2017: the year for students to live like millionaires as universities chase fee-paying admissions

2017: the year for students to live like millionaires as universities chase fee-paying admissions

by Sophie Evans Uncategorized
  • Student schemes now offering everything from smart TVs with Netflix to beauty treatment rooms (Properties of the World)
  • University acceptance rates and EU student acceptance rates at record highs (UCAS)
  • Central storage for students with plentiful belongings at The Dye Works in Bradford

The UCAS December 2016 End of Cycle Report has highlighted the changing relationship between UK universities and their students.

Outgoing UCAS Chief Executive Mary Curnock Cook has observed how the “combination of higher fees and the removal of central controls on recruitment numbers” has led to universities chasing students, rather than students chasing places. Acceptance rates are at a record high, with 535,200 students placed in higher education through UCAS in 2016.

Growing student numbers are, naturally, driving the need for more student accommodation and competition is fierce amongst developers to present the most exciting homes for students in the UK. In 2017, the trend for developing student accommodation with outstanding shared facilities will be taken to the next level.

According to Jean Liggett, CEO of visionary property investment consultancy, Properties of the World,

“Students in 2017 will have an unrivalled choice of both universities and student accommodation. The landscape has shifted dramatically for both over the past few years, with the result that universities and property developers are doing all they can to court students. This has impacted on accommodation by opening up a vast array of attractive new options – 2017 students can live like millionaires in comparison to the students of just a decade ago!”

At The Dye Works, on the doorstep of the University of Bradford, residents can enjoy spacious, self-contained apartments with hotel-style features including keyless door entry, a concierge and safes in their rooms.

Students with extra belongings can take advantage of the secure, central storage facility. The feature is sure to appeal to international students bringing over a whole year’s worth of belongings and is certainly timely, with EU student acceptances up by 7% in 2016 (the highest figure on record, at 31,400 according to UCAS).

Uniquely, The Dye Works provides each resident with a large screen smart TV with internet access, allowing students to log into to their favourite streaming applications. There’s also an on-site gym and salon rooms available for external providers to deliver a range of beauty and wellness treatments. When not at uni, students can work out, indulge in a massage, or enjoy the latest TV blockbusters, all without leaving the house – a standard of student living that would simply have been unimaginable just a few years ago.

The Dye Works stands out in particular due to the ratio of beds to leisure facilities. Properties of the World’s Jean Liggett explains,

“The Dye Works offers something more than many student schemes. Quite often you come across vast developments with hundreds of cluster flats and just a solitary pool table and a couple of running machines to share. The leisure facilities at the Dye Works have been thought through very carefully from the students’ perspective, with real consideration for the lifestyle benefits that the shared social spaces and personalised elements will create.”

Investment in The Dye Works is available from £55,000, with circa 8% NET yield.

For more information, visit www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7624 5555.

Airside to poolside has never been easier as 2017 brings host of new flights from across the UK to Spain

Airside to poolside has never been easier as 2017 brings host of new flights from across the UK to Spain

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • 2017 will see new flights from London Heathrow, Luton, Cardiff, Manchester & Glasgow
  • Spain becomes even more accessible to those seeking a holiday home in the sun
  • Taylor Wimpey España provide sun-kissed holiday homes close to airports across Spain

2017 will indeed be a Happy New Year for Brits wanting to visit sunnier Spanish climes. Commencing throughout the year, an array of new flights will connect the UK and Spain, meaning 2017 could be the perfect year to turn that dream holiday home into reality.

28th March 2017 will see British Airways introduce two new flights per week from London Heathrow to Spain’s Murcia airport. Only a short distance from the airport, keeping the time between airside and poolside to a minimum, is leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España’s beautiful new beachfront apartments in Punta Prima.

From just €194,000 +VAT, La Recoleta III’s 2 or 3 bedroom apartments boast a well-designed layout, each with a private terrace with owners able to enjoy beautiful views over the Mediterranean Sea, swimming pool and private gardens of the development.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, believes that Spain is a safe haven for overseas buyers and its popularity will continue to build throughout 2017. He comments,

“International buyers, especially Brits, have always been attracted to all that Spain has to offer and 2016 proved another popular year, welcoming over 4 million tourists in November alone! The influx of new flights being added between the UK and Spain only exemplifies the demand from Brits to experience a taste of the Spanish lifestyle.”

