A picture is worth 1,000 words – or 54% more leads according to Kyero.com

by Sophie Evans Spain Kyero.com

Top notch presentation generates 54% more leads
Use a professional photograph to capture a property’s unique charm
Use images that sell the lifestyle, not just the building

The phrase ‘A picture is worth a thousand words’ originated in America and has been used frequently in the US press since the 1920s. It remains true to this day and is particularly relevant to those wishing to advertise a product or service, where both space to advertise and time to catch potential customers’ attention are limited.

New research from leading Spanish property portal Kyero.com has emphasised the continuing relevance of images to convey messages. Kyero.com lists more than 200,000 properties each month and analyses buyer enquiries in great detail in order to have a thorough understanding of what it is that buyers want and need.

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

“Viewed through this lens, it quickly becomes obvious that the best looking properties generate the most buyer enquiries. For busy local realtors, it’s easy to think it won’t hurt to cut corners on photography and sales descriptions. However, our research shows that realtors who go the extra mile on presentation generate 54% more leads. Over a year, that adds up to a lot of extra sales.”

According to Chartbeat, the average viewer spends fewer than 15 seconds on a website. The stark figure is based on a survey of mainly media sites, but nonetheless highlights the difficulty of grasping viewers’ attention in a fast-paced online world. An outstanding image can certainly make a difference, particularly in the context of a portal, where buyers are scrolling through lists of many similarly sized and located properties. The one with the attention-catching image is the one that can generate 54% more leads, according to the Kyero.com research.

Kyero.com is working closely with the real estate agencies who present their properties on the site to ensure that such feedback is available to help them improve their services, at the same time as maximizing their pool of potential enquiries. Head of Research Richard Speigal continues,

“Kyero’s lead in the international market has made us an easy choice in areas popular with buyers from overseas, such as Alicante and Marbella. We provide agents in these areas with an instant stream of leads. There are also side benefits. Our growth came from a very early decision to operate in 13 languages (a difficult technical challenge) and all our agents get the benefit of turnkey translation systems. This is unique to Kyero, and crucial for agents who are looking beyond the domestic market.”

When it comes to photography, the message is simple: tell a story. Every property is unique and a good photographer will be able to capture the particular charms of each home. Whether it’s a townhouse with a first-floor pool or a villa with outstanding coastal views, an image that captures the lifestyle that the property promises is one that will resonate most deeply with those seeking a sun-kissed second home.

Kyero.com’s Richard Speigal concludes,

“You have so little time to capture a viewer’s attention online. Superb photography is one way to do it. The right image can make you stand out from the crowd and may well make the difference between a buyer enquiring about your property rather than someone else’s.”

For further details, visit www.kyero.com.

Exclusive new Frontiers’ Collection launch to capitalize on Northern Ireland housing supply shortfall

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom Property Frontiers

· New homes being built at less than half the rate needed (Savills)

· Anticipated UK housing market downturn unlikely to impact significantly on Northern Ireland (NIHE)

· Frontiers’ Collection Belfast apartments newly launched by Property Frontiers

House prices in Northern Ireland remain some 40% below their 2007 peak, but lack of supply is pushing them steadily upward. In light of rapidly increased demand for new homes, Property Frontiers has launched the second phase of the Frontiers’ Collection apartments at The Sandford in Belfast.

According to Savills, house prices in Northern Ireland increased faster than in any other UK region in 2014. In 2015, they shot up by 8%, and over the coming three years they are expected to rise by 6% per annum. Lack of supply of new dwellings is one of the main reasons behind the projections, despite construction output having grown by 4.1% in Q2 2016, based on data from the Department for the Economy.

Social housing figures back up the need for new housing. According to official government estimates, some 37,000 households are on the registered waiting list for social housing. Northern Ireland’s Minister for Communities has stated an ambition to start a further 9,600 new social homes by 2021, at a rate of 2,000 per year. Meanwhile the Housing Executive’s Northern Ireland Housing Market Review and Perspectives 2014-2017 report has forecast that some 190,000 new homes will be needed between 2008 and 2025. That equates to 11,200 new dwellings per year, but Savills has confirmed that less than half of that number were completed in 2015.

