Almeria crowned as Spain’s post-Brexit vote hotspot, as British families seek value in the sunshine

Almeria crowned as Spain’s post-Brexit vote hotspot, as British families seek value in the sunshine

by Viv Spain
  • Property sales in Almeria up 93% (Spanish registrars)
  • Value for money is buyers’ key focus, following Brexit vote (Kyero.com)
  • Younger buyers increasingly attracted by Almeria’s charms (Spanish Property Choice)

New data from the Spanish registrars has shown that Almeria is Spain’s new hotspot, racing ahead of other regions when it comes to property sales.

Richard Speigal, Head of Research and data guru at leading Spanish property portal Kyero.com, explains,

“We’ve been studying the latest sales data from the registrars, looking for patterns across the Spanish provinces in the wake of the Brexit vote. Our own data has already revealed that British buyers are increasingly focused on value for money since the referendum. Now we’re seeing Almeria emerge as the clear choice for those looking for good value Spanish property.”

On a quarterly basis, property sales in Almeria are up by 93% when compared with Q3 2015, according to the registrars’ figures. With the rest of Spain growing modestly, Almeria stands out as enjoying a significant boom.

Almeria is in Andalusia, on Spain’s southern, Mediterranean coastline. While other Costas were busy erecting high rise developments in the late 1960s, to cram in as many tourists as possible, Costa Almeria remained largely untouched. Today, the coastal towns of Almeria effuse a sun-kissed charm that their more developed neighbours have lost for good.

Sharon Garner, Sales Director for Almeria-based Spanish Property Choice, comments,

“Costa Almeria offers exceptional value for money. Property here costs a fraction of what it does in the neighbouring Costas. Our coastal towns remain full of charm and character and just a 15-minute drive away, you can find yourself in wonderful countryside. This lifestyle is sought by a new influx of foreign buyers including French, Dutch and Germans.

“Of course, there is still as steady flow of Brits still searching for their little slice of the Spanish lifestyle. We’ve been shocked at the response to the Brexit vote by British buyers. We’ve seen a sharp rise in sales and long term lets, both of which have superseded our expectations for the year.”

Spanish Property Choice has had to expand its staff team twice already during 2016 to cope with increased buyer demand. The company’s data also reveals a shifting clientele in the past couple of years. When the company opened in 2007, overseas buyers in Almeria were largely between 55 and 65 years old. Now, it is 45 to 60 year olds who are looking for a second home in the sunshine, with early retirees joined by those looking to bring up their family in a safe, healthy environment.

Kyero.com’s Richard Speigal echoes the findings,

“There used to be a fairly well established pattern of British buyers working until their retirement date and they spending their savings on a home in the sunshine. Modern ways of working and shifting values among the younger generation are having a significant impact on that approach. Many people struggle to buy UK property well into their 30s, if not their 40s these days. With remote working an option and property prices in Spain so reasonable – and particularly so in Almeria, where the average property costs just €129,000 – the appeal of moving overseas to raise a family has never been stronger.”

By way of comparison, the average property in Alicante costs €210,000, while the average home in Malaga costs €295,000.

For further details, visit www.kyero.com.

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

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

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • 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 25th 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 3rd 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.

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

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

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • 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.

Longer summers boosting tourism and property market in Costa Blanca

Longer summers boosting tourism and property market in Costa Blanca

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • Alicante airport high season extended to December (Aena)
  • Longer summers impacting tourism & second home ownership (Ideal Homes International)
  • Autumn 2016 to be Spain’s 3rd 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.

Live beyond green with Taylor Wimpey España’s brand new eco-friendly homes on the Costa del Sol

Live beyond green with Taylor Wimpey España’s brand new eco-friendly homes on the Costa del Sol

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • Taylor Wimpey España launch Botanic, their brand new eco-friendly development in Benahavis
  • Botanic features solar panels, high quality thermal insulation and sound-proofing
  • ‘Residents can purchase their dream holiday home whilst helping care for the beautiful landscape that surrounds it’ (Taylor Wimpey España)

Live beyond green with the new nature inspired Botanic residence launched by Taylor Wimpey España on the Costa del Sol. A unique, eco-friendly residential development created in accordance with the criteria of sustainability, ecology and bioclimatic architecture.

