Spain fights back with impressive increase in foreign tourist spend and property sales this year according to figures

Spain

Figures provided by tourism expenditure survey Egatur prepared by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism has revealed that spending by international tourists in Spain in the first eight months of 2012 reached 38 million euros, representing a 6.2% increase over the same period in 2011.

The results from Egatur show that average daily spending by foreign tourists increased by 7% to €107, with British tourists dipping into the wallets the most, spending 7.7 million euros, an increase of 6.7% over the first eight months in 2011. German tourists followed behind, spending just over 6 million euros, a 3.1% increase.

Looking back at figures for August 2012, Egatur’s results highlight that when it comes to location, the Balearics took the top spot, recording an 8.2% increase in spending over the same period last year, reaching just over 2 million euros and overtaking Catalonia.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“It’s no surprise that foreign spending has increased in Spain this year particularly among British tourists who have been bagging more for their buck considering the strength on the pound over the euro.

“And it’s not just tourism spend that is on the up. We at Taylor Wimpey España have seen an 11% increase in September sales over the same month in 2011 while on the Costa Blanca for example, we’ve experienced a 76% in property sales this year compared to last.”

While there is no escaping the air of negativity surrounding Spain at the moment, the nation is still considered one of the best places to holiday with the Balearics often topping the list. And it’s about to get even easier for anyone wanting to visit during the winter months with British Airways, easyJet and Monarch expanding their winter schedules to Mallorca for 2012/13.

Pritchard further explains,

“In the face of economic doom and gloom and cold winter month’s people want to get away and providing more flight options is a great way to satisfy growing demand. Indeed, with more tourist arrivals to Mallorca this winter the property market could be set for a boost – the reduced 4% VAT rate before the end of 2012 is surely an incentive alone.”

For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property, Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Mallorca at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools.

Costing from €149,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and floodlit tennis courts in Cala Egos, 10 minutes from Cala d’Or.

Cala Estancia residential development located in the small bay of Cala Estancia, one of the quieter spots in the heart of the bay of Palma is the ideal place to relax.

Affording 3 bed/ 2 bath apartments next to the sea, near to Palma and walking distance to all amenities, these apartments have direct sea access as well as fully fitted kitchens, air conditioning, marble floors, double glazing, modern bathrooms, allocated underground parking space and storage rooms from just 265.200€ + 4% VAT.

For more information on buying in Spain contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

International arrivals set to exceed 1 billion for first time in 2012 as Spain hosts World Tourism Day

Spain

Today the globe celebrates World Tourism Day (WTD) with festivities well underway in host country Spain against a backdrop of news that for the first time, international tourism arrivals globally will exceed the 1 billion mark according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

Celebrated on the 27th September each year, the day aims to foster awareness across the international community on the significance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“Many tourism companies and government agencies with an interest in tourism come together each year to celebrate World Tourism Day with various different events. Tourism is one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world and has helped propel social and economic progression in many countries.

“The host nation, Spain, is a prime example with the nation being the second most visited country of the world after France, thanks to its geography and rich cultural scene. In the first eight months of this year alone, Spain received 40.7 million international visitors; this was 3.6% more than in the same period of 2011. Tourism has always been an economic driver for Spain, even when the chips are down and this is why it is important we celebrate its value.”

For Spain, the Balearic Islands represent one of the most popular tourist destinations. In August this year, the Balearic Islands received 1.8 million international visitors, 2.8% more than the same month last year according to the survey of tourist movements in borders, Frontur, released recently by the Ministry of Industry.

Caroline Ellis, Commercial Assessor at Taylor Wimpey España who has lived for three years on the popular Balearic island of Mallorca in the town of Cala d’Or explains why it makes the perfect place for a holiday or second home purchase:

“Mallorca is a wonderful island and for me, one of the best areas is the charming town of Cala d’Or, situated on the South East of the island. Cala d’Or has everything you’d require when looking for a place in the sun – beautiful sandy, safe beaches, various sport facilities, and a charming marina with a huge choice of restaurants to suit everyone’s taste.

“The residents are mainly Spanish; however over the years it has become popular for other Europeans to make it their home.  Because of the strength of community, the main supermarkets, shops, and banks are open all year round meaning many visitors come during different times of the year. And, even though Cala d’Or was one of the first major tourist resorts in Mallorca with the buildings themed on Ibiza’s small pretty white-washed homes, the town’s tourism offers the perfect balance of tranquillity and entertainment.”