The worsening lack of supply is impacting on prices across the country. Property Frontiers CEO Ray Withers comments,

“We’ve seen prices rise across Northern Ireland over the past couple of years and the Belfast housing market is benefitting from that trend. With buyers able to look forward to the prospect of capital gains paired with steady buy-to-let income, now is the ideal time to launch the Frontiers’ Collection.

“The contemporary style of the apartments is perfectly suited to the needs of Belfast’s dynamic workforce. Many recent graduates and other professionals working in the city’s booming digital tech sector are keen to make the Titanic Quarter their home and demand for rental property in the city is strong.”

Belfast is the most significant rental market in Northern Ireland, accounting for 43% of all rental transactions in the country. The city’s e-commerce, app and software development and cyber security companies recently led the Tech National 2016 report to put it on a par with London and Manchester as one of the key digital tech clusters in the UK. Professionals working across the industry are keen to rent modern, stylish homes located in the heart of the city, with the Titanic Quarter proving particularly attractive thanks to its unique blend of leisure activities and employment opportunities.

As Northern Ireland’s economy strengthens and housing demand continues to fall further behind supply, many buyers are keen to capitalize on the opportunities that Belfast offers, according to Property Frontiers. Interestingly, Brexit worries are not being felt so strongly in the city as they are in some other areas of the UK, despite Northern Ireland voting overwhelmingly to remain in the EU. As the Northern Ireland Housing Executive summarises,

“Unlike in the mid-2000s, Northern Ireland has over the past few years only experienced steady, sustainable growth. It is therefore unlikely that the expected downturn in the UK housing market will impact significantly on house prices in Northern Ireland.”

What better time to invest?

Contemporary apartments at The Sandford, in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, are available from £114,750 for a one-bedroom home and £141,750 for a two-bed. Already under construction, the apartments are available through the Frontiers’ Collection from Property Frontiers.

For more information on investment opportunities around the world, contact Property Frontiers by visiting www.propertyfrontiers.com or calling +44 1865 202 700.

easyMarkets highlights three currencies to watch in times of political instability

by Sophie Evans World easyMarkets

Sterling set to remain highly vulnerable to Brexit headlines
Dollar enjoyed surprise rise to ten-month highs following Donald Trump’s election
Japanese yen bears watching based on Bank of Japan’s shifting policy focus

2016 has certainly delivered some surprise events in terms of global politics. The ramifications of decisions taken this year are likely to be felt a long way into the future. Foreign exchange markets have certainly felt the impact already, with political events, speculation about the health of the global economy and monetary policy developments adding to traders’ daily analysis of a deluge of economic data. All of this plays into the valuation of currency pairs.

Evdokia Pitsillidou, Risk Management Associate at pioneering forex and CFD broker easyMarkets, explains,

“Every so often, a major political event transpires that rocks the currency market, bringing with it unprecedented levels of volatility. 2016 has produced at least two of these events in the form of Brexit and the US presidential election result. These political forces have created serious volatility in the market but have also created some interesting opportunities, particularly in terms of currencies to watch over the remainder of this year and the start of 2017.”

The pound has been under scrutiny since the UK’s decision to leave the European Union on 23 June. The referendum’s outcome triggered the biggest ever selloff in the history of the British pound. Sterling plunged at a double-digit percentage pace against the dollar immediately following the news of the Brexit decision. It went on to hit 168-year lows in October 2016 after Prime Minister Theresa May vowed to pursue a “hard Brexit.

Sterling has recovered in November, but continues to trade near 31-year lows. The outlook on the currency remains bleak as policymakers roll out a timeline for the formal Brexit process.

It goes without saying that the British pound should be on every currency trader’s radar. The pound remains highly vulnerable to Brexit headlines. This actually served as a positive for the GBP/USD earlier this month, after the British High Court ruled that Brexit cannot be implemented without parliamentary approval. Theresa May had previously pledged to initiate Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty by the end of March 2017. Article 50 is the mechanism by which EU members can formally withdraw from the bloc. May has vowed to fight the court’s legal challenge and remains confident that Brexit means Brexit.

