Swapping British stresses for Spanish Spas

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

With over half a million Britons each year saying their work-related stress makes them feel ill, it is no wonder an increasing number are exchanging the costs of British life with the Costa del Sol. After Australia, the most popular destination for Britons is the peaceful, sunny Spain with its fresh food, pleasant seas and relaxing spas. With an estimated two million people suffering from what is recognised by doctors as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or ‘winter blues’, it is no surprise 750,000 people left Britain last year to experience the more tranquil Spanish lifestyle.

One of the best documented ways to counteract stress is the use of modern day spas and their prevalence in Spanish tourist areas and coastal resorts is seen as a major factor responsible for their attractiveness to outsiders. Spas, water treatments and hydrotherapy were once considered the preserve of the rich, but an increasing number of northern Europeans are now enjoying the sorts of relaxing health benefits they bring. Champneys, who are developing a spa apartment and penthouse resort in southern Spain, have made water treatment and hydrotherapy a major feature of their project. Tony Roberts, Sales Director of Champneys Marbella said:
“Spas are a great way of relaxing people and alleviating stress as well as providing proven treatments to those with arthritis and muscle pains. That’s why the focus of the Champneys Marbella site is the main Spa Building and Plaza. Studies of rival treatments for muscle and joint pain have concluded spa and hydrotherapy treatments were most effective, physically as well as emotionally.”
Such treatments soothe muscle pains and increase blood circulation, sending much needed nutrients to specific parts of the body. The muscle relaxation properties of hot water also cure dull muscle pain and helps keep the body free of lactic acid and other metabolic wastes. Hot water also helps the body move toxins into the lymph system and helps supply more oxygen to parts of the body. People with diseases like arthritis or multiple sclerosis, or who suffer from paralysis will appreciate the benefits of a hot spa. The warm water helps ease aches and pains and loosens the joints.
The weather also makes a difference. Studies also show lethargy, anxiety and depression can all be reduced by warmer climates. However this, the emotional well being and the general relaxation associated with the coastal Spanish lifestyle are not the only advantages. Simple things like healthier dietary habits, the cost of living, less pollution and a slower pace of life also have an effect. In addition, mention must be made of the financial benefits and security to be reaped by investing in Spanish property. The high level of immigration and tourism from northern Europe and elsewhere ensures demand for short and long term accommodation remains strong. This is particularly the case in coastal areas where the Spanish Ministry of Tourism predicts more than one million foreigners will move in the next six years.
The Costa del Sol or ‘Costa del Golf’ as it is known by enthusiasts for the number of courses around Marbella has long been a popular destination for British people. As well as the numerous shops, restaurants, bars and clubs there are also many cinemas and casinos. Relaxing parks and beautiful beaches litter the area, as do opportunities to take part in pursuits like water sports, hiking and horse riding. With already 2.8 million legal foreign residents in Spain and falling house and share prices in Britain, investors are already looking towards the Mediterranean. In some areas, Spanish property has appreciated by up to 30 per cent in the last three years. Tony Roberts, Sales Director of Champneys Marbella said:
“Marbella, right in the heart of the Costa del Sol, has something for everyone. Not only can it be vibrant and sporty, it can also be a relaxing, bright and sunny place with a calm atmosphere. In this time of stress and strain, a lot of Britons would appreciate the worth of such a lifestyle and the effects it would have on what is broadly described as ‘wellness’. This, when added to the financial benefits of investment makes migration to the area and its purpose built spa apartment and penthouse resorts easily understood. We wanted our development to epitomise this type of de-stressed lifestyle, hence our investment in luxurious accommodation, elegant surroundings, water therapies, delicious cuisine and the latest fitness trends.”
For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
——- ENDS ——
Notes to Editors
Champneys Marbella Spa Resort
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 / £552,492 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 / £770,966 and €1,026,705 / £814,622. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000 / £1,348,836. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