For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property, Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Mallorca at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools.

Costing from €149,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and floodlit tennis courts in Cala Egos, 10 minutes from Cala d’Or.

Cala Estancia residential development located in the small bay of Cala Estancia, one of the quieter spots in the heart of the bay of Palma is the ideal place to relax.

Affording 3 bed/ 2 bath apartments next to the sea, near to Palma and walking distance to all amenities, these apartments have direct sea access as well as fully fitted kitchens, air conditioning,marble floors, double glazing, modern bathrooms, allocated underground parking space and storage rooms from just 265.200€ + 4% VAT.

For more information on buying in Spain contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

Back in the game! Spain sees highest increase in sales since 2008

Spain

Figures released last week by the Ministry of Development has revealed that 9,502 housing transactions were made by foreigners in Spain during the second quarter of this year over the same period in 2011 – the highest figure seen for four years when transactions reached 11,130.

It is thought the decline in Spanish property prices has contributed to the 12% rise in sales. In Q2 2012, prices dropped by 8.3% to 1,606.4 euros per square metre.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of leading Spanish house builder Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“There are numerous reasons why Spain still ranks top of the list for property buyers. For Brits the easy to reach reliable good weather plays a big part, swapping grey clouds for blue skies and the strength of the pound against the euro means that visitors can get more for their money which has no doubt aided the increase in people snapping up attractive deals. We have seen a rise in enquiries particularly amongst Brits, Germans and Russians and these are translating into sales – last week alone we made 11 sales – it was a good week for us!”

In terms of province of residence and location of property purchases, Alicante took the number one spot with 2,645 transactions while Malaga flowed behind with 1,127. Barcelona took third place with 847, followed by Tenerife with 655 and the Balearic Islands 536.

Meanwhile, further positive news from the Bank of Spain has shown that foreign investment in Spanish property during the first three months of 2012 increased by 2.5% to 1,163 million euros compared to the same period in 2011.

Marc Pritchard explains,

“It’s not surprising that most of the property transactions in Spain have taken place in Alicante, Costa Blanca. As one of the most famous coastlines in Spain, the Costa Blanca attracts millions of visitors each year and is traditionally a favourite destination for foreign buyers drawn to the clear blue waters, miles of golden sandy beaches, quaint villages, sophisticated cafes and restaurants and an abundance of historical, cultural and leisure activities. As a result of the Costa Blanca’s popularity, we will be launching another front line development near Alicante this autumn.”

For those who are thinking about making a Spanish property purchase this year on the sunny Costa Blanca, why not take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has to offer.

The new Lagunas del Sol development, a residential complex set in a beautiful rural area and located close to the heart of Ciudad Quesada is made up of townhouses designed in a natural setting and very close to the beautiful beaches that this area is famous for.

The properties have been built on two floors with 2 or 3 bedrooms, a garden, private parking and outstanding views towards the swimming pools and gardens available now from €99,900 + 4% VAT until end 2012.

The Calpesol residential complex in Calpe, Costa Blanca perfectly matches buyer’s needs. Comprised of stunning houses with gardens, this development affords communal swimming pools and three bedroom and two bathroom properties with roofed sun terrace and private parking costing from just €169,000 + 4% VAT until end 2012.

The private complex of beautiful 3 bedroom townhouses of Las Brisas de Alenda is located in the peaceful and quiet area adjacent to the Alenda Golf Course while the wonderful beaches of the Costa Blanca are just a 15 minute away.

The Brisas de Alenda Golf complex has generous private gardens, a communal swimming pool and a club house as well as a gym, bar and restaurant costing from just €169,000 + 4% VAT until end 2012.

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

 

Over half of Spanish property sales made to Brits last month according to leading Spanish housebuilder

Spain

Around 56% of Brits enquiring about the Spanish property market are actively interested in purchasing opportunities according to a study by Spanish real estate agent Inmoaction with 27% of respondents commenting that they would buy a second home in the Iberian nation.

Results from the survey of more than 1,500 people highlights that the decline in prices in the Spanish property market is increasingly attracting British buyers looking for a well-priced dream home. Marc Pritchard Sales and Marketing Manager of leading Spanish house builder Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“While the data shows that Brits seem to be showing a great deal of interest in Spanish property, we at Taylor Wimpey España are seeing this interest translate into action. While enquiries by Brits have increased by 5.5% in August this year compared to the same time in 2011, last month saw 53% of all our property sales in August made to British clients – the strongest sales month to British buyers since September 2010! Opportunities to purchase quality properties in good locations at low prices combined with the strength of the pound to euro and 4% VAT has meant that Brits are prepared to act in order to take advantage of the current market.”