The dollar has also been impacted by recent political events, with Donald Trump’s election as the 45^th President of the United States on 8 November sending global financial markets into disarray – at least initially. By November 9, US stocks were back on the offensive, while global equities also rebounded. The presidential election result was a boon to the US dollar, which quickly rose to ten-month highs against a basket of other major currencies.

easyMarkets’ Evdokia Pitsillidou comments,

“Many analysts had tipped the dollar to fall on a Trump victory. However, the complete opposite occurred, as investors turned optimistic on Trump’s proposed tax reforms and fiscal spending plans.”

Speculation regarding the Federal Reserve’s plans has also been affecting the value of the dollar. The greenback was tracking higher weeks before Trump’s election, based on growing bets the Fed would raise interest rates on 13-14 December. Federal Reserve Vice Chair Stanley Fischer told a conference last week that the case for a rate hike is “quite strong.”

The Japanese yen is also a currency that should be on traders’ radar for the remainder of 2016. The Bank of Japan’s policy overhaul a few months ago saw its focus shift from quantitative easing to interest rate targeting, following years of failed stimulus. Japan has been in deflation for seven consecutive months, and while economic growth has improved, the underlying trend remains weak.

The yen has been the strongest major currency for much of 2016, thwarting the Bank of Japan’s attempt to stimulate the economy. However, renewed bullishness in the dollar has finally made a dent in Asia’s safe-haven currency. October was the strongest month for the USD/JPY in two years. The pair was last seen trading at five-month highs.

easyMarkets’ Evdokia Pitsillidou concludes,

“In times of such immense political uncertainty, financial markets will remain highly sensitive to goings on around the world. However, the swift recovery of the US stock market and the rise of the dollar following Donald Trump’s election victory shows that markets can still be resilient. This means that traders who act fast are likely to be able to maximize the benefits of political events, particularly so far as currencies are concerned.”

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

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

Taylor Wimpey España to host Charity Golf Championship on the Costa del Sol

by Sophie Evans Spain Taylor Wimpey Espana

Taylor Wimpey España to sponsor a charity golf championship and lunch for all clients, friends and family at Los Arqueros Golf Club
The event’s chosen charity, Caritas Marbella, supports the most disadvantaged residents in the area
New Botanic residence protects local environment with minimal energy consumption (Taylor Wimpey España)

To celebrate the 25^th Anniversary of Los Arqueros Golf Club in Malaga, Taylor Wimpey España is organising and sponsoring a golf championship day, followed by a paella inspired lunch.

The event is available to all clients, friends and family, with over 200 guests expected to attend. It will take place on Saturday 3^rd December 2016 at the Los Arqueros Golf Club and all proceeds will go to the charity of their choice.

The local charity that has been chosen is Caritas Marbella, an organisation dedicated to supporting and making life easier for the most disadvantaged families in the area.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, comments,

“We are honoured to be able to plan such an event and to celebrate such a wonderful community cause. Caritas is an extremely worthy charity supporting local residents in the area and we hope many can join us in order to raise as much money as possible!

“As well as championing the local community, here at Taylor Wimpey España we are keen to protect the beautiful Spanish landscape. Our new Botanic residence, situated in close proximity to the Los Arqueros Golf Club, has been specifically designed with the environment in mind. It holds a ‘B’ energy certificate with each home benefitting from solar panels, high quality thermal insulation and sound-proofing.”

Botanic residents can purchase their dream holiday home with amazing panoramic views whilst helping care for the beautiful landscape that surrounds it. With a privileged south-facing position and on high ground that provides amazing panoramic views of the Los Arqueros Golf course, the sea and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

The lavish yet eco-friendly homes with minimal energy consumption are fully equipped with high quality finishes. Cream coloured marble throughout, wide patio doors to the terrace, top of the range kitchen appliances and sanitary fittings, LED lighting, air conditioning and heated flooring in bathrooms, are all included as standard.

With prices from just €375,000 +VAT, it is an extremely well connected location with amenities on offer in Benahavis, Marbella, Puerto Banús or the new San Pedro Boulevard are all within close proximity. Botanic is a place of residence where serenity and tranquility reign although the best in leisure experiences and activities in Marbella are available within a radius of just 5km.

The development itself comprises 92 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.

Mull it over: Living near the UK’s best Christmas markets

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom Collegiate AC, Properties of the World, Surrenden Invest

Crisp cold days, wrapped up warm in scarves and bobble hats, toes toasty in winter boots, Christmas tunes playing and the delicious smell of mulled wine – there’s something special about visiting a Christmas market.

