four bedrooms and four bathrooms. With beautiful features that include an internal suspended balcony overlooking the grand living room, a games/cinema room, Jacuzzi room and private swimming pool and triple garage, the properties also benefit from state-of-the-art eco features.

Utilising the latest smart home technology and eco-friendly solutions, villas are designed as super-efficient, recycling rainwater from the concave roofs, using three solar collectors and wind turbines to generate power (saving between 30-60% on annual electricity consumption), special profile panoramic windows, heat pumps, LED lighting, and heat and water insulation. Oceanic Bayview Villas are available from $1,595,000.

For more information, contact Universal21 on 0203 287 8700, or visit www.universal21.com

$Italy’s past is key to its future as fractional ownership provides solution to restoration of historic property$

Italy’s past is key to its future as fractional ownership provides solution to restoration of historic property

by Kate Italy Appassionata

Italy home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world
Positive trend in Italian tourism, especially cities associated with art (ENIT)
Fractional ownership offers the charm and romance of a historical second home without hidden costs (Appassionata)

Housing the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it would be difficult to find a destination with a richer history than Italy. Boasting an eclectic array of historic and natural beauty, Italy is at the heart of cultural tourism with many ancient attractions dating back thousands of years. With the Colosseum and the city of Pompeii the country’s most visited tourist attractions in 2014, it is apparent that Italy’s historical magnetism continues to charm persistent crowds from across the globe.

New tourism figures suggest that cities inextricably linked to Italian art are set for an increasing amount of visitors in 2015. This increasing desire to experience Italy’s extensive and captivating past is not a new phenomenon, with The Grand Tour becoming a long standing tradition from the mid-17^th century right up until the end of the 18^th century.

Travelling through Europe, the Tour provided the opportunity for young, upper class Englishmen who wished to learn and thrive in the artistic and historic culture of the mainland, especially Italy. With the explosion of creativity, known as the Renaissance, born in central Italy, evidence of its artistic conceptions can be found throughout the region.

With such a celebrated and distinctive past, it is not surprising that many prospective second homeowners are also looking to Italy for their own glimpse of artistic history. Following the topical movement set by tourists, potential buyers are pursuing more historic properties rich in traditional Italian architecture.

A beautiful example of this growing trend is Casa Tre Archi, fractional ownership company Appassionata’s latest restoration project. Set in Italy’s Le Marche region, Appassionata sell fractions in charming, historic properties that have been personally restored by founder Dawn Cavanagh-Hobbs and family.

As an interior designer, Dawn explains why these historic qualities are so important to Appassionata,

“When restoring a historic property, it is vital that we create a balance between the traditional features of the building and the more modern touches of contemporary living. Being involved throughout the project from start to finish, we are able to source local, traditional furnishings in keeping with the exterior of the building and the region itself.

“Fractional ownership offers people the opportunity to purchase their own individual piece of Italian history, without the risk of additional restoration expenses or restrictions that many historical properties could incur.”

Situated in the heart of Italy’s central region, Le Marche is abounding with traces of its exemplary history and illustrious architecture. Perched on a hilltop, in the Fermo province of Le Marche, sits the captivating medieval village of Petritoli. Immediately greeted with a sense of grandeur, the entrance to the village is distinguished by ‘Tre Archi’ also known as the Three Arches. These magnificent 19^th century, neo-gothic arches are built into the walls of Petritoli and create an aura of historical significance on arrival.

Built into these ancient town walls, Appassionata’s Casa Tre Archi provides accommodation of three bedrooms and three bathrooms in a luxurious townhouse setting. With beamed ceilings and traditional terracotta-tiled floors, the property is close to a range of local shops and restaurants and has a small garden as well as the roof terrace. The property is offered as part of a fractional ownership scheme whereby a share of 1/10th of the property offers five weeks’ exclusive use annually, available from £70,000.

For more information contact Appassionata on +39 33154 13225 or visit www.appassionata.com

Spanish construction activity doubles EU average

by Kate Spain Taylor Wimpey Espana

Spanish construction activity growth double that of EU (Eurostat)
Frontline Mallorca properties from €262k (Taylor Wimpey España)
Mallorcan coast enjoys 300 days of sunshine per year (Holiday Weather)

“We’re providing good value for money in the best locations, with the best build quality and from a name that buyers can trust.”

It’s quite a claim that Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, makes, as he basks in the sun on his adopted homeland of Mallorca, where coastal regions enjoy around 300 days of sunshine per year according to Holiday Weather.