House prices in Lorca, Murcia defy crisis to grow significantly…

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

According to the Spanish Ministry of Housing, the Murcia region of Spain is one that is defying well-publicised negative trends instead showing healthy house sales. The latest figures show that in the first two quarters of 2008, the number of property sales in the province has risen by 11.2%, from 2,288 in the last two quarters of 2007 to 2,545 sales.
Confidence in the Murcia region is growing and this is highlighted further when looking at the town of Lorca, specifically. Located in South-West Murcia, Lorca is surrounded by stunning mountainous terrain and as a town boasts many architecturally interesting buildings, borne out of its great historical past. Here, according to Spanish portal Kyero.com, average house prices have risen 6.5% year-on-year from an average of €246,000 in Quarter 3 2007 to €262,000 in Quarter 3 2008, showing that this is one region where the property market remains buoyant, with the 2008 figure 6.9% above the Spanish average asking price of €245,000.
Interestingly, Kyero.com shows that it is larger properties that are mostly bucking the trend – with the average price of 3 bedroom houses in Lorca increasing 0.8% from Quarter 2 2007 (€245,000) to Quarter 2 2008 (€247,000) and 4 bedroom homes increasing in value further still, by 3.1%, from €291,000 in 2007 to €300,000 in 2008. Mike Hamilton, MD of leading Murcia developer Casas de Lorca explains that this highlights a growing trend,
“We have noticed that when relocating to the Lorca area, more and more people are looking to buy larger properties, with the space and privacy of larger plots that simply cannot be found in the high-rise developments of old. This is why it is these properties that are increasing in value and desirability – as a growing number of people recognise the value of space in and around a property, as well as experiencing the authentic Spanish way of life that can truly be found in the Lorca area.” 
Fitting with the Spanish Ministry of Housing trend that most transactions are for new properties (with 2,083 properties sold in the Murcia region being new-build in Q1 and Q2 2008, up 61.7% on the last two quarters of the previous year), Casas de Lorca build bespoke villas on 5 acre plots of land in the stunning scenery surrounding the town of Lorca in the region. With more and more people choosing the space of a larger villa and more land, properties are proving increasingly desirable, with the Casa Mallorca 4 bedroom villa available at £244,000/ €329,000 boasting breathtaking views and classic architecture. To find out about this and other properties available within 5 acres of land, contact Casas de Lorca on 0844 734 8057 or visit www.casasdelorca.net.

Sales of High End Properties in Marbella Defy Current Market Trends in Spain

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Champneys, the largest destination health spa group in the UK, have defied the credit-crunch by reporting strong sales of properties at their exclusive Spa Resort in Marbella indicating that high-end properties are still in demand despite the current economic slow-down   All but two of their million Euro penthouses at the Spa Resort in Marbella have been sold since March this year, outselling the less expensive apartments.
 
The popularity of the most exclusive properties on their first overseas luxury development is in-line with the current trend of the global super prime property sector that saw a rise in prices of 11% last year according to a report released by Knight Frank in April 2008. They are a niche of investors who are prepared to pay the top prices and are undeterred by whatever may be going on at the lower end of the market. Many high end purchasers are from countries which have triumphed due to the commodities boom and want to invest in second or holiday homes. In a recent report by The Independent newspaper, Knight Frank identifies a similar trend with London property stating that "residential properties valued at £10m or more increased in value, by 2.9 per cent in August alone".
 
Marbella remains one of the most sought after locations for the world´s super rich although due to town planning irregularities there is a shortage of quality new developments in the area. Tony Roberts, Sales Director of Champneys Marbella comments "Marbella is still desirable and despite economic issues, bricks and mortar is still good.”  The added attraction of Champneys is that owners can submit their property to the rental pool for the months that they are not using it and gain a return on their investment. Taking an average occupancy rate of 65% of 323 days of the year; owners could expect excellent returns.
 
In addition, an increase in square metre prices this year makes such property all the more attractive to wealthy investors. In a recent article in the Diario Sur newspaper it was commented that “According to the latest figures, the square metre price has gone up by 1.65 per cent in Marbella during the last year. While most house prices are plunging as a result of the current economic crisis, Marbella has not yet been as badly affected by the situation in the rest of the province of Malaga and for that matter the rest of the country.”
 
The successful sales results for Champneys Marbella Spa Resort reflect the fact that the top end of the market is not as susceptible to market conditions as the mainstream and there is no sign of a decline in demand for these types of properties. William Claridge, a successful businessman from Bedford and avid fan of the Champneys Springs Resort spotted an opportunity to combine sunshine with his passion for spas and has bought in the Marbella resort. He comments “Even though the credit crunch is being heavily documented in the press, those that can afford it are less likely to feel the pinch. And despite the prices already rising in the Champneys development it is still affordable especially as it makes such a good investment.” 
 