Other airlines adding new flights include budget Spanish airline Vueling who have introduced a major expansion in passenger capacity on flights from Cardiff airport for the summer season. Following strong demand some 190,812 seats are now on sale on flights to Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga and Palma between April and October.

Thomas Cook are also introducing new flights to Malaga from Manchester Airport from January 2017.

In close proximity to Malaga Airport is Taylor Wimpey España’s stunning new residential development, Horizon Golf, part of the La Cala Golf Resort. From €270,000 +VAT, properties are ideally located between the sea and mountains and provide residents with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and direct access to the sun terrace with panoramic views of the largest golf resort in Spain.

Other additional flights are being launched by easyJet, as they introduce a new route from London Luton to Valencia from February 2017, and Ryanair who have revealed ten new routes from Glasgow airport. There will be four new weekly flights to Malaga and three new weekly flights to Alicante.

Less than 20km from Alicante Airport is Taylor Wimpey España’s Brisas de Alenda Golf, Elche. From €145,000 +VAT it combines the tranquil area of the Alenda Golf Course with Alicante’s more lively beachfront nightlife. The 3 bedroom townhouses are split over 2 storeys with 2 bathrooms, a terrace, a private garden area and parking.

The growing number of flights to these popular destinations will provide British travelers with many more options for their European holidays and allow all areas of the county easier access to a second home. Where will the New Year take you?

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit http://taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.

5 fitness-friendly homes to kick start your New Year’s resolution

5 fitness-friendly homes to kick start your New Year’s resolution

by Sophie Evans World , , , ,

2017 is here and it’s time to put those New Year’s resolutions into action. And as with every other January, many of us have pledged to get fit and healthy this year.

From student digs to million pound pads, and the very best interior design to entice you to exercise, an on-site gym is the must have motivation for 2017 in order to stick to that new fitness regime!

Here are 5 of the best homes here and abroad with on-site gyms and sporting facilities:

 

  1. Hoola, Royal Docks, London

Available from £450,000, the Hoola studio, two, and three-bedroom apartments, boasting stunning glass balconies as well as floor-to-ceiling windows, benefit from a range of onsite facilities including a gym, resident’s business lounge and concierge.

A spectacular garden is available to all residents with soft and hard landscaping that includes semi-miniature trees and dramatic water features making it the ideal home to hit the gym before or after work then relax and rejuvenate in the stunning gardens.

  1. Fusion Tower, Bristol

Providing exceptional student accommodation, Fusion Tower enjoys an incredible location within Bristol’s city centre. Offering elegant and innovative student apartments, Fusion Tower has been designed by a team of leading architects, interior and graphic designers.

On-site facilities include a private gym which provides Bootcamp, Dance and spinning classes to make sure that students are kept on track with for fitness goals, all included in the £134 per week rate.

 

  1. Whitelands, St Georges Hill, Surrey

The award-winning Alexander James Interior Design architecture team redesigned the basement of this stunning 6 bed, 5 bath property to appeal to any fitness fan.

The grand 14,500 sq ft property, located on one of Surrey’s most premier private estates benefits from a hydraulic swimming pool, dedicated vitality spa and gymnasium designed and dressed by Alexander James Interior Design.

And for those that want to take their training on vacation, homes in Spain with outdoor and indoor fitness activities can help ease the January blues.

 

  1. Marbella, Costa del Sol, Spain

This stunning unique 10-bedroom villa located within the super exclusive gated community of La Zagaleta on the Costa del Sol features a fabulous spa on the ground floor with saltwater swimming pool and choice of saunas (classic, steam bath, salt bath, caldarium), all with access to a large covered terrace and Jacuzzi. The second floor also houses a separate gym for those who want a more intense, private workout.

 

  1. Horizon Golf, Mijas, Costa del Sol, Spain

As well as the three 18-hole golf courses, hydrotherapy centre and spa on site, the exclusive apartments of Horizon Golf also enjoy access to the golf school (La Cala Golf Academy) and an array of sports facilities including two running circuits and specialised trainers on hand to improve technique.

From just €270,000 +VAT for an apartment, residents of these exclusive properties will enjoy breathtaking view of the prestigious golf course and the Costa del Sol’s sun kissed coastline, spacious terraces perfect for al fresco dining and the convenience of a private garage space.

