Turn the Downturn around by investing in Detroit!

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

 The financial downturn in the US has presented a unique opportunity for people to buy repossessed homes at prices 65% below their peak values in 2006. Properties across the US are being snapped up by savvy investors looking for a bargain.

 

In particular, the buzzword ‘foreclosure’ in the American real estate market is generating substantial interest from international property investors who are looking for a hassle-free investment with guaranteed returns.

 

Foreclosures are properties that have been repossessed by banks who are usually unwilling to take on the responsibility of managing the properties and paying their relevant taxes. In Q3 of 2010, foreclosures accounted for a quarter of US residential sales (Realty Trac).

 

This has created a new market whereby specialist agents take on these properties and commit to refurbishing them to levels above national housing averages. They then sell them on to landlords who agree to rent them out to suitable tenants.

 

One city in the US has drawn the most interest due to its location, sophisticated network of businesses and residential homes and strategic transport and motorway links; Detroit has been a focal point for investors both within the US and internationally.

 

Formerly known for its legendary Mowtown music and car industry, Detroit is now famous for its cut-price homes. The area has benefited from a huge demand for affordable housing available for rent with unemployment decreasing due to the renaissance in manufacturing in Detroit.

 

The major appeal to investing in Detroit is the US government backed rental scheme which helps to place tenants eligible for subsidised housing. If a qualifying family earn between $22-35,000 the government will pay for at least 80% of their rent direct to the landlord under ‘Section 8’ of the subsidy program.

 

Investors can reserve a property in Detroit, Michigan from only £27,273 cash plus £1,500 buying costs. This is a hands free investment as all the properties are managed by experienced local managing agents. The properties are provided fully refurbished and typical net rental yields range from 14-16%.

 

As Steven Worboys, MD of Experience International who markets these properties comments:

 

“A lot of prospective investors might not have considered Detroit as a property investment destination before, however the comparatively high net yields are convincing many to seriously consider Detroit as a respectable, reliable and rewarding investment!”

 

If you are interested in taking advantage of this unique opportunity please contact the experts at Experience International on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 for an overview and further information, or visit www.experience-international.com.

Calabria ready for take-off in 2011 as Ryanair flights return

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

Holiday makers and homeowners alike will welcome news that low-cost airline, Ryanair, is set to reintroduce the popular London to Calabria route from March 2011.

Operating thrice weekly flights (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) from March and adding an additional Sunday flight from 1st April, Ryanair will fly the direct route from London Stansted to Lamezia Terme International in the heart of the popular southern region of Calabria.
The return of the Ryanair route, in addition to the introduction of the new Monarch route this summer from London Gatwick to Lamezia Terme, is testament to the popularity of Calabria both as a tourist and second property destination. 
The latest operating data from the Calabrian airport reveals a 16% increase in passenger numbers, from just over 1.6 million in 2009 to 1.9 million in 2010 with presence of Ryanair expected to boost traffic further in 2011.
Anticipating this demand, plans are underway for the expansion and improvement of facilities at Lamezia Terme including 500 additional parking spaces, construction of a new dedicated “Low Cost Airlines” terminal, new office tower with restaurant and exhibition space, a new airport hotel – Aerotel, and a new reception hall.
As Calabrian property expert and MD of Experience International, Steven Worboys, comments,
“The investment into Lamezia Terme aiport and commitment to new routes from Ryanair and Monarch are encouraging signs for Calabria. Only 3 hours from the UK, the region is a true international property hotspot offering everything that second home owners desire yet prices still remain affordable.”
The strengthening of the Pound against the Euro is also driving the market forward with interest in off-plan developments in particular increasing due to their attractive price points. Napitia Hills for example has been selling strongly with buyers keen to secure the 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom townhouses with panoramic sea views at pre-release prices.
This low density development, perched at the most elevated point of the traditional Calabrian town of Pizzo and just 45 minutes from Lamezia Terme airport, offers the exclusive units from only €75,582 with landscaped gardens, BBQ area and swimming pools on site.
For more information on the new flights to Calabria and indeed Napitia Hills please contact the experts at Experience International on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.