“Just look around you,” he continues, gesturing at the stunning backdrop of sparkling azure sea and deep, deep blue sky. “A lot of work goes into choosing the locations for our developments, so that our buyers really do get the best there is.”

It’s an ethos that is clearly apparent at Costa Beach, where Taylor Wimpey España is offering high spec, frontline properties from as little as €262,000. The price tag is impressive. The sea views are fabulous. The nearest golf course is just 900m away. The development enjoys spectacular communal grounds and a sizeable pool. Inside, the apartments include designer fixtures and fittings, air conditioning, double-glazing and security doors.

So far as good value for money is concerned, Pritchard certainly seems to be spot on, and when it comes to the best locations the properties really do speak for themselves. Over in Porto Cristo, close to the incredible Caves of Drach, as well as peaceful sandy beaches, astonishing coves and crystal waters that are perfect for practicing all kinds of water sports, Cala Magrana III (prices from €230,000) offers buyers arguably some of the best sea views on the island.

Just 3km from Porto Cristo, by the idyllic coves of Cala Anguila, Cala Romántica and Cala Mandía, Residencial Cala Anguila II (from €245,000) is perfect for those who love the sea, as well as those looking to spend time on some of Mallorca’s best kept golf courses.

Indeed the building of such high-end developments has helped push Spain ahead of the rest of Europe when it comes to construction.

According to Eurostat, Spain’s construction sector increased by 14.4% year-on-year to January 2015, compared with an EU average rise of only 3%. In monthly terms, Spanish construction activity grew by 2% from December 2014 to January 2015 – double the figure for the EU.

It is indicative of buyers’ trust in Taylor Wimpey España that the company was able to keep building throughout Spain’s difficult economic times. With the right product, the market remained solid, despite tales of desperation elsewhere in the property sector.

“We’ve been doing this a long time, some 50 years,” concludes the company’s Marc Pritchard, “And one of the reasons for that is that we listen to our customers and respond to their needs. From the ability to personalise their new apartments during construction, to selecting the perfect location, we make sure that we never stop learning from those who buy from us.”

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

Design-led student accommodation breathes new life into UK university cityscapes

by Kate United Kingdom Collegiate AC

Student accommodation sector now worth in excess of £20bn (AMA Research)
Collegiate AC’s Gateway Apartments in Edinburgh win RICS Residential Award 2014
Gateway Apartments are ‘a stark contrast from the site’s former use’ through juxtaposition of old and new architecture (Susan Stephen Architects)

For the majority of people, the term ‘student housing’ will conjure images of damp, overcrowded buildings in a less than picturesque setting. However, in recent years this infamous vision of student ‘digs’ of old has been gradually abandoned as luxury new build, design-led accommodation has caused the evolution of the student housing market, making choosing a property a lifestyle choice for both current and prospective students.

Modern, innovative buildings with all the latest technologies and trends built in as standard are now an almost irresistible option and as the student accommodation landscape expands and transforms, so too does the university cityscape to allow for this 21^st century experience.

The most recent ‘Higher Education and Student Accommodation Construction Sector Report – UK 2014-2018’ from AMA Research, highlights that the student accommodation sector is now worth in excess of £20bn. With investment in the sector continuing to expand and develop, the report focuses on purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) and the shifting imbalance between supply and demand figures.

New properties are being erected throughout the UK as a reactive solution to this exacerbating problem, however, not only is there increasing demand for readily available accommodation, there is also demand for that accommodation to fit within the emerging student lifestyle that requires a more design-led approach.

Unique external facades of more recent student accommodation are modernising university city landscapes, whilst ensuring that the properties blend cohesively amidst their often traditional locations. This could be seen to be a microcosm of the new student lifestyle, with the contemporary take on university life having not totally abandoned the established conventions of its roots.

A company at the forefront of innovative design for luxury student properties is Collegiate AC. Their newest edition to the Edinburgh skyline, Gateway Apartments, was the winner of the prestigious RICS Scotland Residential Award in 2014, a showcase of the most inspirational regional developments in land, property, construction and the environment throughout the UK.

Gordon Beaton, Design Director for Susan Stephen Architects who led the project, explains the effect of the building’s exterior on the city landscape,

“Many design options were discussed with planning in order to ensure an appropriate yet contemporary design which sits sympathetically within its surroundings. Natural stone was used on the main facade to complement the tenements with a beige brick however, the courtyard uses white facing brick and lightweight glass staircases to create a bright open space.