 

For more information, please contact:

  1. Hoola, London: Properties of the World: http://propertiesoftheworld.co.uk/ or call +44 20 7624 5555
  2. Fusion Tower, Bristol: Collegiate AC: www.collegiate-ac.com or call 01235 250 140
  3. Whitelands, Surrey: Alexander James Interior Design: www.aji.co.uk or call 020 7887 7604
  4. La Zagaleta villa, Spain: visit www.kyero.com
  5. Horizon Golf, Spain: Taylor Wimpey España: 08000 121 020, +34 971 706 972 or http://taylorwimpeyspain.com
What does 2017 hold in store for UK property investors?

What does 2017 hold in store for UK property investors?

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom
  • Hotels, student accommodation and care homes to draw investors from buy-to-let
  • Greater London and second tier cities to entice investors away from central London
  • Fixed rates of return offer investors certainty in an uncertain world

 

Jean Liggett, CEO of visionary property investment consultancy, Properties of the World, has revealed her predictions for the UK property market in 2017.

Celebrating 5 years of experience selling investment properties, she has identified the key trends we are likely to see next year. Liggett comments,

“The dual impact of Brexit and tax changes in the UK are going to be felt in 2017. It’s going to be a very interesting year for the property sector, with the usual laws of supply and demand encountering some significant interference from external political and economic factors. This means some new winners when it comes to popular asset classes, although of course some traditional investment opportunities will never go out of style (at least, not for the foreseeable future!).”

With changes to the buy-to-let investment rules brought in under ex-Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne, Properties of the World has found that investors are finding the residential buy-to-let market to be less profitable.

The company experienced a surge in buyers who already have traditional residential buy-to-let portfolios moving to purchasing hotels, student accommodation and care homes for the first time in 2016.

Jean also found that buyers who were just starting their property portfolio were choosing these emerging asset classes over residential buy-to-lets, due to the substantially higher returns on offer and the lack of additional costs during ownership. This trend is expected to ramp up significantly in 2017.

The remaining of second home stamp duty for buy-to-let investors will also continue to impact buy-to-let investors in 2017 as it has done in 2016, with lower priced properties of Greater London and areas beyond the M25 increasingly drawing investors away from the centre of the capital. Areas such as Luton and Slough are set to benefit, as are cities further north (most notably Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield and Bradford). As Properties of the World’s Jean Liggett points out,

“Investors can save on stamp duty at the same time as achieving higher yields than are on offer in central London.”

When it comes to Brexit, one area of impact will be the interest of overseas investors in the UK in 2017. Sterling is languishing at its lowest rate against the dollar for decades, which creates opportunities for property investors buying in foreign currencies to make substantial savings by purchasing in the UK. With further currency fluctuations expected around the Article 50 triggering process in 2017, overseas investors are likely to be poised and ready to pounce.

Brexit is also likely to impact on property sales in the UK in 2017. Despite the interest from overseas, the Properties of the World team believes that the number of residential property sales in the first six months of 2017 will be lower than in the first half of 2016.

Despite a forecasted lower number of sales, there is likely to be positive news when it comes to prices. Although residential buy-to-lets will be more heavily taxed than before, there continues to be a chronic shortfall of properties in the UK, coupled with increased demand. Put simply, there are not enough properties being built to fulfil demand.  This under-supply is expected lead to increased prices in 2017 or, in the worst-case scenario, properties prices remaining flat.

Finally, and again showing the effects of the Brexit process, Properties of the World believes that developments offering a fixed rate of return will boom in 2017. Fixed returns, along with no additional costs during purchase and ownership, provide investors with peace of mind and mitigates risk in an increasingly uncertain world. When investors are buying to supplement their income, knowing how much money they’re going to be getting is essential.

Whatever happens, 2017 is certainly going to be a testing year for the UK property sector, but as Jean Liggett reminds us,

“Challenging circumstances can create exciting new opportunities for investors. Political change can have a big impact on property markets, but that doesn’t mean the impact will necessarily be negative. Where one asset class or location may miss out, another will surely come along to reap the benefits!”

For more information, visit www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7624 5555.