Keen to capitalize on this activity, the Spanish government and the Spanish Property Developers Association will be working together to formulate a plan that will target foreign buyers in order to help reduce the level of real estate stock on the market in Spain with a focus on Russia and China as well as EU nations.

Among the suggestions made, the Spanish Property Developers Association propose measures that will make it more straightforward for funds to be transferred to the country when they are for a real estate transaction, as well as making it simpler for property buyers to obtain entry visas.

Marc Pritchard comments,

“This plan demonstrates a sound and logical commitment from the Spanish government and Spanish Property Developers Association to propel the property market forward in Spain. Russia presents one of the best potential growth markets with the number of Russians buying holiday homes abroad, particularly in Spain having increasing tremendously over recent years. Interestingly, at Taylor Wimpey España last month, over 11% of Spanish property sales were made to Russian buyers – this is a target market that cannot be ignored and one we have been pushing for a while.”

For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Spain at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

Cala Estancia residential development located in the small bay of Cala Estancia, one of the quieter spots in the heart of the bay of Palma is the ideal place to relax.

Affording 3 bed/ 2 bath apartments next to the sea, near to Palma and walking distance to all amenities, these apartments have direct sea access as well as fully fitted kitchens, air conditioning, marble floors, double glazing, modern bathrooms, allocated underground parking space and storage rooms from just 265.200€ + 4% VAT.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools.

Costing from €149,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and floodlit tennis courts in Cala Egos, 10 minutes from Cala d’Or .

For more information on buying in Spain contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

An all-time high for Spain as tourism increases 4.4%

Spain

Spain experienced an all-time high in international tourist arrivals in July this year, reaching 7.7 million visitors, an increase of 4.4% over the same month in 2011 according to the Survey of Tourist Border Movements (Frontur) prepared by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism.

As well as this, the survey identified that from January to July this year, the Iberian nation received 33 million tourists, representing a rise of 3.3% year-on-year further highlighting the positive trend seen throughout 2012.

In terms of visitor nationalities, French, German and British tourists contributed most to July’s increase in arrivals with 1.76 million British tourists flocking to Spain. French tourists represented the second biggest source market with 1.27 million tourists, a 7.7% increase over the previous year while 1.17 million German visitors also made Spain their preferred destination in July.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of leading Spanish house builder Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“Spain is a consistently popular holiday destination; one that I believe will never lose its appeal. Tourism is vital to the Spanish economy so it is great to see that the nation still continues to break records. German tourists in particular are on the up once again – we have seen a big jump in enquiries for Spanish property from this market.”

“The construction sector is performing well too after a slump in activity. In June, Spain had the second highest increase in construction sector activity across the Eurozone with a rise of 1.3%. Currently we have approximately 135 units under construction with most of these due to be finished and handed over to the new owners by the end of this year. We are also looking to begin construction of 75 new properties before year end with more in the pipeline for 2013. Our construction rates this year will far exceed levels we saw back in 2011!”

For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Spain at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

Cala Estancia residential development located in the small bay of Cala Estancia, one of the quieter spots in the heart of the bay of Palma is the ideal place to relax.

Affording 3 bed/ 2 bath apartments next to the sea, near to Palma and walking distance to all amenities, these apartments have direct sea access as well as fully fitted kitchens, air conditioning, marble floors, double glazing, modern bathrooms, allocated underground parking space and storage rooms from just 265.200€ + 4% VAT.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools.

Costing from €149,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and floodlit tennis courts in Cala Egos, 10 minutes from Cala d’Or .

For more information on buying in Spain contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

Time for Tennis! Thousands flock to Spain for the Marbella Masters

Spain

For the third consecutive year, the Puente Romano Tennis Club in Marbella will be hosting the Marbella Masters tennis tournament, where some 15,000 fans are expected to witness some of the world’s best tennis legends battle it out on the famous clay courts.

The tennis club, part of the prestigious Hotel Puente Romano situated in the heart of the golden mile staged a successful tournament back in 2010 which saw two time French open champion, Serge Bruguera beat former Wimbledon winner Richard Krajicek while Younes ElAlanoui took the crown last year after defeating Pat Cash and Ronald Agenor in a very exciting three-way final.