Germany is known for its seasonal markets. The Christkindlesmarkt in the medieval city of Nuremberg can stake a pretty strong claim as being the most popular in Europe with a market dating back to 1628. People also flock to Dresden Streizelmarkt, which has a market that heralds back to 1434. This city perched on the edge of the River Elbe is famed for its delicious fruit and marzipan packed stolen.

In the UK we are relative newcomers to the Christmas Market scene but nonetheless, in true British style, we have immersed ourselves into creating a selection of the most fabulous markets, so much so that travelling to Europe is no longer a necessity to get your festive fix.

Christmas Markets are right here on our doorsteps. A sizzling bratwurst and a cheeky gluwein are not as far away as you might think.

Birmingham – To get the full on authentic German experience you don’t have to head off overseas, twinned with Frankfurt the incredibly friendly Brummie capital has a fantastic German market with over 180 craft stalls.

London – Hyde Park plays host to over 100 stalls, the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, a circus, Ferris wheel and a Bavarian village. For those who want to continue the fun, head off to the Southbank which hosts its own Christmas market on the Thames.

Manchester – It’s Christmas market was launched in 1999 as just a single site in St Ann’s Square. Today the market is a sprawling and hugely popular festive attraction which attracts millions of visitors each year. This Christmas Market is not just a fabulous place to shop but has become a leisure destination in its own right. No Mancunian winter is complete without a wander through the chalet-lined streets of Manchester.

Wales – It also boasts a fabulous selection of festive markets. The charming Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno is home to the rapidly growing Christmas Fayre offering 165 stalls in the centre of town. This gorgeous town was voted best seaside resort in the UK in 2016 and 4th overall as best UK destination to visit by TripAdvisor, coming in behind London, Edinburgh and Liverpool.

For those fortunate enough to live close to a Christmas market there are wonderful advantages. Being able to stroll out of your front door and do some Christmas shopping in the open air is such a treat.

Homes close to Christmas markets:

For student living in Birmingham look no further than 800 Bristol Road, it is an exclusive luxury student accommodation in the heart of Birmingham’s buzzing Selly Oak area. From £199 per week.

Or Brook Studios also in Birmingham, newly refurbished, premium rooms designed especially for students just a few minutes’ walk from the Edgbaston campus of the University of Birmingham. From £172 per week.

For more information, visit www.collegiate-ac.com or contact Collegiate AC on 01235 250 140.
For those in the capital, Royal Docks, London gives easy access to the ExCel exhibition centre with shows like Simply Christmas to indulge retail passions or why not hop on the DLR to the West End and enjoy the Hyde Park Christmas Market.

Hoola, located in the Royal Docks, is a sustainable residential complex with two vertically identical 23 and 24 storey towers boast stunning rippling glass balconies that surround the apartments as well as floor-to-ceiling windows providing breath taking skyline views. One bed apartments from £500,000.

For more information, please visit http://propertiesoftheworld.co.uk/ or call +44 20 7624 5555.

Looking north to Manchester and property agency Surrenden Invest has a fabulous new addition to its Northern Powerhouse portfolio. Artillery House is situated in a prime position in the heart of the city and it epitomises the type of modern, luxury development that investors are keen to profit from and tenants are keen to rent. These apartments are just 5 minutes from the Albert Square Christmas Market.

The low-carbon technology, boutique development in Manchester’s ‘Golden Triangle’ boasts 12 high end apartments from £120,000, with assured returns of 7.5% NET.

For more information visit www.surrendeninvest.com or contact Surrenden Invest on 0203 3726 499.

If you’re thinking of visiting North Wales for your festive fix then this unusual investment in a late Victorian country retreat is a must. Caer Rhun Hall, Conwy Valley, North Wales is undergoing refurbishment to create a perfect destination for a peaceful year-round country escape, Caer Rhun will become the region’s most exclusive hotel for guests, weddings and conferences.

Purchasers will also be given two free weeks’ personal usage at the hotel per year with full access to the splendours of this beautiful 5-star retreat. Prices start from £75,000 and with an incredible return of 10% NET for 10 years, and an assured buy-back of 125% of the purchase price

For more information, please visit http://propertiesoftheworld.co.uk/ or call +44 20 7624 5555.