2017 Spanish property market gems – Kyero.com gazes into the crystal ball

2017 Spanish property market gems – Kyero.com gazes into the crystal ball

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • 2017 will see lower value destinations emerge as most in-demand locations
  • International demand will remain fundamental to market strength
  • UK buyer numbers unlikely to drop much due to Brexit
  • Almeria, Alicante, Tenerife and Ibiza to attract most interest in 2017

2016 has been a good year for the Spanish property market. Spanish properties enjoyed steady price growth and an encouraging transaction rate during the year. House sales in Spain have recorded a 15% rise on the previous year and ten consecutive quarters of growth, which means that the Spanish property market crash officially ended in Q2 2014. According to the experts at innovative Spanish property portal Kyero.com, the country hasn’t looked back since.

As well as being a good year for Spanish property in general, 2016 was also a record-breaking year for Kyero.com. Despite Spain’s stubbornly high unemployment rate, weak economy, restricted credit and a period of almost no government, the property portal has flourished – much like the country’s housing market.

Richard Speigal, Head of Research at Kyero.com, explains why,

“Spain’s market has two unusual advantages. Firstly, it had nowhere to go but up. The 2008 crisis completely shredded the housing market, and little short of a zombie apocalypse could have sent it lower. Secondly, Spain has incredible international appeal; with one in five property sales going to foreigners, it can endure weak local demand. British, French, German, Dutch, Belgian, Italian and Swedish buyers are picking up the slack, which has been good news for the wider market and for those involved in selling property in Spain.”

The UK’s Brexit vote looked set to disrupt the market balance in mid-2016, given that British buyers top foreign demand in Spain, but the anticipated drop-off in UK demand never materialized. Instead, overseas searches for Spanish property via Kyero.com hit all-time highs after the vote, up over 50% on 2015. The portal’s largest agents also reported seeing record attendance at UK investor shows. Buyers were certainly talking about Brexit, but still looking for Spanish in their droves while they did so. Q3 2016 figures from the Spanish land registry confirmed the trend – foreign sales in Spain were close to all-time highs.

The situation in the UK goes some way to explain this, according to Kyero.com’s Richard Speigal,

“The British housing market is currently moribund, with prices rising way beyond all the laws of affordability, and transactions at historic lows. The winners of this situation are older Brits who find themselves sitting on a vast trove of property wealth (while homeownership becomes a dying dream for their kids).

“In short, the 50+ British buyers who so love Spain are sitting on huge equity piles and Brexit didn’t diminish their wealth. As a group, British buyers are getting richer. Q3 sales to Brits may have slowed, but they are only blinking rather than quitting. The fundamentals remain healthy.”

The one area that Brexit has impacted is the hunt for value and this will translate to a key trend in the Spanish property market in 2017: the search for good value properties that offset the drop in sterling’s value. Evidence is already emerging of the benefits of this on lower priced destinations, which look set to boom in 2017.

With this in mind, and using completed sales data (via land registry statistics) and search data from Kyero.com (as a forward indicator of buyer sentiment), along with the international mix of buyers in each destination, and relative property prices, Kyero.com has identified the top four Spanish property market gems for 2017.

  1. Almeria

Having seen much less development than its neighbours, Almeria retains an authentic charm that has proven popular with almost every nationality of European buyer. Q3 sales rose a massive 93% YOY, and with an average price of €129,000 it is nearly half the cost of Kyero’s national average.

Almeria is charming, well connected and very affordable and expectations are that an ever larger number of overseas buyers will discover it in 2017. Trending destinations include Vera, Mojacar and Albox.

  1. Alicante

International investors buy more houses in Alicante each year than any other province of Spain, driving over half of all housing transactions. While this could make it susceptible to shocks, it’s strengths are hard to beat: excellent connections, fabulous beaches, steady sales growth and prices 10-15% lower than Kyero.com’s national average.

Alicante is a solid performer, and very hard to bet against. Trending destinations include Torrevieja, Alicante and La Marina.

  1. Tenerife

The western Canaries have had an excellent year, with average prices growing steadily at 5% to €249,000 – almost exactly in line with the national average. This is the first destination in Kyero.com’s portfolio to see Italians overtake British buyers as the dominant international buyer group. Low cost flights, year-round sunshine, and a penchant for building the holiday apartments that foreign buyers crave have all made Tenerife a property hotspot. Trending destinations include Playa de las Americas, Costa del Silencio and El Medano.

