Apartments win out over villas as Taylor Wimpey España launches new Canyamel Pins homes in Mallorca

Apartments win out over villas as Taylor Wimpey España launches new Canyamel Pins homes in Mallorca

by Louise Spain ,
  • Spain now accounts for 21% of European second home purchases (Savills)
  • Canyamel Pins becomes 4th launch of 2019 for Taylor Wimpey España
  • Growing demand for smaller, cheaper second homes since 2013 makes case for apartments over villas

Leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España has revealed details of its latest development in Mallorca – Canyamel Pins. The announcement comes as Savills reports a range of factors that point to apartments increasingly becoming more appealing than villas when it comes to second home ownership.

Just 0.4 km from Canyamel beach and 0.6 km from the 18-hole, par-73 course at Canyamel Golf, Canyamel Pins offers a selection of two- and three-bedroom apartments set in beautiful landscaped grounds complete with communal pool. The Mediterranean design blends with contemporary architecture and impeccable finishes in order to deliver spacious, modern homes with large terraces that are ideal for making the most of Mallorca’s abundant sunshine. Prices start from €342,000 plus VAT.

It has already been a busy year for the Taylor Wimpey España team. When not launching new developments (Canyamel Pins is their fourth so far in 2019), the team have been scaling the mountains of Wales in order to raise money for charity. The Challenge 2019 event saw teams from across Taylor Wimpey compete, with the Spanish delegation coming first in the TRIAL group and raising €5,944 for two good causes: The Youth Adventure Trust in the UK and DEBRA in Spain. Overall, Taylor Wimpey raised £200,000 as a result of its Challenge 2019 events.

“We’re delighted to be launching another Mallorca development, as demand for second homes on the island maintains its momentum. Buyers are keen to experience the very best that Mallorca has to offer, from its superb beaches to its pristine golf courses. That’s why we’ve chosen the location of Canyamel Pins so carefully – so that buyers can enjoy everything at their fingertips.” 

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

According to Savills’ Impacts: The Future of Global Real Estate report, smaller, cheaper properties have seen a notable increase in demand since 2013. The immediate aftermath of the global financial crisis saw capital-rich buyers focusing intently on prime locations and properties, but the easing of credit conditions over the following years has resulted in buyers looking at a wider range of more affordable locations and property types.

Apartments are particularly well suited to such buyers. Not only do they tend to be more affordable, but the upkeep costs are often lower, not to mention the hassle. Buying on a development where you can lock up and leave your second home and return to it weeks or even months later to find everything in perfect condition is often much more appealing than having to spend the first days of your holiday tackling a garden that has turned into a jungle during your absence.

Savills also points out Spain’s increasing importance as a destination for second home buyers. It now accounts for 21% of all second home sales within Europe, while back in 2011 the figure stood at just 11%. Buyers from Britain, Holland, Germany, Italy and Portugal (among others) all cited Spain as the top foreign destination for their next investment in response to the Savills survey.

“With Canyamel Pins, we’ve listened to what buyers want in property terms, as well as location terms. The apartments have been designed to offer a superb, relaxing holiday experience, from the layout of the rooms and terraces to the thermal and acoustic insulation. They will also work well for those buyers looking for second homes that combine affordability and convenience in a way that villa properties so often struggle to do. The result is, ultimately, more relaxing holidays – which is very much the point of owning a second home!”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

 

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.

Andalusia property sales up nearly 20% as buyers can’t get enough of the Costa del Sol

Andalusia property sales up nearly 20% as buyers can’t get enough of the Costa del Sol

by Louise Spain ,
  • Sales in Andalusia up 19.7% in year to March 2019 (INE)
  • Jet2 increasing UK-Spain flights by 10% this year
  • Appeal of traditional sunshine destinations remains strong (Taylor Wimpey España)

Property sales in Andalusia shot up by 19.7% in the year to March 2019, according to the latest figures from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE). It seems that buyers just can’t get enough of the sun-kissed coastline, which is home to perennial favourites such as the Costa del Sol.

Leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España has been building holiday homes along the Spanish Mediterranean coast for the past 60 years and has a deep-rooted understanding of just what it is that keeps holidaymakers and second home buyers coming back for more.