About Champneys Marbella Spa Resort: Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location overlooking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358/ £552,492 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729/ £770,966 and €1,026,705/ £814,622. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000/ £1,348,836.
 
For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

A home in Spain means nothing but the same?

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Despite the slowdown in the Spanish property market there is still an astonishing volume of new properties coming onto the market targeting the holiday home buyer. So why, asks Mike Hamilton, Director of Murcia based Casas de Lorca, is the vast majority of Spanish property stock aimed at the holiday home market when over 70% of clients are looking to buy in Spain to live there full time?
 
“The first point to make” says Hamilton, “is that the difference between the two property styles is significant in itself. Apartments and duplexes and even some villas are built for short term accommodation; they are often smaller than your average home in the UK, with fewer appliances and accessibility can sometimes be a problem for the less mobile. You also have to bear in mind that out of the holiday season many resorts become like ghost towns with local shops operating restricted hours and few permanent residents. The 112m2 minimum detached villas that we construct on individual 5 acre plots around Lorca offer accommodation suitable for full time living with local stores providing year round supplies and the properties themselves offering a lot more space and freedom to make a real home.”
 
The OPP Spanish report in July 2008 extensively researched the market for Spanish property and concluded that 71.4% of all clients wishing to purchase in Spain were looking to live there full time; Mike Hamilton has seen these findings backed up in his own research: “75% of clients enquiring for property in our area of Murcia are looking to live here full time which just shows that there has to be a massive shift in the way we look at where and what we are building.” 
 
As an established real estate developer in Spain, Casas de Lorca, has seen the market rise and fall and in the current conditions has now chosen to not only look at what the statistics are really saying but also change the mind set and assumptions that are made about buying property in Spain.
 
“The last 5 years has seen a dramatic increase in the amount of residential development in Spain” says Hamilton: “and expats who have relocated and retired to the country are now ending up very disillusioned as well. This is a great shame as some areas of the Spanish coast are now being tagged by the retiree community as being areas that promote ‘First world prices, third world services, and underworld practices’ as a recent article in The Spanish daily newspaper ‘El Pais’ reports. We at Casas de Lorca want to demonstrate in our work ethic and our high quality product that there are regions and companies that offer the ‘original’ Spain, taking people back to basics and offering a safe and sustainable place for people to retire and relocate to.”
 
‘El Pais’ goes onto report that sales to expats in the region of Costa Blanca fell by 50% in the first quarter of 2008 compared to last year. The article quotes Gerard Peret, a Swiss national who bought a home in 1990 in Orihuela Costa: “We used to love it, but now it has all changed because of excessive, out of control development, everywhere has been built up, and there are so many people.” And as Hamilton explains what the locals are witnessing is true: “What developers in the region of Murcia are continuing to try and push through the system is incredible; 51 new golf course development proposals in the last 5 years really shows what a desperate place Spain is in.”
 
“I must take us back to the statistics though” Hamilton says: “ We have to ask ourselves, why is over 90 percent of the new property coming onto the market aimed at the holiday home market when over 70% of clients are looking to buy in Spain to live here full time? The reasons are various, but in essence many developers have simply failed to understand how the Spanish market has been changing.”
 
“This discrepancy led to an over supply of holiday homes suitable for short stays which meant that many developers had to cancel their plans for golf and coastal apartment developments. Moreover many investors struggled to sell on their off plan holiday apartments with the gains that they had been promised. This effect was heightened when the exchange rate plummeted from around 1.45 euros to the pound in Nov 2007 to 1.23 in April 2008, so many potential buyers decided to wait to see if the exchange rate would improve before investing.”
 
Brits buying property abroad, according to a recent overseas property ‘hot spots’ report compiled by Conti Financial Services, a UK leading overseas mortgage specialist is still highlighting that Spain is number 1 with buyers even though they have seen the gaps between overseas markets tighten. Simon Conn, Sales and Marketing Director at Conti Financial Services, says: “Spain and France are still leading the pack, albeit with a narrowing margin, and it’s not difficult to see why. Affordable prices, low interest rates, easy access and great weather have all contributed to the attraction of these destinations.”
 