Visitors to Spain stay longer on the plain with many purchasing a more permanent residence

by Sophie Evans Spain Taylor Wimpey Espana

Foreign tourist spending on the Costa Blanca increases by 17.6% in comparison to last year (Central Statistics Unit)
Tourists to the Valencia Region are staying 6.7% longer than those who visited in 2015 (Central Statistics Unit)
The Costa Blanca continues to be a popular area for prospective buyers, with many making a number of visits before deciding on a property (Taylor Wimpey España)

It seems Spain is still a firm favourite with holidaymakers from around the globe, with the beautiful Costa Blanca continuing to attract a wealth of visitors. The most recent figures released by the Central Statistics Unit show that the amount spent in the region of Valencia, by visitors from overseas, is calculated to have been an impressive 785 million euros. This is an increase of 17.6% in comparison to the same month last year.

The rise in spending throughout the Comunidad Valenciana (Valencia Region) could partly be due to tourists deciding to stay longer in comparison to 2015, 6.7% longer in September alone. And as many visitors extend their trips to sunny Spain, a growing number of them are deciding on a more permanent purchase.

Leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España have certainly experienced an influx of interest for the Costa Blanca region and have this week launched their newest phase of development at the Brisas de Alenda Golf residential complex in Elche, Alicante.

This private complex of beautiful 3 bedroom townhouses combines the tranquil area of the neighbouring Alenda Golf Course with the more lively beachfront nightlife easily accessible in nearby Alicante. It boasts generous private gardens, a communal swimming pool and a club house as well as a gym, bar and restaurant with prices from just €145,000+VAT.

Excited to unveil this latest phase of development, Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, comments,

“Not only are more people visiting Spain but many are now being wooed by its charm and staying longer than before. The Costa Blanca continues to be an extremely popular area for prospective buyers, with many making a number of visits before final decisions are made on property.”

However it’s not just the sun, sea and sangria that is appealing to overseas buyers, the Costa Blanca’s first class golfing facilities are the perfect setting for all those keen to tee off as often as possible. The Alenda Golf Course, next to the Brisas de Alenda Golf development, was recommended for the Golfers’ Choice leading golf courses award for 2016, offering golfers a picturesque 18 holes with a par of 72.

Marc continues,

“We are thrilled to launch a new phase of development at Brisas de Alenda Golf as demand for the region continues to grow, and look forward to welcoming new residents to the site.”

All the Brisas de Alenda townhouses have fully-furnished kitchens, equipped with a vitro-ceramic hob, extractor hood and oven as well as air-conditioning with pre-installation of heat pump, and fitted out wardrobes. Each property is split across 2 storeys with 2 bathrooms and 1 additional toilet, as well as a terrace, private garden area and parking place.

Perfect for all day dining, the terraces are either surrounded by the spectacular Sierra de las Aguilas Mountains, or the stunning view over the golf course. Within the Alenda Golf complex residents will have access to a small supermarket, restaurant and bar, clubhouse, fitness centre and paddle tennis courts. Due to its prime location, it is just 15 minutes from the golden beaches of Alicante, Alicante Airport and the town of Elche.

For more information about investing in a beautiful Spanish property, contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.comfor more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call +34 971 70 69 72.

Risk-averse international investors seek the safe haven of the Canary Islands this winter

by Sophie Evans World Kyero.com

· Canaries shoot up the ranks to take 2 of top 5 trending destination spots on Kyero.com

· ½ of all Tenerife homes sold in Q2 2016 bought by international buyers (Fomento)

· Canary Islands one of best recovered areas of Spain (House Price Index)

As the chill of winter sets in across Northern Europe, and Brexit-related uncertainty continues to impact on financial markets around the world, risk-averse international investors are heading to the warmth of the Canary Islands in increasing numbers. New data from leading Spanish property portal Kyero.com has shown that the Canaries now feature as two of the top five trending destinations across Spain.

Corralejo, on the island of Fuerteventura, and Playa Del Ingles on Gran Canaria moved up to take the third and fourth positions during October in Kyero.com’s monthly ranking of top trending Spanish property hotspots.