Monarch Airlines Announce New Flights to Calabria

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

Existing property owners and indeed those looking to buy a second home in the stunning southern Italian region of Calabria will be pleased to hear that Monarch Airlines has announced that it will be operating new flights to Lamezia Terme for summer 2011.

The new chartered flight service will operate from London Gatwick to Calabria’s main airport Lamezia Terme, on Saturday mornings from 30th April to 29th October 2011. Despite being designated a charter flight, one third of the seats will be made available to passengers to book direct.
Steven Worboys, MD of Italian property experts, Experience International, comments,
“Calabria remains a highly desirable second home destination and these new summer flights will certainly be welcome. With a flight time of around 3 hours, this stunning region of Italy complete with miles of unspoiled pristine sandy beaches, perfect Mediterranean climate, clear turquoise blue seas and rolling hills, makes for an ideal short break as well as location for an extended stay.”
The popular resorts of Pizzo and Tropea are set to benefit particularly from these new flights as they are within an hour’s drive of the airport. Property prices in these areas have remained stable despite the recent economic downtown and demand for rental accommodation, especially during the peak summer months from British, Irish, Scandinavian and German holiday makers, is high. A typical 2 bedroom apartment can be expected to rent at up to £500 per week in the high season yielding up to 9% per annum.
One development receiving interest from British buyers is Harbour View. Set in an idyllic position overlooking the coastal town of Tropea which boasts one of the world’s most beautiful beaches attracting thousands of Italian and international tourists each year, the studio, 1 and 2 bed apartments of Harbour View are available from only €59,500. With a swimming pool onsite, poolside bar, landscaped gardens and parking, these completed apartments are ready to move into today and would make an ideal second home or indeed buy to let investment.
For more information about buying property in Calabria or indeed Harbour View please contact Experience International on + 44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.co.uk.

Mel Gibson rumoured to soon be the king of his own castle in Calabria

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

 

According to recent Italian media reports, Hollywood superstar Mel Gibson is looking to buy a property in Italy’s best kept secret – the southern region of Calabria.
 
The Director of The Passion of the Christ became enchanted by the stunning scenery after filming in the nearby medieval town of Matera and according to the celebrity news site is looking for a more permanent base in the area.
 
Keen to meet the alleged property needs of this A-lister, the mayor of San Lorenzo del Vallo, a small town in northern Calabria, has recommended a 600 year old castle with 13,000 sqm of surrounding land of which Gibson could be king.    
 
And it’s not hard to see why he could be tempted. Located on the “toe” of Italy, Calabria is an area of extraordinary beauty with miles of unspoiled pristine sandy beaches, perfect Mediterranean climate, clear turquoise blue seas, imposing mountains, wonderful lakes and rolling hills. Rich in history and culture, it offers the traditional dolce vita and is a highly sought after second home location as well as relocation destination.
 
If your budget is more Z list than A list then fear not, property prices in the region remain affordable with a wide range of off-plan and completed homes available. The San Rocco II completed, key ready 1 bedroom apartments for example afford a beachfront location, are only 5 minutes from the marina and are available from only €74,000. Alternatively if you desire more seclusion and privacy then the Porcino Silano boutique 1 and 2 bedroom apartments located in the stunning Sila Mountains, just 300m from the lake, are available for only €87,000.
 
For more information about buying property in Italy’s best kept secret – Calabria – then contact the experts at Experience International on + 44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.

