Turkey courts the world’s golfers, as tourism numbers rise significantly

Turkey courts the world’s golfers, as tourism numbers rise significantly

by Maria Tilev Turkey United Kingdom
  • Visitor numbers increased to 38.6 million in 2017 (Turkish Statistical Institute)
  • Golf tourists spend 120% more than general tourists (IAGTO)
  • Kusadasi winning favour with golfers and expats alike when it comes to contemporary Turkish homes (Spot Blue)

Back in 2015, KPMG crowned Turkey the ‘Rising Star of Golf,’ flagging it up as one of the most successful golf tourism destinations in the world. Given the International Association of Golf Tour Operators’ assertion that golf tourists spend an average of 120% more than general tourists, the need to nurture this segment of Turkey’s visitors was clear.

Fast forward three years and it’s clear that Turkey is working not only to woo golf tourists with its courses, but also to tempt them to buy golf properties there too.

“Golf tourism in Turkey is big business. There are some absolutely sublime golf courses here, while Turkey has the weather to ensure that golfing here holds almost year-round appeal. A great deal of money has gone into enhancing the country’s golf offering in recent years, from course upgrades and whole new courses to superb golf developments for those with a real passion for the game.” 

Julian Walker, MD, Spot Blue

The PGA National Turkey Antalya Golf Club is currently showcasing its courses, having become Turkey’s first 36-hole golf resort. Representatives are touring key European golfing markets and promoting the courses, which lie in Turkey’s famous Belek golfing paradise.

“…It’s clear from the response that we’ve received at all the shows that there is a real appetite for playing golf in Turkey and at PGA National Turkey.” 

Ahmet Cagil, General Manager, PGA National Turkey Antalya Golf Club

For many golfers, though, a holiday just isn’t enough. Second homes on golf resorts are immensely popular and Turkey has more than risen to the challenge of providing a tempting array of options. Some of the best are located at Kusadasi, a prestigious golf club with its own academy, pro shop and renowned clubhouse restaurant.

Properties at Kusadasi are not only exquisite in their design, but also surprisingly affordable. A two-bedroom apartment with its own private pool and steps down to a larger, communal pool is priced from just £59,500. Semi-detached houses start from £99,500, while beautifully contemporary, detached triplex villas are available for £159,500.

Visitor numbers to Turkey picked up significantly in 2017, according to the Turkish Statistical Institute. 38.6 million tourists visited Turkey over the course of the year, compared to 31.4 million in 2016. Income from tourism was up as well; the last quarter of 2017 saw an increase in tourism income of 27.7%, 77.7% of which came from visitors from overseas. Overall, tourism income for the year totalled $26.3 billion.

Kusadasi, with its laidback beach vibe and glorious weather, attracts many tourists throughout the year. Its large expat community encourages some of those to stay for longer, buying second homes and even primary residences so that they can enjoy the area more fully – including its excellent golf course.

Belek remains the spiritual home of golf in Turkey, but Kusadasi appeals to those wanting golf and something more as well. The laidback lifestyle, plentiful restaurants and blend of old and new offers something unique in Turkey.

“Not only does East meet West in Kusadasi, but traditional meets modern. And all this for an affordable price tag. It’s an immensely popular area and for many, the superb golfing facilities and golf resort properties give this area the edge over other parts of Turkey, particularly as we gear up for another summer of golf tourism.” 

Julian Walker, MD, Spot Blue 

For further information about buying or selling property in Turkey, please contact: 

Spot Blue

Tel: +44 (0)20 8339 6036    

Email: info@spotblue.com 

Website: www.spotblue.com

Notes to Editors:

Spot Blue International Property is one of the UK’s leading Turkish property agencies, with hundreds of properties regularly listed and updated on its website, www.spotblue.com. As well as helping developers promote their projects to the UK and other foreign markets, www.spotblue.com features properties for sale by private individuals. Spot Blue only promotes property of developers that pass its due diligence assessment. It also specialises in matching buyers with suitable properties and operates in all major resorts in Turkey. The company’s high profile in the UK means it is regularly quoted in the national press and invited to appear on panels at leading seminars and exhibitions.

Liverpool, European Capital of Culture: 2008 – 2018

Liverpool, European Capital of Culture: 2008 – 2018

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom

On 4th June 2003, Liverpool was announced as the European Capital of Culture for 2008.  The award represented an opportunity for urban regeneration, as well as a revival of the cultural, social and economic image of the city.