  1. Ibiza

This is a final – and more speculative – pick for 2017. The gravity defying housing market in Ibiza saw average prices grow 20% in 2016 to over €1.1m, with similar growth in sales. The data is hard to follow, but that’s because Ibiza has something that can’t be boiled down to a number: cachet.

This picturesque island has become a hub for international wealth, helped in no small part by Spain’s benign tax environment for high net worth individuals. With their numbers on the rise, we expect Ibiza to continue being the place they’ll show it off. Trending destinations include Ibiza Town, Sant Josep de sa Talaia and Santa Eulalia del Rio.

For further details, visit www.kyero.com.

Explore the continents of the world on this botanical journey in Southern Spain

Explore the continents of the world on this botanical journey in Southern Spain

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • Costa del Sol now home to spectacular gardens representing five continents
  • New Botanic development protects and preserves the world’s gardens, holding a ‘B’ energy certificate
  • “Botanic is a luxurious yet eco-friendly holiday home with panoramic views of the gardens and courses at Los Arqueros Golf” (Taylor Wimpey España)

Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol is now home to a collection of spectacular gardens that allow residents to partake in a botanical journey through five different continents’ vegetation.

The stunning 4.5 acre grounds include pine trees and cork oaks representing Europe to more exotic varieties of flora such as the ginkgo tree and the Himalayan cedar to represent Asia. This outstanding assortment of species are exactly what any keen gardener would have on their Christmas wish list.

Leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España carefully designed the gardens, located adjacent next to their brand new site, Botanic, by starting with the European area. The intention was then to integrate it with the adjoining Mediterranean landscape using pine trees, cork oaks and gall oaks, in addition to the typical Mediterranean bushes and other species found locally.

A wide range of botanical species can be found in the other ‘four continents’. In the African area, species such as the date palm or the drago palm represent the north and the coral tree represents the south. The space dedicated to Asia seeks the notoriety of arboreal specimens with spectacular flowering, like the Judas tree and the purple orchid together with more exotic offerings, such as the ginkgo tree or the Himalayan cedar.

To represent the Australasia, species known to all amateur gardeners such as the cultivar, mimosas and the lilawarra flame tree can be found. The American continent presents a truly diverse habitat, with a variety of cacti and succulent plants to the jacaranda and silk floss trees that are known for their spectacular blooming.

Excited to unveil the gorgeous gardens, Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, explains,

“It has taken careful and extensive planning to create the perfect collection of gardens representing five diverse continents of the world. We are excited to reveal the beauty of the world’s gardens which we are helping to sustain at our brand new Botanic site. The site is purposely located to take advantage of such spectacular vistas; it is a luxurious yet eco-friendly holiday home with panoramic views of the gardens and the courses at Los Arqueros Golf.

“The development boasts minimal energy consumption (holding a ‘B’ energy certificate) with the use of solar panels, high quality thermal insulation, sound-proofing and the gorgeous botanical journey is a stunning and unusual asset that is certain to attract second home owners looking for something special.”

With prices from just €350,000 +VAT, this new build residential complex is found in one of the most exclusive areas of Benahavis – La Reserva de Alcuzcuz, situated between the courses at Los Arqueros Golf, La Quinta and Zagaleta. An extremely well connected location, the amenities on offer in Benahavis, Marbella, Puerto Banús or the new San Pedro Boulevard are all within close proximity.

Phase one of the development comprises 42 bright and spacious 3 bedroom homes with large terraces, all of which are southwest facing. The 4 storey buildings are crowned by spacious penthouses of modern design with spectacular solariums from which you can enjoy the views from dawn to dusk.

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

North Wales – Where even the sheep are smiling

North Wales – Where even the sheep are smiling

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom
  • North Wales 4th Best Region 2017 (Lonely Planet)
  • North Wales designated a Dark Sky Reserve (International Dark Sky Association)
  • New Surf Snowdonia Adventure Parc is world first
  • Invest in a grade II hotel from £75,000 with Properties of the World

The Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2017 results have just been released and North Wales has hit the list for best region. Indeed, not just hit the list but swooped in at an incredible 4th position after Choquequirao, Peru (1st place), Taranaki, New Zealand (2nd) and The Azores, Portugal (3rd).

North Wales encompasses the beautiful Snowdonia region with tumbling rivers and stunning mountains, lakes and waterfalls. On the coast are idyllic beaches, quiet market towns, lively festival spots, castles and an abundance of cultural attractions and entertainment options.

