• Q2 2015 Spanish property sales up 11.1% (Property Registrars)
• The Costa Blanca is the place to buy right now (Taylor Wimpey España)
• Prices jump 5.12% in the year to June 2015 (Property Registrars)

According to the headlines, the Spanish property market has bounced back. The latest figures from the Association of Property Registrars show a 5.12% increase in Spanish house prices in the year to June 2015. The jump is the fastest rate of increase since the downturn, with a quarter on quarter rise of 2.8%.

So should buyers rush to Spain in search of that dream holiday home or investment property? It depends on the area, counsels Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España.

“There are vast differences across Spain in terms of the property market’s recovery,” he explains. “Some areas, particularly coastal resorts that are popular with foreign buyers, are showing a marked recovery in prices and a really healthy market. Other regions are still struggling to turn their markets around though, so you need to do your homework regarding where to buy.”

While prices nationally remain some 29% below the market’s former peak, areas like the Costa Blanca are enjoying steady and sustained progress.

“Right now, if it’s a stable market that you are after in Spain then the Costa Blanca is looking particularly attractive,” continues Marc. “The market there has picked up pace beautifully over the course of the past year and confidence has really returned to the local property sector. Coastal areas are definitely the place to buy at the moment, but the confidence is spreading slowly across the rest of the country.”

That confidence is reflected in recent sales figures. According to the Association of Property Registrars, some 87,187 property purchases were registered during April, May and June. The figure represents an increase of 11.1% compared to a year previously.

Buyers looking for property along the Costa Blanca are keen to take advantage of the traditional attractions of the area, including its stunning coastline and world-class golf courses. Taylor Wimpey España’s popular Brisas de Alenda Golf development is perfectly attuned to buyers’ wishes. The contemporary three bedroom townhouses are available from just €155,000 and are ideally located for those buying from overseas, being just 18 km from Alicante Airport.

As well as enabling buyers to pick up a superior Alicante golf property for an excellent price, the development also affords them a number of luxurious touches, from private gardens to a large communal swimming pool. The Brisas de Alenda Golf complex also includes a supermarket, a club-house and a bilingual English-Spanish school, as well as the par 72, Roland Favrat-designed course. And all of this is within 20 km of a variety of fantastic, family-friendly beaches.

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

• Second home sales to German buyers increase 160% (Taylor Wimpey España)
• Germans account for more than 40% of all international visitors to Mallorca (Ibestat)
• Winter temperatures in Germany commonly reach -10°C (World Travel Guide)

Mallorca is one of Spain’s most popular summer tourism destinations. Domestic travellers and international visitors head to the Balearic Island’s sandy shores in their millions each year, hungry for its signature blend of sunshine, water sports, dramatic scenery and fabulous cuisine.

While Mallorca attracted more than a million Brits this summer, it was the Germans who just couldn’t get enough of what the island had to offer. So far in 2015, German visitors have accounted for more than 40% of all foreigners to visit Mallorca, according to data from Ibestat, the statistics institute of the Balearic Islands. The figures show that more than 2.1 million Germans have enjoyed a break on the island so far this year.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, is one German who loved the island so much that he couldn’t bear to leave. He has now lived there for over two decades. Nor is he alone in his passion for Mallorca. August data from Taylor Wimpey España shows a 160% year to date increase in sales to German buyers, almost all of whom have opted for a second home on Mallorca. Marc Pritchard comments,

“There is something about Mallorca that really captures the German imagination. From the plethora of sporting activities to the stunning landscape, there is so much to do and admire here. It’s a great place for an active holiday, but it’s also a wonderful destination for those looking to relax.

“We’ve seen a sharp increase this year in the number of German buyers on Mallorca. Our Cala Anguila and Costa Beach sites have both proven popular with second home buyers from Germany who want to own their own special part of this wonderful island.”

Cala Anguila offers key-ready properties from €230,000. One of the last remaining developments with direct access to the beach on the island, it provides two bedroom apartments set in delightfully landscaped grounds. A large swimming pool and sunbathing area provide plenty of room for everyone from those who enjoy a rigorous daily swim to families splashing in the shallows and teaching their youngest members how to doggy paddle.

Costa Beach also enjoys direct beach access, along with amazing sea views. Key-ready properties are available from €242,000 for a two bedroom apartment. As well as the on-site pool and numerous coves and white sandy beaches that surround the development, there are four excellent golf courses within a ten minute drive, making it the ideal location for keen golfers.