“There’s no single factor that makes the Costa del Sol so appealing – rather, it’s the way that the area blends so many charms into one overall package. The beautiful climate is of course a major draw, as are the area’s outstanding Blue Flag beaches and multiple golf courses. The charm of the local towns is another key factor, as is the fantastic cuisine. And all of it at some of the most affordable prices in Europe.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

Spain was the only country to enjoy three entries into the Post Office Holiday Costs Barometer in 2019, which ranks the cheapest holiday destinations in Europe. Torremolinos, Benidorm and Alicante made it in at positions four, five and ten respectively.

Not only that, but areas such as the Costa del Sol enjoy easy access from a wide range of European countries, ensuring that second home owners can quickly and cost effectively reach their properties. In 2019, doing so will be even easier, thanks to Jet2’s planned 10% expansion over the course of the year. The additional routes and flights will see the airline offering eight million seats between the UK and Spain. It follows Jet2’s growth of 20% during 2018.

Interestingly, Jet2’s expansion will see 54.3% more seats offered out of season during 2019, meaning that second home owners will find it even easier to enjoy their holiday properties year-round. Savills states in its latest Impacts: The Future of Global Real Estate report that “Air routes continue to have a profound impact on where people want to go and where people want to buy.” As such, the Jet2 expansion is excellent news for Spain’s tourism industry as a whole, as well as for areas such as the Costa del Sol which will benefit from increased seat numbers.

“One of the other appeals of the Costa del Sol is the sheer variety of holiday home options available. Buyers can opt for key-ready homes for instant holiday gratification or buy off-plan and enjoy having an input into the design process of their new second home.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

Taylor Wimpey España offers both key-ready properties and off plan options along the Costa del Sol. La Floresta Sur is an excellent example of the former. The key-ready homes are available from €222,000 plus VAT. Just 0.5 km from El Soto Golf Club and within easy reach of Elviria Beach, the apartments are ideal for buyers looking to purchase and enjoy their second home as soon as possible. Taylor Wimpey España’s Horizon Golf site, in La Cala Golf Resort and Botanic, in Benahavis, are both also available for buyers looking to enjoy their second homes this summer, offering panoramic views in tranquil areas.

For those who prefer to buy off-plan, the outstanding three-bedroom homes of the latest phase of Green Golf are ideal. The frontline golf townhouses with southwest-facing terraces are available from as little as €280,000 plus VAT. All of these sites also feature communal swimming pools and prettily landscaped grounds.

 

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.

Housing Hand responds to increasingly challenging deposit requirements with rent guarantor scheme

Housing Hand responds to increasingly challenging deposit requirements with rent guarantor scheme

by Louise United Kingdom
  • Rents rising at the fastest rate in over 2 years (HomeLet)
  • ‘Non-typical’ renters having to raise 6-12 months’ rent in advance (Housing Hand)
  • 40% of deposits larger than 1 month’s rent (Tenancy Deposit Scheme)

Rents in the UK are rising at their fastest rate for more than two years; HomeLet reports a rise of 3.3% in the year to March 2019. With tax changes making buy to let a less attractive option to investors and the letting fees ban due to take effect from 1 June, everyone from landlords to agents are looking to rents to make up the difference.

Those entering this difficult market for the first time face a number of challenges. Much has been made of the issues that first-time buyers face in terms of large deposits and house prices that are significantly out of step with salaries. However, the challenges are also there for a growing number of would-be renters, according to UK rent guarantor service Housing Hand.

“Figures from the Tenancy Deposit Scheme show that more than 40% of deposits for private rented homes are more than a month’s rent. For those who don’t fit the profile of a ‘typical’ renter – students, first time renters, care leavers, professionals coming to work in the UK from overseas, for example – deposit requirements can quickly spiral. It’s not uncommon for landlords to ask for six or even 12 months’ rent as a deposit or a down payment in such situations, which is beyond the reach of many people.”

Jeremy Robinson, Group Managing Director, Housing Hand

The requirement to pay such large amounts upfront is often dropped if the renter can provide a guarantor for their rent. However, this is often yet another challenge for many of those looking to rent a home in the UK. This is where Housing Hand steps in to help. The company provides a rent guarantor service to students and working professionals, helping them to reduce the upfront costs of renting a home. Those coming to the UK from overseas to work or study can also access the scheme, as can workers on zero hours contracts.