The buildings of Botanic are constructed at different levels optimise the stunning views and provide an exceptional panorama of the surrounding area enabling residents to submerge themselves in nature.

The fully landscaped areas are a significant part of Botanic’s design, fully respecting the wide variety of fauna and indigenous flora in the area, with vertical gardens and green corridors which subtlety link each property and envelop the development within a unique natural environment.

Excited to unveil the Botanic development, Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, explains,

“Botanic residents can purchase their dream holiday home with amazing panoramic views whilst helping care for the beautiful landscape that surrounds it. With minimal energy consumption (holding a ‘B’ energy certificate) each home protects the environment by using solar panels, high quality thermal insulation and sound-proofing. We are thrilled to announce our magnificent new Botanic residence and cannot wait to show potential buyers what these luxurious energy saving holiday homes have to offer.”

The lavish yet eco-friendly homes are delivered 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, this new build residential complex is found in one of the most exclusive areas of Benahavis – La Reserva de Alcuzcuz, situated between the golf 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.

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.

First post-referendum quarterly figures from Kyero.com reveal that Spanish property is booming

First post-referendum quarterly figures from Kyero.com reveal that Spanish property is booming

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • Buyer enquiries up 64% in September 2016
  • Kyero.com search activity outperforming Rightmove Overseas by 4 to 1
  • User numbers up 13% year on year


In the first set of full quarter results since the UK’s shock Brexit decision, leading Spanish property portal Kyero.com has reported that business is booming.

The company had already reported a record-breaking August and has now confirmed that Q3 2016 ended with an even stronger September. In fact, September 2016 was Kyero.com’s busiest month ever.

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

“The interest we’re seeing in Spanish property is unprecedented. Buyer enquiries are up 64% year on year. The Brexit process certainly doesn’t seem to have dented the British love of Spanish property, although the weaker pound has meant that buyers are now considering the top end of their budgets more carefully. It’s been a record-breaking summer for Kyero.com and we’re excited to see if this incredible level of interest is maintained as Q4 progresses.”

September buyer enquiries totaled 62,596 during the month (an increase of 64% since September 2015), while overall users rose to 434,367 (a year on year increase of 13%). As indicators go, the figures certainly point to Brexit doing nothing to dampen British enthusiasm for second homes and retirement properties in Spain, particularly considering that that 27% of Kyero.com’s users are British.

Kyero.com’s success over the summer months has been such that the site has moved into a leading market position, outperforming its nearest competitor (Rightmove Overseas) by four to one based on search activity (Rightmove Overseas reported a rate in Spain of over 500 leads per day in June 2016, or around 15,000 per month, compared with Kyero.com’s 62,596).

So what’s next for the record-breaking portal?

Richard Speigal reveals, “We’ve already invested heavily in making the user experience of Kyero.com one of the friendliest on the market. While that work continues, we’re also focusing on supporting the agents who list with us to maximise the site’s potential. We’re taking a comprehensive approach to ensuring that anyone who is buying or selling Spanish property can do so with ease.”

Kyero.com covers all regions of Spain and the Spanish islands. Trending searches currently include properties costing an average of €110,000 in Torrevieja, €349,000 in Estepona and €144,000 in La Marina. Marbella is also still popular, with average property prices of €543,000 according to Kyero.com’s latest data.

For further details visit www.kyero.com.  

Indulge in a spa property for total body, mind and financial wellbeing

Indulge in a spa property for total body, mind and financial wellbeing

by Charly Spain United Kingdom , ,
  • Global spa services market to reach $154.6 billion by 2022 (Allied Market Research)
  • Increasingly hectic lifestyles, rising wellness tourism, demand from teenagers and improving standards of living driving spa services market (Allied Market Research)
  • “Holiday homes with spa facilities are a luxury that owners are thoroughly enjoying and paying a premium to purchase.” (Taylor Wimpey España)

According to the most recent report published by Allied Market Research, the global spa services market is forecast to reach an incredible $154.6 billion by 2022.

Far from being a rare indulgence for the affluent, wellbeing has increasingly become a part of everyday life for many around the world with a marked rise in demand for medical spa treatments a key driver of this shift.