“The use of white bricks in a coordinated landscaped setting has created a bright and peaceful sanctuary from the city – a stark contrast from its overdeveloped former use.”

This design choice has made an impression on the city landscape, emphasising the juxtaposition between Edinburgh’s old and new. The disparity between Gateway Apartments and the development that was there initially illustrates the influence that student accommodation is having on university towns and cities across the UK. New build projects designed for students are breathing new life into areas of a city which may have become worn or forgotten, enhancing the complete landscape.

Heriberto Cuanalo, CEO of Collegiate AC explains the need for new purpose built student accommodation and the importance of its design on the city within which it sits,

“The revolutionary designs now being used for new build student properties are not only changing the overall student experience, but also the physical landscape which is housing these additional structures. New build student accommodation alleviates the pressure felt by university towns and cities to manage the ever increasing undergraduate applications, as well as altering the landscape in keeping with the new student population’s demands and expectations.”

Gateway Apartments are set in a peaceful and elegant enclave, within walking distance of all the main colleges and university campuses. These student apartments are well served with a variety of retail outlets creating an almost ‘village’ feel about the area, whilst offering easy access to transport links and central Edinburgh. These high-specification and beautifully designed student apartments are equipped with contemporary high-gloss kitchens, individual en-suite facilities, flat-screen TVs, double beds and ample study and storage space.

As part of the innovative design, amazing on-site facilities include a private gym, common room, in-house cinema, laundry room and spacious study rooms combined with high-speed broadband and Wi-Fi throughout the building. To add to the student experience offered by Gateway Apartments, the building has secure electronic access, CCTV, on-site management and a concierge team with a 24-hour helpline.

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

Spain and Portugal vie for the top spot as golf season gets into full swing

by Kate Portugal Spain Ideal Homes Portugal, Kyero, Taylor Wimpey Espana

European Mediterranean countries offer 1,400 golf facilities (European Golf Association)
Golf courses command price premium second only to waterfront sites (KPMG)
Golf holiday sales up by more than 20% just 2 years (IAGTO)

With the dust settling on another fantastic Masters, golf season is in full swing once more. The PGA tour will see five tournaments take place in May, followed by another five in June and six in July.

When it comes to golfing in Europe, the courses of Spain and Portugal have long enjoyed a friendly rivalry, with both countries vying for the crown of Europe’s best golf destination.

Spain’s credentials lie not only in its fantastic courses, but also in the excellent value for money that it offers to golfers. The recent Avios Airmiles Value Tracker, which calculates the best value destinations around the world, saw Palma de Mallorca and Alicante take two of the top three spots (with Gibraltar in at number two) for value for money golfing destinations.

Portugal made fourth place on the list thanks to the Algarve’s courses, with Lisbon ranking sixth (after Tenerife took the fifth spot). Spain grabbed one further entry in the top ten, with Malaga being ranked number nine.

While Spain may have cornered the value for money market in the Avios rankings, Portugal has just romped home to victory after being named the world’s best golf destination at the 2015 World Golf Awards.

While the two countries continue to vie for the top spot, both are benefitting hugely from the money that comes with golf tourism. Martin Dell, director of leading Spanish property portal, Kyero.com, which lists more than 200,000 homes from 3,000 estate agents, comments,

“Golfers are certainly not shy about spending when they travel abroad to play. Restaurants, shops and spas all do well when located near to a successful golf resort. Golf properties are also incredibly popular, with many commanding a price premium, particularly if they are part of an integrated golf resort development.”

According to figures from the European Golf Association, there are some 1,400 golf facilities in European Mediterranean countries, 170 of which have been considered as part of coastal integrated golf resorts by KPMG’s Golf Resorts in the European Mediterranean Region report. The report includes Portugal, as while it does not technically belong to the European Mediterranean region, its golfing credentials are too significant to ignore.

Properties on these resorts are highly prized, many of them as second homes for keen golfers who use them frequently throughout the year. Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of prestigious Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, comments,

“Our golf properties are always incredibly popular and the panoramic sea and golf views at resorts like Avalon, near Marbella, really do take some beating. Spain’s excellent value as a golfing destination extends to its golf resort market as well – a two bedroom, luxury apartment in Avalon, which is located in the prestigious Los Arqueros golf course, costs from just €305,000, which is fantastic value for a property of this calibre.”