Richard Speigal, Head of Research at Kyero.com, comments,

“Foreign buyers went sun chasing in October, with Kyero seeing a marked rise in enquiries for the Canary Islands. This is a normal pattern, but it comes at the end of a particularly good year for the Canaries. Foreign demand has become more price sensitive since the Brexit vote, and the Canaries are well placed to take advantage of tightened budgets. Local prices remain below average and have also suffered a less tumultuous history than other parts of Spain. Market stability and an agreeable climate at agreeable prices is a strong combination.”

The relative safety of the Canary Island property market is what makes it particularly attractive to risk-averse investors, according to the Kyero.com team. The official House Price Index shows that the islands are one of the most recovered regions in Spain. Prices fell less sharply and recovered much more steadily in the Canaries than in the roller coaster markets of Madrid and Barcelona. The relative stability of prices holds strong appeal in the current environment of political and financial uncertainty across much of the world.

The international interest in property across the Canaries has been building throughout the year. Newly release figures from the Ministry of Development (Fomento) show that half of all house sales in Tenerife in Q2 2016 were to international buyers. The figure puts Tenerife on a par with the Balearics in terms of its appeal to overseas buyers.

Interestingly, Tenerife is one of the more expensive Canary Islands when it comes to property. According to Kyero.com’s data, the average price across all islands is €239,000. Tenerife comes in a little higher than average, at €248,000, with prices there up 3.6% in the last year. Lanzarote is also above average in terms of price, with an annual increase of 5.9% making the average price on that island €295,000. Buyers looking for cheaper homes in the Canaries tend to opt for Gran Canaria, which has an average price of €215,000 (up 6.7% in the last year), or Fuerteventura, where prices have risen by 1.5% annually to an average of €159,000.

While second homes in the Canaries have long been popular with British buyers, Kyero.com’s October data shows that Italian buyers are on the brink of overtaking them as the dominant buyers in Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura. Only in Lanzarote do Brits look set to remain at the forefront of demand.

Regardless of the nationality of the buyers, Kyero.com’s data indicates that 2016 will be a very good year for the Canary Islands. The trend is expected to continue into 2017, as political factors add to the usual enticements of climate, landscape and lifestyle in making property investment in the Canaries a particularly attractive option.

For further details, visit www.kyero.com.

Will PDR prove the saviour for the UK’s housing shortage?

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom Properties of the World

· Housebuilding needs to reach 2-3 times current supply rate (UK Parliament)

· ‘Exciting new developments’ arising thanks to PDR changes (Properties of the World)

· Battersea Police Station to become landmark new development (Properties of the World)

Permitted development rights are giving rise to a host of stylish and unique residential developments across the UK. If you like the idea of living or investing in an apartment housed in a magnificent former warehouse, brewery, factory or similar, your choice has never been greater.

England is facing a significant housing shortage. In relation to housing needs from 2015 to 2020, the UK Parliament website observes,

“Estimates put the need for additional housing in England at between 232,000 to 300,000 new units per year, a level not reached since the late 1970s and two to three times current supply.”

Permitted development rights (PDRs) where introduced in 2013 as a temporary measure, before being made permanent in October 2015. PDRs mean that developers don’t have to apply for full planning permission if they are converting industrial buildings into housing.

In early 2016, a PDR was extended permanently to cover the change of use of office accommodation to residential accommodation. In addition, a new PDR allowing buildings and land classed as light industrial use to be turned into residential accommodation was introduced, with a start date of 1 October 2017, for a period of three years.

The amended rights have allowed developers to look more creatively at disused buildings in cities that are crying out for more housing.

Jean Liggett, Founder and Managing Director of Properties of the World, comments,

“The impact of the revision of PDRs in England is already being felt. There are some really exciting new developments in the pipeline as a result. Developers are using their imaginations about how to transform some of the country’s beautiful but neglected buildings into stylish, modern apartments, breathing new life into them while preserving their original architectural appeal.”

Fox Street in Liverpool is one such example. The beautiful Victorian warehouse of the former Swainbanks Antique Furniture company, with its huge windows and traditional red brick is being transformed into the main part of Fox Street Village, with rental homes designed for use by trainee doctors and nurses and other undergraduate students at the new Royal University hospital next door. The original warehouse and a sympathetic modern extension will house 150 studio apartments, along with 80 en-suite bedrooms and two- to five-bedroom cluster apartments. A gym, yoga studios, communal lounges and a café will complete the development, which will celebrate Liverpool’s commercial heyday while catering perfectly for the city’s modern needs. Investment is available from £52,000.