The guarantor service is simple. The tenant engages Housing Hand to act as their guarantor, with the option of instalments spread over several months or making a single payment from as little as £295 for the service. Housing Hand then liaises with the landlord, letting agent or university in question to make the relevant arrangements. The company is even inbuilt into many of its partners’ booking forms, from letting agents and universities to accommodation providers, in order to streamline the process. The individual can thus rent their home without having to find thousands of pounds to use as a deposit.

Housing Hand has already helped and processed over 70,000 applicants from 141 countries. The company works with more than 3,000 accommodation providers and covered more than £120 million in rent. Their flexible approach means that even those with qualifying guarantors can protect themselves and their guarantors from up to £10,000 of potential rent liability when living in shared student digs, through the Only My Share scheme.

The average rent in the UK is now £1,041 pcm, according to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. In London, it is closer to £1,750 pcm. Not only that, but the rate at which rents are rising is projected to increase. RICS reports projected growth of around 2% over the year ahead, jumping to a rise of approximately 3% per annum by 2024, thanks to the growing imbalance between supply and demand.

“Moving into your own home should be an exciting milestone. We are doing what we can to ensure that people can achieve that dream in the face of increasingly difficult circumstances.”

Jeremy Robinson, Group Managing Director, Housing Hand

 

For more information please contact Housing Hand today on +44 (0) 207 205 2625 or visit https://www.housinghand.co.uk/

 

 

 

 

New rental market report captures latest state of UK market

New rental market report captures latest state of UK market

by Louise United Kingdom ,
  • Surrenden Invest’s Rental Market Snapshot reports strong, sustained demand
  • Regional cities remain at forefront of increase in private renting
  • Brexit delay, section 21 ban and Labour’s PDR challenge having little impact on demand

A new report on the state of the UK rental market has revealed strong and sustained demand for privately rented homes, particularly in key regional cities. The 2019 Rental Market Snapshot, from specialist property investment agency Surrenden Invest, considers the key drivers behind the UK’s booming private rented sector and what this means for those who live and invest in it.  

“What we’re seeing is a continuing drive towards rented accommodation in the UK, with developers racing to meet the demand for contemporary homes in city centres. Tenants are seeking ever more experiential homes, with concierge services and exciting roof terraces becoming something of a must. Investors, meanwhile, have largely shrugged off recent announcements, from the Brexit delay and potential Section 21 ban to Labour’s challenge to permitted development rules.”

Jonathan Stephens, MD, Surrenden Invest

Some 42,000 homes have been built in former office blocks under the altered permitted development rules (PDR) in recent years. Labour has proposed changing the rules once again (following the Conservatives initially changing them back in 2013) due to permitted developments not being required to provide affordable homes or to meet official space standards. However, any such change, unless replaced by an accompanying increase in housebuilding elsewhere, has the potential to place further pressure on the UK’s already tight supply of housing.

“Investors in the UK rental market are increasingly unphased by issues such as the potential Section 21 notice ban and the talk of PDR rule changes. We’re finding that those who were determined enough to see out the increase in stamp duty and the phasing out of mortgage interest relief are in it for the long-haul – which is good news for the UK rental market, given the continually increasing demand for privately rented homes.”

Jonathan Stephens, MD, Surrenden Invest

New homes such as No. 76 Holloway Head in Birmingham are doing much to fuel demand for inner city rental accommodation and the lifestyle that it provides. The spacious, elegant apartments are in an ultra-prime city centre location, with the Bullring, Grand Central and New Street Station less than two minutes away and the Mailbox even closer. For young professionals looking to get the best out of Birmingham, rental properties just don’t get much better.

Birmingham is, along with Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and the London commuter belt, one of the key markets highlighted by the 2019 Rental Market Snapshot. These regional hotspots are offering the lifestyle that renters want, combined with the yields and capital growth (or potential for capital growth over the coming years) that investors are seeking.

Right now, that capital growth is focused firmly on the North West. Newly published figures from HM Land Registry show that it is enjoying greater house price rises than any other English region, with monthly growth of 1.3% between January and February and an annual uplift of 4.0% in the year to February. The North West is also the area pegged by Savills as due to enjoy the greatest compound house price growth over the next five years, with a rise of 21.6% projected by 2023.

Again, developers are focusing on city centre homes that appeal to contemporary renters. Middlewood Plaza, for example, is just 10 minutes from Manchester city centre, and offers apartments, duplexes and townhouses with a stunning roof terrace for all residents to enjoy. It is the creation of homes like these that is boosting the appeal of rental properties to residents and investors alike.