Sun, Sea and Ski? Italy’s secret ski resort revealed

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

 

When you think of southern Italy, images of relaxing on a golden sandy beach with the warm waters of the Mediterranean lapping at your feet, indulging in the freshest Italian cuisine and strolling through character filled Romanesque towns springs to mind.
Whilst this is indeed true, it is not all that the southern region of Calabria offers. Drive just 90 minutes inland and you will be transported to the Sila Mountains, a rugged plateau in the heart of the region and home to Italy’s secret ski resort.
Popular for decades with Italians, the Sila National Park is filled with enchanting mountains and valleys, rich in flora and fauna it is the ideal location for nature lovers. Not only a summer destination, the Sila Mountains due to their altitude (the highest peak is almost 2000m) and reliable snowfall are fast becoming a popular European ski destination, proving it is possible to have sun, sea and ski all in one place.
In the quiet mountains of the Sila Massif you can take advantage of 35km of cross-country skiing trails, a number of pistes for beginners and intermediates alike and an impressive 1,748 feet of vertical descent, Hell Valley which is used for the Italian Ski National Cup. Stumble across hamlets where it is easy to believe that their origins are as old as the mountains themselves. Step back in time where women wear traditional black dress and elderly men sit quietly outside tavernas watching the world go by.
It is in this unspoiled setting that you will find the “pearl of Sila”, the little known but best organised ski resort of Lorica. Situated on the banks of Lake Arvo in a pleasant open valley facing south, warmed in winter by the sun of the south and cooled in summer by the height of the mountain, Lorica affords access to the top of the Botte Donato peak (1928m) from the Cavaliere station. 
Steven Worboys, MD of overseas property experts, Experience International, comments,
“For those who love Italy, the Sila Mountains in Calabria are truly a hidden gem. The region offers the complete package from the sundrenched shores of the Calabrian coast to the spectacularly beautiful mountains of the Sila National Park only a short drive away. And with property prices remaining affordable, buyers can expect their euro to go a lot further compared to other more developed Italian ski resorts.”
One new development receiving considerable buyer interest is Porcino Silano, 6 luxury boutique 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in the village of Lorica starting from only €87,000. With private parking and private gardens, these eco friendly residences are just 300m from Lake Avro and a short distance from the ski lift enabling easy access to the Sila Massif peaks.

For more information please contact Experience International on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.

New flights make it even easier to set your sights on the real Italy

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

For those who cannot escape Italy’s magnetic draw, good news comes in the form of Ryanair launching a new route from Liverpool to the resort of Rimini on the Adriatic coast.

One of the most popular tourism and second home destinations in Italy, a number of low cost flights already operate direct from the UK to Rimini from London Stansted, Bristol and East Midlands and now due to increasing demand Ryanair will commence flights from Liverpool at the end of March.
Steven Worboys, MD of overseas property specialists, comments,
“Each year thousands fall in love with the rolling hills, rich history and culture, fine cuisine and Mediterranean lifestyle of Italy, choosing to purchase a second home or make a more permanent move.
Demand for traditional homes in the real Italy remains high with the Le Marche region on the central eastern coast only 45 minutes from Rimini airport, drawing particular attention due the ease of access and lower property prices compared to neighbouring Tuscany and Umbria.”
Recently propelled onto the global stage due to a series of commercials produced for the region featuring Hollywood A-lister Dustin Hoffman, Le Marche is known as “Italy all in one place” attracting visitors from all over the world year round to enjoy the beautiful coastline, traditional villages and fine cuisine.
For those seeking their very own Italian idyll, Experience International are proud to present Casa Serafini, an enchanting community of 39 uniquely refurbished and new build residences set over 11 acres of land in the restored Italian hamlet of Bargni in the heart of the Le Marche region. With mortgages up to 80% of purchase price available and 5 selected one and two bedroom properties available
with a further 20% discount from the developer facilitating 100% financing this is an opportunity not to be missed.

For more information please contact Experience International on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.co.uk.

Saying “I do” to the stunning region of Calabria, Italy

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

 

Italy is viewed by many as the land of love, frequently topping charts as the most romantic destination in the world. With its cities boasting some of the worlds most amourous architecture and lush landscapes encapsulating rustic romantic, it is not surprising that more and more couples are choosing Italy as the location for the biggest day of their lives.
 