The report explains that other factors driving the spa services market include increasingly hectic modern day lifestyles, rising wellness tourism, demand from teenagers and improving standards of living. An increase in the population of working women and the rising popularity of spas amongst male customers also add to the demand.

With all these factors in mind, it seems clear that spa and wellbeing services will become an even bigger industry in the near future – and a great selling point for properties.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director at Spanish developer Taylor Wimpey España, has observed the popularity of holiday homes with spa facilities rising. He comments,

“From speaking with potential buyers seeking their ideal holiday home, it’s becoming increasingly common that developments with spa facilities sway their decision to buy. With 21st century living becoming gradually more stressful, it seems that more and more people are opting to spend their free time in the most relaxing and tranquil environment possible.

“Holiday homes with spa facilities are a luxury that owners are thoroughly enjoying and paying a premium to purchase.”

A perfect example of exclusive spa facilities for second homeowners is Taylor Wimpey España’s Horizon Golf, on La Cala Resort in Spain. The luxury on-site spa is full of natural light, totally immersed in a breathtaking landscape surrounded by plenty of manicured green gardens, trees and a variety of indigenous plants. With a range of massages, detox, ageing, hand and foot treatments, herbal steam bath, igloo and Finnish sauna day packages available from €35, this is the location to relax and rewind.

Prices for properties at Horizon Golf start from €267,000+VAT for an apartment and €420,000+VAT for a townhouse. Properties within this private gated development offer stunning panoramic views over the golf course and La Cala de Mijas. Residents can reach the beautiful beaches of the Costa del Sol in just 10 minutes, with Malaga airport only a 30 minute drive away.

In the neighbouring Iberian country of Portugal, you can go one better by owning your very own commercial property with spa, health club and restaurant included. With a one-bedroom apartment included for the owner’s residence, you can then personally offer amazing spa services and use of the facilities to nearby holidaymakers!

Ideal Homes Portugal’s amazing commercial opportunity in Algoz, Silves can be found on an idyllic and tranquil residential urbanization of detached villas, semi-detached villas and townhouses. The majority of residents are members of the health and sports club, as they have no communal swimming pool or areas as part of their development. It is an amazing opportunity for those wishing to kick start a spa and health-club business with the added bonus of being in sunny Portugal.

From only €499,000, the vast amount of land on offer covers some 2,560 square metres with spa and massage facilities, Turkish steam room, changing rooms and showers, fully equipped gymnasium, large swimming pool and tennis courts.

The site also hosts a charming restaurant and bar, fully licensed and equipped for 100 guests with both an indoor and outdoor children’s play area. With facilities all positioned in a peaceful setting with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, it is only a 15-minute walk from local beaches such as Gale, Evaristo, Salgados and Sao Rafael.

If you are looking for a holiday property closer to home, Properties of the World showcase the gorgeous spa facilities at the Caer Rhun Hall resort in North Wales. There will be a spacious and relaxing Canovium Spa, named after the Roman fort upon which it is built. The spa will house six single treatment rooms and one couples room, where guests can experience tandem therapy. The state-of-the-art spa will also boast an extensive heat experience including aromatherapy room, salt inhalation chamber, sauna, monsoon shower and foot spas.

Nestling in the heart of the Conwy Valley, Caer Rhun Hall is a Victorian country retreat of timeless elegance that is being transformed into a luxurious 5-star hotel and spa. The Grade II listed house, surrounded by 20 acres of grounds, will provide the perfect venue for an indulgent weekend escape. With prices starting from £75,000 for an annex room, the incredible buy-to-let opportunity is the perfect relaxing and traditional retreat.