 

For more information, visit www.surrendeninvest.com or call 0203 3726 499

Taylor Wimpey España launches new show home amid golf tourism and house price boom

Taylor Wimpey España launches new show home amid golf tourism and house price boom

by Louise Spain ,
  • Spain accounts for ¼ of top 100 golf resorts in Continental Europe (Today’s Golfer)
  • Spanish/Portuguese played rounds up nearly 30% over winter season (Tee Times Golf Agency)
  • House prices along Mediterranean coast up 4.5% – more than any other region (Tinsa)

From golf tourism to house prices, Spain’s Mediterranean coast is looking particularly healthy at present. What better time, then, for leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España to launch its newest golf resort show home?

Green Golf at Estepona (Malaga) is ideally positioned to court the rise in interest in Spanish golf resorts. Today’s Golfer Magazine’s Top 100 Golf Resorts in Continental Europe 2018/19 included 25 Spanish destinations, meaning that Spain alone accounts for a quarter of the best courses across Continental Europe.

Meanwhile, Tee Times Golf Agency, which serves both Spain and Portugal, has reported a near-30% uptick in the number of rounds that clients played between the November 2017-February 2018 and November 2018-February 2019 periods.

That’s against a backdrop of tourism numbers in Spain rising by 3.7% in 2018, when almost 90 million people chose Spain for their holidays. Over the winter months (November 2018-March 2019), the Costa del Sol in particular saw tourism thrive, with 3.2 million visitors – the area’s best ever winter season, according to government figures. That number is expected to rise to 13 million travellers by the end of the summer season, which would represent an all-time high for the Costa del Sol.

“Golf has always been an important element of Spain’s tourism offering. We have the ideal weather, incredible scenery and some simply outstanding courses. Add to that the charms of the coastline and the excellent cuisine and it’s clear to see why Spain’s golf resorts hold such strong and lasting appeal.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

The Mediterranean coast is also thriving in terms of its housing market. Prices there rose by 4.5% in the year to April 2019 according to the latest data from Tinsa. That’s a greater increase than was seen in any other area of the country.

Within this booming area, Green Golf delivers high-specification homes to families looking to be at the heart of the golfing action. With panoramic views over the course at Estepona Golf and out to sea, the properties enjoy an incredibly picturesque setting. Natural light is maximised through their south/southwest positioning and sophisticated design.

The new Green Golf show home highlights the development’s superb credentials. The large, south-facing terrace is ideal for outdoor dining or general relaxation, while the interior is bright and spacious. A large communal pool and landscaped gardens complete the offering, making this the perfect option for happy holidays with family and friends. Prices start from €280,000 plus VAT.

“The Mediterranean coast has been a popular holiday destination for decades, with golf playing a major role in driving that. We’re delighted to be building on this history of success by presenting contemporary homes for holidaymakers looking to experience Spain’s unique brand of relaxation and enjoyment.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

 

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.

Balearic house price growth double national average, as Taylor Wimpey España announces Sunset Ibiza launch

Balearic house price growth double national average, as Taylor Wimpey España announces Sunset Ibiza launch

by Louise Spain ,
  • New Sunset Ibiza homes mark developer’s first site on island since 2014
  • Balearic and Canary Islands enjoying property price growth of 8% (Tinsa)
  • Balearic tourism up 15.93% in February (IBESTAT)

The Balearic and Canary Islands are leading Spanish property price growth, with prices increasing at more than double the national average, according to the latest data from Tinsa. The IMIE General Index shows an annual rate of increase of 8.0% across the islands, compared to a national price rise of 3.9%.

“Spring heralds the start of the buying season in the Balearics, as it does in many other parts of Spain. On islands such as Mallorca and Ibiza, the property markets will be busy from now until the end of the summer. Foreign buyers play a significant role in these island markets as they vie with locals to find the perfect property in the perfect location.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

On the island of Ibiza, those seeking their ideal home (whether as a second home or a permanent residence), now have a superb new development to consider. Leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España has just announced the launch of Sunset Ibiza – the company’s first development on the island since 2014.