According to the 2014 IAGTO Golf Tourism Report, global golf holiday sales grew by in excess of 20% between 2011 and 2013. Based on feedback from IAGTO member operators, Spain was ranked the number one top golf destination globally, followed closely by Portugal in second place. Both of these countries offer a wide choice of residential golf properties and the KPMG report highlights the growing shift from purely hotel based golf resorts to those offering residential accommodation options as well.

Interestingly, KPMG identify the fact that many of those who choose to live in a golf resort property do not necessarily play golf themselves. Instead, they are attracted by the beauty and serenity of the surroundings, the golfing lifestyle and the prestige that comes with owning a luxury pad beside a course. Chris White, founding director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, comments,

“We have certainly found that many of those considering purchasing a golf property don’t actually play, though some plan to take it up in the future as part of their retirement. The golf resort homes available means that buyers looking for a stunning, landscaped environment have their pick of some of the best properties that Portugal has to offer. In Lisbon, a four bedroom home on the Quinta do Peru golf estate (which made European Golf Magazine’s top ten golf courses league table) can be picked up for €590,000, while in the Algarve a three bedroom villa on the Vale da Pinta course costs just €439,000.”

For those who enjoy a regular round on the fairway, a golf resort property offers the perfect way to pursue their hobby from the comfort of their own home, either as a fulltime residence or as a second home for use with family and friends. According to the KPMG Golf Resorts in the European Mediterranean Region report, “numerous studies have indicated that golf courses come second only to waterfront sites as the most desirable location for a housing community.” Given the plethora of such sites available in both Spain and Portugal, no wonder the two countries are neck and neck in their quest to provide Europe’s best golfing experience.

For more information please contact:

Kyero.com: www.kyero.com

Taylor Wimpey España: +44 8000 121 020 or www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

Ideal Homes Portugal: +44 800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

Newly established tax haven beckons foreign investment in Europe’s ‘Golden Triangle’

by Kate Albania Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa

22 hectare tax-free economic zone established around port of Durrës, Albania, expected to generate millions of Euros in new investment
Albania ranks higher than Germany, the United States, and Eastern Europe & Central Asia in ‘Index of Transaction Transparency’ (Santander Trade)
Part of ‘Golden Triangle’, Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa offers limited 25% discount to encourage investment

The announcement of a ground-breaking tax free zone being established by the Albanian government around the port city of Durrës marks an exciting new phase for the country, as it beckons more and more foreign investors to look to its shores. The Albanian Ministry of Economy is set to create a 22 hectare economic zone whereby businesses, both home-grown and overseas-founded, will be able to operate without having to pay tax.

The Durres zone will be established for a 35-year period and the move will also create new jobs and positively impact on both the regional and national economy. Paying special attention to logistic services, such as imports and exports, the loading of ships and the processing of products, this pioneering step looks set to open Albania’s doors to growing international interest, further building relations with neighbouring Italy and beyond, ensuring Balkan borders become increasingly transparent within Europe and further afield.

The regional tax haven that will be created by this new move is also a further step in establishing this part of the world as a growing economic powerhouse, as Peter Walshe, Marketing Director of Albania’s first high end resort, Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa, explains,

“The founding of the new Durrës tax haven is certainly a very good thing for Albania’s industry in general terms as the city is the long-established gateway to the Balkans for sea-freight and, in turn, international investment. The economic zone will also further play into the notion of the country’s ‘Golden Triangle’ of which Lalzit Bay is a vital part alongside Durrës and the Albanian capital of Tirana.

“These three pillars of Albania’s economic miracle are driving the country forward: towards an already emerging bright future of financial strength, economic optimism and hopeful EU ascendancy.”

In line with this, Santander’s Trade arm has noted Albania as ranking higher than Germany (5.0), the United States (7.0), and Eastern Europe & Central Asia (7.0) in terms of its ‘Index of Transaction Transparency’, with a rating of 8.0, where ‘the greater the index, the more transparent the conditions of transactions’. This indicates that the country has overcome historic concerns and is now striving ahead in economic gains and practices, encouraging FDI and international focus.

As Albania’s very first luxury resort, Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa is capitalising on this growing demand by offering excellent affordable investment opportunities for overseas and domestic buyers. With a wide range of property options available, from one and two bedroom apartments to three or four bedroom villas with private swimming pools, all of the highest quality and luxurious in design, Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa is the ideal investment choice in a growing market.