And the success it set to continue this year with thousands of visitors flocking to Marbella between the 24th and 26th August to witness all the sporting action.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of leading house builder Taylor Wimpey España and self-confessed tennis fan, explains,

“It is likely that this year’s tournament will surpass last year’s 15,000 spectators, with fans flocking to not only witness the legends at work but to bask in Marbella’s perfect setting, one that provides sunny skies, dazzling scenery and rich culture for such an esteemed event.

"International events of such magnitude help boost Marbella’s and indeed Spain’s global appeal and of course, it doesn’t hurt that world events such as these are located in parts of Spain where the sun always shines. Building on the Costa del Sol’s clear appeals, we are happy to announce our pre –released development at Los Arqueros Beach in Marbella, where for the first time in 15 years we are able to offer properties in Marbella with direct access to all amenities and the beach from just €205,000.”

Of course, while Marbella hosts tournaments for past legends, the Baleraric island of Mallorca boasts an impressive history of cultivating championship tennis stars including Carlos Moyá and most famously former World Number 1 Rafael Nadal. And for the next generation of budding tennis stars, Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Spain at only 4% VAT until the end 2012 located just 10 minutes from superb tennis courts, ideal for practicing your serve.

Costing just €178.000, La Floresta de la Mairena is a new residential development set near the village of Elviria and its beach, very close to Marbella and Malaga. La Floresta de la Mairena is set in beautiful surroundings which have been declared a natural biosphere reserve by UNESCO. The development benefits from stunning views towards the oak and pine forest as well as towards the sea.

The development which affords, two communal swimming pools, landscaped gardens and external private parking is situated only 10 minutes away from tennis court facilities and just 30 minutes from Puente Romano’s 10 tennis (8 clay plus 2 hard surfaces) and 4 paddleball courts, including the central court where Davis Cup and ATP matches have been played.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools. 

Costing from €149,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and floodlit tennis courts in Cala Egos, 10 minutes from Cala d’Or .

For more information on buying in Spain contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

60 Second Interview: Marc Pritchard, Taylor Wimpey España

Spain

What does it say on your business card?

Sales and Marketing Manager at Taylor Wimpey España, Spain’s leading house builder that has been constructing homes on the Balearics, the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol since 1958.

What has been Taylor Wimpey España’s biggest success so far this year? 

It has to be our team selling all 25 properties off plan at Cala Anguila, Porto Cristo, Mallorca which is unheard of in today’s market – nobody has achieved this over the last year. We have also sold 60% off plan at Cala Magrana III, Porto Cristo, Mallorca as of the end of July – another excellent achievement for us in 2012.

Have you got any new developments in the pipeline that we can look forward to?

Yes, regardless of what you might read about Spanish construction, we are looking to start approximately 75 new properties before year end with more to come next year. Our construction rates this year will exceed levels we saw back in 2011!

When it comes to what we have lined up, we have just pre -released Los Arqueros Beach in Marbella. This is the first phase of 24 – three bedroom/ two bathroom apartments in our brand new beach development in San Pedro de Alcantara, Marbella which is the first time in 15 years that we are able to offer properties in the Marbella beach area which are within walking distance to all amenities and the beach from just €205,000. We will also be launching another front line development on the Costa Blanca near Alicante this autumn.

In spite of the negativity of late, why should property buyers still look to Spain?           

Spain offers the best infrastructure of all possible destinations in Europe with very good flight connections, good healthcare and amazing roads and motorways. It’s a safe destination to come to and the weather is superb. At present, it is a good time to buy as long as the location of the property is good. Do not fall for cheap bank repossessed properties miles away from the coast.

In light of the bailout rumours, is it still safe to buy in Spain?                               

Of course! Sales are up 11% YTD 29th of July and I am sure the Germans wouldn’t be re-entering the market if it was unsafe.

Who is buying? Has there been a change in demographics?                    

The German market is certainly a lot stronger this year compared to the last 10 years specifically on Mallorca. Our strongest market is still the British with a market share of around 30% followed by the Germans, Belgians, Russians, Dutch and Scandinavians.

Can you still buy frontline?  