So what is the future for Spain? And what is drawing buyers such as Drew Broadley to buy 4 plots of land in Lorca with one being put aside for his future hopes of retiring to the region?
 
In order to understand this we need to look at what other property markets have to offer and why Spain stands out; accessibility, climate, culture and of course price are the main factors to evaluate. Many investors have rushed to buy cheaper property in Eastern Europe attracted by low entry prices but it remains important to be sure about the accessibility, the climate and the culture as they may wish to sell the property in the future.
 
“Spain has a very strong future in international property. It is tried and tested and is the number one European destination for people looking to retire or relocate. In fact a recent report from Cater Allen Private Bank, part of Banco Santander claimed that over three million Brits are likely to buy a property overseas within the next two years as economic conditions in the UK make strong returns less likely”, comments Hamilton.
 
“I chose Spain to invest in because of its popularity with the British, the large number of retirees that are looking for something different and the simplicity and cost of return flights” says Drew Broadley, a retired buyer from Scotland. “Developers such as Casas de Lorca have focussed exclusively on lifestyle properties, building classically designed villas on 5 acres of land. This whole exercise was an investment and I cannot say enough as to how good Casas de Lorca was in handling the purchases.  It is extremely helpful to have English nationals on any Spanish estate agency team, it just makes the job so much easier and reduces the chance of a misunderstanding.”

Sales Director Mike Hamilton concludes: “We have continued selling at a controlled level right through the credit crisis and the downturn in the overall Spanish property market. People who are retiring or relocating cannot wait forever and flexible payment terms have allowed people to make their dreams a reality.”
 
To find our more about all that Casas de Lorca has to offer contact Mike Hamilton, Director of Casas de Lorca on 0844 734 8057 or visit www.casasdelorca.net.
 

Top reasons to invest in a spa resort

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

The award winning and highly sought after Champneys Spa Resort group is taking its mix of pampering treatments and luxury services to a new level with the opening of its premier Marbella resort. Spain has been selected as the inaugural overseas location due to its inimitable popularity and accessibility with the British market and with over 300 days of sunshine a year, it brings a new meaning to a hot spa experience! Just a ten minute drive from the millionaire’s playground of Puerto Banus and yet seemingly a world a way from the high paced action of Marbella the resort is a healing oasis of calm for its residents and guests.
The concept is attracting a lot of interest from buyers and the media so just what are the reasons to invest in a spa development?
 
Retreat and revive
Set amongst stunning parkland and beautifully landscaped gardens interwoven with waterways fed by natural running mountain springs, Champneys Marbella is a haven where residents’ peace, health and well being are of paramount importance. With stress related illnesses now affecting around 530,000 individuals in Britain, (according to the Health and Safety Executive) what could be a better place soak away your troubles and soothe your soul? 
 
Eat your way into health
To make the most of a spa development and the lifestyle that it offers owners, healthy living, diet and exercise are of key importance. The Mediterranean way and pace of life has long been known to be beneficial to your health. The mix of reliable sunshine and meals consisting of fresh fish, fresh vegetables and olive oils, make Spain one of the healthiest nations on the planet, and a perfect setting for a new spa resort which will hold maximum appeal for visitors
 
More for your money
Situated in a prime location close to Malaga International Airport, golf courses galore and shopping boutiques for every budget, the resort is sure to be a popular destination for those looking to escape the pressures of the rat race. According to moneysupermarket.com the cost of living in the UK is up by an effective 9.5%, and with (Kyero.com) predicting that the cost of living in Spain is approximately one third less than that of the UK, it’s easy to see why more people are looking to Spain as an alternative. 
 
Not just a girl thing
It’s not just the ladies looking for a spot of spa therapy… According to the International Spa Association, men now make up 29 percent of all spa goers and they aren’t just checking in for sports injuries. Men are waking up to the feel good factors of self indulgent pampering, booking themselves in for seaweed body wraps and cocoa body rubdowns.
 