Furthermore, North Wales has been designated a ‘dark-sky reserve’ thanks to the lack of light pollution. This is a prestigious award given by the International Dark Sky Association, which selects destinations that have proven that the quality of their night air is outstanding and that real efforts are being made to minimise light pollution.

North Wales also has a new world first in the form of the Surf Snowdonia Adventure Parc. This is a must for anyone with a sense of adventure or a handful of children that need entertaining; the inland surf lagoon has got to be one of the UK’s most compelling outdoor adventure holiday destinations.

You can now own a unique slice of this magnificent area by investing in Caer Rhun Hall, a stunning grade II listed Elizabethan-style country house hotel, set in stunning parkland and gardens. Caer Rhun Hall is a beautiful late Victorian country retreat nestled in the heart of the Conwy Valley in North Wales. A perfect destination for a peaceful country escape, Caer Rhun will become the region’s most exclusive hotel for guests, weddings and conferences.

Properties of the World is offering a range of rooms, suites and lodges within the five-star retreat as a buy-to-let opportunity that will deliver a return of 10% NET for 10 years, and an assured buy-back of 125% of the purchase price.

Jean Liggett, CEO of visionary property investment consultancy, Properties of the World, which has successfully sold hotel investments across the UK, comments,

“This is one of the most exciting projects we have worked on. The history of the house makes it unique and the location is fabulous, not to mention the wonderful spa that is being created for guests. Hotel room investments do not attract stamp duty, hence the attraction for discerning investors who like to add projects like these into their investment mix.”

The hotel boasts numerous period features including Tudor panelled dining rooms, a sweeping staircase, elegant drawing rooms and its very own library. Caer Rhun Hall has a delightful historic atmosphere and remains largely untouched since it was first built in 1882.

Purchasers will be entitled to two free weeks’ personal usage at the hotel per year with full access to the splendours of this beautiful retreat, which will give owners time to enjoy the all that North Wales has to offer.

The first rooms at Caer Rhun Hall are due to be completed end of 2016, with full completion due in Q4 2017. Prices start from £75,000.

For more information please visit http://propertiesoftheworld.co.uk/, email info@propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7624 5555

Get adventurous and invest in a brand new, Bear Grylls endorsed, Welsh development in 2017

Get adventurous and invest in a brand new, Bear Grylls endorsed, Welsh development in 2017

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom
  • New Caerau Parc adventure complex to cover 400 acres in South Wales
  • Bear Grylls to act as Adventure Ambassador for the prestigious development
  • Land plots available through Properties of the World to investors looking to be part of the immense project

Bear Grylls has a new role. The legendary survival expert has taken on the role of Adventure Ambassador for the stunning new Caerau Parc adventure complex in South Wales. The popular TV survival celebrity is perfectly aligned with the new park, which will see adrenalin-fuelled, boundary-pushing adventures take place across 400 acres of stunning parkland.

Just ten miles south of the Brecon Beacons, mid-way between Cardiff and Swansea, the outstanding natural beauty of Caerau Parc will be the location of ‘the world’s ultimate outdoor adventure.’ From high octane flights down zip wires, to scaling challenging climbing towers and exploring treetop playgrounds, visitors to Caerau Parc will be offered an adventure experience like no other.

Jean Liggett, CEO of visionary property investment consultancy, Properties of the World, which is selling land plots at Caerau Parc as part of a three-year delivery strategy, comments,

“Caerau Parc will offer adventure activities for the whole family. From seasoned adrenaline junkies to those looking to try activities like paint balling, go-karting and water zorbing, there’s plenty to do for everyone. Plans are also in place for a state-of-the-art Aquatic Adventure Park, while a luxurious spa will host those who prefer a more relaxing aquatic experience!”

A superbly designed 100-room hotel and 900 elegant lodges, along with high end restaurants, bars and retail outlets, plus a host of other activities (mountain biking, a luge track, roller-skating and more) will complete the massive offering.

The sale of land plots in Caerau Parc is giving investors an easy way in to the development at an early stage. The plots are available for a low price point, with investors gaining a fixed 10% per annum mark-up on the plot for three consecutive years. The plots are then sold back as part of a clear, simple exit strategy.