Offering incredible views over the bay at Cala Gracio and Conillera island, Sunset Ibiza is an exclusive collection of two and three-bedroom apartments, priced from €410,500. Large private terraces and the communal pool and gardens are perfect for enjoying the spectacular sunsets for which the island is so well known. Internally, the light-filled apartments offer spacious, elegant island living, making this frontline development an extremely attractive option for those looking to enjoy the best of the Ibiza lifestyle.

“We are delighted to be building on Ibiza once again, having spent quite some time scouring the island for the perfect site. Sunset Ibiza will be a truly outstanding new frontline development, which maximises the very best elements of life on the island.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

The launch is well timed. Not only are property prices in the Balearics rising faster than anywhere else in Spain, visitor numbers are also up significantly. According to the latest figures from IBESTAT, tourism to the Balearic Islands was up by 15.93% in February 2019, compared with the same month in 2018. Whichever way you look at it, Ibiza is thriving, making now the ideal time for Taylor Wimpey España to announce the launch of its beautifully positioned new homes.

 

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.

Housing transaction levels remain resilient as wage growth enhances buyer affordability

Housing transaction levels remain resilient as wage growth enhances buyer affordability

by Louise United Kingdom ,
  • Annual wage growth at 3.4%, while house price growth stands at 2.0% (Rightmove)
  • 9% National Living Wage increase to further enhance affordability
  • Buyers and investors both helping to keep housing market moving despite political uncertainty (Surrenden Invest)
  • North West to enjoy greatest price rises – at 21.6% – over next 5 years (Savills)
  • 1% April price uplift in properties coming to market is biggest since 2016 (Rightmove)

Wage growth in the UK is outstripping house price growth at its fastest rate since 2011, enhancing buyer affordability. This is contributing to both mortgage approvals and housing transactions holding up well, despite the ongoing political uncertainty related to Brexit. Indeed, the February 2019 Zoopla/Hometrack UK Cities House Price Index states that, “Data on transactions remains resilient with no obvious Brexit impact at a national level.”

According to the report, there was no material drop in mortgage approval activity or transaction volumes during the latter half of 2018, when compared with the five-year average. Furthermore, HMRC figures show that transaction volumes actually increased slightly during the first two months of 2019.

Rightmove’s April 2019 House Price Index adds to the positive picture, reporting a 1.1% price uplift for properties coming to market during the month – the highest spring boost since April 2016 and the largest monthly rise since March 2018.

“The latest figures are further evidence of the UK housing market’s resilience in the face of the Brexit debacle. Improving buyer affordability enhances that resilience even more, with strong transaction levels supporting a buoyant market for both owner occupiers and investors.”

Jonathan Stephens, MD, Surrenden Invest

Annual wage growth stands at 3.4% according to Rightmove’s latest House Price Index. That compares to an average annual rate of house price growth of 2.0%. Not only that, but the National Living Wage in the UK has just risen by 4.9%. As of 1 April 2019, the national minimum wage rose from £7.83 per hour to £8.21 for those aged 25+. Workers aged 21-24 also saw an increase, from £7.38 per hour to £7.70, while those aged 18-20 saw a rise from £5.90 to £6.15.

According to specialist property investment agency Surrenden Invest, the impact of this can best be seen at a local level, where buyers are enjoying a distinct advantage thanks to their increased purchasing power. Combine that with Rightmove’s reporting that new sellers’ asking prices are cheaper than they were a year ago in three out of four southern regions, for example, and the picture is looking positive for both buyers and investors.

Further north, many regional cities have been outstripping the price growth of their southern counterparts over the past three years, thanks to rising employment levels, as well as enhanced affordability. Two cities – Leicester and Manchester – have even achieved price growth of 17% since the Brexit vote, creating fantastic capital growth for those who timed their purchases right around the time of the referendum.

Manchester remains high on the priority list of many an investor – and for good reason. The city is home to an impressive array of redevelopment projects. Two of the largest are the £800 million NOMA site and the £1 billion second phase of MediaCityUK in Salford, which will see the already vast site double in size.

“Such vast developments bring a wealth of opportunities, both for those who live in the city and for those looking to invest there. They can also trigger fundamental shifts in demand in the local housing market, with sudden increases in the need for rental accommodation meaning that the private sector has to rapidly up its game in terms of the number of properties on offer.” 