According to the World Travel Guide, extreme winter temperatures in Germany commonly reach 5°F (-10°C), so the appeal of Mallorca’s Mediterranean climate is immediately apparent. Add to that the island’s countless other charms and it is easy to see why more and more Germans are looking to Mallorca as the ideal place to own a second home.

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

• 5 developments sold out completely this summer
• August 2015 sales figures double those from August 2014
• Last few Mallorca properties selling fast

It has been a bumper summer for leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, with August 2015 resulting in double the sales achieved in the same month last year. Speaking from the company’s office on the sun-kissed island of Mallorca, Sales and Marketing Director Marc Pritchard comments,

“It’s been a really good summer this year. Five of our developments have sold out completely, while early phases of four others have also sold out. It’s been at least five years since I’ve experienced such an intense level of enthusiasm for Spanish property. August was the icing on the cake – sales figures hit twice the levels that they did the year before.”

According to Taylor Wimpey España it is British and German buyers who are most actively buoying up the sales figures, with Scandinavian and Belgian buyers also contributing significantly. British buyers showed year to date growth of 37% in August, while German buyers shot up by 160%, almost entirely based on property sales in Mallorca.

Despite such a strong summer drawing to a close, sales figures remain high at Taylor Wimpey España, with properties in Mallorca still selling fast. Key-ready apartments remain available at Cala Anguila II in Porto Cristo (prices from €230,000) and at Costa Beach in Port Vell (from €242,000). Both developments enjoy privileged locations with direct beach access and feature communal pools and prettily landscaped grounds. The apartments and townhouses have been designed to make maximum use of outdoor space, with balconies, terraces and private gardens ensuring that owners can enjoy the sun to their hearts’ content.

For buyers looking to purchase properties in mainland Spain, both La Vila Paradis and Brisas de Alenda Golf on the Costa Blanca have newly released phases available, while over on the Costa del Sol La Floresta Sur near Marbella and Miraval at Mijas are both perfect for keen golfers.

“The sales rate is still extremely high at the moment,” continues Marc Pritchard. “We would definitely advise those thinking of buying a second home in Spain to act sooner rather than later, if they want a good selection of properties to choose from, particularly those buyers looking at an island-based property.”

Mallorca is a popular location for second homes, with German and British buyers especially drawn to the charming island. In the summer, it provides a packed, fun-filled holiday location for the whole family, while during the off-season months it is delightfully peaceful, allowing second home owners to enjoy the tranquillity of the beaches and the mountains for a truly relaxing experience.

Even in January the average temperature on Mallorca is still 10°C, which is highly appealing to those from colder climes. With autumn very clearly approaching, the appeal of a bolthole in the sun becomes more apparent almost daily. If the summer sales figures are anything to go by, buyers looking for a high spec second home from Taylor Wimpey España need to get their inspection trips booked ASAP!

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

• Second home usage usually between 4 and 8 weeks per year (Taylor Wimpey España)
• Average cost of overnight stay in Spain hits €124 in August (Trivago)
• Costa Blanca second homes available from €155k (Taylor Wimpey España)

New data from leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España has revealed that buying a second home is cheaper than a hotel room. The astonishing insight is the result of average demographic and usage figures released by the Taylor Wimpey España team.

Sales and Marketing Director Marc Pritchard explains,

“Obviously we know all about the many advantages of owning a second home in terms of lifestyle benefits and convenience, but it is fascinating to see now that for the average buyer it actually works out to be more cost effective to buy a holiday apartment than to pay for hotel rooms. Yet another reason to buy that overseas property you’ve always dreamed of!”

According to the sales data, the average Taylor Wimpey España buyer is aged between 50 and 60 and uses their property for between four and eight weeks per year. Assuming a purchase age of 50 and six weeks’ usage (42 nights) per year until the age of 81 (the average UK life expectancy), the average buyer would use their second home for a total of 1,302 nights.

According to the monthly tHPI survey from Trivago.es, the average cost of an overnight stay in Spain was €124 in August. For 1,302 nights, that comes to a total of €161,448 (no accounting for price rises and inflation). A three bedroom, two bathroom townhouse on Taylor Wimpey España’s lovely Brisas de Alenda Golf development on the Costa Blanca costs from just €155,000.