The team behind Caerau Parc have committed from the outset to associating only the best international brands and global icons with their undertaking – hence the recruitment of Bear Grylls to represent the adrenalin-fueled adventures as the project develops. The result will be a truly world-class experience that is set to have a significant impact on the tourism industry in South Wales.

With the Brexit-related reduction in sterling’s value making the UK an attractive holiday destination both to those from overseas and to domestic travelers, the development of Caerau Parc has come at the perfect time.

Plots of land at Caerau Parc are available for £25,000 through Properties of the World.

For more information, visit www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7624 5555.

Winter round-up: the 2017 Where To… list

Winter round-up: the 2017 Where To… list

by Sophie Evans World , , , ,
  • The best locations for spending your money in 2017
  • Buy a second home in Spain, invest in a hotel in North Wales and holiday in Tenerife
  • Stick with the UK for buy-to-let investment and play the stock market from the comfort of your bed

With one eye on the future and one on the hottest property and location trends of 2016, it’s time to look at the best places to spend your money in 2017. The 2017 Where To… list covers everything from holidays and holiday homes, to property investments and playing the stock market.

Where To… Buy a second home

When it comes to buying a second home, Spain is the obvious choice for many. Post-Brexit vote reports are that property sales and enquiries from British buyers have ramped up noticeably. Leading Spanish property portal Kyero.com has reported record enquiry numbers since the referendum. Head of Research Richard Speigal comments,

“Spain offers a great climate, fabulous food and excellent value for money. Brexit doesn’t seem to have deterred British buyers in the slightest. In fact, it seems to have spurred many on to purchase their dream second home sooner rather than later.”

The golf courses and beaches of the Costa del Sol are ideal for those looking for a second home in Spain. Taylor Wimpey España is offering spacious apartments and townhouses at Horizon Golf near Mijas from €270,000+VAT.

Where To… Invest in a hotel

An up-and-coming asset class, hotel investment looks set to take off in a big way in the UK over the next couple of years. Jean Liggett, pioneering CEO of Properties of the World, comments,

“Hotel investment offers excellent returns and benefits from not being subject to stamp duty. It’s ideal for property investors who are looking to get more for their money.”

Those investing in Caer Rhun Hall Hotel in Conwy, North Wales (rooms available from £75,000), can look forward to returns of circa 10% per annum, 125% developer optional buy-back and two weeks’ personal usage of their hotel room per year.

Where to…Holiday over the winter months

When it comes to winter sunshine, Tenerife is one of the top short-haul destinations for those travelling from the UK. Idyllic beaches with a sea temperature of 21°C and an average December temperature of 17°C, combined with excellent value for money make this an enticing destination. There’s plenty on offer to entertain the whole family all year round, and some outstanding value hotel rooms available over the winter months.

Cheap Holidays Tenerife has rooms available from as little as £93 per night for those looking to stock up on vitamin D before Christmas and from just £98 per night for holidaymakers planning a break in the New Year.

Where To… Invest in a buy-to-let property

Despite the increase to stamp duty on second homes earlier this year, the UK’s buy-to-let market is still faring well. There are plenty of cities around the UK that offer great returns and the potential for capital growth. One of the most exciting for 2017 is Belfast.

Property prices in Northern Ireland remain some 40% below their 2007 peak, but they’re rising fast. Buy-to-let investors with an eye on capital gains as well as healthy yields are examining the market there closely. With Belfast accounting for 43% of Northern Ireland’s total rental transactions, it is the natural choice for those looking to invest in buy-to-let.

The Frontiers’ Collection at The Sandford, located in Belfast’s thriving Titanic Quarter and available through Property Frontiers, offers one bedroom apartments from £114,750 and two bedroom homes from £141,750.

Over in England it is Manchester that is turning heads as a buy-to-let destination. Surrenden Invest is supporting would-be landlords to avoid paying the proposed ‘Green Tax’ by offering the low-carbon technology Artillery House for investment. The contemporary development enjoys a prime city centre location in Manchester’s ‘Golden Triangle’ and will be one of the city’s most energy efficient buildings. The 12 high end, boutique apartments are available for investment from £120,000.