Jonathan Stephens, MD, Surrenden Invest

One development that is responding to the rising demand for homes in central Manchester is Middlewood Plaza. Available from £153,000, the sleek apartments deliver luxurious living in the Middlewood Locks regeneration zone. A private roof terrace, secure underground parking and smart home technology included as standard make this one of the most appealing developments in Manchester for buy to let investors with a keen eye for strategically located and well-designed properties.

With both investors and owner occupiers keen to be part of Manchester’s future, and with enhanced buyer affordability coming into play, there are likely to be a busy few months and years ahead for the city’s property market. Indeed, Savills’ latest five-year forecast projects that the whole of the North West region has a rosy future ahead, enjoying projected compound price growth of 21.6% through to the end of 2023 (compared to a national average of 14.8%).

 

For more information, visit www.surrendeninvest.com or call 0203 3726 499

Taylor Wimpey España announces key Mallorca cycle race support

Taylor Wimpey España announces key Mallorca cycle race support

by Louise Spain ,
  • Mallorca 312 is one of the island’s best-loved cycling competitions
  • Route will pass within 15 minutes of stunning new Blue Cove development
  • Mallorca flagged as main 2019 holiday destination for European cyclists

The Mallorca 312 is one of the island’s most testing and loved cycling competitions. Taking place on 27 April 2019, the race will cross 312 km of Mallorca’s beautiful landscape, including climbing 16,568 feet over the course of the route. Entrants will set off at 7 am and have until 9 pm to prove their mettle by completing the gruelling circuit.

This year, Taylor Wimpey España has chosen to support the race by hiring a stand at one of the key points along the route, which includes a stop at Arta – just a 15-minute drive from the leading Spanish homebuilder’s new Blue Cove development in Cala Lliteras. Available from €225,000 plus VAT, the two- and three-bedroom homes at Blue Cove offer a privileged first line location, offering spectacular views out over the turquoise bay. Apartments, duplexes and houses offer a range of accommodation types, all of which enjoy spacious outdoor areas, as well as use of the site’s communal pool and private parking spaces.

“Having had such an active presence on Mallorca for so many years, we’ve seen the island steadily build up its reputation as a world-class cycling destination. We’re delighted to become a part of that by getting involved in the internationally renowned Mallorca 312 this year.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

Mallorca’s stunning scenery and Mediterranean climate, with fresh sea breezes to temper the heat, make it a fabulous place to explore on two wheels. The landscape ranges from open plains to rugged mountains to the idyllic coastline, meaning that cyclists have plenty of variety as they tour the island. The Mallorca 312 route takes in much of the northern half of the island, stretching as far east as Arta and out as far as Andratx to the west.

December to June is the key cycling season on Mallorca and the 2019 season is on track to be a hugely successful one, attracting an estimated 250,000 cyclists according to local tour operators and sporting events organisers. The 25% increase on 2018’s two-wheeled visitors means that Mallorca has emerged as the main holiday destination for European cyclists this year, according to those working in the local industry. Meanwhile, the AETIB reports that turnover from bicycle tourism is expected to hit £300 million over the course of 2019.

Part of Mallorca’s appeal (in addition to the beautiful weather and scenery) is its suitability to cyclists of all levels. The island welcomes complete novices just as warmly as it does professional racers. And, though the peak season runs until June, cyclists still flock to the island during the latter half of the year.

“The number of cyclists holidaying in Mallorca has increased hugely since 2010 and looks set to do so again this year. The island has responded by enhancing its facilities for cyclists, in order to enable them to enjoy Mallorca fully as they explore this fascinating destination.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

 

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.

Taylor Wimpey España takes the #10yearchallenge

Taylor Wimpey España takes the #10yearchallenge

by Louise Spain ,
  • Reservations up by 184% over past decade
  • Kiruna Residencial showcases contemporary building style and interiors
  • Number of nationalities served up from 20 in 2008 to 37 in 2018

The Spanish property market has changed hugely over that past 10 years and so has one of its key operators. Leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España has been building in Spain for 60 years, so has seen the market fluctuate significantly during its long and proud history. However, the changes over the past decade have been particularly pronounced. Now, the company has dipped into the archives to take part in the #10yearchallenge and show how far it – and the Spanish property market – have come in that time.