Brisas de Alenda Golf is a private residential complex linked to the tranquil Alenda golf course, with views of the spectacular Sierra de las Aguilas Mountains. Perfect for long, lazy days spent relaxing in the sun, the development comes complete with private gardens and communal swimming pool. The Brisas de Alenda Golf complex also benefits from a clubhouse, supermarket and bilingual Spanish/English school. The pretty, historic village of Monforte del Cid is close by and the beach is just 15 minutes away.

Taylor Wimpey España’s Marc Pritchard continues,

“Not only is it cheaper to buy a second home than to use hotel rooms, there is also the fact that with a second home you are left with a tangible asset at the end of the purchase process, which is yours to do with as you wish. While there are of course ‘hidden’ costs to second home ownership, such as maintenance, insurance and communal fees, some of this can be offset against the fact that hotel room prices will rise over time.

“Many of our buyers see their holiday property as an investment for their children’s future, not just their own.”

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

• Island is regular haunt of Spanish royal family
• Claudia Schiffer owns home at Camp de Mar, Puerto Andratx
• Live like a celeb with a second home from €359,500 (Taylor Wimpey España)

From the super yachts bobbing about off the coast to the luxury pads tucked away in the hills, Mallorca is a playground to the rich and famous. Many A-listers call the island home and many more delight in visiting it for their holidays.

Models, actresses, sporting heroes, royalty… all have been wooed by the balmy breezes and stunning scenery of Mallorca over the years. Agatha Christie wrote Problems at Pollensa Bay while holed up in Puerto Pollensa in the 1930s. Winston Churchill holidayed just along the coast from the same spot. Even Grace Kelly and Charlie Chaplin have visited the island.

Today, Mallorca continues to attract an impressive list of celebrity visitors. Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España and himself a Mallorca resident, explains the island’s enduring allure,

“The beauty of Mallorca is that it offers something for every occasion and mood. You can sit and gaze out at the ocean, watching the sun sparkle off the water and hearing nothing but birdsong and the water lapping against the shore. At the same time, you know that if you want the hustle and bustle of urbanity, with its shops, restaurants, bars and nightlife, Palma is the ideal city. Or if a few rounds of golf in the afternoon heat take your fancy, Mallorca offers that too. Then there are the water sports – snorkelling, parasailing, stand up paddleboarding, wind surfing and so many more. It’s a wonderful place for those who love the water.”

Claudia Schiffer is one celebrity with a home on the island, in the lovely Camp de Mar area at Puerto Andratx. It is one of a few select locations in which Taylor Wimpey España has chosen to develop its contemporary, high spec homes on the island. The company’s Camp de Mar Beach development offers easy access to the same local amenities that Ms Schiffer is able to enjoy, but at a price that you don’t have to be a catwalk queen to afford – key ready two bedroom townhouses start at €359,500.

Camp de Mar Beach offers direct access to the sands of Camp de Mar, just 50m away. The resort consists of two and three bedroom, Mediterranean style townhouses in a gated community, complete with verdant communal gardens and a pretty, curved swimming pool. Views of the sea are complemented by views of the fabulous Golf de Andratx course.

In addition to fashion royalty, Mallorca is well used to hosting actual royalty. King Felipe VI of Spain and his family regularly holiday on the island, enjoying its sunshine, relaxed atmosphere and plentiful historical sites. Other recent famous visitors include Claire Sweeney, Steve McFadden and Anthea Turner, while Andrew Lloyd Webber owns several homes on the island.

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones are reported to be selling their villa on the island for a cool $60 million. But if that’s a little too pricey don’t worry – Taylor Wimpey España’s luxurious second homes are perfect for enjoying all that this wonderful island has to offer, from fabulous views to beautiful terraces to bask on.

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

• 80% of properties sold in Spain in 2014 were apartments (General Council of Notaries)
• Shops and restaurants now just as important as beach access (Taylor Wimpey España)
• Mallorca highlighted as one of world’s top diving spots (La Tienda del Buceo)

The days of the rural holiday villa are numbered, according to Taylor Wimpey España. The leading Spanish homebuilder has been operating in Spain for more than 50 years and over that time has seen second homeowners’ tastes change and evolve.