Liverpool saw enormous advantages from the win. Research programme, Impact 08, found that the city had seen 9.7 million visitors during its festival year of 2008, – an increase of a third – generating an extra £753.8m for the economy and the city’s transformation in the lead-up to the award year gave Liverpool a huge boost as regeneration led to a surge of people wanting to live in the city.

Having just chosen Liverpool as the location for its first non-London office, specialist end-to-end property investment company Surrenden Invest’s Sales Director and Liverpool resident, Joanne McCormack reflects on the impact of the flow of new residents:

“Hosting European Capital of Culture resulted in Liverpool’s population increasing from 435,500 in 2001 to nearer 600,000. Over the same period, 22 to 29-year-olds in the city centre increased fourfold, while the overall city centre population increase stood at 160%.
This new trend for living in the city centre has been increasing ever since and has led to a huge rise in demand for rental properties meaning developers are racing to keep up with regeneration and the supply of new homes.” 

Some of the developments that have already changed the face of the city include the Ten Streets regeneration project, the new Liverpool One shopping centre, regeneration of the Albert Docks and Lime Street, and the Liverpool Waters and Anfield projects, all of which have created huge boosts to the local area.  Future town plans include expansion of the port of Liverpool for cruise liners, a potential new football stadium located in the docks and an all-new University hospital.

Research from academics at Liverpool University found that 85% of the city’s residents agreed that Liverpool is a better place to live in than before.  The city is now packed with attractions and during 2018 a year-long programme of culture, music and sporting events will mark the anniversary since the city hosted European Capital of Culture.

Ten years on from the win, Liverpool is now regularly noted as one of the world’s top places to visit and is a notable property investment hotspot in the UK.  The city has enjoyed sustained property price rises, with data from Zoopla showing an increase in home values of 5.52% over the past year and of 28.35% over the past five years.

Property investment experts Surrenden Invest which has just opened an office in the heart of the city, predicts that Liverpool will continue to go from strength to strength offering low price points and strong growth potential, making it an ideal option for investors.

“The city has a thriving, service-based economy, which was worth £29.5 billion in 2015 and is leading the UK’s Northern Powerhouse region in terms of its overall GVA growth and its growth of GVA per capita. A growing population, backed by strong economic credentials and a buoyant housing market make Liverpool an ideal environment for opportunity pushing it up on the list of UK cities to watch.”

Jonathan Stephens, Founder & MD, Surrenden Invest

One opportunity attracting a great deal of investor attention enjoys a prime position in Liverpool’s L3 postcode area to the north of the city centre.  The Tannery, exclusively available through Surrenden Invest, is just 1.1 miles from the 125-acre Ten Streets regeneration project, which is set to create some 2,500 jobs, as well as being close to the £150m Jennifer Project regeneration scheme with its flagship new Sainsbury’s superstore and extensive retail offering.  There are also plans for a new police headquarters to be built on nearby Scotland Road, bringing an additional 850 workers to the area 10 minutes walking distance from The Tannery.

This historic, once industrial part of town is rapidly becoming one of the most desirable and trendy investment locations in Liverpool, with The Tannery standing out as an iconic building on one of the most covetable roads in the city.

The building’s design draws from the site’s history as a tannery. Folded aluminium panels resemble the hanged leather that the site’s original building once housed, while horizontal breaks in the façade represent the leather press.

Facilities such as 24hr concierge, on-site gym, laundry facilities, a private gated courtyard, and underground secure parking are just some of the comforts which come as standard. Impressive views over the city centre complement modern interiors, designed to offer both comfort and contemporary appeal to urban residents.

Prices at The Tannery start from £85,000 with net rental yields estimated at 6.0%.

Surrenden Invest
London office: 0203 3726 499
Liverpool office: 0151 3477 459
www.surrendeninvest.com

Off skiing for Easter? Higher isn’t always better

Off skiing for Easter? Higher isn’t always better

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom

Everyone knows that buying a decent property in the best ski resorts requires a healthy bank account and probably equally healthy friendships and insider contacts, if you follow our drift.

“That’s why, those in search of a practical base for their mountain leisure pursuits should definitely consider looking just outside their desired location or resort.”
Julian Walker, Director, Skiingproperty.com

By moving slightly down the mountain, buyers in France’s famously glitzy Courchevel for instance, can save nearly two thirds on a home in La Tania, which at 1400 metres is on the valley’s lower slopes compared to its glamourous cousin at 1850 metres.