The Resort also boasts a wide range of five-star amenities, such as a beach club, tennis courts, boutique shops and a range of carefully selected restaurants and bars, all set within ranging grounds where properties are built at low density.

As part of the market’s expanding encouragement of investment, the developer at Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa is currently offering up to 20% off of selected final apartments in Phase 1 of the project, meaning that a one or two bedroom apartment can be snapped up from as little as £39,000 until the offer ends on 31^st May 2015.

For more information, contact Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa on +44 845 125 8600 or visit www.lalzitbay.com

An affair in Italy: Short-term visits on the rise as buyers look to purchase with less commitment

by Kate Italy Appassionata

Foreign visitor arrivals to Italy grow from 42 to more than 50 million (2008 – 2014 (Confturismo-Confocommercio)
Italian visitors stay for 3.7 days on average, compared to 5.1 days in Spain (Confturismo-Confocommercio)
Fractional ownership the perfect answer to the growing demand for shorter holiday stays (Appassionata)

For as long as can be remembered, Italy has been synonymous with love, associated with passion and is the go-to destination for romance, wooing a loved one and falling head over heels. It is for this reason – alongside the warmth of the locals, the breathtaking scenery, compelling history, and expressive culture – that it often makes the number one spot in lists of top honeymoon destinations in Europe, and often the world.

Yet with proposals a plenty at locations such as the Fontana di Trevi in Rome or the Ponte di Rialto in Venice, and the Costiera Amalfitana drawing those looking to stage the most romantic of weddings, interestingly a new trend has begun to emerge that reveals that growing numbers of people are now in fact choosing Italy as the location with which to have a part-time affair.

The Confturismo-Confocommercio has released figures that show that whilst the number of tourists visiting Italy are booming, growing from a 2008 figure of 42 million foreign visitor arrivals to more than 50 million in 2014, far outpacing the growth of other popular European travel destinations such as Spain and France, the number of days that visitors are staying are less. While visitors spend an average of 5.1 days in Spain, Italian visitors stay for 3.7 days on average, meaning that more and more people are looking to the country of amore for a part-time love affair.

Dawn Cavanagh-Hobbs, Founder of Appassionata, a fractional ownership company in Italy’s Le Marche region, agrees that they have also seen evidence of this new trend,

“Fractional ownership is the perfect answer to the growing demand for shorter holiday stays, whether it is because time is today at more of a premium for people due to family or work commitments or due to budget constraints, and we have certainly seen this in the growing number of enquiries we have had in the past three months.

“Always a popular second home destination, Italy is drawing more and more visitors year-on-year and those that visit want to make the very most of their precious time. Fractional ownership, where people purchase a share in a property that gives them a set amount of usage annually, suits this ideally as it provides value for money and also a property that is ready to host owners, fully equipped and offering all the benefits of home ownership but without the commitment.”

Appassionata’s latest project, the beautiful townhouse Casa Tre Archi situated in the stunning hilltop town of Petritoli in Le Marche, offers just this kind of part-time commitment, perfect for those who have fallen for Italy’s charms yet only wish to make her their beautiful part-time mistress.

The three bedroom property which boasts a stunning roof terrace and close proximity to authentic, award-winning restaurants, makes part of the ancient town wall an exposed feature in the lounge, giving the property character and Italian charm. The property is diligently managed throughout the year, meaning that not only is it a more affordable holiday home option but owners also do not have to worry about maintenance constraints usually associated with full property ownership.

Ownership of a fraction in Casa Tre Archi provides five weeks usage on an annual basis, allocated via a system that ensures fair distribution, and unlike a timeshare scheme gives buyers the ability to sell, will, transfer or place in a trust their ownership at any time and also to benefit from the appreciation in value of the property over time.

A share of 1/10th of the Casa Tre Archi is available from £65,000. For more information, contact Appassionata on +39 33154 13225 or visit www.appassionata.com

Buying outside of the box – inside the Algarve’s most unusual homes

by Kate Portugal Ideal Homes Portugal

16^th century convent attracts buyers in eastern Algarve
€4 million lakeside village ripe for development
Restored windmill tempts buyers to set their sights on the stars

Portugal is known for its wealth of accommodation, with modern apartments and villas clustered around some of the best beaches in Europe along the southern Algarve coast. But not everyone is looking for a two bedroom apartment with shared pool, or a three/four bed villa with a few orange trees. These days, a new breed of buyer is looking for something seriously unusual, as Chris White, founding director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“While buyers of apartments and villas are still the bread and butter of Portugal’s property market, we’ve noticed a growing trend in the Algarve for properties that have unusual features, or an exciting backstory – homes that break the mould so far as a ‘normal’ second home is concerned.”