Re-sales yes but usually they’re 20 years old and need plenty of work.  Taylor Wimpey España will have a new frontline development coming up this autumn in a unique location on the Costa Blanca which will provide a very rare chance to buy a property with direct access to the beach.

With the fall in the euro, what advantage does this offer British buyers?  

If you compare the exchange rate today to the beginning of last year, property is roughly 20% cheaper now than it was then for British customers. It makes sense to buy now particularly while property is only at 4% VAT. 

For more information on buying in Spain contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information. If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.
 

The future’s bright as Spain attracts British retirees and German second home buyers

Spain

Spain’s popularity as a retirement destination for Brits continues a pace as the Iberian nation takes the top spot for British retirees according to a study by annuity provider MGM Advantage.

Despite the Eurozone crisis, Spain continues to dominate as the destination of choice with France, Ireland, Cyprus and Australia also making it into the top five.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of leading Spanish house builder, Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“Spain has been voted the number one retirement destination on a number of occasions and it’s easy to see why. Certainly the weather is a major factor in people’s decision making, who wouldn’t want to live out their golden days basking in glorious sunshine? Health too is without a doubt of great importance to this age group and Spain has an excellent healthcare system, although many overseas residents choose private healthcare to skip the queues. With an average life expectancy in Spain of over 81 years of age, they must be doing something right!”

Whilst it cannot be denied that Spain, like the rest of the world, has been hit hard by the global recession and house prices have declined but with the strength of sterling against the euro this has presented lucrative opportunities for British buyers today to purchase their ideal home in Spain for less.

It is however not just Spain’s most loyal holiday makers, the Brits who are buying second homes, German’s are beginning to re-enter the market with Pritchard commenting:

“Germans have a long history of buying Spanish property. At one stage there was a dip but now this trend is reversing as Germans begin to invest in the nation once again especially on Mallorca. We’ve actually seen a 28.6% increase in sales from German buyers between January and July this year over the same period in 2011!”

With this in mind, Mr and Mrs Haase from Brandenburg, Germany purchased a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with terrace, garden, large pool and direct sea access at Taylor Wimpey España’s biggest success story of the year – Cala Anguila, Mallorca and are completely happy with their purchase.

“The reason we chose Mallorca was because not only is it an EU country, close to Germany – just 2 hours flying time but it has a very good climate where we can get some sun and relax. Something a little hard to do in Germany! Some people might wonder if we’ve been put off by the current economic climate in Spain but for us, buying property here was more about the lifestyle Spain affords than anything else.

“We were very happy with the service we received from Taylor Wimpey España – they took very good care of us and our German representative was extremely competent and trustworthy.”

If you are considering following in the footsteps of Mr and Mrs Haase why not take a look at what Taylor Wimpey España has on offer in Spain at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools. Costing from €149,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and just 10 minutes from Vall d´Or Golf Club.

Following the success of Cala Magrana I and II Taylor Wimpey España have launched phase III located just 500 metres from Cala Anguila beach and a stone´s throw from the sea on Mallorca.

The Cala Magrana III residential complex is situated very close to several golf courses and the marina of Porto Cristo and consists of 2 bedroom apartments with sea views with a Mediterranean design surrounding a communal garden and swimming pool priced from just €217,500 + VAT.

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

 

Viva España! Brits continue to book holidays to Spain in spite of economic concerns

Spain

In spite of economic concerns and bailout murmurs, it seems that high spirited British travellers are overlooking the doom and gloom across Spain and other Euro nations by continuing to book holidays to the Iberian land according to Multicom’s travel booking platform FindandBook.

The findings which highlight the number of bookings made in June this year via the FindandBook system shows that the Balearic isle of Mallorca is the most booked flight-only destination and the third most popular place for package holidays.

Indeed figures based on the survey of tourist movements across boBristihrders released by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism revealed that 6 million foreign tourists visited Spain in June 2012, a 4.7% increase on the same month last year.

As far as Spanish destinations go, the Balearic Islands were the most visited by international tourists in June with an increase of 5% to 1.58 million thanks to tourist flows from Britain and the Nordic nations according to the survey.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of Taylor Wimpey España and Mallorquin resident comments,

“Despite Eurozone concerns, Spanish destinations still feature top on holidaymaker’s wish lists thanks to easy access to the rest of Europe, superb weather and cheaper living costs. The recent  Self-Catering on a Shoestring 2012 report from the Post Office perfectly reflects just how much you can get for your money in Spain with a weekly family supermarket shop in Mallorca coming to just £57.67. In contrast, the same items purchased in the UK seaside town of Brighton were £31.41 more expensive.