Sales and Marketing Director Marc Pritchard explains,

“Buyers are much more discerning than they used to be when it comes to property type and location. Remote, isolated villas are falling out of favour as second homeowners’ demands have changed. Nowadays, proximity to shops, restaurants and beach access are the priorities. Buyers want modern conveniences, like apartments that are pre-wired for internet connectivity and decent water pressure for the shower. Rustic charm has had its day in Spain.”

The official figures certainly back up Taylor Wimpey España’s findings. According to a report published this summer by the General Council of Notaries, 80% of the properties that changed hands in 2014 were flats or apartments. Both domestic buyers and those from overseas favour condominium style living when it comes to Spanish real estate.

“We still do have some demand for townhouses,” continues Pritchard, “but apartments are definitely king at the moment. Almost all of our developments now feature a mix of apartments and townhouses, in order to satisfy the shift in demand.”

Costa Beach in Mallorca is an excellent example. The site offers a range of apartments and townhouses, from ground floor homes with private gardens to luxury penthouses. As with all of the homebuilder’s developments, lush communal gardens and a generously sized shared pool perfect the site. The resort is located close to local shops, eateries and golf courses, as well as the idyllic beaches of Port Vell and Costa de los Pinos. Prices start from €242,000.

Buyer numbers are up as confidence in the Spanish property market increases. Prices are projected to rise by 2% by the end of 2015, according to Bankinter, prompting many British buyers in particular to buy while the exchange rate is so good and before prices increase further. The figures say it all: cumulative sales data to July 2015 shows that Taylor Wimpey España’s buyer numbers have jumped by c. 28%.

The sun-drenched island of Mallorca is one of the company’s top selling spots. Popular with British and German buyers, Mallorca offers a host of holiday delights, from stunning scenery to beautiful beaches. It also provides plenty of opportunities for water sports, with La Tienda del Buceo recently highlighting it as one of the top diving spots in the world.

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.

• Spanish luxury market tipped to grow 6% in 2016 (Luxury Spain)
• Record numbers of private jets use Palma de Mallorca airport (Enaire)
• Tourist spending up 8.4% in Balearics in H1 2015 (Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism)

From designer clothes to high-end properties, Spain’s luxury market is picking up. In fact, Luxury Spain (the national association of the luxury industry) has projected that the sector will grow by 6% over the course of 2016.

For many UK buyers, it is luxury properties that are proving most tempting in Spain right now. According to leading homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España’s year to date figures for July 2015, one in five customers hails from the UK, making them the largest single nationality buying properties in Spain at present. And when it comes to luxury properties, seafront locations are an absolute must. Sales and Marketing Director Marc Pritchard comments,

“Waking up to views of the sea from your bedroom window, sipping fresh Spanish orange juice while breakfasting on your terrace before the heat of the day builds, popping down to the pool for a quick dip to cool off after relaxing in the sun for hours – it’s a luxury lifestyle that many holidaymakers are keen to enjoy and a seafront property is the way to go about it.”

But how to reach such luxury in style? According to Enaire, a record number of private jets and air taxis used the Balearic Island airports of Ibiza International and Palma de Mallorca during 2014, with luxury residential tourism giving rise to the increase.

Both islands offer a selection of opulent coastal homes, such as those at Camp de Mar Beach, Puerto Andratx, Mallorca, which are available from €359,500. The exclusive development is set in the heart of the Golf de Andratx community, with two and three bedroom Mediterranean style townhouses set around a large, modern swimming pool. The beach is a mere 50 metres from the development, while restaurants, cafés and other amenities are all within walking distance.

Puerto Andratx is one of the most desirable areas of Mallorca, offering stunning surroundings and a wealth of entertainment options, from fine dining to water sports. Foreign tourists there – and elsewhere in the Balearics – have very much been embracing the luxury lifestyle this year, with the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism reporting that their expenditure reached  €3.75 billion in the first six months of 2015, up 8.4% on the same period last year.

Spain’s mainland also has its fair share of luxury properties by the sea, with the Puerto Banus area attracting wealthy individuals and celebrities in pursuit of luxury in their droves. Just 100 metres from the seafront promenade connecting Puerto Banus to San Pedro de Alcantara, Jade Beach is an exclusive residential complex consisting of 24 stylish homes, complete with swimming pool and landscaped gardens. Prices start at €450,000.

With the foreign exchange rate so favourable to UK buyers at present, Spanish luxury property is becoming increasingly affordable and the market is expected to flourish as more and more second home buyers opt for Iberian opulence.

For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com. Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72.