“Back in 2008, the global financial crisis began to bring the Spanish property market to its knees, as it did property markets around the world. Prices tumbled and many firms ceased building, either temporarily or permanently, over the following years. The recovery was a slow process, but the market we see today is both strong and resilient.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

10 years ago, Taylor Wimpey España (then Taylor Woodrow) was focused on providing high quality holiday homes in key Spanish hotspots, just as it is today. However, the modern company is considerably larger than its younger self. 2008 saw a total of 120 reservations, while 2018 saw 341 – an increase of 184%. At the same time, the company has gone from serving 20 different nationalities to serving 37 – a rise of 85%. The staff team has grown from 64 employees to 86.

The properties themselves have also changed considerably over the past 10 years. The architecture of sites such as Taylor Wimpey España’s Brisas de Alenda has given way to the more contemporary, angular exteriors seen at Kiruna Residencial. Internally, buildings have taken on a different feel too, with a more design-conscious approach resulting in stylish interiors that showcase the very best of contemporary interior design.

“It’s always a proud moment when you look back and see how far you’ve come. Over the past 10 years, we’ve adapted our style to ensure that it remains both relevant and exciting, while still delivering the spacious homes and superb amenities for which Taylor Wimpey España developments are so well known. Taking part in the #10yearchallenge has been a very worthwhile experience – it has highlighted how much the company has grown and how many more clients we are now able to serve from around the world.”

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España

 

For more information please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972.

 

 

Brexit-beating property investment tips from Surrenden Invest

Brexit-beating property investment tips from Surrenden Invest

by Louise United Kingdom ,
  • Opt for regional city centre locations where pockets of demand are highest
  • Medium to long-term vision is key
  • Focus on areas where rents and property values are rising fastest

According to Knight Frank, the Brexit-related uncertainty that the UK is currently experiencing is leading to a ‘wait and see’ effect in some parts of the country’s property market. However, given the UK’s chronic undersupply of rental apartments and the fact that rents are rising steadily (the average increase was 1.0% in the year to January 2019), many residential property investors want to act now rather than wait and see what happens with the ongoing political saga. As such, specialist property investment agency Surrenden Invest has shared its Brexit-beating property investment tips, for those who want to make their money work for them sooner rather than later.

“The extension to Article 50 is just the latest twist in the ongoing Brexit uncertainty. We’re finding that many investors are tired of waiting to see how it all settles. After all, the current wrangling is only over the withdrawal agreement – there’s still an incredible amount to actually sort out once the 29 March/12 April/22 May deadline has passed. As such, we are working with investors to find Brexit-beating property investment opportunities right now, not in some distant future when the political upheaval has finally settled.”

Jonathan Stephens, MD, Surrenden Invest

Surrenden Invest’s first tip is to focus on existing pockets of demand. City centre living has come back into fashion with a vengeance, meaning that stylish homes with attractive amenities can generate excellent yields when located in the right areas. As JLL observes in its 2019 Northern England Residential Forecasts, “Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool have all seen significant supply shortfalls in the face of an increase in demand from people wanting to live in the core city centres.”

For investors, this provides an opportunity to identify key city centre hotspots. In Manchester, for example, the chic, contemporary Ancoats Gardens apartment building is located just 300m from the vast NOMA site, which is the largest development project in North-West England, costing a cool £800 million. For investors with a medium to long-term outlook, it’s the ideal location to purchase an apartment that will enjoy strong and sustained demand from tenants.

This focus on the medium to long-term is Surrenden Invest’s second Brexit-beating investment tip. The company cites its No. 76 Holloway Head development in Birmingham as the ultimate example of this.

“If you look at No. 76, it has everything that’s needed for a superb medium to long-term investment. The location couldn’t be better, with the Mailbox, Bullring, Grand Central and New Street Station all within two minutes’ walk – this is the ultimate spot for Birmingham inner city living. But it’s about more than just location. The whole area around No. 76 is undergoing massive redevelopment. It’s about having the vision to look past the cranes and see what the future holds – and how much tenants will want to be at the heart of that future.”

Jonathan Stephens, MD, Surrenden Invest

Finally, Surrenden Invest is encouraging investors who want to beat Brexit to look at areas where both rents and property prices are rising fastest – essentially, a select group of the UK’s regional cities. Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle all have the right credentials, according to the Surrenden Invest team, meaning that investors who focus their attention on the best-placed developments look well positioned to beat the continuing Brexit uncertainty.

 

For more information, visit www.surrendeninvest.com or call 0203 3726 499