“When it comes to getting more for your money, a favourable exchange rate between Sterling and the Euro combined with Spain’s dip in real estate prices have meant that Spanish property is more attractive to buyers than ever before. Although buyers are understandably a little weary we are encouraging property hunters to strike while the iron is hot particularly as Spain approved a tax increase which could see VAT payable on new property purchases increasing as of the 1st January 2013 from the current 4% super reduced rate to 10%. Buying now would mean that purchasing a property for €180,000 outright before 2013 could save you €10,800 alone in VAT!”

Further highlighting the positive spirit of potential Spanish property buyers, Taylor Wimpey España has revealed that total visits to their website increased by 12.2% between May and June compared to the same period last year with 67% of total web visits deriving from the UK market.

Pritchard comments,

“Despite what you might read regarding Spanish property, our off plan sales this year have done very well across a number of developments. In just 7 months we have sold 50% off plan at Lagunas del Sol, Costa Blanca while we have sold 52% off plan in just 6 months for our Cala Magrana III development in Mallorca. Our biggest success has to be the sell-out of our off plan development at Cala Anguila recently in just 13 months.”

For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property suitable for family living Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Spain at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools. Costing from €169,000 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and just 10 minutes from Vall d´Or Golf Club.

Following the success of Cala Magrana I and II Taylor Wimpey España have launched phase III located just 500 metres from Cala Anguila beach and a stone´s throw from the sea on Mallorca.

The Cala Magrana III residential complex is situated very close to several golf courses and the marina of Porto Cristo and consists of 2 bedroom apartments with sea views with a Mediterranean design surrounding a communal garden and swimming pool priced from just €217,500 + VAT.

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

 

Schools out for summer! Spain voted favourite destination for families according to recent findings

Spain

Families looking to make their holiday money go further this summer should look no further than the much loved destination of Spain according to recent findings from The Post Office Family Holiday report.

Currently, British families will have around 11.5% more spending money this year than last as the pound reaches a 12-month high against the Euro and with Spanish regions such as the Costa del Sol being voted one of the cheapest summer destinations for holiday extras including suncream, drinks, ice creams and meals out according to the study, there’s every reason to visit Spain this summer.

If this news wasn’t reason enough, families wondering where to take the kids this year now the long summer break has arrived might be interested in hearing that Spain has recently been voted the least stressful destination for parents looking to take their children on holiday. According to Jet2Holidays who conducted the survey, 30% of parents voted Spain as being the least stressful destination.

Meanwhile, if traveling without kids is an option, M&S Money has revealed that the average British adult will be around 25% wealthier if they take an overseas beach holiday than residing in London during the first week of the 2012 Olympic Games with Alicante revealed as the lowest priced destination at £927.

Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Manager of Taylor Wimpey España comments,

“Spain is consistently a popular choice for families due to its affordability and abundance of child-friendly Blue Flag beaches. As a parent, there’s no need to worry about a long flight and lack of activities to keep the kids entertained. Indeed, Spain was voted the most family friendly country last year (ABTA Consumer Trends survey) and it’s great to see that this accolade continues.

“At Taylor Wimpey España our properties have been designed to obtain maximum comfort with good sized and well thought out rooms all with excellent outdoor areas and suitable swimming pools. As well as this, our properties are well positioned, close to beaches and marinas where there’s plenty to do whether that’s for the children or the child inside you.”

For property hunters looking for high quality affordable property suitable for family living Taylor Wimpey España has some excellent properties on offer in Spain at only 4% VAT until the end 2012.

El Puerto II situated in Cala d´Or, south east Mallorca has 2 bedroom apartments surrounded by generous gardens with native Balearic plants and 3 communal swimming pools. Costing from €204,500 this sophisticated complex is within reach of the blue flag beach, Cala Mondrago and just 10 minutes from Vall d´Or Golf Club.

Following the success of Cala Magrana I and II Taylor Wimpey España have launched phase III located just 500 metres from Cala Anguila beach and a stone´s throw from the sea on Mallorca.

The Cala Magrana III residential complex is situated very close to several golf courses and the marina of Porto Cristo and consists of 2 bedroom apartments with sea views with

a Mediterranean design surrounding a communal garden and swimming pool priced from just €205,000 + VAT.

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