For partners Tom and Paul from Ireland who relcoated to southern Italy in 2009, the charming region of Calabria is the perfect location for couples to celebrate their love. Paul explains.
 
“The Pizzo area of Calabria where we purchased our two bedroom apartment has a real Italian community atmosphere and we are inspired so much by the region that we now encourage others to come out here to experience the land, culture and even consider getting married here.”
 
Steven Worboys, Managing Director of overseas property experts Experience International whom the couple bought their property through goes on to say:
 
“From 2006 to 2009 the average UK wedding cost rose by 8% to a whopping £20,000 so no wonder more and more couples are looking abroad for their big day. Italy offers a dream location which is often much more affordable, it is no surprise that up to 50,000 couples now get married abroad each year.”
 
The increase in numbers choosing to marry abroad has also positivley affected local tourism and property rental markets such as that in Calabria due to the demand for accomodation from not only the wedding party but also family and friends. An encouraging sign for those who own properties for rent in the area.
 
Now that Tom and Paul have said “I do” to a new life in Calabria they have embarked upon an exciting business venture offering wedding planning services to couples looking to marry in the region, as Tom says, “it’s all about helping inspire, plan and facilitate the big day.
 
“Being based in the country and having been given invaluable advice by the team at Experience International in terms of location we are now in a position to help others seek the perfect location for their wedding. Here are our helpful hints:
 
  1. Location – Although choosing to marry abroad is becoming more popular we would recommend couples come and get a feel for the Pizzo community and surrounding areas before committing. Budget flights are available from the UK direct to Calabria year round.
 
  1. The Venue and Accommodation – Calabria is indeed opening up to tourism yet new construction is strictly zoned and controlled to avoid overdevelopment. Accommodation options vary from guest houses to hotels but we recommend the flexibility of private apartment and villa rentals and to book well in advance.
 
  1. Ask for help – Employing a local coordinator who can facilitate your needs may seem like an unnecessary cost but with local custom and language barriers this in our opinion is essential for a stress-free experience.
 
  1. Plan ahead – If you desire a church wedding then the venue may need to be booked 12 months prior to the day. There are other options such as civil service although up to 4 months notice is also required for the necessary paperwork.
 
  1. Set a budget – As you would with a traditional wedding in the UK set a realistic budget and stick to it. Contact local supplies to research costs and work with your coordinator to secure the best deals. 
 
 
So if this has got you inspired to have your wedding abroad and you would like further information on planning a wedding in captivating Calabria contact Paul and Tom at their company Calabrian Management Services www.calabriamanagementservices.com.
 
If in equal measure you are even inspired by Tom and Paul’s story and would like further information on buying a second property in the region just visit www.experience-international.com or call +44 (0) 207 321 5858.
 
 
 
Editors Notes:
 
Portoada Park, Pizzo, Calabria, Italy
Situated close to the towns of Pizzo and Tropea, only 13km to Lamezzia International Airport and 15 minutes from the local marina, Portoada Park enjoys a privileged location. The development offers two communal swimming pools, a tennis court, pedestrian friendly neighbourhood with up to 7km of walking and jogging trails through the forest and only five minutes walk to the beach. The semi-detached 3 bedroom, 2 reception and 1 bathroom villas start from only £253,481 / €279,534; contact Experience International today on 0207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com for more information.
 
Borgonovo, Calabria
The stylish resort of Borgonovo is just 15 minutes from Lamezia International Airport and located in the desirable Pizzo. One and two bedroom apartments and two bedroom penthouses are available, with one bed apartments from €78,550, two bed apartments from £88,502/ €112,051 and penthouses from £108,003/ €136,742. For more information please contact Experience International free on +44 (0)207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.