A feel good property investment
A spa resort is the target for the discerning real estate investor. Gone are the days when a swimming pool or access to a golf course is enough of a draw for property buyers. Investors are looking for added value, opportunity for property rentals and an overall quality purchase. Champneys Marbella not only has the weight of the Champneys brand behind it, the resort has been designed with quality and luxury as a priority. The award winning architects behind the Moorish buildings boast a track record of majestic status having worked on the restoration of Granada’s Al Hambra palace. Each property will be finished with plush interiors and come fully furnished down to the plasma TV screen. Each apartment and penthouse contains a stunning interior courtyard where the sound of running water from ornamental fountains enhances the relaxing atmosphere of these beautifully appointed properties.
 
Relax with your rentals
An undeniable added incentive for potential investors is the rental pool scheme that Champneys Marbella is offering. The Champneys Rental Pool allows you to rent your property to people purchasing spa package holidays with Champneys, in much the same way as visitors use the four UK spa resorts. You are not tied in however; owners have complete freedom over when they want to use their property and when they want to benefit from the rental income. With predicted occupancy levels of 65%, owners should benefit from a healthy return on their investment. *
 
The resort has already been the subject of keen interest. Tony Roberts Sales Director of Champneys Marbella comments, "Our clients trust in our brand and reputation, they know that Champneys is dedicated to providing superior quality in terms of the accommodation and the services available to residents and guests.“
 
For more information contact Champneys Marbella on 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
 
 
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Notes to Editor:
 
Property details:
 
Two bedroom apartments are available, which are equipped with state of the art gas fireplaces, marble bathrooms, hot and cold air conditioning and fully fitted kitchens. The apartments are complimented by interior gardens in a stunning courtyard which are finished with peaceful Moorish fountains. Prices start at €696,358/ £550,895. 
 
All owners and guests can expect to receive the first class service associated with the Champneys brand this includes twenty-four hour security, a concierge service assisting with reservations, appointment arranging, buildings insurance, general repairs, garden maintenance, and cleaning apartment communal areas, with further optional services also available. 
 

Limpopo-Lipadi pioneers green construction technique in Botswana

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

In keeping with Limpopo-Lipadi’s ethos as a sustainable and environmentally conscious game and wilderness reserve, the eco-friendly sandbag construction technique is being implemented for the first time in Botswana.
 
A popular construction method in neighbouring South Africa, the sandbag technique requires no electricity on site and minimal amounts of water; the materials are lightweight and make use of local resources and communities can learn the simple technique quickly. Homes built using the sandbag technique are waterproof, offer thermal stability remaining cool in summer and warm in winter and hold sound absorbing properties.
 
On the award winning Limpopo-Lipadi game and wilderness reserve which covers some 32,000 hectares of eastern Botswana, the shareholders have elected to utilise sandbag construction for the staff village in which some 50 local people live.
 
Alan Marneweck, Founder and Shareholder of Limpopo-Lipadi, comments, “One of the cornerstones of Limpopo-Lipadi’s comprehensive sustainability model is corporate social responsibility. The reserve works in close conjunction with the local communities, providing employment and training to men and women. We feel that it is important to provide quality accommodation on the reserve for our employees as well as empowering them with new, transferable skills such as the sandbag construction technique.”
 
He goes on to say, “It is essential that we focus on every aspect of the sustainability of the reserve and that includes the resources for our building materials. Using sandbag construction limits the use of carbon emitting building products and subsequently reduces our carbon footprint.”
 
The sandbag homes in the staff village are nearing completion with the external plastering work and roofing using natural materials being undertaken. The first residents are expected January 2009.
For more information about the Limpopo-Lipadi Game and Wilderness reserve please call 00 27 12 349 2437 or visit www.limpopo-lipadi.com
 
 
————————Editors Notes——————————
 
 
About Limpopo-Lipadi Game & Wilderness Reserve
 
A unique investment opportunity found in the heart of the African country Botswana, Limpopo-Lipadi covers an expanse of over 32,000 hectares. With various lodges throughout the reserve the properties themselves are just a slice of what the project offers. As an investor into the reserve you will be contributing to a unique and internationally acclaimed ecosystem model that Limpopo-Lipadi founders hope will set the standard in conservation sustainability in the 21st century.
 
As an investor into the project you own the game and wilderness reserve which is at an exciting point in its development; you will be able to visit the reserve as often as you like, be part of the decision making process of the reserve or just simply enjoy the many diverse ecosystems when you visit., Your capital will be used for everything from further land purchase to the development of the lodges, camps and two (only one) commercial tourism properties for the introduction of paying guests to the reserve. 
 