With the growing need for stress-relief in the modern day lifestyle, properties with a spas onsite or close-by are on trend and predicted to be the next ‘must-have’ amongst holiday homes.
For more information, please contact:

Taylor Wimpey España: 08000 121 020, +34 971 706 972 or http://taylorwimpeyspain.com

Ideal Homes Portugal: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434 or www.idealhomesportugal.com

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

Link between tourism and house sales strengthens as holidaymakers purchase their own slice of Spain

Link between tourism and house sales strengthens as holidaymakers purchase their own slice of Spain

by Sophie Evans Spain
  • Promising future for Spain with forecast 11% increase in international house sales (Kyero.com)
  • Strong correlation between tourist visits and house sales to international buyers (Kyero.com)
  • “For European second home buyers, Spain is a short-haul destination and ideal location for a holiday property” (Taylor Wimpey España)

It’s no secret that Spain’s tourism sector is on course to have yet another record-breaking year. Always a firm favourite with visitors from around the globe, it seems those holidaying in the European hotspot are now returning home having purchased their very own Spanish bricks & mortar.

The latest data released from Spanish property portal Kyero.com highlights the paralleled growth between tourist visits and house sales.

Thanks to the increasing number of tourists keen to experience all that Spain has to offer, Kyero.com predict that house sales too will rise this year (2016), a substantial 11% in comparison to last year. Indeed the volume of visitors to Spain has already reached a record high, as 10.1 million tourists arrived during August 2016; a 5.8% increase on the same month last year and according to the National Statistics Institute.

And it is the demand for Spanish property from overseas buyers that continues to flourish. According to Property Registrars, an impressive 17.5% of property bought in Spain was by foreign investors during the first half of 2016. The market share of foreign buyers in Q2 was 13.4%, almost a record high, with British buyers being the largest group with 20% of the foreign buyer market.

With tourist figures and house purchases set to thrive simultaneously, Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, shares his optimism for Q4 2016 and into 2017 commenting,

“As a holiday destination, Spain is more popular than ever and an increasing number of those visiting are falling in love with the country and looking to acquire a more permanent position there. For the majority of European second home buyers, Spain is considered a short-haul destination and therefore an ideal location for a holiday property.”

During August, according to the Spanish Central Statistics Unit, almost 8 million tourists chose a short break in Spain, a significant increase of 16.9% from last year. This growing popularity of shorter visits to Spain will further strengthen the holiday home market, with the ease of flying to Spain for a long, sun filled weekend of culture and relaxation allowing buyers to make the most of their second property year round.

Marc continues, “We have definitely witnessed an increase in visitors to Spain in short bursts and those who like to enjoy the country for long weekends. The demand for short breaks away means that the convenience of a second home that is ready and waiting for that stress-relief weekend in the sun is a highly attractive option.”

A gorgeous example of an ideal Spanish second home is available through Taylor Wimpey España. Panorama Mar is a new frontline development situated on Punta Prima Beach in Torrevieja. This private residential complex offers an array of 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, all designed for both comfort and convenience, with 2 bathrooms and an underground parking space. Each apartment in the first phase is south facing and therefore blessed with spacious terraces and stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea.

With prices starting from just €234,000 +VAT, every resident will be able to use the three communal swimming pools and Jacuzzi facility, as well as direct access to the beach promenade. Whilst being an area of natural beauty right on the waterfront, Punta Prima is also blessed with excellent transport links. The San Javier Airport in Murcia is only a 30-minute drive and Alicante’s International Airport is just 45 minutes away. Both local airports offer a varied choice of direct flights to the UK and Europe, perfect to facilitate that short weekend break in the Spanish sun.

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.

50% of Costa Blanca property sold to overseas buyers with even more expected in 2017

50% of Costa Blanca property sold to overseas buyers with even more expected in 2017

by Charly Spain
  • 50.21% of sales in Alicante region to foreign buyers during Q2 2016 (Ministry of Development)
  • Rise in Costa Blanca sales to foreigners from resale properties (Fuster & Associates)
  • Legal specialists Fuster & Associates unveil brand new Costa Blanca Property Market Report

The sun kissed Costa Blanca has long been a firm favourite with both domestic and foreign buyers looking to purchase that dream second home. However, the most recent statistics to be released by Spain’s Ministry of Development confirm that it is the significant rise in sales to overseas buyers that is re-establishing the region’s property market.

As Figure 1 above reveals, the percentage of foreign buyers in the province of Alicante has increased dramatically from 25% to over 50% since the beginning of 2011, with no sign of slowing down. In Q2 2016, over 50.21% of sales in the region of Alicante were to foreign buyers. And it is one type of property in particular that seems to be welcoming the most attention.