The Ideal Homes Portugal team has come across some fascinating examples over the past few years. In the pretty, cobbled streets of the eastern Algarve town of Tavira, the Convento da Bernardas is a restored 16^th century convent that has been tastefully developed into a number of uniquely designed apartments. Original features abound, like the stunning exterior façade, while new additions like the two saltwater swimming pools add to the building’s charms. In a nod to contemporary living, each apartment has its own entrance and private car parking space, while optical fibre systems, television and internet cabling has been installed throughout the building.

Beyond the urban delights of Tavira, up in the hills of the central Algarve, a restored windmill with two miller’s cottages is another of the unusual properties that has delighted the Ideal Homes Portugal team. On the market for €159,000, the windmill still features the wheel mechanism and the grinding millstone, which has been turned into a table. Solar panels and generators provide electricity to this fascinating home, which is ripe for development as a tourism venture. The unique nature of the property means that the right buyer has the potential to turn it into anything from a yoga retreat to a star gazing haven.

Perhaps the most exciting of the Algarve’s unusual offerings is the centuries-old Funcho Village. A truly unique business/investment opportunity, the lakeside village has stood empty since 1974, when the overthrowing of the Dictator Salazar meant that youngsters suddenly had the freedom to opt for a life beyond working the land. They abandoned the rural life in pursuit of the bright lights of the cities.

Now, the local authority of Silves is keen for Funcho Village to be transformed into an attractive rural tourism destination, with the national government having given permission for the creation of a hotel, log cabins, restaurants, water sports facilities, a dry ski slope and an observatory. The village is on the market for €4 million.

While an entire village in need of redevelopment isn’t what every buyer is seeking, the Algarve also offers some delightful villas with unusual aspects, such as the seven bedroom luxury home in Sao Clemente that includes a ‘magic garden.’ Designed to capture the imagination and hearts of the property’s owners, the garden features several varied living zones in a layout that promotes serenity and peace of mind. Those whose minds are already serene can simply enjoy the property’s tennis court, heated pool, large terraces and hot tub.

“We are seeing more and more of homes for sale with unusual features,” concludes Ideal Homes Portugal’s Chris White. “Buyers want a home that is special and unique to them – ‘one size fits all’ has definitely had its day!”

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.

Surge in tourism from Arab nations linked to increase in foreign investment in Turkish property

by Kate Turkey Universal21

30% increase in Qatari tourists to Turkey from 2013-14 (Turkish Airlines)
Foreign property sales increase by 28% in comparison with 2014 (TurkStat)
Istanbul agent sees 400% increase in sales to Arab investors, doubling Arabic speaking Salesforce (Universal21)

2015 marks the Year of Culture between Turkey and Qatar, an event to celebrate the cultural partnerships between Qatari and Turkish organisations, institutions and individuals. As the strong relationship between the two countries continues to develop, the General Manager of Turkish Airlines in Qatar confirms that Istanbul has now become a favourite tourist destination for Qatari nationals, with a remarkable 30% increase in the number of Qatari tourists who visited in 2014.

With over five direct flights a day between the two countries, Turkey is now an extremely viable holiday hotspot for both Qatar and many other Arab nations. The dramatic surge in tourism from Qatari nationals, as well as other Arab citizens, has had a positive effect on foreign investment in Turkish property. A statement from the Turkish Statistics Institute (TurkStat) last month highlighted that foreign property sales have increased by 28% since this time last year, with Istanbul being the most popular area of interest.

Monica Anca, Director of Universal21, the leading property agency in South-West Istanbul, comments further,

“As Turkey becomes more popular throughout the Arab nations as a tourist destination, prospective investors will be able to see the undeniable potential the Turkish property market has to offer. We have definitely noticed an increase in interest and subsequent sales to Arab investors, with our figures showing that they now comprise 25% of our total sales.

“2014 figures revealed that approximately 1 in 20 of our clients were from other Arab countries. This proportion has already inflated dramatically this year, with 1 in 5 clients now coming from Arab nations, an increase of around 400%. Currently 65% of our lead enquiries are coming from Arab nationals outside of Turkey and I believe that this trend will continue, with foreign investment becoming significant to the future of Istanbul’s property market.”