Close to Courchevel, there are several other villages, which enjoy access to the westerly section of the Three Valleys, the world’s largest ski area, which Courchevel is the star of.

The villages are in varying levels of development and charisma, but ultimately each location benefits from the recent investment in the Three Valleys facilities and the resort is well equipped to cope with new seasonal residents. For example, Courchevel’s new fast lifts have considerably reduced queueing times and a full day’s skiing can now be compressed into half the time thanks to improved efficiency.

There are enough activities outside of skiing too. Aquamotion is an indoor water park with a range of pools, saunas, steam rooms and even an artificial wave pool.
Activities like paragliding, mountain biking, zip lining and trekking are focal points for many visitors all year round.

There is a brand new 3km toboggan run which is guaranteed to give a hair-raising experience and is served by a new gondola which was also opened last year.  Both can be accessed from Courchevel 1650.

Courchevel 1850 is France’s most prestigious and expensive resort with property prices closer matching some of the world’s capital cities.

Savvy buyers who have done their research will know that less than 10 minutes away lies the much more relaxed and authentic Courchevel Moriond 1650, where you can make a comparatively affordable house purchase.

Further downhill is the slightly larger Le Praz, at 1,300m. The lively resort offers a great base for exploring the region whilst the glamour of Courchevel 1850 can be easily accessed via a gondola.

Nearby, and only slightly higher is the small resort of La Tania, which is easily navigated on foot and enjoys all the benefits of the Three Valleys without the jet-setting price tag.

On the market:

4-bedroom Ski Chalets for sale in La Tania

£1,240,277

  • 4 spacious bedrooms, 121-128 sqm
  • High quality features
  • Ski-in ski-out location
  • 30 metres from the ski lift
  • Underground parking

Selection of luxurious Ski Apartments for sale in Courchevel Le Praz

£876,412

  • 14 new build apartments, 60 to 122 sqm
  • Two, three & four bedrooms
  • Spectacular views
  • Close to town centre
  • 400 metres from ski lifts
  • Close to shops
  • Parking, ski locker
  • 2 hours from Geneva airport

Ski Apartments for sale in Courchevel 1650

£740,438

  • Two & three bedrooms
  • Parking included
  • Close to ski lifts & slopes
  • Restaurant & shop on-site
  • Wellness area
  • Near Aquamotion water park

For further information contact
www.skiingproperty.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 8339 6036

 

Manchester Middlewood Locks welcomes new residents

Manchester Middlewood Locks welcomes new residents

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom
  • Manchester flagged as one of UKs best places to live with houses prices up by 4.3%
  • Salford’s Middlewood Locks regeneration area connects growing population with new homes and city centre living
  • Surrenden Invest launch superb new development Middlewood Plaza

Things are going well for the city of Manchester, in North West England. The Sunday Times flagged Manchester up as being one of the best places to live in the UK, citing its funky atmosphere, green space and excellent schools as offering the complete package.

Manchester’s strong talent pool (fed by its top tier universities), workforce catchment area, employer costs, employee quality of life and economic output all consistently contribute to it getting ranked high for working, living and visiting alike.

Your Move’s latest house price data shows a rise in house prices in the North West of England, despite falls in many other areas of the country. While house prices in London fell by 2.6% in the year to January 2018, they rose by 4.3% in Manchester.

For those considering a property purchase around Manchester, Salford should be at the top of their list of locations to consider.  Offering swish new places to live and work, Salford is undergoing a renaissance and a population boom.

After decades of being Manchester’s poor relative, Salford is on the up with a bold ambition to become a modern urban hub with a string of developments planned west of the Irwell covering the likes of Salford Quays, Greengate & Port Salford.

Salford’s most exciting regeneration zone is Middlewood, conveniently situated between Manchester city centre and central Salford.  The area is undergoing rapid transformation with 5000 homes, new commercial premises and the amenity zone of Middlewood Locks, which is being built around existing retail parks and set to become Salford’s most desirable residential location thanks to its routes in and out of the centre.  The £1 billion regeneration project encompasses a gym, hotel, bars, restaurants, nursery and medical centre, as well as residential accommodation.

April sees the launch of a superb new residential development in this area; – Middlewood Plaza. Exclusively available through Surrenden Invest, the new development is just ten minutes’ walk from Manchester city centre, providing residents with access to the amenities of both Manchester and Salford. Featuring impressive, split-height blocks of six and nine storeys, the development is home to 125 beautifully designed homes, complemented by an extensive roof terrace with views over the city.