From the Hollywood hills to the lush lands of Le Marche

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

Now more so than ever, promoting tourism destinations is big business with countries and regions knocking on Hollywood’s door to raise their international profile through celebrity endorsements. Involving the right personality can say a lot about how a destination is perceived by holidaymakers, investors and of course other fellow A-listers. It is no surprise then that the Italian region of Le Marche was elated to hear that top Hollywood actor Dustin Hoffman has fronted their television and cinema advertisement campaign. With the slogan ‘Italy all in one place’ the emphasis is on the numerous attractions of the region and its good value for money compared to the more expensive neighbouring region of Tuscany.

One of the twenty regions of Italy, Le Marche borders Tuscany, Umbria and Emelia Romagna and the Adriatic Coast. An increasingly popular tourist destination looking to increase its profile, Le Marche is priding itself as a destination which attracts visitors from all over the world throughout the year. Its two most notable draws, beautiful scenery and the finest Italian cuisine, encapsulate its claim as ‘real Italy’. Le Marche is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, with traditional villages and a beautiful coastline.
The provinces of Pesaro and Urbino boast riches beyond the fabulous food and scenery. Visits to Urbino province are seen as an absolute must. It was home to Italian artist Raphael and now prides itself on the abundance of Renaissance artwork on display. The region is also flush with local shopping centres and markets offering a wide range of produce from household items to food for your exquisite Italian dinner. The local markets always bustle and burst with life and Italian tradition, with local artisans showcasing their handcrafted furniture and ironmongery. Fashion plays a large role in Italian society and Le Marche doesn’t disappoint. There are a number of designer boutiques and outlets stocking luxury brands such as Prada, Armani and Cavalli.
The terrain of the region also lends itself well to many seasonal activities and sports. For the adventurously minded there is climbing, trekking, canoeing and scuba diving as well as skiing. More gentile pursuits include golf, horse-riding, wine tasting at local vineyards or visiting the opera. The increasing popularity of this region is also assisted by its accessibility. There are frequent low-cost flights from London airports to the regional airport at Ancona, as well as other UK flights to nearby airports.
Steve Worboys, Managing Director of Experience International and a true Italianophile, enthuses:
“The fact that a Hollywood heavyweight like Dustin Hoffman believes in Le Marche enough to become the face of the region speaks volumes. Although the region is still not an established tourist spot, Le Marche is being heralded as the next big thing as far as the property market is concerned with its wide appeal to visitors, holidaymakers and property investors alike.
‘We are delighted to be offering properties in this emerging Italian region; on the market is Casa Serafini, formerly the ancestral home of the influential Serafini family, which combines traditional and historical features with modern design. Owners can enjoy communal swimming pools, Jacuzzis and tennis courts all within walking distance of local restaurants, shops, coastal towns and sandy beaches, Casa Serafini offers investors a palatial ‘real Italy’ experience with a deposit of 20% and cashback available on selected units for a limited time.”
This truly spectacular development is set in the village of Bargni, in the heart of Le Marche which is tipped to be the next ‘Tuscany’ but without the price tag. Comprising one, two and three bedroom unique properties starting from €227,500. For more information please contact Experience International on +44 (0)207 321 5858 or visit www.italian-property-sale.co.uk.

Fall in love with La Dolce Vita…

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

 

With the cost of a UK wedding spiralling to an average of £20,000 and with increasing numbers tightening their belts at this difficult time, it is not surprising that growing numbers are looking towards foreign shores when planning their nuptials. Recently released figures by consumer, media and market research company Mintel have shown that 1 in 6 British couples (16%) are now getting married outside of the UK, an increase of 43% since 2003. The comparatively low cost of the average overseas wedding – £6,000 – is just one draw: with more reliable weather, beautiful scenery and the potential to combine the wedding with a honeymoon some of the reasons why more and more couples are now getting hitched abroad. A spokeswoman for British luxury travel agent Kuoni, who have reported an increase in the numbers of enquiries about overseas weddings, agrees,
 
“Weddings in the UK are considered expensive but weddings abroad are great value, especially when you want to combine your honeymoon as well."
 