At Barrel Yard in Manchester, it is the former Queens Brewery that is the inspiration behind the three- to four-bedroom townhouses and one- to three-bedroom apartments that are springing up. Just minutes from the city centre, the development mirrors the red brickwork of the adjacent brewery while incorporating pretty front and rear gardens and the convenience private parking, achieving a quaint, village-like community in the heart of Manchester. Prices start at £130,000.

Students and young professionals looking to rent stylish, well located accommodation are benefitting particularly from the impact of PDRs. In Bradford for example, the former Dye Works, right next to the university, is being reimagined as sleek, spacious studios for students. Investors can be part of the development from as little as £60,000, meaning that the refreshed PDRs are making for a more interesting investment prospect, as well as rejuvenating run-down former industrial sites.

Over in London, it is The Metropolitan at Battersea that is causing a ripple of excitement. Set within a heritage building that was the former Battersea Police Station, The Metropolitan will be seamlessly connected by a glass atrium to a brand new building designed to complement the former station’s classic Edwardian style. The stylish, two-bedroom apartments with private balconies or patios will be focused around courtyard gardens in the heart of vibrant Battersea. Prices start from £740,000.

Properties of the World’s Jean Liggett concludes,

“It’s an exciting time to be a property investor in England. The scope of some of the new developments coming online is just fantastic and it’s testament to the PDRs that have been put in place that these new homes are springing up much faster now, in response to local need. There are going to be plenty more of this type of conversion over the coming years. The Metropolitan in Battersea will be one to watch out for in particular!”

For further details, visit www.propertiesoftheworld.co.uk, email info@propertiesoftheworld.co.uk or call the team on +44 (0)20 7624 5555.

Adventure with Alice down the Rabbit Hole in Cardiff’s newest student accommodation

by Sophie Evans United Kingdom Collegiate AC

Fusion Students, alongside Collegiate AC, launch brand new Eclipse residence in Cardiff
Cardiff is home to a new, never before seen standard of student accommodation (Fusion Students)
Exclusive Alice in Wonderland themed Nightclub, Keg Fridays and complimentary breakfast Tea and Coffee for residents

Cardiff is home to a new, never before seen standard of student accommodation. Fusion Students, provider of luxury student accommodation in the UK, alongside their management partner Collegiate AC, have revealed their latest addition to the capital’s student scene. The brand new site Eclipse is set to break the mould and enhance students’ lives for a stylish, first class living experience.

Fusion Students are proud to reveal their Eclipse residence, complete with premium features to make its’ residents time at university the very best it can be.

The on-site Alice in Wonderland themed nightclub aptly named ‘The Rabbit Hole’ has a secret entrance, is equipped with a bar for students to create their own drinks and hosts a top of the range sound system. It is sure to kick-start any party with residents socialising and no doubt grinning like Cheshire cats.

Another fantastic aspect of the new site includes Keg Fridays which offers free beer on Fridays to help cut your weekly spending and complimentary tea and coffee at breakfast to make sure students are prepared for long days of lectures or studying in the on-site private study and conference rooms. A personal Mad Hatters tea party to start each day with the help of the on-site concierge team is certain to make students feel settled and at home.

Eclipse boasts a long list of amazing features, such as a French Renaissance themed dining room (bookable to throw dinner parties and special occasions), an on-site gym (with exercise classes available), private cinema room, outdoor recreational space with beautiful landscaping and hammocks, table games throughout (ping pong, fussball and ice hockey) and a total sense of security with 24/7 staffing and concierge team, all for an all-inclusive rate.

Warren Rosenberg, co-founder of Fusion Students, explains the significance of the new Cardiff development. He comments,

“We pride ourselves in being a lot more than just a bedroom for students, but a living experience to remember. We focus on creating a strong, sociable community for our residents to thrive. We are thrilled to be working with Collegiate AC to provide unique facilities in ideal locations, close to universities for students across the UK. Eclipse is no different as it is situated only a short walk to the main Cardiff shopping area and capital city as well as being in close proximity to the University of South Wales and the University of Cardiff.