Designed to meet the diverse housing needs of Manchester’s urban professionals, Middlewood Plaza offers a mix of apartments, townhouses and duplexes. Secure underground parking and cycle bays are available for residents’ use. In addition, the properties feature smart technology, including whole-house ventilation and sprinkler system protection. The homes are also all fully wheelchair accessible.

For investors, Middlewood Plaza presents an opportunity to be part of one of Manchester’s most exciting regeneration areas, packed with potential for capital growth.

Homes can be purchased with the optional convenience of tailored furniture packs and interior design solutions, courtesy of established furnishings specialist, David Phillips.

A mixture of 1, 2 & 3-bedroom apartments, townhouses and penthouses are available.

Prices start from £153,500 – £393,500 with projected net yields of 5% net.

For further information contact www.surrendeninvest.com email info@surrendeninvest.com or call 0203 3726 499.

Through the Keyhole: Calleva House, Hadley Wood, North London

Through the Keyhole: Calleva House, Hadley Wood, North London

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom

Take a sneak peek inside one of the swankiest family homes on the market today in the exclusive area of Hadley Wood.

During an Open House event over the weekend, leading luxury housebuilder Bellis Homes flung open the doors to this stunning 6-bedroom home in the coveted Hadley Wood neighbourhood in North London, popular with a whole host of celebrities, successful businesspeople and sport stars.

Calleva House, a brand new, detached four-storey mansion, comes complete with generous six bedrooms, dressing room, seven bathrooms, an enormous lounge, modern kitchen-diner plus separate dining room.  Leisure facilities include a games room, gymnasium and private home cinema.

“We really wanted to ensure that Calleva House stands out as an exceptional property in many ways, whilst at the same time creating the perfect environment for modern family life.
The open plan kitchen is naturally the heart of the home, but it was important to give the house an extra something special and the games room and private cinema felt like the right features for such a luxurious property.”

Henry Fordham, Director, Bellis Homes

In keeping with its external beauty, Calleva House has been furnished throughout with bespoke fittings and considered styling by Alexander James Interior Design, one of the World’s Top 100 Interior Designers.

“The impressive stature of Calleva House rightly demands an air of elegance, but to be equally matched with bold statements of colour upon a neutral yet inviting tactile base.

“The entertaining touches of pesto, navy and burnt orange hold their position well on the ground floor alongside the calmer more serene tones of the Master and Second Bedrooms. Bedroom Three reminds us of the somewhat defiant and playful schemes on the lower level. 

“Confident and colourful artwork blends effortlessly with the excellent base build finish specification to create a warm and inviting yet uber-sophisticated and cohesive interior.”

Laura Leadbetter, Interior Designer, Alexander James Interior Design 

Calleva House is on the market for £3.5 million and viewings can be arranged by appointment.

For more information, contact Bellis Homes on 01279 424 733 or visit www.bellishomes.co.uk

Surrenden Invest begins exciting partnership with The High Street Group

Surrenden Invest begins exciting partnership with The High Street Group

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom

Established property investment agency, Surrenden Invest is delighted to have been chosen as the preferred sales and marketing partner of The High Street Group.

Recent collaborative projects include Hotel 52 Whitley Bay in Tyne & Wear, and Hadrian’s Tower in Newcastle.

Since their launch this year, both developments have seen exceptionally strong investor interest and unit sales. Sales of the rooms are progressing really well, with a third sold within the first two weeks.

Surrenden Invest is now gearing up to introduce the latest addition to this string of successful ventures, Middlewood Plaza in Manchester, which forms part of the wider regeneration scheme at Middlewood Locks.

In addition to this, a new site has just been secured at Westminster Works in central Birmingham with a view of launching this exciting project at the end of March 2018.

“The High Street Group is the ideal partner for Surrenden Invest and bring with them true professionalism, security and the ability to build a national portfolio of developments.  We are very much looking forward to the year ahead with many more planned projects already in the pipeline.”

Jonathan Stephens, Founder & MD, Surrenden Invest

 “We are delighted to confirm our partnership with Surrenden Invest, who have already proven many synergies between our two companies in terms of their dynamism and professionalism. They have the exact routes to market we were seeking in a long term relationship for selling our projects. Early sales on Hotel 52 has been impressive and we look forward to the success of their launch of Middlewood Plaza.”

Gary Forrest, Chairman, The High Street Group

————————ENDS———————–

 About The High Street Group

The High Street Group is one of the UK’s most successful privately-owned businesses and a leading financial and property group. We operate multiple companies in property development and construction, hospitality and leisure, offering expertise and opportunities across multiple sectors. The Group’s management team have decades of experience in the financial, development and construction industries.