In terms of offering good value for money, shorter-haul destinations are proving increasingly popular with those looking to book their wedding overseas, as not only does a shorter journey keep the cost of the wedding down for the bride and groom themselves, but it also makes the experience for any guests as cheap as possible, allowing more people to attend. Shona Swain, acting general manager of long-haul and weddings for First Choice, admits that certain destinations are proving more popular than others,
 
“Greece and Italy [are] becoming more popular over the Caribbean and Indian Ocean destinations.”
 
Italy, especially, has long been a destination synonymous with romance, from Verona’s association with star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet to whose balcony romantic pilgrimages have commonly taken place and where couples can now marry as part of the city’s ‘Wed Me In Verona´ scheme, to the breathtaking Tuscan hills and the Trevi Fountain of Rome, where the throwing of three coins into the water is said to ensure a marriage. It is not surprising, therefore, that this attractive country is highly regarded for hosting overseas wedings and increasingly so, with overseas wedding company Marry Abroad’s Director Charlotte Hand revealing that,
 
"Italy is one of the most visited countries in terms of hits on our site – it is a fantastically romantic country and real backdrop to any wedding."
 
And with a growing number of celebrity weddings taking place on Italian soil in recent years, including A-listers Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes and footballer Wayne Rooney and his bride Coleen McLoughlin, this trend seems set to continue for many years to come.
 
Attracted by the romantic history of Italy, as well as the increasing numbers of Blue Flag beaches – an increase of 12 in the last year bringing the total to 227, according to the Foundation for Environmental Education who rate beaches in terms of their cleanliness and water quality amongst other criteria – the stunning scenery that Italy is famous for and that attracts lovers to marry on its shores, is also attracting those looking to buy a home overseas. Steve Worboys, Director of Experience International explains,
 
“Italy has a great deal to offer those looking to buy a property overseas: a warm climate, enviable lifestyle, breathtaking scenery and affordable prices amongst a wealth of attributes that destine many to fall in love with Italy, choosing to make it either their permanent home or the place they buy a holiday property. Either way, those buying homes in Italy are sure to experience La Dolce Vita and hold a lifelong passion for the country.”
 
This is not, however, the only reason that Italy attracts those buying property overseas, the country also has excellent investment potential for those wishing to benefit from the estimated £333 million annual Italian wedding market (according to Mintel). The potential revenue from rental would come from people celebrating their honeymoon or nuptials overseas as well as guests that are travelling abroad to attend the wedding and who look to rent local property during their stay.
 
For those looking to take full advantage of Italy’s rental potential, or else simply for their own pleasure, the popular southern region of Calabria is a firm choice, offering pristine coastline and a warm climate. Here, elegant 3 bedroom 2 bathroom villas with private gardens are available in the Paradise View resort, situated in an elevated position, just 5 minutes from the beach and the town of Soverato. With breathtaking views and just 40 minutes from Lamezia Airport, the resort also offers fantastic facilities that include tennis courts, a gym, spa, and onsite bars and restaurants. Property prices start from €123,200/ £156,000.
 
For more information on Paradise View or to find out more about buying property in Calabria, contact Experience International on +44 (0)207 321 5858or visit www.experience-international.com.
 
———- ENDS ———-
 
Editor’s Notes
 
Porto Novo, San Sostene
2 bedroom ground floor apartments with private gardens from £78,661/ €99,592 and 2 bedroom penthouses with private solariums from £98,425/ €124,615 in this gated boutique development close to San Sostene in Calabria. For more information please contact Experience International free on +44 (0)207 321 5858or visit www.experience-international.com
 
 
Eden Villas and Apartments, Zambrone, Calabria, Italy
This private gated community is located on the hill top overlooking Zambrone in one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline on the "Coast of the Gods" and the dramatic scenery of the Aeolian island. 1 bedroom apartments start from £99,417 / €109,635 and two bedroom detached villas from £168,369 / €185,674. For more information please contact Experience International on 0207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.
 