Where To… Play the stock market

If stocks and shares appeal more than bricks and mortar, 2017 could be the perfect time to try out your skills as a trader. easyMarkets is on a mission to democratise trading, making it possible for anyone with an interest in the markets to dabble from the comfort of their own home. Not only do they offer learning resources and regular insights for those who are new to trading, but their innovative dealCancellation product means that losing trades can be cancelled within 60 minutes of making them – perfect for nervous newbies!

 

For more information, please contact:

Kyero: www.kyero.com

Taylor Wimpey España: 08000 121 020 (00 34 971 706 972 from outside of the UK) or www.taylorwimpeyspain.com

Properties of the World: +44 20 7624 5555 or www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk

Cheap Holidays Tenerife: 0800 0124 300 or www.cheap-holidays-tenerife.com

Property Frontiers: +44 1865 202 700 or www.propertyfrontiers.com

easyMarkets: +44 203 1500 748 or www.easymarkets.com

Nova set to shine brightest in the UK’s student accommodation scene

Nova set to shine brightest in the UK’s student accommodation scene

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom
  • Nottingham secures Purple Flag accreditation for 7th consecutive year (ATCM)
  • University of Nottingham number 1 for graduate employment (The Times)
  • Fusion Students, alongside Collegiate AC, launch brand new Nova residence in Nottingham

The university city of Nottingham is celebrating securing Purple Flag accreditation for an impressive seventh consecutive year.

Operated by the Association of Town and City Management, the accreditation of a Purple Flag (the scheme that recognises excellence in the management of UK town and city centres at night) indicates that Nottingham is a safe and vibrant place for a night out and therefore the ideal location for students to feel secure and at home during their time at university.

The highly sought-after accreditation is based upon a number of core themes including the overall wellbeing of the place, accessibility and public transport, crowd management, access to information, assortment of venues such as pubs, bars and late night spots and attractive public spaces. And with Nottingham proudly retaining its Purple Flag accolade for the seventh consecutive year, it’s hardly spurring that it is fast becoming the perfect student city, combining a fun and friendly atmosphere with exceptional higher education institutions.

Results from the latest census reveal that out of the total population of just under 319,000 in Nottingham, 37,000 are university students. With students comprising 11.6% of the population and growing, accommodation is in demand and the best is quick to sell-out.

Indeed, the demand for accommodation from students choosing Nottingham for their higher education is set to rise even further with the news that the University of Nottingham has been named the 2016 University of the Year for Graduate Employment according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, moving the institution back into the top 20 on the national league table.

Answering this demand for residences is Fusion Students, provider of luxury student accommodation in the UK, alongside their management partner Collegiate AC. Their brand new Nova site is aptly named as it allows residents to shine brightly from the luxuriously star-studded premium accommodation.

Warren Rosenberg, co-founder of Fusion Students, comments,

“Nottingham is not only emerging as a place of first class education but also a lively, cultural city, the perfect location for students. With the University of Nottingham now ranked in the top 1% according to the 2016 QS World University Rankings, at Fusion Students we have noticed the brilliance of the city and all it has to offer.

“We are therefore proud to announce our brand new Nottingham based high-tech student accommodation site, Nova, opening on the 24th of October and available for bookings. We are thrilled to be working with Collegiate AC once more and are confident that Nova is the perfect accommodation for those that want the feel of a boutique hotel with amazing facilities on offer to make sure that student living is truly luxurious and fun!”

The latest addition to Collegiate AC’s Fusion collection, Nova delivers an outstanding blend of facilities and service to the city’s most discerning students. The brand new accommodation comprises 437 rooms, each of which has been carefully interior designed and finished to a high standard. Every room comes with a double bed, ample storage (including a double wardrobe), 42” television, USB sockets and free 200mb Wi-Fi.

At Nova you’ll be in the midst of the bustling culture of Nottingham with shops, restaurants and leisure facilities just a short walk away. Easy access to the University of Nottingham with tram and bus links and Nottingham Trent University union and campus buildings only five minutes away by foot.

The brand new site offers study and conference rooms with purpose built hammocks for studying; party rooms with a state of the art sound systems with lighting, DJ booth, bar and dance floor; private fully equipped gym; games room with table football, ice hockey and table tennis; private cinema with high-tech facilities and a cold store to keep your groceries fresh until you arrive back from lectures.

The 24/7 concierge team are always there to help, providing free coffee at breakfast and to sign for deliveries when students are busy, as well as keeping security and safety foremost in mind.

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