Since its inception in 2006 by Chairman Gary Forrest, The High Street Group of Companies has successfully developed businesses covering Financial Claims and Business & Developer Finance. We are now focusing on the growth of our large-scale building and property portfolio and the long term opportunities and potential of this sector.

Delivered through our property development company All Saints Living we specialise in four fundamental development sectors: Private Rental Sector schemes, traditional development, rooftop extensions and hotels.

The High Street Group has expanded rapidly with unparalleled growth, now employing more than 100 people in the Head Office in Newcastle upon Tyne and across development sites in the UK. Reported profits for 2016 were £26 million. A combination of the Group’s financial strength, sector expertise and relationships create a strong position from which we can explore opportunities and create value across various sectors.

https://thehighstreetgroup.com/

About Surrenden Invest

Surrenden Invest is an established end-to-end property portfolio management consultancy. Surrenden Invest opens new markets to investors by sourcing exclusive developments in key UK locations including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle.

The expert team works closely with some of the largest developers and housebuilders in the UK to source opportunities to which clients would not ordinarily have access.

The Surrenden Invest team consists of hand-picked property and finance professionals, who work together to provide the services that their clients need. They are based in the company’s headquarters in London, as well as in regional offices in Liverpool and Manchester.

Surrenden Invest doesn’t believe in a ‘one size fits all approach’ but work hard to get under the skin of regional markets allowing them to deliver unique opportunities to their clients to better meet their investment needs.

https://www.surrendeninvest.com/

 

Can one size fit all? Bellis Homes sees rise in multi-generational co-purchases

Can one size fit all? Bellis Homes sees rise in multi-generational co-purchases

by Maria Tilev United Kingdom

Family run house builders, Bellis Homes have noticed an increasing number of empty-nesters who are planning to downsize their existing property but also involve the rest of the family in their decision as to what to buy next.

This often results in a multi-generational co-purchase, where several members of the family own the property together used as a downsized, lower-maintenance home for the empty-nester and a holiday-or occasional weekend ‘pied-a-terre’ for the adult children.

We get the low down on this new trend from Henry Fordham, Director of Bellis Homes:

Q: With the Office for National Statistics forecasting that of the 65 million people currently in the UK, 8.45 million will live to 100 years old, how is Bellis Homes preparing for this growing older generation when planning your new developments?

A: We carefully consider the locations for our homes to ensure that they work for a range of owners and that the properties continuously suit them as they transition through different stages in life.

A younger person might need a good base to commute from, but they also need schools nearby and a range of other local services to make it easier to blend work and personal life.
Older residents, retirees and empty-nesters have different needs too and as they are living longer, are much more active and social than ever before and their daily lives reach far beyond the home.

Creating homes to suit the needs of more than one generation, be they living in the property at the same time or not, is something we are striving to really cater for when designing our developments.

Q: Traditionally retirees would remain in the family home once their children had left home. How has the way older adults live changed?

A: Whilst some retirees still enjoy the space and familiarity of the family home, re-decorating the house, tending to the gardens and hosting their grandchildren as they come to visit for Christmas and weekends, equally many feel the desire to start a new chapter in their lives once the kids leave home.

Many no longer want to stay in a home too big for their needs, where their children’s bedrooms now stand empty with doors closed and radiators turned off. They want to embrace their new freedom and make the most of it!

The answer, quite often, is to downsize. We are seeing more and more older clients making this choice and it can be a very positive move, an opportunity to start afresh rather than hang on to the past.  As well as reducing high monthly outgoings and the hassles of upkeep, it can also release equity to supplement pension income.

Q: What options are there for downsizers?

A: The last few years has seen a real shift in the choice available for those looking to downsize. No longer is it either a small, 2-bedroom new build flat or a retirement community by the sea, today’s downsizers are demanding more and they have the funds to make it happen.

Here at Bellis Homes we are seeing more and more older buyers trading in their large family homes for centrally located, luxury apartments such as our new Four5Two development overlooking Hampstead Heath in North London.

The buyers of these exciting new apartments are drawn to the prominent Hampstead location and connectivity to central London. They are looking to live life to the full; hop on the tube to see the latest West End show, eat at Michelin starred restaurants, visiting the latest art exhibitions or simply take a stroll around the iconic Hampstead Heath upon which the apartments back onto.