Spanish legal specialists Fuster & Associates, who provide both legal and tax services to international clients on the Mediterranean coast, believe that the rise in sales to foreigners in this region has been made almost entirely on resale property. After the Spanish property crash of 2007, house prices dropped dramatically and subsequently for the next five or six years there were just resale properties on the market.

David Fuster, Founder of Fuster & Associates, from his office on the Costa Blanca explains further,

“It wasn’t until approximately 2013, when the Spanish banks had resold the majority of properties built pre-crisis, that developers could start competing in the market once more. Sales of off-plan properties are now increasing, but at a much slower in comparison to resales.

“Legally, the key difference between the two is that with a resale you do not pay anything until you complete on the property, there is no risk. In contrast, off-plan properties require a higher level of precaution as buyers make payments in stages while the property is being built and must ensure those payments are guaranteed 100%.

“The bargains available to buyers remain in the resale sector where prices are considerably lower. However, with market growth set on a positive trajectory once more, we would expect this disparity to equalise in the next couple of years.”

These in-depth market findings can be found in Fuster & Associates’ newly unveiled Costa Blanca Property Market Report. The first in a series of free to obtain market reports, Fuster & Associates are committed to providing a detailed insight into specific regions in Spain, designed to aid prospective buyers. To download your own copy of the report, please visit http://fuster-associates.com/lp/costa-blanca-property-report/?src=newsletter.

To find out more about Fuster & Associates and the services they offer, please visit http://fuster-associates.com/

Swedish buyers double as European demand for Spanish holiday homes soars

Swedish buyers double as European demand for Spanish holiday homes soars

by Charly Spain
  • Swedish buyers up 100% since September last year (Taylor Wimpey España)
  • Belgian buyers account for over 1 in 10 sales in 2016 (Taylor Wimpey España)
  • “European buyers enjoy the friendly atmosphere on our Costa Blanca developments” (Taylor Wimpey España)

The number of Swedish buyers looking to Spain as a second home destination has now doubled according to the latest statistics from leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España.

Overall, the total year to date sales to Swedish nationals, as of September 2016, has increased by 100% in comparison to last year’s figures.

With the Swedish Finance Minister painting a bright future for the Scandinavian nation only last week stating that the “Swedish economy is very strong”, many Swedes have found themselves able to purchase that dream second home abroad with Spain’s sunny and easily accessible shores a top choice.

Another European nation with a growing interest in Spanish property is Belgium. Over 220,000 Belgians visited Spanish shores in July this year alone (INE) and according to Taylor Wimpey España’s latest data, from January to September 2016, 22% of their sales were from either Swedish or Belgian nationals.

Over 1 in 10 of the total sales made by Taylor Wimpey España so far in 2016 have been to Belgian buyers with particular interest in homes on the Costa Blanca, with 50% of Belgians buying in the area.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of Taylor Wimpey España, which has operated successfully in Spain since 1958, has observed firsthand the rise in demand from both Swedish and Belgian buyers. He comments,

“The past twelve months have seen a real boost in sales to North Europeans, especially Belgian and Swedish buyers. Easily accessible, with regular, direct, low cost flights from both nations, the Costa Blanca on Spain’s southeastern coast has become a hotspot for buyers in 2016.

“European buyers in particular enjoy the friendly atmosphere on our Costa Blanca developments; a great example being Panorama Mar, where there is a strong sense of family and community with three shared swimming pools and a children’s playground. The stunning and enjoyable site encourages international buyers to socialise and appreciate the gorgeous weather in the favourable communal areas.”

Taylor Wimpey España’s complex, Panorama Mar, is situated on Punta Prima Beach in Torrevieja. This private residential complex offers an array of 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, all designed for both comfort and convenience, with 2 bathrooms and an underground parking space. Each apartment in the first phase is south facing and therefore blessed with spacious terraces and stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea.

With prices starting from just €234,000 +VAT, every resident is granted direct access to the beach promenade. Whilst being an area of natural beauty right on the waterfront, Punta Prima is also blessed with excellent transport links. The San Javier Airport in Murcia is only a 30-minute drive and Alicante’s International Airport is just 45 minutes away.

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.