You can choose to stay at the Island Lodge, River Camp, Kirkia Forest Camp, Mountain Rock Lodge, Marula Tree Tented Camp or Wilderness Tented Camp. These lodges and camps enable you to enjoy the reserve through the diverse seasons in different locations and cater for your every bush experience need.
 
There are different levels of investment involvement that you can commit to – from a purely financial point of view, entry level investment is $195,000, but in terms of the difference that you can practically make and the benefits that you can personally witness and enjoy, they are limitless.
 
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Rapidly increasing domestic demand for rental property boosts Spain’s buy to let market

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

It’s become something of a well-known fact that the traditional ‘fly to let’ rental market in Spain is suffering from over saturation.  Coastal resorts are certainly as popular as ever with Spain remaining one of the top holiday hotspots with British and European tourists, but when a situation of over supply hits the holiday property market it certainly makes it harder for investors to make money from properties that they wish to earn a rental income from. 
 
However, the good news is that there are some lesser explored, more profitable pockets of the buy to let investment property market in Spain that previously were the well kept secrets of professional and institutional investors only.  Now that real estate prices on average have adjusted and fallen across most of the Spanish market, it makes it a very positive time to explore these alternative buy to let approaches in Spain.
 
According to Mike Hamilton, Sales Director at Casas de Lorca and an expert on the Spanish investment property market: “the main investment approach that has seen larger investors profit substantially on an ongoing basis is buying properties for rent within the larger commercial and university cities in Spain where domestic demand is not abating.  In fact, the city based buy to let property market in Spain has suffered nothing of the negativities of over supply, with many urban areas actually suffering from a restriction of supply leading to increased demand. In the capital Madrid for example we are hearing reports that 62% of apartments which become available are being rented within the first month alone.”
 
“The low supply of good quality rental property is also affecting rental prices. For example, average monthly rents in Lorca have gone up from 400 euro a month to 550 euro over the period of the last 3 months, and as the date for the opening of the new University of Lorca approaches, so demand is expected to further intensify.  Therefore, property investors looking for a market where there is strong demand for property, more attractive underlying real estate prices and strong potential for consistent year round rental income should be focusing their search on Spain’s most in demand cities. Each day we are turning down clients looking for rental apartments. When one becomes available it is rented within the week, sometimes the same day!”
 
Spain’s local population has suffered in much the same way as the British population from rising property prices in recent years.  This has led to a situation where more Spanish than ever are seeking rental accommodation because they cannot get onto the housing ladder. The Spanish Prime Minister has pledged significant financial help, not just to first time buyers, but more interestingly for buy to let investors too.  Direct monthly financial contributions of 200 euros a month are being offered by the Spanish government to people under 30 years old to help with rental payments; proposals have also been made to help tenants raise deposits; and for landlords who agree to rent properties to under 35s to help them get into private accommodation, attractive taxation incentives have been proposed.”
 
In Lorca in the Autonomous Community of Murcia where a new university campus is about to reach completion, demand for city based rental accommodation has already pushed average rental rates up significantly.  The new university is the fourth campus for the already expansive University of Murcia with its 31,500 students, and when it opens in 2009 demand from professors, lecturers, administration staff and of course students is expected to have an overall positive and dramatic effect on the local housing market.
 
Property investors quite possibly have a once in a lifetime opportunity to buy property off plan at below market prices as developers work hard to sell off stock, or to buy resale units in what is very much a buyer’s market, and earn rental income year round from the domestic market who are being aided and therefore encouraged to rent.  What’s more, in an area like Lorca where there is a specific and undeniable reason for demand to surge, a buyer making a purchase today has an unprecedented opportunity to profit significantly from rising rental rates, and from potentially appreciating assets whose values will likely be increased as the property market in the city becomes more in demand.
 
Casas de Lorca have 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments for sale in Lorca from just 78,000 euro, they are located just 3 minutes from the university and come with guaranteed rental income for the first 3 years making them an exceptionally interesting long-term investment opportunity.  Interested parties are invited to contact Casas de Lorca for more information on 0844 734 8057 or visit www.casasdelorca.net.
 