Many buyers at Four5Two have purchased the apartments for themselves and often with their grown-up children to enjoy the space as equals. The apartments are modern and luxurious with stylish décor and double bedrooms for adult friendly accommodation.

Q: What else is proving appealing to these older buyers?

A: The 24/7 concierge we have put in place at Four5Two has proved a real draw for buyers. Being able to phone to the concierge day or night to order a taxi, to take delivery of the weekly shop, book theatre tickets or arrange the dry cleaning is a service highly valued by our older clients. They lead busy lives and enjoy the additional support and service which the concierge offers.

The security aspect we have also found to be very appealing. Knowing someone is always on site is comforting and being able to ‘lock up and leave’ the apartment for a weekend safe in the knowledge that your home is being kept an eye on is important for many of our buyers.

Other appealing features of Four5Two include the secure parking spaces, rare in London, which enables residents to retain their independence as well as the lifts to all floors to future proof accessibility.

Q: Do you feel that spacious apartments in central locations such as Four5Two will grow in popularity?

A: Empty-nesters still want to help their adult children and spend time with their grandchildren and the extended family however, they may not want to give up all their time, energy and freedom solely to be the supporting parent or caregiver but instead are looking for ways to socialise with their families on a more equal playing field, whilst keeping their independence and activities.  They want to begin a new chapter in their lives and invite their descendants to share some aspects of it.

This can mean that they downsize and move to a more urban area where their children and grandchildren can visit and together they can explore all the interesting things that the area has on offer. That changes the dynamic between parent and adult child; it becomes shared leisure time, rather than them falling back into old pre-defined roles, which some – and often both parties – can find stifling.

To ensure the investment is as future-proof as possible, many downsizers are involving their adult children in the buying process, often investing together in something which is smaller than the original family home but still large enough to accommodate multi-generational sharing of the space as the primary address for one party and secondary to the other. This is where developments such as Four5Two tick many boxes.

Four5Two, Finchley Road, London

A selection of 13 high spec apartments in the prominent area of Hampstead.
With contemporary design, these apartments are arranged for deluxe living within a walkable distance from both Golders Green and Hampstead tubes stations. Several of the homes enjoy balconies with direct views over Hampstead park.
Apartments are available from £1.1 million.

For more information, contact Bellis Homes on 01279 424 733 or visit www.bellishomes.co.uk

Early economic and tourism indicators point to a bounce-back in Turkey

Early economic and tourism indicators point to a bounce-back in Turkey

by Maria Tilev Turkey United Kingdom

A buoyant property market combined with bullish economy, weak currency and rebounding tourism industry are creating attractive conditions for foreigners who invest in Turkey this year, said Spot Blue International Property in March.

Here  Spot Blue International Property outlines five key reasons the outlook is positive for homeowners and the housing market in Turkey in 2018:

Turkish property sales to foreigners increased 25.7 per cent in January compared to the same month in 2017, according to Turkish Statistics Institute (TÜİK). During that month, 97,000 properties were sold in total across the country representing a slight year-on-year increase, with 1,742 of these bought by foreigners. Istanbul remains the top destination for foreign property-buyers, attracting 545 sales in January, with the Mediterranean resort of Antalya second favourite (424). Foreign sales in Turkey are spearheaded by investors from the Gulf countries, with Russians and European buyers behind them. This upward trend is predicted to continue.

Turkey’s economy is growing faster than any other G20 country, according to the most recent Turkish Statistical Institute data for the 3rd quarter of 2017, which saw the country record GDP of 11.1 per cent. Meanwhile, among other G20 countries, China registered 6.8 per cent growth during this period and India 6.3 per cent growth.

Turkey is bouncing back as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. In the first month of 2018 the number of foreign visitors to Turkey rose 38.48 per cent compared to January 2017, which saw a 9.8 per cent drop. Turkey is anticipating a record total of 38 million tourists this year, compared to 32.4 million last year, according to the country’s Culture and Tourism Minister Numan Kurtulmus. Positive signs include European tour operators, including Thomson and Thomas Cook, increasing their capacity for packages to Turkish resorts this year, while the German and Russian markets are expected to be especially strong too. Kusadasi, which receives cruise ships and with its lively town and sandy beaches is a popular second home destination, in particular should benefit from the growing tourism levels. The Turkish Government remains determined to hit its target of 50 million tourists a year by 2023. To help achieve this, it is continuing to offer cash incentives to charter airlines that bring tourists to the country and implement measures to facilitate hotels renewing land leases.