As the rising interest in Turkey’s property market, and specifically in the economic hub of Istanbul, continues to grow, so too will the demand for high quality investment opportunities. With an increasing number of Arab buyers seeking to become part of Istanbul’s appeal as a property hotspot, Universal21 has a range of property options available in order to meet this growing need in the market.

Universal21’s Anfa Life Residence, for example, is a masterpiece in construction, with finishes of the highest quality and located in the heart of Beylikdüzü, an upcoming district in Istanbul. With 13 floors of residential apartments, Anfa Life boasts a range of shops as well as an array of excellent facilities on the top floor, including a cinema, Hamam, spa, sauna, health and fitness club, cafeteria and a children’s play area.

Properties span one and two bedroom apartments, each luxuriously planned and taking full advantage of the space. All apartments are beautifully finished with high standard kitchens and granite-style worktops, with sunken spotlights throughout and with stunning bathrooms, ensuring that finishing standards for Anfa Life are one of the best seen in Istanbul, with special attention paid to all details, making them the perfect investment choice. Rental yields are up to 7%, with a 5-year rental guarantee, and prices for one bed apartments start at $102,000, with two bed apartments priced from $163,000.

We are also offering other developments more suitable for residential lifestyle, such as 3 bedroom and 4 bedroom apartments in quiet residential areas and Eco Friendly villas with up to 7 bedrooms, lake and sea views and a high standard of specification. We cater for most clients requirements, including assistance with residents’ permits for the whole family.

For more information on this and other investment options in Istanbul, contact Universal21 on 0203 287 8700, or visit www.universal21.com

Enter the Dragon: Rising numbers of Chinese students demand private members’ club style UK student accommodation

by Kate United Kingdom Collegiate AC

54.2% growth in Chinese students studying in the UK over past 5 years (HESA)
Increase of 26.5% in Chinese students booking luxury accommodation in past year (Collegiate AC)
Private members’ club style features of luxury lounges and airport transfers heighten appeal to Chinese students

The UK’s higher education institutions are undoubtedly growing in popularity with international students, registering a growth of 0.6% in the past year, and taking the number of non-UK students studying in our universities to 388,255 for 2013/14, according to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). However, whilst this growth is noticeable, it is the number of non-EU students, and specifically the Chinese, that are increasing on a dramatic level.

Year-on-year from the 2012/13 academic year to 2013/14, there was a substantial increase of 4.9% in the number of students arriving in the UK to study from outside of the European Union, with China the top non-EU nation producing the greatest numbers of students with a UK university education ambition.

There was a close to 5% growth in the levels of Chinese students studying in the UK in 2013/14 and a breathtaking increase of 54.2% in the past five years. Alongside this there has been an interesting reflection in the student accommodation market.

Leading provider of luxury student accommodation, Collegiate AC, has noticed their own marked increase in interest from Chinese students, as CEO Heriberto Cuanalo explains,

“It is fantastic for the UK higher education system that more and more students from outside the EU are choosing to study here in the UK, proving that we really do offer an enviable university education to be proud of. This has certainly been reflected in the type of students booking with us to live in university accommodation that is of a higher quality and offers additional facilities that traditional ‘student digs’ do not.

“Students from China arriving to study in some of the UK’s top university cities are increasingly demanding more from their accommodation of choice, finding the benefits of having not only break-out study areas a huge draw but also extra on-site facilities such as private gyms and cinemas, allowing for maximising their efficiency and time-management.”

And it seems that the growth in interest from Chinese students in superior accommodation is far outweighing even the growth in their student numbers. Collegiate AC has seen a rise of 26.5% in just one year in the number of such students booking luxurious university accommodation, meaning that Chinese students make up over 50% of bookings for the coming 2015/16 academic year.

With life in a Collegiate AC property almost like living in a private members’ club – with luxurious lounges and even airport transfers arranged by the company, ideal for students arriving from China and other overseas nations – the focus is on providing the best possible university living experience, making not just the UK higher education system one that is enviable, but the entire living experience hugely desirable too, certainly an evolution from the scruffy university accommodation of old.

Located throughout some of the country’s finest university cities, including Birmingham, Leeds, London, Southampton, Liverpool, Exeter and Edinburgh, Collegiate AC residences also include fast broadband and free Wi-Fi, and incorporate key security features such as CCTV, 24-hour on-call support, and electronic entry systems.