 

Award Winning Champneys Championing the Way in Marbella

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

The award winning and highly prestigious UK based Champneys Health Resort group, leaders in the field of luxurious spa and wellbeing retreats, treatments and training, are about to take their celebrated brand a stage further with the launch of Champneys Marbella Spa Resort Apartments and Penthouses.  Champneys Marbella will be a combination of a magnificent Champneys Spa with real estate investment options for the discerning buyer and investor. Already the project has received immense international interest.
 
Enveloped within the breathtaking scenery above the famous resort of Marbella on the ever popular Costa del Sol, this new Champneys Spa Resort project is encircled by a beautiful national park, affording owners and guests uninterrupted views across the stunning Andalucian landscape down to the Mediterranean Sea. Just a ten minute drive from Puerto Banus and the beaches of Marbella, yet a world away from the hustle and bustle of these world famous resorts, If ‘location location location’ still counts, Champneys Marbella is set to become one of the most in demand international spa resorts in the world, just a short drive from a major international airport, fabulous boutique shopping experiences and world class golf courses, this groundbreaking Spa Resort is perfectly located.
 
According to the global spa resource ‘Spa Finder’, spa, health and wellness travel and tourism is an industry that is going from strength to strength and which has witnessed 40% growth in the last three years alone. Tony Roberts, UK Sales Director of Champneys Marbella can concur: “at Champneys we have invested thousands of hours research into the viability of an international resort.  Our findings led us back time and time again to the fact that internationally speaking, demand for luxurious spa resorts, which the Champneys brand undeniably champions, is growing significantly and sustainably with both women and men.  Men now make up 24% in terms of demand in the UK, and this figure increases year-on-year.  We have conservative projections to suggest that with just 65% occupancy levels at our flagship Marbella resort, those who choose to invest in Champneys real estate and partake in our unique rental pool scheme and enjoy up to 6 weeks personal use of their apartment or penthouse, can also benefit from annual rental yields of almost 8%. Investors should bear in mind however, that average occupancy across the board in Champneys resorts UK is nearer 80%.”
 
Set within parkland and landscaped gardens which are complemented with waterways fed from natural springs and private terraces, at Champneys Marbella, peace, comfort, wellbeing and the luxury of space take centre stage.  The properties for sale within the resort are designed and finished to the highest five star standards.  The two bedroom apartments have everything from interior gardens to state of the art gas fireplaces, with stunning interior courtyards that feature restful Moorish fountains as well as the highest quality marble and stucco bathrooms and fully fitted, high-tech kitchens.  Two storey penthouses feature the same range of first class features, with the added luxury of private lifts, double height ceilings, galleried second bedrooms and private plunge pools.  Of course, owners and guests of the properties have unrivalled access to the Champneys spa building and plaza as well as concierge services and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
 
The exclusive rental pool scheme will allow property investors at Champneys in Marbella to achieve optimum yields thanks to the combination of the Champneys brand and increasing demand for overseas spa holidays, giving apartment and penthouse owners flexibility as well as peace of mind.  Owners place their property within the pool, it is managed, maintained and well looked after for them in their absence, it is occupied by visitors to the resort and because of the nature of the arrangement, owners can enjoy their holistic hideaway home at Champneys for any number of weeks they desire.
 
With property prices starting from just €633,186/ £505,462 for an apartment and €772,752/ £612,035 for a penthouse, isn’t it time you investigated the opportunity at Champneys Marbella for yourself?  For more information contact Champneys Marbella telephone: 01442 291200 or go online: www.champneysmarbella.com.

The Madre Vino of all wines

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Jumilla, Yecla and Bullas… sound familiar? Well if not, these names may well roll off the tongue in the near future as the research group Credoc has recently announced that Spain is set to overtake France as the worlds largest wine producer.  The wines named here are popular wines from the province of Murcia where traditional methods of wine making are still very much part of the areas culture and history.
 
Spanish for ‘mother of all wines’, Madre Vino is a method of wine making that has served both France and Spain well. Used for the improvement of young wines it is a popular process in many vineyards across both countries and as predictions are set for Spain to take over France as early as 2015 this well known winemaking term could take on a whole new meaning. Spain indeed will be the mother of all wine makers in a very competitive market.
 