Turkey’s airlift capability continues to rise year-on-year, as does the country’s role as a hub connecting East and West. In January this year, the number of passengers passing through the country’s leading airports increased 29 per cent year-on-year to 14.74 million passengers, compared to 11.47 million last year (Anna Aero). If this rate of growth is maintained, Turkey could expect to handle around 230 million passengers in 2018. Last year 192.34 million passengers travelled through Turkey’s leading airports, a rise of around 11 per cent on 2016 and a new record. Meanwhile, the global aviation industry will be focusing on Istanbul later this year when the city’s new airport, expected to be the largest in the world, is scheduled to open in October, becoming the new operational centre for the national carrier Turkish Airlines.

Turkey’s currency, the Turkish Lira, continues to fall against leading currencies, including Sterling, the dollar and euro. This makes day-to-day living increasingly affordable to foreign residents or tourists with income or funds in a foreign currency. The Post Office’s recently published Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer ranks Turkey as the seventh cheapest destination anywhere in the world and fifth cheapest in Europe to enjoy a holiday. 

For further information about buying or selling property in Turkey please contact:

Spot Blue International Property

Tel: +44 (0)20 8339 6036    

Email: info@spotblue.com 

Website: www.spotblue.com and InternationalPropertyForSale.com

Property buyers flex their dollars as sterling approaches pre-Brexit levels

Property buyers flex their dollars as sterling approaches pre-Brexit levels

by Maria Tilev Turkey United Kingdom United States World
  • Pound passed $1.40 mark in February for first time since Brexit referendum (xe.com)
  • Turkish property buyers benefitting from the pound’s rise against the dollar (Spot Blue)
  • US & Caribbean properties proving particularly hot right now (InternationalPropertyForSale.com)

Over the past month, the pound’s value against the dollar has edged significantly closer to pre-Brexit levels.

February saw a high of $1.42, while at the time of writing the pound’s value stands at $1.37 (xe.com). While it may not have returned to the heady $1.49 that it was on the day of the Brexit referendum, the pound’s steady climb is excellent news for anyone with an eye on an overseas property.

A British buyer with £100,000 to spend will today have a budget of $137,000. This time last year, they would have had just $122,000. A buyer whose £1 million a year ago would have given them $1,220,000 will now have $1,370,000 to play with. Naturally, buyers of US and Caribbean dollar properties are delighted, but it’s also great news for those buying closer to home.

“Buyers purchasing homes in Turkey aren’t limited to conducting their transactions in lira or euros – they can also pay in dollars. Given the pound’s steady climb against the dollar, and its recent passing of the $1.40 mark for the first time since the Brexit referendum, this has opened up the Turkish market to British and international buyers looking to get maximum value from their overseas property purchase. In short, it’s a great time to buy.” 

Julian Walker, MD, Spot Blue International Property

Award-winning Turkey property specialists Spot Blue are seeing sterling’s rise positively impact buyers of Turkish property in dollars at both ends of the price spectrum.

Turkish properties offer exceptional value at present; $151,206 is sufficient for a three-bedroom villa with communal pool just 7km from the coast. Meanwhile those with more to spend can enjoy serious luxury, with this six-bedroom, five-bathroom ultra-contemporary eco villa with private pool, priced at just $2,214,927.

The Turkish property market certainly seems to be benefitting. According to the Turkish Statistical Institute, sales there increased by 1.7% in January 2018 when compared to January 2017.

The more traditional dollar-purchase locations of the US and the Caribbean also now offer British buyers more for their money. A spacious three-bedroom apartment in Orlando, with huge communal pool and landscaped gardens can be snapped up for just $134,900 through InternationalPropertyForSale.com. Over in Barbados, a lavish three-bedroom villa with sun terrace, private pool and garden costs just $850,000.

“It’s a fantastic time for those interested in US property to see how far their pounds will stretch at the moment. The ups and downs of the Brexit process are far from over, but we’ve seen a steady increase in the pound’s value against the dollar over the past year, which has put British buyers in a much stronger position and made US and Caribbean properties far more appealing in terms of their price tags.” 