“An eclipse is a rare and stunning occasion which does not want to be missed. With the site opening this month, the new residence is fittingly named and is certain to impress.”

The accommodation has an array of room types available including ensuites, shared rooms, studios and apartments. With 686 rooms, Eclipse is a huge community of students, each room has a double bed, 42” television, desk and study area as well as ample storage with double wardrobes. In addition to sophisticated sleeping options, the residence also has many casual study and relaxing spaces.

With the perfect student location, exceptional accommodation and one of a kind facilities available, Eclipse has to be seen to be believed and is definitely not one to be missed.

If you would like to view the online video of the site, please click here.

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

Longer summers boosting tourism and property market in Costa Blanca

by Sophie Evans Spain IdealHomesInternational

Alicante airport high season extended to December (Aena)
Longer summers impacting tourism & second home ownership (Ideal Homes International)
Autumn 2016 to be Spain’s 3^rd warmest in 50 years (AEMET)
British visitor numbers to Spain up 13% (National Statistics Institute)

As Spain reports both record tourism numbers and positive movement in the property market, the impact of the longer summers experienced as a result of climate change on the country’s real estate is not to be underestimated, Spanish property expert Chris White has revealed.

As Founding Director of leading estate agency Ideal Homes International, White has closely monitored the Spanish property market for a number of years. Over that time, he has seen the high season in the Costa Blanca gradually extended until later and later into the year.

He comments,

“One of the key reasons that British buyers love Spain is the wonderful weather. Being able to pack your flip-flops and escape the UK climate after such a short flight makes Spain perfect as a holiday home destination for those who live in the UK.

“It’s a particularly appealing destination at this time of year, as the weather gets colder back in Blighty and the nights draw in. What’s interesting in terms of recent years is the visible effect longer summers are having when it comes to both tourism and second home ownership in Spain – in short, the high season is getting longer as the world warms up.”

Alicante Airport’s management company, Aena, agrees. The company has announced the extension of its high season to December this year, in recognition of booming passenger demand. The airport has superseded all expectations this summer and is now on track to see more than 3 million passengers pass through from September to December. The figure represents an increase of 15% over the corresponding period last year. Many European airlines are now using larger, transatlantic aircraft on European routes as a result of the increased demand, with the larger jets transporting over 300 passengers per flight.

Figures from the National Statistics Institute reveal that Alicante’s experience is being mirrored across Spain. Visitor numbers increased by 10.1% for January to August 2016 compared with the same period the year before, with a total of 52.5 million tourists enjoying the delights of the Spanish climate.

British numbers in particular were up – by 13% according to the latest data. The figures have also shown that tourist numbers increased by 5.8% in August alone, as the record Spanish season continues.

The property market is also heating up. Ministry of Development figures show all 17 autonomous communities of Spain saw the number of property transactions rise in the second quarter of 2016. They also saw transaction numbers increase in all regions for the full year to June 2016, up 13.2% compared to the year before.

“There is a direct and traceable correlation between visitor numbers and the number of properties bought by overseas buyers in many areas of Spain,” comments Ideal Homes International’s Chris White. “So longer, warmer summers – and autumns –mean more visitors and more interest in property from those visitors. They also mean more enjoyment of Spain’s fabulous beaches and warm coastal waters.”

State meteorological agency AEMET has confirmed this autumn is expected to be the third hottest in over 50 years. Meanwhile figures from the last three years have shown that early September has been the hottest part of the year, with temperatures on average 1.2 degrees above the average for July and August. Temperatures this September were above 40 degrees Celsius.

For those visitors keen to pick up a second home in the Spanish sunshine, Costa Blanca properties offer outstanding value. Architect Ricardo Bofill’s lovely apartments just 50m from the sea in Calpe, which come complete with rooftop pool, are available for €181,000 for a three-bedroom home.

The Costa Blanca also has plenty of luxurious villas to tempt buyers with larger wallets. This outstanding home has six bedrooms, with the master bedroom enjoying a balcony with views to the sea. There’s also a pool, terrace with wood burning stove, fully equipped gymnasium with changing rooms and showers, games room and tennis court.

For further details, call Ideal Homes International on 0800 133 7644, email info@idealhomesinternational.co.uk or visit www.idealhomesinternational.co.uk.

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