Set in the hills of Murcia near the town of Lorca lies land that is enveloped by vineyards and almond groves. Protected by law the land is restricted to only one property for every five acres of land which the environmentally sympathetic property development agency Casas de Lorca is currently offering buyers with the ‘nose’ for true Spanish living.
 
 “You design your own villa to specifications that suit your needs, views are guaranteed and land is plentiful in more ways then one, who’s to say that producing your very own wine is out of the question?” says Mike Hamilton Director of Casas de Lorca. “Resident farmers have been known to deliver a couple of bottles made from local grapes to households on the land and we have one couple that is already using their land to cultivate and grow their own vegetables, it really is a great opportunity to get back to nature and the simple Spanish life.”
 
For more information on Casas de Lorca and all the property company has to offer visit www.casasdelorca.net or call 0844 734 8057.

From Concrete Jungle to the Good Life

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

The maturing of the Spanish real estate market and movements made away from mass urbanisation and high-rise property development may well be impacting negatively on the rate at which such formerly constructed accommodation is being sold, but in direct parallel it is having a positive effect on the quality of homes being constructed for the lifestyle market.

 
The Spanish property development frenzy of the last decade that resulted in massive resort style developments being constructed for sale to those in search of an accessible holiday apartment in the sun, or an affordable fly-to-let investment purchase, are proving less popular these days as other property markets open up and offer more affordable choice to such buyers.  Meanwhile, the evergreen and enduring appeal of Spain as a stunning, tried and tested lifestyle destination for retirees, relocating expatriates and those in search of the good life means that demand for quality property stock is driving the best constructors in the market and supporting an emerging trend in those wanting to buy quality Spanish property.
 
There has been a sharp and direct increase in consumer demand for homes in Spain constructed in an environmentally conscious way, for property for sale away from resort and estate style developments and for properties that allow buyers to truly realise their dream of living an idyllic lifestyle in a fantastic overseas destination where the natural landscape, fabulous climate and excellent quality of life that they are buying into are enhanced by a spacious, well constructed, beautiful home, located in an appealing destination.
 
This in turn has led to new areas of Spain becoming popular with those who want to buy into unspoiled regions where local government laws and policies have protected the natural landscape.  One such area of Spain especially popular with buyers seeking the good life is Murcia. Planning laws define different zones ranging from national park to urbanizeable zones in order to protect the pine forested mountain ranges and the vast majority of areas around them. If developers are looking to build urbanisations there is an abundance of land which is designated for this purpose. This land is typically near to towns, cities and motorways. As you head towards the stunning national parks the zoning changes to extremely low density so you can only build one property per 5 acres of land. The idea behind this intelligent approach to planning is to avoid the mistakes made in other parts of Spain, maintain the natural appeal of the region and preserve the beauty and attraction of Murcia for generations to come.
 
Mike Hamilton, MD of Casas de Lorca comments:  Many developers are missing the very real point that increasingly consumers require environmentally conscious homes with such things as solar power, eco friendly water conservation methods and where the environment into which they are moving will remain unchanged and unspoiled.  They want spacious properties with large gardens, they want these properties to be built in areas of outstanding natural beauty and they are not willing to compromise.  For the developer astute enough to recognise this demand and sympathetic and intelligent enough to embrace government policies rather than try to avoid them, there is great opportunity to be had in terms of constructing fabulous real estate in an ethical manner that is hugely sought after.”
 
Casas de Lorca have chosen Murcia for the construction of their lifestyle homes because of the blend of natural appeal that the region offers the would-be purchaser with its national parks, pristine coastline, rolling agricultural landscape and world heritage sites and historic cities.  They have also chosen Murcia because the regional government shares the same environmental preservation ethics as the company and their customers.  Those who choose a Casas de Lorca property benefit from acquiring a bespoke home set within its own five-acre plot of land, allowing purchasers to become virtually self-sufficient if they want to.  Additionally the properties come with almond trees or vineyards which reduce CO2 and also enhance the natural habitat for flora and fauna; it is even common to see eagles soaring above the land.   Solar energy hot water is standard and many clients are also opting for solar pool heating. We also employ the very latest environmentally conscious energy saving building methods throughout the construction of these hugely popular homes.  For more information about these properties and environmentally conscious property development in Spain please contact Casas de Lorca on 0844 734 8057 or visit www.casasdelorca.net.