Julian Walker, MD, Spot Blue International Property 

For further information about buying or selling property in Turkey, the US and the Caribbean please contact: 

Spot Blue International Property

Tel: +44 (0)20 8339 6036    

Email: info@spotblue.com 

Website: www.spotblue.com and InternationalPropertyForSale.com

 

Notes to Editors:

Spot Blue International Property is one of the UK’s leading Turkish property agencies, with hundreds of properties regularly listed and updated on its website, www.spotblue.com. As well as helping developers promote their projects to the UK and other foreign markets, www.spotblue.com features properties for sale by private individuals. Spot Blue only promotes property of developers that pass its due diligence assessment. It also specialises in matching buyers with suitable properties and operates in all major resorts in Turkey. The company’s high profile in the UK means it is regularly quoted in the national press and invited to appear on panels at leading seminars and exhibitions.

InternationalPropertyForSale.com is owned by Spot Blue International Property, one of the UK’s leading international property specialists that markets hundreds of properties around the world across its portfolio of websites, which includes Turkish property site SpotBlue.com. As well as helping developers promote their projects to the UK and other foreign markets, www.spotblue.com features properties for sale by private individuals. Spot Blue International Property only promotes property of developers that pass its due diligence assessment. The company’s high profile in the UK means it is regularly quoted in the national press and invited to appear on panels at leading seminars and exhibitions.

Why Turkey’s Kusadasi Should Be on Foreign Buyers’ Radar in 2018

Why Turkey’s Kusadasi Should Be on Foreign Buyers’ Radar in 2018

by Maria Tilev Turkey United Kingdom

Affordable new developments are helping to make the resort of Kusadasi one of Turkey’s most exciting holiday home destinations in 2018, said Spot Blue International Property in February, adding that recent uplifts in tourism and foreign property sales should boost the country’s appeal with foreigners this year.

House-hunters in Kusadasi, home to the Mediterranean’s fourth largest cruise port and one of Turkey’s largest marinas, are being encouraged to explore beyond the centre of the resort and consider the up-and-coming areas of Degirmendere and Davutlar.
Situated south-east of the centre, on the inland side of the main road that runs through Kusadasi, the former is a neighbourhood that is the focus of much new development. Meanwhile, Davutlar is a less village situated a short drive south of Kusadasi.

“Development outside the centre of Kusadasi is beginning to gain momentum and creep into Degirmendere, now regarded as the resort’s investment hot spot,” said Julian Walker, director at Spot Blue International Property. “Certainly, it’s quieter there but localised areas within the neighbourhood, including Guzellikici, are within walking distance of the beach and amenities, and still not far from the resort’s lively waterfront. Being that little bit further out makes them more affordable too, at least for now – early purchasers could see the value of their property rise.”

Typical of what’s available in Degirmendere, Spot Blue International Property is offering two and three-bedroom apartments within gated complexes, available as off-plan or new-build, with prices from £59,500.

Buyers who prefer a more natural, less touristy setting might prefer Davutlar, nestled amongst fruit and olive groves beneath the Dilek Mountains 15-20 minutes’ drive from the bright lights of Kusadasi. The village is famous for its natural thermal springs, rich green scenery and famously clean air. Historically a popular second home destination with Turkish city dwellers, the small complexes of semi-detached houses and villas being built there are beginning to attract foreigners. Proximity to the Dilek Peninsula National Park, which includes some of Turkey’s prettiest unspoilt beaches, is a further attraction of the area. Spot Blue International Property has property in Davutlar, both new-build and off-plan, from £99,500.

“As an all-round destination, Kusadasi and its surrounding villages is hard to beat,” continued Mr Walker. “Besides its colourful town centre and globally acclaimed maritime facilities, it has kilometres of sandy beachfront, which includes the famous Ladies Beach, lots of history, most notably the nearby UNESCO-designated Ephesus ruins, three world-class water parks and at least one golf resort. Transport is excellent too, with Izmir Airport being just an hour’s drive away via a motorway and Bodrum Airport an hour and 45 minutes. Meanwhile, there are regular ferries to the Greek islands of Samos and Patmos.”

For further information about buying or selling property in Turkey through Spot Blue, please contact:

Spot Blue International Property
Tel: +44 (0)20 8339 6036    
Email: info@spotblue.com 
Website: www.spotblue.com

About Spot Blue International Property
Spot Blue International Property is one of the UK’s leading Turkish property agencies, with hundreds of properties regularly listed and updated on its website, www.spotblue.com. As well as helping developers promote their projects to the UK and other foreign markets, www.spotblue.com features properties for sale by private individuals. Spot Blue only promotes property of developers that pass its due diligence assessment. It also specialises in matching buyers with suitable properties and operates in all major resorts in Turkey. The company’s high profile in the UK means it is regularly quoted in the national press and invited to appear on panels at leading seminars and exhibitions.