———- ENDS ALL ———-

Viva the Costa Not-a-Lotta!

by Charlotte Ashton Italy

 

It has been well-documented that the Spanish property market, one of the first to see and reap the rewards of the boom, was also one of the first to be hit by the crash, with the country now firmly in a recession, as confirmed by recent INE (Instituto Nacional de Estatistica) figures that have shown that the decline hit hard in Q4 2008. Spain’s story is not, however, a wholly negative one and it does not seem that the global recession has diminished its popularity as a holiday destination – especially with British tourists.
 
Statistics from the Office of National Statistics have shown that Spain remained the top British holiday choice for 2008, accounting for 12,029,325 holidays, and the popularity of this traditional holiday destination remains into 2009, as figures from Ascent Market Intelligence have shown. The company produce a Leisure Travel Monitor that is a unique record of the UK outbound holiday market and, utilising records of bookings taken through both travel agents and tour operators, have shown Spain’s continued popularity, with the country holding poll position in terms of where Brits have booked breaks for the coming year.
 
Spain does not, however, remain merely a popular destination of choice when it comes to holidaying; it also remains close to the hearts of those looking to buy overseas. Homesoverseas.co.uk has recently released findings that have shown that this European destination is the most popular overseas choice for those searching on the website for overseas property for sale, ranking ahead of both France and Italy, using results of country and property page views.
 
This enduring demand for Spanish property – even during a recession – could explain why, whilst average property prices for the country have declined (from €248,000 in Q4 2007 to €247,000 in the same period in 2008) property prices in one the most popular regions of the country, the Costa del Sol, not only remain above the national average but are also still registering growth. Statistics from award-winning property portal Kyero.com have shown an increase of 5.85% in average property prices in Estapona in the Malaga province year on year when comparing Q4 2007’s €427,000 with Q4 2008’s €452,000.
 
Not only has this region of Spain always been a great draw for British tourists because of its white sands and safe seas as well as the wide variety of activities on offer and excellent value for money, another of the reasons for the Costa del Sol’s continued popularity is due to increased government spending on its beaches and surrounding facilities. The Andalusian Government and the Western Costa del Sol Association of Municipalities have pledged €5,000,000 to improving the coastal areas between Torremolinos and Casares, including updating promenades and installing lighting and shower facilities.
 
This is not only excellent news for those tourists visiting the region for their holidays but it is also heartening for those who have already invested in the Costa or are looking to do so as it is sure to increase interest further still. Although the continued popularity of the Costa del Sol has seen it defy general trends, during times like these there are still bargains to be had and never before seen deals are becoming available to encourage people to continue investing in the region.
 
One example of a project that represents a unique investment opportunity on the Costa del Sol is Sunset Golf on La Resina Golf and Country Club in Estapona, close to the popular resort of Marbella. Here, a scheme is in place for investors to buy either a two-bedroom apartment or penthouse using a 100% mortgage for a three-year fixed term investment, with 8% rental guaranteed. Properties are inspired by Andalusian architecture, facing south towards the sea and not only is the resort an excellent investment opportunity due to its guaranteed rental and stunning location, properties are developed close to La Resina Golf Course, which as Managing Director of Experience International, Steve Worboys explains adds to the appeal,
 
“The 9-hole La Resina Golf Course, each hole with two different tees, adds a great deal to the investment opportunities available at Sunset Golf as it has been found that properties on golf courses retain their value better than those standard non-golf developments and with an opportunity like this one that is all important. There is an excellent opportunity to benefit from market conditions here and with the guaranteed rental scheme there is real money to be made.”
 
Not only is this an attractive entry-level investment but the compulsory buy-back scheme after three years means that investors will receive the purchase price plus an extra 15%, making this a prime opportunity, in an excellent time to invest. Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero concurs, this year will be a "year of trial, of serious challenge [but] we will be touching economic recovery with our own hands".
 
Sunset Golf properties on La Resina Golf and Country Club start from €145,000/ £128,570. For more information contact Experience International on 0208 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.